After exploring South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales, South Queensland was the final stop on our first trip to Australia. It felt like the perfect way to wrap up our long journey.
South Queensland is a mix of stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant towns. For our family of four, it was all about finding a balance between relaxing moments and exciting activities. With two kids, we made sure to plan experiences that were manageable but still memorable – and Queensland delivered on every front. This region left such a mark on us that we had to come back. On our second trip to Australia, we spent a whole month in Queensland’s north, exploring places like Cairns and the Daintree Rainforest. In this guide, we’ll focus on our first impressions of South Queensland, including the must-see places, family-friendly stays, and where to find plant-based food. We’ll also share tips on budgeting, getting around, and finding those Instagram-worthy spots.
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Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our South Queensland trip for our busy travelers.
Travel Time
November
Travel Mode
Journey / Road trip
(7 days)
Our Must-Sees
Noosa Heads, Rainbow Beach
Where to stay
AirBnB
Plant-Based Food
Mobility
Rental car Sixt
Travel Budget
around €3,245 (5,415AUD)
without air fare
South Queensland Travel Itinerary: Must-See Gems You’ll Love
We spent seven days in South Queensland before flying home from Brisbane. It was a great way to end our trip, and we quickly realized how much this region has to offer. There’s a mix of beautiful beaches, green landscapes, and some really interesting spots to explore. It left such an impression on us that we decided to come back during our second trip to Australia. Here’s a recap of our first impressions and the highlights from our seven days in South Queensland.
Brisbane – 3 days
We started our South Queensland adventure in Brisbane, which should be a key stop on every Queensland travel itinerary. With only two days, we focused on simple yet enjoyable activities that let us soak in the city’s relaxed vibe. South Bank Parklands quickly became our favorite spot. We spent hours by the public swimming pool area, where the kids splashed around while we enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. It was the perfect place to unwind, especially in the relaxing evening hours when the riverside came alive with a calm, laid-back atmosphere.
Noosa Heads – 4 days
Next on our Queensland travel itinerary was Noosa Heads, and it quickly became one of our favorite stops. The beaches here are absolutely stunning, and the walks in Noosa National Park are a must, even with kids. Additionally, Hastings Street, the heart of Noosa, added so much charm to our stay. It’s full of great restaurants, cozy cafes, and boutique shops, which made it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. We spent mornings swimming or walking along the boardwalk, but most of the time, we found ourselves keeping an eye out for koalas in Noosa National Park.
Fraser Island – Day Trip
Finally, we took a day trip to Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island and probably one of the most famous places tourists think of when they hear about Queensland. While we didn’t venture across to the island itself, we enjoyed taking in the views from Inskip Point, the departure spot where a small car ferry shuttles vehicles to Fraser Island. Fraser Island is well-known for its 4×4 adventures, with highlights like Lake McKenzie and the iconic 75 Mile Beach. However, it felt a bit too crowded for us, especially since we’d already had our share of sand-driving fun at other spots in Australia, like Sellicks Beach in South Australia or Anna Bay in New South Wales.
Where We Stayed in South Queensland: Cozy and Luxurious Options
Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference on a trip, and our stops in Brisbane and Noosa Heads gave us two very different but equally memorable experiences. Whether you’re looking for convenience or a peaceful escape, these places were perfect for our South Queensland travel itinerary.
Brisbane: The Jephson Hotel
In Brisbane, we stayed at the Jephson Hotel. Located just outside the city and right next to the highway, it was incredibly convenient and easy to reach. This made it a fantastic base for our two days in the city.
The hotel had everything you’d need for a city trip: comfortable rooms, good amenities, and friendly staff. Additionally, its location meant we could explore Brisbane without worrying about long drives or complicated routes. For a quick city stay, the Jephson Hotel was ideal.
Noosa Heads: A Stunning Airbnb
In Noosa Heads, we ended our trip in a truly exceptional Airbnb. The location, just outside the main town, offered a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. Mornings were unforgettable, with the incredible variety of Australian birds creating a natural symphony. The apartment itself was a 10/10. It was beautifully designed, spacious, and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Furthermore, the quiet surroundings made it the perfect place to relax and reflect on our South Queensland adventure. If you love nature and comfort, this Airbnb is a fantastic choice.
Eating Plant-Based in South Queensland: Our Top Picks
Finding fully vegan restaurants in the places we stayed was a little rare, but overall, eating plant-based in Queensland wasn’t a challenge. Most cafes and restaurants offered at least a few plant-based options, and with a little planning, we always found something that worked for us. Here are some of our favorite spots and tips from our Queensland travel itinerary, including Brisbane and Noosa Heads.
Brisbane: Casual Cafes and a Little Cheat Meal
In Brisbane, we kept things simple and relaxed when it came to food. One evening, we cheated a little with a vegetarian pizza from Domino’s – sometimes you just need something easy and familiar! For the rest of our meals, we explored the South Bank Parklands area, which is filled with countless beautiful cafes offering snacks and light meals. From fresh smoothie bowls to tasty wraps, we always found something quick and satisfying to keep us going while we explored the city.
Noosa Heads: Fresh and Healthy Choices
In Noosa Heads, dining was a real treat, especially on Hastings Street and Sunshine Beach Road, two famous spots for great restaurants. One of our favorite stops was The Good Eats, which offered quick and healthy snacks like fresh salads and nourishing bowls – perfect for busy days.
We also loved the self-catering option at our Airbnb. With access to amazing local produce, we were able to whip up simple plant-based meals and enjoy them on the peaceful terrace. It was a great way to balance eating out and staying in, while still keeping things fresh and healthy.
Transportation Tips: Navigating South Queensland Like a Pro
Queensland marked the final leg of our first Australian trip, and it didn’t disappoint. Starting in Byron Bay (New South Wales), we crossed the border into the Sunshine State and continued our journey with our trusty rental car from Sixt. Having the car gave us the freedom to explore on our own terms, which turned out to be essential for making the most of our time.
Our first stop was Brisbane, just a two-hour drive from Byron Bay. After a couple of days in the city, we hit the road again, heading north to Noosa Heads. This 1.5-hour drive took us to our final stop, where we wrapped up an unforgettable journey. By having our own car, we could easily navigate between destinations and enjoy spontaneous stops along the way. When choosing a vehicle, we’d always recommend a 4×4. While not essential for the main roads, it’s a great option if you want to try beach driving or explore the more remote hinterland areas – both of which are experiences we’d highly recommend.
Brisbane: Parking Made Easy
Parking in Brisbane turned out to be simpler than we expected. Compared to Sydney, it’s actually more affordable and less stressful. There are plenty of options, including metered street parking and larger council car parks like King George Square or Wickham Terrace. Both are well-located and reasonably priced, especially for a quick visit to the city.
During our time in Brisbane, we found parking near South Bank Parklands to be convenient and hassle-free. Once parked, we could easily explore the area on foot, which made it a great option for families like ours.
Noosa Heads: Plan Ahead for Parking
Parking in Noosa Heads, especially near popular spots like Hastings Street or Noosa National Park, required a bit more planning. A large parking lot just before Hastings Street is a good starting point, but it can fill up quickly, especially during busy times.
The parking situation at Noosa National Park is even trickier. The lot near the park is very small, and spaces are limited to four-hour stays. By mid-morning, it’s common to see long waiting times. If you can’t get a spot, you can park near Hastings Street and walk to the park. However, it’s a long walk and might not be ideal if you’re traveling with kids or carrying gear. Starting early is your best bet to avoid the hassle.
Our South Queensland Travel Budget: How Much We Spent
Accomodation
Brisbane €525 (876AUD)
Noosa Heads €1,140 (AUD1,920)
Food & Dining
Mainly self-catering
around €75 (120AUD) per day
Mobility
Rental car SIXT Mitsubishi Pajero
around €120 (201AUD) per day
Fuel & Parking €215 (358AUD)
Activities
we enjoyed South Queensland
for free
Total Spent
around €3,245 (5,415AUD)
without air fare
South Queensland Travel Itinerary: Best Photography Locations
Queensland is the perfect place for anyone who loves photography or wants stunning shots for Instagram. From beautiful beaches to incredible natural wonders, this state is full of picture-perfect spots waiting to be explored. To make it even easier for you, we’ve picked some top places from our South Queensland travel itinerary and included all the details you need to visit and capture unforgettable photos.
Rainbow Stairs
GPS Coordinates: 25.9034° S, 153.0927° E
Rainbow Beach is famous for its striking colored sand cliffs, formed over thousands of years. The vibrant layers of red, yellow, and orange sand make for a spectacular backdrop against the blue sky and ocean. Visit during golden hour for the best lighting, and don’t miss the chance to capture 4WD vehicles cruising along the beach for an adventurous vibe.
South Bank Parklands, Brisbane
GPS Coordinates: 27.4745° S, 153.0181° E
South Bank Parklands is one of the best places in Brisbane to take photos. You’ll find colorful flower-covered walkways, the famous Brisbane sign, and beautiful views of the river. It’s a great spot to capture both the city’s energy and its natural charm. The best time to visit is at sunset. The soft, golden light makes the city look even more stunning and adds a magical feel to your photos.
Noosa National Park Coastal Walk
GPS Coordinates: 26.3850° S, 153.0927° E
Noosa National Park’s Coastal Walk is one of the most beautiful trails in Queensland. It has everything you’d want – dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves. Together, they make this walk a dream for anyone who loves photography. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with amazing ocean views at almost every step. Additionally, if you’re lucky, you might even spot koalas resting in the trees, which adds a bit of wildlife magic to your photos. For the best experience, it’s a good idea to start early in the morning. Not only will you enjoy the soft, golden light, but you’ll also avoid the busiest times.
South Queensland Travel Itinerary FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
The dry season, from May to October, is the best time to visit. The weather is warm and pleasant, plus you’ll avoid the tropical cyclone season in the north.
The south has mild weather year-round, but the north is tropical with wet and dry seasons. Always pack sunscreen – it’s sunny most days, and the UV index is high.
Yes! Queensland is incredibly family-friendly, and there’s so much to keep kids entertained. The playgrounds, like those at South Bank in Brisbane, are a must-visit. Unlike many European playgrounds, these are super clean, well-maintained, and often go above and beyond with creative designs. Many even include water play areas or splash parks, which are completely free and perfect for cooling off on hot days.
Not always, but we highly recommend it. A 4×4 lets you drive on beaches like Rainbow Beach, explore Fraser Island, and reach remote hinterland areas. It’s worth the extra flexibility!
Queensland follows Australian road rules, so drive on the left side of the road. Always wear seat belts, and don’t exceed speed limits, which are strictly enforced. Watch out for wildlife, especially in rural areas at dawn and dusk.
South Queensland beaches, like Noosa Main Beach, are generally safe for swimming year-round. Many beaches have dedicated swimming areas marked by red and yellow flags, which are monitored by lifeguards.
In northern Queensland, stinger season runs from November to May. During this time, stinger nets are set up in the water to create safe swimming areas, and lifeguards closely monitor them. It’s essential to wear a stinger suit when swimming, even in these areas, for extra protection. Never swim outside the designated zones, as it can be dangerous due to strong currents, marine life, or lack of supervision.
Honestly, no amount of time feels like enough in Queensland – it’s the kind of place where you could imagine living. For South Queensland alone, we had about 7–10 days, but it felt way too short. There’s so much to see and do, from Brisbane and Noosa to Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island, that every day feels packed.
If you’re planning to explore the entire state, we’d say one month is a good starting point. Queensland is massive, with everything from tropical rainforests and stunning beaches to vibrant cities and remote outback areas. The more time you have, the better, because Queensland truly deserves it!
Yes, tap water in Queensland is safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day, especially when traveling with kids or visiting remote areas.
Queensland has some potentially dangerous animals, such as jellyfish, snakes, and crocodiles. However, risks are minimal if you follow safety guidelines. Swim in patrolled areas, wear stinger suits in the north, and avoid swimming in crocodile habitats.
Tipping isn’t mandatory in Queensland, but it’s appreciated for excellent service. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 10% as a tip is common.
Yes, free camping spots are available, but they’re usually in more remote areas. Check online platforms or apps like WikiCamps to find locations and their rules.
Queensland has strict alcohol laws. Public drinking is generally not allowed, and liquor stores close earlier than in some other countries. Plan ahead if you want to buy alcohol for your stay.
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