Queensland is one of the most beautiful places in Australia, and I am delighted to share this guest post by Nicole Noel* with some ideas of what to do in Queensland, including visiting Brisbane, the rain forests and national parks, the Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef and Hervey Bay.

How to Spend Unforgettable Time in Queensland

Queensland

Queensland is just about the coolest place in Australia, if you consider just how diverse it is. At the same time, it is the home of Brisbane, which is an urban place, but it is also packed with national parks, gorgeous islands and even the rainforests.

Not to mention, this is the place where the world- known Surfers Paradise is. Great Barrier Reef is a world in itself, but it still is in the Queensland waters. Therefore, it is easy to find something to see and do at this great place, and here are some of the suggestions.

Brisbane

Queensland

This is where you go for the taste of Queensland urban life. Cultural events, museums, cafes and restaurants will keep you busy for days. However, it still has a hint of small town coziness about it. The combination results in a very pleasant place to stay.

koala bears on tree branches

You can spend your days exploring the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary where you can actually pet a koala. Also, long strolls in the Brisbane Botanical Gardens will definitely make your stay enjoyable. However, as the sun sets, and the evening comes, it is time to explore the cultural side of Brisbane and visit Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Museum or Museum of Brisbane.

Brisbane is a city of festivals. There are music events, such as Big Pineapple Music Festival or Sea ‘N’ Beats Music Festival. However, there are different ones, as well, such as Bites and Brews Festival or World Science Festival.

National Parks

Queensland

At the very north of Queensland is the amazing Daintree Rainforest and National Park. One of the best ways to explore this lush rainforest is to book a tour along the Daintree river and enjoy the view. Rare species, crocodiles, birds and snakes are easily spotted along your way.

Another gem of Queensland is the Lamington park. This rainforest has spectacular views and it is of the utmost ecological importance. Moreover, this is the place where some of the oldest trees in the world still grow. Besides these, you can visit Moreton Bay Marine Park and Island or D’Aguilar Park.

Gold Coast

Queensland

The first thing to do on the Gold Coast is to do the awesome Skypoint climb. In that way, you will get a good look of the entire Gold Coast. Rush down, grab a stand up paddleboard and hit the Surfers paradise waves. Visiting it is a rite of passage for all surfers that come along this way. There are many ways to tour the Gold Coast. From hot air balloons to jet skis. However, kayaking may be the most interesting one for the sporty types.

Great Barrier Reef

Queensland

Snorkeling and diving anywhere within the Great Barrier Reef is the unforgettable experience that you should not miss out on. However, to add to that experience, you should try out skydiving.

The best way to experience this place is to join some of the cruises that take you to all the great spots and make pauses for swimming, snorkeling, and all sorts of fun activities. In that way, you can see the places that you like along the way and come back whenever you are ready.

Hervey Bay

Whale watching

The pristine waters in the Hervey Bay, on the Fraser Coast are the place where whales love to visit. You need to find a boat with a guide that will take you out to the sea where you can admire these stunning creatures, as they enjoy themselves in the water. Some tour operators even offer DVDs of the entire experience, which is a really nice memento to have.

Usually, when you are on a long trip, especially if it is an eventful one, you need some rest. Queensland has a lot to offer, and a secluded place to gather your impressions is also available. Head to the Whitsunday Island and spend an entire day barbecuing on the Whitsunday Beach. You will get the chance to unwind and to enjoy another gem of Queensland, at the same time.

I hope you enjoyed this guest feature about What to do in Queensland, and if so, you can have a look here for more of our travel features.

* This guest post is by Nicole Noel.  Nicole was born into a multicultural family and loves learning new things, traveling and exploring new cultures. She majored in French language and literature and she is a French teacher, avid traveler and yoga aficionado.  She is also a contributor to several lifestyle blogs and editor at Highstylife.com. She is passionate about sharing her experiences and research and her motto is to learn new things, share with others, have fun and stay healthy.  In her spare time, she loves to design furniture, clothes and jewellery and she also loves preparing and eating delicious food with her friends.