Map Of South East Queensland Travel Guide
Introduction
South East Queensland is a beautiful and diverse part of Australia, encompassing the cities of Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast. With a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and an abundance of things to see and do, it’s no wonder that this region is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
Top Attractions
Brisbane
Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, has a lot to offer visitors. Some of the top attractions include:
- The South Bank Parklands, which feature lush gardens, a man-made beach, and plenty of outdoor dining options.
- The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, which showcase a range of local and international art.
- The Story Bridge Adventure Climb, which offers panoramic views of the city from atop the iconic Story Bridge.
Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is known for its beautiful beaches and theme parks, but there’s much more to see and do beyond those popular attractions:
- The Gold Coast Hinterland, which is home to picturesque towns and villages, rainforests, and waterfalls.
- The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a must-visit for animal lovers.
- The Q1 Building, which is the tallest residential tower in the Southern Hemisphere and offers stunning views of the coastline.
Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is a laid-back and picturesque region that’s perfect for those who want to relax and unwind:
- The Australia Zoo, which was founded by the late Steve Irwin and is home to a variety of native animals.
- The Noosa National Park, which boasts stunning coastal views and plenty of walking trails.
- The Eumundi Markets, which are held twice a week and feature a range of handmade crafts and local produce.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are definitely worth a visit, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover in South East Queensland:
- The Bunya Mountains, which are a secluded and peaceful retreat that’s perfect for nature lovers.
- The Glass House Mountains, which offer stunning views and plenty of hiking trails.
- The Tangalooma Wrecks, which are a group of sunken ships that have become a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.
Food Scene
South East Queensland is home to a diverse range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants:
- The Eat Street Northshore, which is a bustling night market that offers a range of food stalls and live entertainment.
- The Fish House, which is a seafood restaurant located in Burleigh Heads that’s known for its fresh and delicious dishes.
- The Gerard’s Bistro, which is a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant located in Fortitude Valley that’s popular with locals and visitors alike.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? There are plenty of ways to save money while exploring South East Queensland:
- Visit free attractions like the South Bank Parklands or the Noosa National Park.
- Take advantage of happy hour specials at bars and restaurants.
- Stay in budget-friendly accommodation like hostels or camping grounds.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, South East Queensland has plenty to offer:
- The Moreton Island, which is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and offers activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
- The Lamington National Park, which is a World Heritage-listed rainforest that’s perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
- The Mount Tamborine, which is a scenic mountain that’s home to a range of activities like rock climbing, abseiling, and ziplining.
Historical Landmarks
South East Queensland has a rich cultural heritage that’s reflected in its historical landmarks:
- The Old Government House, which is a beautiful heritage-listed building that’s located in the heart of Brisbane.
- The Fort Lytton National Park, which is a former military fort that offers guided tours and reenactments.
- The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk, which is a 58-kilometer trail that takes hikers through historic towns and beautiful landscapes.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in South East Queensland:
- The Sea World, which is a popular theme park that offers a range of marine animal shows and rides.
- The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, which is a must-visit for animal lovers and offers a range of interactive experiences.
- The Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast, which is a water park that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little bit different, check out these off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- The Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves, which are home to thousands of glow worms that light up the caves at night.
- The Gold Coast War Museum, which is a fascinating collection of military artifacts and memorabilia.
- The Bribie Island, which is a peaceful and secluded island that’s perfect for a day trip.
Natural Wonders
South East Queensland is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in Australia:
- The Great Barrier Reef, which is a must-visit for any traveler to Australia and offers unparalleled snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- The Fraser Island, which is the largest sand island in the world and is home to a range of unique wildlife and landscapes.
- The D’Aguilar National Park, which is a beautiful park that’s home to a range of wildlife and offers plenty of walking trails.
Vibrant Nightlife
South East Queensland has a vibrant nightlife scene that’s perfect for those who love to party:
- The Fortitude Valley, which is a nightlife hotspot that’s home to a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- The Surfers Paradise, which is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike and offers plenty of bars and nightclubs.
- The Noosa Heads, which is a laid-back beach town that’s home to a range of bars and restaurants.
Local Markets
South East Queensland is home to a range of local markets that offer a range of handmade crafts and local produce:
- The Eumundi Markets, which are held twice a week and offer a range of handmade crafts and local produce.
- The Jan Powers Farmers Markets, which are held every Saturday and offer a range of fresh produce and artisanal products.
- The Davies Park Markets, which are held every Saturday and offer a range of food stalls and live entertainment.
Beaches and Mountains
South East Queensland is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and mountains in Australia:
- The Burleigh Heads, which is a popular beach that’s known for its stunning views and great surf.
- The Mount Coot-tha, which is a scenic mountain that offers panoramic views of Brisbane and the surrounding area.
- The Alexandra Headland, which is a laid-back beach town that’s perfect for a day trip.
Cultural Immersion
South East Queensland is home to a rich cultural heritage that’s reflected in its museums, galleries, and festivals:
- The Gallery of Modern Art, which is a must-visit for art lovers and offers a range of local and international exhibitions.
- The Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, which is a fascinating museum that’s home to a range of interactive exhibits and displays.
- The Woodford Folk Festival, which is an annual festival that celebrates music, art, and culture.
Art and Music Scene
South East Queensland has a thriving arts and music scene that’s reflected in its galleries, venues, and festivals:
- The Brisbane Powerhouse, which is a cultural center that’s home to a range of live music and theater performances.
- The Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts, which is a contemporary arts center that showcases a range of local and international artists.
- The Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival, which is an annual festival that celebrates blues music and attracts visitors from
NWA 2016 South East Queensland Region description Geographic information from www.bom.gov.au