adventure day trips brisbane

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Riverlife Adventure Centre

Kayak tours, rock climb adventure tours, abseil adventure tours, team building activities, kids birthday parties, school groups, welcome to riverlife.

Riverlife is your one-stop-shop for all things fun, functions, excitement and adventure. Riverlife has over 15 years of experience delivering an amazing range of outdoor experiences to Brisbane locals and tourists alike and is famous for its exclusive and stunning waterfront venues, delivering an array of memorable functions and events.

Riverlife’s fully guided tours are a fun, interactive way to explore Brisbane and gain a unique perspective of the city. Kayak along the Brisbane River, abseil down the Kangaroo Point Cliffs or climb to the top. There is also a great range of equipment available for hire, including road bikes, rollerblades and kayaks. With hourly and daily options available, the equipment hires let you create your ideal adventure.

WHAT WE OFFER

Adventure tours.

Experience Brisbane in a new way with one of Riverlifes unforgettable Adventure Tours.

Team Building

Treat your team to an experience and help foster positive relations within your workplace.

FUNCTION VENUE

Unbeatable views and amazing packages built to cater to every need.

Curriculum-directed programs for year 5 to year 10 students will provide challenge and adventure activities to move students outside their comfort zone.

Parkland ceremonies and 4 different riverside venues for you to celebrate your special day.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Birthday parties to suit able milestones with unbeatable city views.

MOST POPULAR

Day kayak adventure, abseil the kp cliffs, twilight kayak adventure, see what everyone’s saying.

All Enquiries

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Terms and Condition

– Depending on availability, pre-bookings are essential – Valid for 12 months from the date of function – Voucher is valid for one person – Voucher valid 2-hour kayak hire at Riverlife

Covid Safety 

Get out and get active at Riverlife! We are proud to provide a safe environment for active recreation and adventure, with an abundance of fresh air and open space, abiding by Covid Safe practices.

When participating in the fresh open-air, by the Brisbane River the risks are low as the fresh air disperses and dilutes the virus, it evaporates the liquid droplets in which it is carried and ultraviolet light from the Queensland Sun also kills the virus.

You will feel safe and comfortable as Riverlife is committed to upholding all relevant governmental standards and providing fun, safe, and secure outdoor activities and adventures.

Covid Flexiible Guarantee.

COVID Flexible Guarantee – If you find your adventure activity is cancelled due to COVID related Government Directions preventing our business from delivering, you will be entitled to a full credit to return at another date. Should you need to reschedule for other reasons, contact our Management Team for assistance 

Adventure Day Trips Brisbane

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Adventure Day Trips Brisbane - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

About Adventure Day Trips- Brisbane

Sure, you can see most of Brisbane and South East Queensland in a week or so. But if you don’t know where to go, you’d probably miss a lot.

Now, if you want to see and explore  like a local, it is best that you book a  day trip with Adventure Day Trips.

Book a tour for your group and know that you can change the tour depending on your circumstances and if would like to have a bettter tour.

CALL TODAY FOR A QUOTE FOR YOIUR GROUP!

Have you got a group and looking for a great experience?

CALL TODAY << GIVE US AN IDEA OF WHAT YOUR GROUP WOIULD LIKE TO DO AND  WE WILL TAILOR AN EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR GROUP.

call +61400055199

or send us an email  [email protected]

Established in  2017, we take pride in the level of service we offer.  Being professional, attentive, and helpful. From booking your tour until it’s completed and done with, we want to ensure you enjoy your experience with us. 

We know a lot about Brisbane and South east Queensland and strive to meet high standards in all tours to guarantee your satisfaction and fun.

We are NOT transporters- we are experience providers!

It’s not what you see that counts as much as “How You feel” after you enjoy your time with us- NO FUSS

Our Day Tours

Most of our day trips depart from Brisbane in the morning and return late in the afternoon. We take guests to farm tours , island adventures, as well as day trips to Brisbane’s CBD. Most prices already include refreshments, entry tickets, and scrumptious meals.

Our Location

Our headquarters is in Brisbane, but we are very familiar with the ins and outs of the city. Our drivers and tour guides know how to get you around 

Book Your Tour With Us

We love to hear from you. Whether you have questions or would like to make a booking, reach out to us. You can call us at +61400055199 or send us an email at [email protected] . If you want, you can connect with us via social media. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram .

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Adventure Day Trips Brisbane - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Sarah Adventuring | Travel Blog

travel blog and travel photography

The 10 Best Day Trips from Brisbane

Discover the 10 Brisbane day trips – from islands, to waterfalls, beaches, rainforest and even a foodie’s paradise – there are so many accessible places just a day trip away from Brisbane waiting for you to explore. Before you discover the 10 of the best Brisbane day trips, be sure to tick off the best of the inner city: 10 awesome things to do in Brisbane inner city , and if you’re ready to venture further afield, read on.

1. Purling Brook Falls

An icon of the Gold Coast hinterland for a reason, Purling Brook Falls turns from trickle to thunder each time there is a substantial period of rain. That means if you’re visiting Brisbane after considerable weather, there’s no reason why your Brisbane day trips should be put off – if it’s safe and fine to do so, head straight to Purling Brook Falls! A moderate hike will get you to this spot and you can find out more here: How to get to Purling Brook Falls .

2. Mt Ngungun

One of the easiest (and therefore, one of the most popular) hikes near Brisbane is Mt Ngungun. Less than 2 hours from Brisbane inner-city ( Google Maps directions here ), Mt Ngungun makes for one of the fantastic Brisbane day trips.

And while Mt Ngungun is beautiful from the top, you can also experience the beauty Mt Tibrogargan from the road below at the Instagram famous road: Looking for that Instagram road at Mt Tibrogargan, Sunshine Coast? to complete one of your Brisbane day trips.

3. Moreton Island

A place you’d hardly believe to be accessible from Brisbane, but on a clear day you can even see the Brisbane city sky-risers from Moreton Island. Less accessible than North Stradbroke Island (more on there later), you can visit Moreton Island by private boat or join one of the many Brisbane tours that visit the island . Moreton Island is one of the best Brisbane day trips.

4. Buderim Falls (Serenity Falls)

One of the absolute must do Brisbane day trips, Buderim Falls (also known as Serenity Falls) is a popular waterfall tucked away on the Sunshine Coast hinterland. A top tip is to get to this spot early, as it can get very crowded. Suggested read: How to get to Buderim Falls (Serenity Falls) on the Sunshine Coast .

5. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat waterfalls

Where do I even begin? Tucked away on the Gold Coast hinterland, O’Reilly’s is one of the best Brisbane day trips for natural environments and stunning scenery. My two favourite waterfalls are Elabana Falls and watching the sunset over Moran Falls . If you can’t get enough of this place (understandable), you can book to stay for a night, a week or more! Suggested reads: How to get to Elabana Falls & How to get to Moran Falls

6. North Stradbroke Island

Another beautiful island just off the coast of Brisbane, North Stradbroke Island is a must do for those wanting to experience a different side of the Brisbane region on their Brisbane day trips. Visiting North Stradbroke Island can be done as a Brisbane day trip or by staying a night or so. Most people bring their cars over to explore the island, but it is possible to explore sans car with the passenger ferry and bus: Getting to North Stradbroke Island by passenger ferry .

7. Noosa Fairy Pools

Instagram famous for a good reason, the Noosa Fairy Pools are a real crowd pleaser and one of the best Brisbane day trips. You can find this spot here: How to get to Noosa Fairy Pools .

Don’t leave Noosa without treating your tastebuds to a few of the delicious restaurants and cafes on offer ( The Ultimate Noosa Foodie Guide ) or ticking off a number of things to do in and around Noosa .

8. Summer Land Camels

Ready for something a little bit different? Shake up your Brisbane day trips with a trip to Summer Land Camels . They offer camel rides, camel feeding and farm tours making for a very wholesome Brisbane day trip out!

9. Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm

If you’re looking for a Brisbane day trip with a little bit of luxury and romance, I’d recommend visiting Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm . A popular spot for weddings, the surrounding landscape is drop dead gorgeous and you can also treat yourself to a delicious meal while you’re here.

10. Twin Falls

Last, but certainly not least on this list of the best Brisbane day trips, we have Twin Falls. A two hour drive from the centre of Brisbane, this waterfall is certainly worth the effort. Enjoy the easy to moderate hike down to the waterfall before continuing on to explore more of the surrounding National Park and rainforest. Again, popular waterfalls get crowded quickly (especially on weekends) so you may have to set your alarms early to capture this waterfall without the general population around. Suggested read: Things to do on the Gold Coast

If you are interested in Brisbane day trips, you may also be interested in

• The ultimate Brisbane weekend itinerary
• 10 awesome things to do in Brisbane inner city
• Story Bridge Adventure Climb: A review
• 7 places to go within 150km of Brisbane
• 10 unexpected spots on a Queensland road trip
• 50 things to do in Queensland
• Things to do on the Gold Coast
• Looking for that Instagram road at Mt Tibrogargan, Sunshine Coast?
• The ultimate Noosa foodie guide: The best places to eat and drink in Noosa
• 22 things to do in and around Noosa

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25 of the best day trips from Brisbane

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: August 27, 2018  - Last updated: January 16, 2023

Looking for fun and fabulous day trips from Brisbane. We have 25 top picks here from the beach to the rainforest, lakes and rivers, wildlife, family fun and adventure.

Brisbane is a great city to both live and visit.  It’s casual and laid back but there are options here for culture, great foodie experiences and more.  It doesn’t have to hurt your pocket either. If you’re visiting the city make sure you also see our top ideas for free things to do in Brisbane .

The sub-tropical climate you’ll find in Brisbane is ideal, it doesn’t hit the scorching highs in summer that some parts of the country do but winter is mostly spent in shorts and t-shirts with plenty of beach visits all year round.

The city has it’s own surf patrolled (man made) beach and plenty of parks and attractions but as with any city after a day or two, or a solid 9-5 week, you’re probably going to want to get outside and explore further afield so we’ve put together a list of our 25 best options for day trips from Brisbane.  You’ll find plenty of variety here to suit everyone – couples, friends, families and singles.

Table of Contents

1. Glasshouse Mountains

2. lamington national park, 3. north stradbroke island, 4. moreton island, 5. currumbin wildlife sanctuary, 6. sea world, 7. bribie island, 8. tamborine mountain, 9. springbrook national park, 10. toowoomba, 12. burleigh heads, 13. mooloolaba, 14. south stradbroke island, 15. northern gold coast beaches, 16. whale watching on the gold coast, 17. wivenhoe dam, 18. eumundi, 19. mary cairncross reserve, 20. southern gold coast beaches, 21. obi obi gorge, 22. byron bay, 23. the northern new south wales beaches, 24. currumbin sculpture festival, 25. sand safari, our recommendations for day trips from brisbane.

The Glasshouse mountains are at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast only an hour from the city.  This distinctive National Park includes 12 distinctive peaks that are the remnant cores of 26 million year old volcanos that once towered above the region.

Some of the peaks have paths you can walk up easily such as Wild Horse Mountain where this photo was taken from, other’s require climbing expertise and equipment for those we prefer the walking trails that circumnavigate them from below.  There are a few cafes in the area, our pick is the Lookout Cafe for its gorgeous outlook, then just carry on a few hundred meters further up the mountain for the lookout park with incredible views, walking trails and wildlife.

Use this guide to plan your visit to the Glasshouse Mountains

Heading south of Brisbane to the Gold Coast we are often drawn to the beauty of the Lamington National Park.  There are 2 sections to this park which are accessed in very different ways so make sure you are headed to the right part.  The Green Mountain section is our favorite and commonly known as O’Reillys for the family that originally settled here and a man that carried out an inspiring rescue against the odds when a passenger plane crashed in the area back in 1937.

Today you’ll find a variety of walks many suitable for the whole family in pristine rain forest and some great destinations on these walks such as the Elabana Falls shown above.  There’s car parking, BBQ’s, plenty of picnic space and a shop and cafe here.  If you’re looking for something longer than a day trip there’s a variety of accommodation right at the park entrance from camping to luxe apartments with private outdoor spa’s.  We’ve stayed here a couple of times and if you’re interested this article will give you an idea of whats available and some of the other activities.

If you love Australian wildlife this is a sure spot to see pademelons, a small species in the wallaby and kangaroo family and the bird life is extensive, we’ve seen a huge variety here including the elusive Alberts Lyrebird and rainbow pitta.

Find some of the best walks in the Lamington National Park

Just a 25-minute ferry trip across Moreton Bay is North Stradbroke Island, a laid back island paradise right on the door step of the city.  There’s a lot to love about a day trip to ‘Straddie’ as it’s known locally but for us, it’s a tie between the wildlife, scenery and fabulous beaches.  There’s also a couple of good cafes popped up on the island recently.

You can take a car across on the car ferry but you’ll have just as much fun jumping on the bus that meets the boat and heading up to Point Lookout.  This is where you’ll find stunning surf beaches, the gorge walk, lookouts and more amazing beaches. 

If you visit in the ‘winter’ you can watch the whales passing on their annual migration, pods of dolphins playing in the surf and sea turtles feeding in the gorge.  There’s also a big mob of kangaroos and you’ll usually spot at least some of those.  Surfing and beach days are popular on the island all year round. 

We met one young Kiwi visitor who was so impressed after having dolphins join her on her wave while body surfing that she was making an impromptu decision to turn her day trip into an overnight stay hoping to repeat the experience again the next day.

Read More:  Our tops picks of what to do on North Stradbroke Island

Moreton Island is sometimes referred to as Tangalooma after the major resort on the island.  It’s another top spot for a day trip from Brisbane but there is plenty to see and do out here on the island so it’s also a popular spot to stay a few days. 

The boat runs out here from Brisbane in the morning and after a short stop you can rejoin it during the ‘winter’ months to head out whale watching.  Early in the trip we spotted turtles, dolphins and off the coast of Morton Island is where I saw my very first dugong .  The whales are in transit from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef but they still show a natural curiosity in checking out boats so the sightings were good.

We had lunch on the boat then when you get back to there island there’s time to explore.  There are wrecks offshore that have formed into reefs and provide a home for a good variety of sea life, you can hire a kayak to take a look if you don’t want to snorkel or dive.  You can also hire cycles with sand tires or head out sand tobogganing.  As a day visitor we were able to use the resort facilities and we stayed on into the evening taking the last boat back to see the great sunset and the other special attractions of Tangalooma, the visiting dolphins.

Early in the evening a pod of wild dolphins come into shore and under a special licence you are able to feed them here.  The history of this goes back a long way and led to Nari, one of the dolphins a decade or so back being able to be rescued, healed and returned to his pod after he was badly mauled by a shark (you can read more about Nari in the article below). 

Care is taken to ensure they are given locally caught fish and that what they receive only makes up only a small portion of their daily diet so they eat and play naturally the rest of the time.  Not every dolphin in the pod comes in, and those that do don’t come in every day, trained staff supervise every encounter to ensure it is done in a safe way and of course you must not touch the dolphin.

For more information see:  Whales, dugongs, dolphins and more at Morton Island

While I’ll highlight many spots to encounter Australia’s wildlife in their natural setting near Brisbane in other sections of this post,  visitors may want to include a wildlife sanctuary during their time in Brisbane to see a variety of Australian animals and for the educational aspect.

For that, we’d recommend either Currumbin or the nearby  David Fleay Wildlife Park .  These two have a strong conservation focus, they prioritise local wildlife over exotics their priority is animal welfare, conservation and education.

Read more about the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary |  Check for deals at Currumbin Sanctuary

There are a number of theme parks within easy access of Brisbane that make a great family day trip.  Sea World in Australia is heavily involved in marine rescue and many of the birds and animals here are rescues that were unable to be released back to the wild for various reasons related to their own safety.

Sea World is located on The Spit on the Gold Coast around an hours drive from Brisbane.  It’s also possible to get here with public transport or joining a tour that includes transport but we’d highly recommend driving so you can stop off at some of the stunning beaches in the area.

In addition to the animals there’s also water ski and jet bike shows, thrill rides, a water park and the Nickelodeon area featuring shows and rides for the younger family members.

Read our tips for a day at Sea World Australia   |  Check out deals on Sea World tickets

Another of Queensland’s large sand islands, Bribie, is attached to the mainland by a causeway so you won’t even need a boat to get out here.  On the inland side of the island are calm waters perfect for a day at the beach with the family, on the seaward side there’s some incredible surf.

Bribie has had increased residential development in recent years but most of the island is National Park with no roads so you’ll need a 4-wheel drive, permit and sand driving experience to see more than the southern tip.  That said, the southern tip is beautiful and you don’t need to walk very far from the car parking to find a good stretch of sand to yourself.  The island is also a bird watchers paradise and has some interesting walkways and history to explore.

Read more | Tips on visiting Bribie Island

Mount Tamborine is a relaxed hinterland area halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.  It’s only an hours drive to experience this beautiful area of rain forest on the Scenic Rim.  The National Park here is divided into 6 distinct parts containing walking tracks, lookouts, waterfalls and other attractions.  Some popular sections we enjoy are the Witches Falls and Cedar Creek tracks.

On Mount Tamborine, you’ll also find the Gallery Walk with restaurants and interesting shops to explore, a botanic garden, the Skywalk where you can observe the rain forest section from above and within, glow worm caves plus a variety of foodie treats from cheesemakers to wineries.

Another spot on the Scenic Rim with excellent National Park walks and fabulous scenery is the Springbrook National Park.  There’s a whole list of walks and lookout’s we enjoy down here but two I’d highly recommend when visiting are the Twin Falls circuit shown above and the Natural Bridge , click on either link for more visitor information. 

It’s quite possible to do one in the morning, visit another spot such as Goomoolahra Falls for your picnic lunch then complete the other walk in the afternoon.

Toowoomba is a provincial city 125 km inland from Brisbane.  A day trip out here can include the views from the impressive lookout , hiking trails and one of the best Japanese gardens in Australia.

For foodies, you’ll want to check out the farmer’s markets, farm gate sales and cellar doors.  In the city itself, there’s also a thriving cafe culture that’s sprung up in recent years and a fabulous collection of street art murals .

Our comprehensive guide to exploring Toowoomba

At the northern end of the Sunshine Coast, about a 90 minute drive from Brisbane is Noosa.  This popular holiday area also makes a fun and easy day trip from the city.  The main beach of Noosa is popular with surfers and can be quite busy but walk a little way down towards the river and the beach is just as good and almost deserted a lot of the time.  Keep walking and you’ll come to a sheltered calm water swimming beach and the river.  From here is a great place to watch the sunset.

The Noosa National Park has 15 km of walking tracks within the forest, along the cliff top and down on the beaches.  If you do the Coastal Track be aware that Alexandria Bay is illegally used as a nudist beach especially the southern end which you need to pass to rejoin and complete the 10.8 km return walk to Sunshine Beach. There are a number of excellent shorter walking tracks and a variety of wildlife including koala are regularly seen within the park

The Burleigh Heads National park is only 27 hectares but squeezed into this space you will find rainforest habitat, eucalypt forest, groves of distinctive coastal pandanus, tussock grassland, coastal heath, creeks and mangroves, the rocky foreshore and glorious sandy beaches. 

The rainforest circuit where this photo is taken from is 2.3 km return, there’s also an ocean view track which we normally like to take on the return walk.

If you enter from the northern end off of the Gold Coast Highway and turn into Goodwin Terrace you’ll find public parking here and also an excellent selection of local cafes to complete your day trip experience.

Mooloolaba is one of my personal favourites on the Sunshine Coast.  You have a long stretch of gorgeous sandy beach here, a shady boardwalk, many park areas, the river and a break wall between the ocean and the river that’s a popular walk and fishing spot.  You’ll also find Sea Life Sunshine Coast which we’ve reviewed previously and a wide selection of cafes, restaurants and accommodation.

There is so much to see and do in Mooloolaba and it’s only an 80-minute drive from Brisbane and makes an ideal day trip destination.

There are a number of tours that run out to South Stradbroke Island from the Gold Coast, it’s actually only 200 metres off the end of the Spit so it’s a quick trip over then you can spend your day as you wish, enjoy the facilities of the Couran Cove Resort, swim and explore the 22 km of sandy beaches & 1800 hectare conservation park.

For something a bit different you can kayak out to Wavebreak and South Stradbroke Islands  on a full day trip with time to explore, lunch, relaxation and activities on the island.  We’ve kayaked out with a group a few years ago and it was way easier than we expected.

The most famous and longest established of the Gold Coast beaches is Surfers Paradise, it’s still a lovely stretch of sand with a wide promenade and some great cafes, restaurants and accommodation.  Over the years Broadbeach & Mermaid Beach, one beach south, has become our favourite being a little more laid back and home to some of our top picks for cafes on the Gold Coast.

All three are surf beaches with wide expanses of soft white sand and have designated patrolled swimming areas.  Also in the northern group of beaches to explore are Main Beach, the Spit and the Broadwater.

We’ve been whale watching many times along the east coast of Australia.  Our most recent outing was on the Gold Coast.

This migratory group of humpback whales make their way from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef each year.  They are estimated to number over 30,000 based on an annual whale census and their numbers are recovering annually.  This means you have an excellent chance of some good sightings between August and October each year.  We booked for the morning trip as winds and waves tend to increase later in the day and saw a good number of whales, if you’re unlucky and for some reason don’t see a whale you can take a second trip for free.

Check Gold Coast whale watch prices and reviews

The Wivenhoe Dam was built on the Brisbane River in the 1970s to protect the city from floods.  Not only is it now the main water supply for the city but it’s also a great recreational destination for swimming, kayaking and sailing. 

There are a number of recreational parklands around the lake and not all of them allow for water based activities with restrictions for safety reasons around the spill wall.  This one closest to the spillway is one that doesn’t allow direct access to the water but it has an extensive park and picnic areas and it’s a great spot for koala spotting.

The town of Eumundi is well known for the huge and diverse Eumundi market, an ever-growing market encompassing local artists, craft, produce and more.  Originally it was all outdoor stalls but developments in recent years have expanded the market area including some undercover options.

The town has bars and cafes to stop and relax if you want somewhere to stop for a while or grab something from the market itself and you’ll find plenty of places to sit on the grassy banks.  There are regular events here too, one we really enjoyed is the Eumundi body art festival .

Just 15 minutes away is the Noosa Botanical Gardens on the shores of Lake Mackenzie and Eumundi is on the way to Noosa so the two can be easily combined into a day trip,

In the Blackall ranges on the Sunshine Coast, you will find the Mary Cairncross conservation park around 90 km from Brisbane.   There are 55 hectares of sub-tropical rainforest on the mountain here and a well developed walking path and boardwalk in parts.  Despite that it’s an excellent spot from seeing local wildlife including birds, pademelons a small marsupial in the kangaroo family and even the endangered mountain crayfish, a blue coloured found only in a couple of mountain ranges around here above 240 metres.

In addition to the walkway, you’ll find parklands, BBQ and picnic facilities an information centre and cafe.  A visit here is ideal to combine with exploring the mountain villages of Maleny and Montville.

With 66km of stunning Gold Coast beaches, it’s going to take a lot of time to visit them all so it’s necessary to make some choices to narrow it down.  The attraction of the southern Gold Coast beaches including Burleigh, Currumbin, Tugan and Kirra are that they are a little less developed and quieter than the northern beaches.

They are all strikingly beautiful surf beaches with wide white sandy stretches, many have dune areas and others have lagoon, mangrove and creeks heading inland.

The Obi Obi gorge is a diverse natural area on the Sunshine Coast near Maleny.  It’s located next to the Baroon Pocket Dam and from here you can take a 7 km return walk on the Baroon Lookout track, the views from the track are fabulous and you generally see diverse birdlife along the track.  Not far from the car park there’s a detour down to the gorge and swimming hole.  Another alternative is rock-hopping along the gorge but be prepared to get wet in parts.

The are picnic and BBQ facilities nearby at the lake edge and across the dam wall or head back up the road into Maleny for a variety of cafe options.

Byron Bay is a 2-hour drive from Brisbane and I have to admit I do prefer to stay down there for a night or two when we go but we’ve done it as a day trip several times with friends and visitors and if that’s what works for your itinerary then I’d definitely make this trip for the day, you can see and do plenty in that time.

Byron Bay retains it’s laid back surf vibe despite its ever-increasing popularity and while getting a car park can be a challenge some days you are sure to find yourself a wave and space on the sand at one of it’s 9 stunning beaches.  Byron is an iconic Aussie destination and we highly recommend a visit.

Read more about the Byron Bay beaches and other attractions in this article

Around an hour and a half from Brisbane, you’ll reach the northern New South Wales beaches including Fingal Head, Kingscliff and Salt beach.  It’s a popular holiday destination and increasingly growing as a residential subdivision but still relatively quiet.

The beaches here are gorgeous for long relaxed walks, beach days and there’s a wide walking and bike path shaded in part by the casuarina trees along the beach edge at Kingscliff.  From Fingal head and many of the other headlands along here you’ll see whales passing during the migration season and don’t miss the Giants Causeway, an interesting basalt lava rock formation that extends under the water to Cook Island.

Read more | What to see and do around the Northern  NSW beaches

My 2 final suggestions for day trips from Brisbane are annual events. There’s a big range of these and something to suit all interests, these are just 2 examples that make a great addition to your time in the region. 

The Swell Festival has been running for many years during the month of September and includes many local and international artists who create sculptures, often of significant size on the beach and foreshore in Currumbin.  During the festival, you’ll find coffee vans and food trucks offering a variety on top of the local cafes, live music and other entertainment.  The sculptures are also lit at night adding a different way to enjoy them.

Helpful tips for planning a visit to the Swell Festival

The Sand Safari is another annual event, this time in February and held predominantly at Surfers Paradise although related displays pop up around the Gold Coast.  The enormous sandcastles are created by international and local artists along the wide promenade in front of the beach. 

The artworks usually take the shape of fantasy and cartoon characters which are loved by kids and adults alike.  They are made entirely of sand and water then sprayed with an environmentally safe sealant to help them stand up to the elements for the duration of the festival.

During the event you an vote for the one you like the best and there’s an extra-large central display which is worked on by many artists for you to watch the creators at work and ask any questions.  The festival is perfect combined with a day at the beach or exploring Surfers Paradise, the best known of the Gold Coast beaches.

Have you visited one, or all, of these fantastic destinations near Brisbane?  Do you enjoy day trips as a way of exploring a region?  If you have any questions when planning your visit please ask in the comments section below.  For those places you want to add to your itinerary we have in-depth articles full of tips on many of them that we’ve also linked up above.

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North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

The best day trips from Brisbane

The Queensland capital of Brisbane is perfectly positioned for day trips of every kind.

By Katrina Lobley 

Want to get out of town for the day?  Brisbane  is surrounded by fascinating destinations to discover. Take your pick of coastal cities, island getaways and hinterland mountains topped with lush forests.

Where:  80 kilometres (50 miles) south of Brisbane. 

The glitzy  Gold Coast , attracts plenty of pint-sized thrill seekers keen to spend a day at one of its theme parks. But it's not just kids who will enjoy the region. With a thriving food scene, great shopping, pumping nightlife and even a well-established health and wellness offering, it's easy to see why "the Goldie" is a favourite getaway spot. Want to see how Surfers Paradise got its name? Sign up for a surf lesson along the iconic beachfront with  Get Wet Surf School  before relaxing at one of the Gold Coast's best day spas or restaurants .

Bee Gees Way, Redcliffe Queensland © Dominika Lis

Where: 45 minutes north of Brisbane.

Redcliffe , a coastal city between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast , has one big musical claim to fame: it’s where the Gibb brothers, of Bee Gees fame, spent part of their childhood in the 1950s and signed their first music contract. The city pays homage to the stars with  Bee Gees Way , a 70-metre (230-foot) long multimedia walkway that's free and open day and night. The walkway runs between Sutton Street and the waterfront Redcliffe Parade (stroll along the promenade to enjoy views of Moreton Island). Redcliffe is also a spectacular seafood destination. Head to the Moreton Bay Boat Club for casual fare or Tempest for seafood that sizzles on a teppanyaki grill. For something more adventurous, hire a boat or jet ski from Boab Boats for a day cruising the waters of Moreton Bay. If it’s humpback migration season (June to November), hop onto a whale watching cruise to spot the curious whales.

Moreton Island

Did you know?

Guests at Tangalooma Island Resort can join Eco Rangers in hand-feeding wild bottlenose dolphins that visit the shore every evening.

Where:  40 kilometres (25 miles) off the coast of Brisbane. Take the 75-minute ferry to reach the island.

Moreton Island is a favourite day trip for Queenslanders, but don't rule out an overnight adventure. Those who love four-wheel driving can ferry their vehicles to the island and explore the bush and beach tracks. Those who prefer modern comforts can head to Tangalooma Island Resort , which offers a variety of activities, including quad biking, kayaking, parasailing and scenic flights. Snorkelling or diving the partially-submerged Tangalooma Wrecks that lie just offshore is also popular. The island is home to an interior desert with soaring sand dunes offering a hefty dose of adrenaline-inducing activity. Sign up to toboggan the steep dunes, if you dare.

Bribie Island

Bribie Island, Sunshine Coast, Queensland © John Bowden, Tourism and Events Queensland

Where: Located between Redcliffe and the  Sunshine Coast , just under an hour's drive north of Brisbane.

For a beach holiday that's all about the simple things, head to  Bribie Island . Bribie is the only Moreton Bay island you can drive to (shuttles operate from Brisbane Airport, or take a bus from Caboolture train station). Pumicestone Passage, which runs between the island and the mainland, is home to dugongs (similar to manatees) that come to feed on the seagrass, as well as dolphins and turtles.  Ferryman Cruises  offers a range of passage tours while G'day Adventure Tours can take you on a 4WD adventure to spot wildlife before heading inland through forests and wetlands only accessible by 4WD. For surf action, head to the ocean beaches at Woorim .

North Stradbroke Island

North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism Australia

Where: Drive 45 minutes east to Toondah Harbour to catch the ferry to the island.

Loved for its laid-back lifestyle and aquatic adventures, North Stradbroke Island is the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. ‘Straddie,’ as the locals call it, is home to some stunning beaches - don’t miss Cylinder Beach and Frenchman’s Beach - as well as freshwater lakes you can reach on foot. The island also offers incredible whale watching opportunities from late May to early October. The humpback whales migrate so close to shore that all you need is a pair of binoculars to watch them swim by; a  walk along the headlands is a great place to start your search. Continue your nature discovery from the glamping tents at Adder Rock , where you’ll have a chance to spot resident kangaroos, koalas and kookaburras.

Australia's most beautiful islands

Scenic Rim, Maryvale, Queensland © Mark Clinton, Tourism and Events Queensland

Where: A 1.5-hour drive south-west of Brisbane.

If photogenic mountains are your thing, head to the Scenic Rim in the Gold Coast hinterland . Known as Australia's Green Cauldron, these lush mountains were once a volcanic hotspot. Choose from over a dozen  trails that take you to breathtaking lookouts, rock pools and rainforest gorges. Prefer to see the Scenic Rim from the air? Gold Coast-based  Hot Air  offers hot air balloon rides over the region.

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11 Top-Rated Day Trips from Brisbane

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Jul 26, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When it comes to day trips from Brisbane, travelers are spoilt for choice. Three of the world's largest sand islands shimmer just offshore, with beautiful blonde beaches and quirky wildlife. In the lush hinterland, nature lovers can explore walking trails through World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, with rainforests, rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls.

Are you an animal lover? Wildlife is a highlight on many of these trips. Kangaroos, koalas, king parrots, pademelons, and a dazzling diversity of birds are just some of the Aussie critters you can see in the national parks, and a visit to Australia Zoo is one of the most popular Brisbane day trips for families.

Add quaint mountain villages; the golden beaches of the laid-back Sunshine Coast; and the glitzy Gold Coast, with its posh boutiques and popular theme parks, and it's easy to see why Brisbane makes a great base for exhilarating Queensland adventures . Discover places to visit around the sunny state capital with our list of the best day trips from Brisbane.

1. Australia Zoo, Beerwah

2. surfers paradise, 3. springbrook national park, 4. moreton island, 5. noosa heads, 6. north stradbroke island, 7. lamington national park and the scenic rim, 8. tamborine mountain, 9. montville and maleny, 10. bribie island, 11. the redcliffe peninsula, map of day trips from brisbane.

About a 45-minute drive north of Brisbane, Australia Zoo is a must-see for animal lovers, especially fans of the late Aussie "Wildlife Warrior," Steve Irwin. Australia Zoo continues Steve's work, with a strong focus on conservation and education.

Spread across 110 acres, Australia Zoo is home to a cast of lovable Aussie animals, as well as a host of exotic beauties. Sumatran tigers, elephants, cheetahs, zebras, and rhinos are some of the favorites.

In addition to all the fascinating animal exhibits, the solar-powered Crocoseum hosts popular live shows every day, including crocodile feeding demonstrations and animal shows starring snakes and colorful parrots. With all this entertainment, no wonder a visit here is one of the most popular things to do on the Sunshine Coast .

Animal encounters are a highlight. Book in advance and pay extra for special encounters with your favorite animals, from tigers and koalas to red pandas, cheetahs, meerkats, rhinos, and the Leapin' Lemur Encounter on Bindi's Island. You can also hand-feed kangaroos for the price of a bag of "roo" food.

You should plan on at least a full day here to really make the most of your visit. For an extra fee, you can also add a visit to the animal hospital , with funds supporting its healing work.

Insider's tip: Wear your walking shoes, and be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, refillable water bottle, and rain jacket.

If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, you can hop aboard the air-conditioned Croc Express coach on the Australia Zoo Day Trip , which includes entrance fees, as well as convenient pickup and drop-off directly from your hotel.

Address: Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Queensland

Official site: http://www.australiazoo.com.au/

About two hours' drive south of Brisbane, in the heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise buzzes day and night. True to its name, this sun-soaked tourist hub is a hot spot for board riders. Surf breaks lap the golden shores, and water sports are one of the top things to do here.

Surfers Paradise Beach is one of the top attractions on the Gold Coast . High-rises and hotels line the sun-soaked sands, and if you feel like a shopping fix, head to the designer boutiques in modern shopping malls a few blocks away. Cavill Avenue is the shopping and entertainment core.

Traveling with the kids? In the surrounding area, popular theme parks like SeaWorld , Warner Bros. Movie World , and Dreamworld lure families looking for an adrenaline adventure. And if wildlife encounters are top on your agenda, you can get up close to your favorite Aussie creatures at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

More adventures await at SkyPoint, Australia's tallest residential tower. For spectacular bird's-eye views of the coast, zoom up to the SkyPoint Observation Deck or sign up for the heart-pumping SkyPoint Climb.

A rewarding way to sightsee around Surfers Paradise is on the Aquaduck City & River Tour . This one-hour tour takes you on both land and sea in an amphibious vehicle. See the Gold Coast's beautiful beaches from land, then hang on tight as the vehicle transforms into a boat for a relaxing river cruise. Along the way, you'll learn about all the top landmarks and cruise past the splashy mansions of Millionaire's Row.

Spectacular Springbrook National Park, about 100 kilometers south of Brisbane, is a wonderland of ravishing natural beauty and ancient flora and fauna. The park forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area . Gushing waterfalls, cool creeks, rugged volcanic canyons, rainforests, and fragrant eucalyptus trees spark all the senses, and provide the perfect counterpoint to a city-based stay.

Panoramic viewpoints are the best places to visit to soak up the park's beauty. Canyon Lookout reveals views of the entire Gold Coast, and the appropriately-named Best of All Lookout offers jaw-dropping vistas all the way to New South Wales , as well as a glimpse at a stand of ancient Antarctic beech trees.

Hiking is another great way to appreciate the park. The park's hiking trails offer beautiful views over the volcanic gorges and valleys, and range from short 300-meter, cliff-top jaunts fringed by cycads to longer circuit hikes. A favorite is the four-kilometer Twin Falls Circuit overlooking two waterfalls flowing like bridal veils.

Other park highlights are the breathtaking Purling Brook Falls Lookout; a colony of glow worms; and the Natural Bridge, an eroded rock bridge and cave through which a creek and waterfall flow.

Besides hiking, other popular things to do in Springbrook National Park include birding (listen out for the elusive lyrebird), horseback riding, and picnics. On your return trip, try taking an alternative route to soak up as much scenery as possible.

To see all the highlights of this beautiful wilderness in one day, the Springbrook National Park Discovery Full-Day Bushwalking Tour is a great option. An expert guide will take you on nature walks, with visits to the top features of the park, like Purling Brook Falls and Natural Bridge. Lunch and park entrance fees are included.

Official site: http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/springbrook/about.html

About 75 minutes by ferry from downtown Brisbane, Moreton Island is a stressed-out city slicker's dream. The stress detox begins as soon as you say goodbye to the city traffic and step aboard the ferry or private tour boat.

Moreton Island is the world's third largest sand island and one of the most popular island day trips from Brisbane. Its lovely dune-backed freshwater creeks and lagoons, long blonde beaches, and colorful wildflowers lure nature lovers — about 98 percent of the island is protected as a national park.

River to Bay offers a range of themed day trip tours from Brisbane to Moreton Island aboard their sleek high-speed boats.

One of the most popular things to do on Moreton Island is snorkel or dive the 15 shallow-water wrecks , which lie just off the beach. Other highlights include hand-feeding wild dolphins at the Tangalooma Island Resort ; gazing out at breathtaking blue-water views from Cape Moreton Lighthouse; quad biking; and plenty of water-based activities, such as whale-watching cruises, sea kayaking, and fishing.

Sandboarding down the soaring dunes, and four-wheel drive adventures, are also popular. You can try these activities on the Moreton Island 4WD Day Trip from Brisbane . This full-day, small-group tour also visits some of the wrecks on a guided snorkeling tour and includes time to bask on the beautiful beaches and enjoy a picnic lunch.

On the Sunshine Coast, about two hours north of Brisbane, Noosa is a favorite destination for Aussies seeking a relaxing beach escape. Glorious golden beaches, wilderness experiences, and fantastic shopping and dining are some of Noosa's top tourist attractions .

Surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers alike head to Noosa's Main Beach to swim in the blue-green waves of Laguna Bay, and bask on the soft sands. Overlooking this alluring stretch of coast, walking trails thread along the rugged headland in Noosa National Park, with beautiful views of the ocean.

Are shopping and dining top on your to-do list? You can do that here, too. A five-minute stroll from the beach lie a string of fantastic restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and galleries along upscale Hastings Street , and you'll find even more options in Noosaville along the Noosa River.

Other popular activities in the area include paddling along the Noosa Everglades, fishing and boating along the picturesque Noosa River, and shopping for souvenirs and fresh local produce at the popular Noosa Farmers Market .

Affectionately known as "Straddie" by the locals, North Stradbroke Island offers many of the features travelers love about Australia: beautiful beaches, great surf, and quintessential Aussie wildlife. It's the second largest sand island in the world (after K'Gari Fraser Island ) and lies about an hour by car and ferry from Brisbane, across the blue waters of Moreton Bay.

A great place to start a tour here is the scenic North Gorge Walk , a seaside trail and boardwalk around the headlands to Point Lookout . This panoramic viewpoint is a fantastic spot to look for marine life, such as dolphins, sharks, turtles, manta rays, and even whales from May through October.

On land, you might also spot some of the island's resident kangaroos and koalas. After hiking, you can cool off with a dip at one of the island's sweeping white-sand beaches or freshwater lakes.

Other popular things to do on North Stradbroke Island include deep-sea fishing, beach and rock fishing, SCUBA diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, and surfing. Three tiny townships on the island offer restaurants and a sprinkling of historical attractions, if you can tear yourself away from the beach.

The small-group Stradbroke Island Day Trip gives you a taste of most of the island's diverse attractions. You can look for wildlife on land and in the sea, as well as swim, sunbathe, and explore the island's small townships.

About a two-hour drive from Brisbane, World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park is a haven for nature lovers and birders. The park lies tucked amid the emerald peaks of the Borders Ranges in Queensland's Scenic Rim, a picturesque region of lakes, mountains, rainforests, and charming country towns. Lamington National Park is one of the most popular Scenic Rim day trips from Brisbane.

Luxuriant rainforest punctuated by waterfalls provides the perfect setting for hiking trails and a diversity of fascinating wildlife. The park is famous for its resident bowerbirds , which build elaborate arches adorned with bright blue objects to impress the females. About 190 other bird species also make their home here, including squadrons of brilliantly-hued king parrots and crimson rosellas that alight on anyone who dares to stretch out their arms.

Other wildlife frequently spotted include small marsupials, such as red-necked pademelons and long-nosed bandicoots.

Most visitors take the twisty road up to O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat , a guesthouse, spa, and restaurant. From here, you can explore the park on O'Reilly's Tree Top Walk , a series of suspension bridges and walkways strung through the canopy about 16 meters above the rainforest floor.

If you take the O'Reilly's Lamington National Park and Tree Top Canopy Tour from Brisbane, you can add in beautiful views of the region from Mount Tamborine and a visit to an alpaca farm. This full-day tour includes entrance fees to the park, the canopy walk, an expert guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Don't forget to bring a rain jacket — this park is lush for a reason!

Official site: http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/lamington/

Tamborine Mountain, in the Gold Coast Hinterland, offers an appealing balance of nature and culture. Tamborine Mountain also lies in Queensland's Scenic Rim, about an hour's drive from Brisbane and a 45-minute drive from Lamington National Park.

In Tamborine National Park , tranquil rainforests, eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls provide a refreshing dose of subtropical wilderness. Nearby, the town of Mount Tamborine brims with boutiques, craft shops, and art galleries.

You can start your day with a bird's-eye view of the lush rainforest on the 45-minute Rainforest SkyWalk guided canopy tour — listen out for lyrebirds. Afterwards, a short bush walk to Curtis Falls reveals the soothing sounds of these peaceful cascades.

The town of Mount Tamborine is a haven for foodies. Stop here to feast on fresh local produce at one of the town's cafés or tearooms, and top off your day with a cooking class, some gallery gazing, or a pampering spa treatment.

The Mount Tamborine glow worm caves are also a popular side trip, and the Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens is a hit with green thumbs. This attraction-packed region is one of the most popular hinterland day trips from Brisbane.

Montville and Maleny offer a refreshing mountain escape in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. These cute villages lie less than a 90-minute drive from Brisbane, and both offer a dose of country charm, cute craft shops and cafés, and a foodie fix.

Maleny is a dairy-farming town with a hippy streak. Cheese, chocolate, and old-time lollies (candy) are some of the tasty treats to sample here. Other popular attractions around Maleny include the farm and factory tour at Maleny Dairies and Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World . And if you love wildlife, take time to look for platypus from the Obi Obi Boardwalk .

Montville is made for strolling. Craft shops, art galleries, boutiques, woodworking shops, and other specialty stores provide an excuse to stock up on souvenirs, and the Bavarian and English-style cottages infuse an old-world feel.

Need a nature fix? Save time to stroll the rainforest trails at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, hike to beautiful Kondalilla Falls in Kondalilla National Park , or enjoy a picnic at Baroon Pocket Dam. If you're visiting on a hot day, cool off in the rock pools at Gardners Falls.

Prefer to do your sightseeing in the car? Take a scenic drive along the Blackall Range Tourist Drive , and soak up the views of the Glasshouse Mountains from panoramic viewpoints.

Bribie Island offers an exhilarating 4WD beach adventure about an hour's drive from the city. This is the smallest of the three sand islands off Brisbane and the only one connected by a bridge.

Driving along the surf-washed eastern beaches here is a favorite pastime. Don't have a 4WD? Don't worry. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are not essential to visit the island.

Other top things to do on Bribie Island include kayaking, windsurfing, fishing, and kitesurfing, as well as swimming and sunbathing along the calm, sandy bay on the island's western side.

The Pumicestone Passage separates the island from Caloundra on the mainland, with gorgeous views of the Glasshouse Mountains. It's a popular playground for water sports, such as boating and fishing, as well as wildlife spotting. Dugongs, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds are frequent visitors to these mangrove-fringed waters.

On land, kangaroos, emus, and dingoes live in Bribie Island National Park, and the island is home to more than 350 species of birds. For a brief overview of the island's history, stop by the free Bribie Island Seaside Museum.

Fresh from an extensive rejuvenation project, the Redcliffe Peninsula buzzes with weekend warriors. This scenic peninsula is about a 40-minute drive from Brisbane's CBD, and it's the perfect place to visit for a little relaxation by the sea.

Redcliffe has several claims to fame for Brisbane day trippers. The Bee Gees grew up here, and you can take a relaxing stroll back through their golden years along Bee Gees Way . Dance along to their infectious tunes as you browse their photos and memorabilia along the walkway, and listen to little-known stories about their illustrious career. This is a must-do for music fans.

Redcliffe is also one of the oldest settlements in Brisbane. You can learn a little about its history at the free Redcliffe Museum . Exhibits range from the area's Aboriginal history to stories about the Redcliffe Peninsula's famous residents.

Traveling with kids? Stop by Scarborough Park , which packs in two playgrounds, Pirate's Place and Railway Place, as well as plenty of picnic tables and large trees to climb. On a hot day, kids will also love a dip at Suttons Beach or in the shimmering, turquoise-hued Settlement Cove Lagoon , right on the bayfront.

Adults will also find plenty to love here. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along Woody Point Jetty and the Clontarf-Redcliffe seaside walk . Cast a fishing line; look for whales and dolphins in Moreton Bay; and if you're visiting on a Sunday, shop at the Redcliffe Farmers and Artisans Market (8am to 2pm along Redcliffe Parade).

Planning to take your pooch? The Redcliffe Peninsula is one of the best Brisbane day trips with dogs. You can let them run wild at Kroll Gardens Off-Leash Dog Park or in designated areas at Queens Beach North.

Redcliffe is on the way to the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane, so you can combine a visit here with a trip to Noosa Heads or one of the other top places to go for a day trip north of Brisbane.

More on Australia

6 best day trips from Brisbane this summer

Nov 22, 2021 • 6 min read

Surfers Paradise is known for its nightclubs, but there's a lot more to the Gold Coast © Gary Parker / Stocksy United

Queensland ’s sunny capital finds itself in a rather lucky position. Not only is Brisbane one of Australia ’s fastest-evolving cities in the trend stakes but it’s also within day-tripping distance of some of the state’s best beaches, national parks, and unique townships.

And with the Australia slowly re-opening to visitors from interstate, as well as overseas, Brisbane and the Queensland coast tourism sector has never been more excited to see you. So get ready for a multitude of sunshine-soaked adventures – you may want to consider extending your holiday plans this year – with our pick of the best places to visit near Brisbane.   

Theme parks, surfing and hiking the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast might be one of Australia’s most misunderstood cities. Often pigeonholed as a party town, the Goldie hosts more than 50km of pristine sand so, as logic would suggest, there’s far more to this beach city than just the nightclubs of Surfers Paradise . In the north, thrill seekers can hit the theme parks and families can picnic and play at the waterfront Broadwater Parklands . Further south, surfers can ride competition waves at Snapper Rocks (or anywhere along the coastline really) and nature-lovers can stomp the tracks in Springbrook National Park. 

Don’t be fooled into thinking Gold Coasters are as casual about their food as they are about their lifestyle – gastronomy is serious game and there are plenty of A-grade restaurants to choose from (plus quality beans for coffee aficionados). Hip cafes and watering holes abound, including in bright and buzzy Burleigh Heads, which lays claim to a hatted restaurant (Australian code for best in show) –  Rick Shores – and Burleigh’s lesser-known but no-less-cool neighbour, Palm Beach, which is fast becoming a haven for swanky bars (try Suga or The Scottish Prince ). Busy Broadbeach and chilled-out ‘burbs like Mermaid Beach and Coolangatta are also worth checking out. And do pop into Surfers Paradise – it is a lot of fun. 

How to get to the Gold Coast:  The Gold Coast is just under an hour's drive south of Brisbane. Regular trains depart from Brisbane Central and the journey takes around an hour and 40 minutes.

Unwind from Caloundra to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast 

Like the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast is hard to define, but is a little less zing and a little more calm than its southern counterpart. Noosa is a highlight because of its boutique shopping, trendy cafes and one of the most beautiful national parks you’ll lay eyes on (that turquoise water…), while Mooloolaba and Caloundra offer quieter alternatives (and the latter has an award-winning brewery by the beach ). 

The Sunshine Coast hinterland trades ocean spray for clean mountain air, and Montville and Maleny are two standout locales. Montville is an adorable one-horse town that peters on a mountain ridge. The main street is lined with cafes, galleries and shops, and the nearby Kondalilla National Park is laced with walking trails and waterfalls.

Maleny, 9.3 miles (15km) south, is an equally endearing town that supports a thriving dairy industry. Visit Maleny Dairies and Maleny Cheese to sample the region’s award-winning produce, then stop in at the Maleny Botanic Gardens for views over the Glass House Mountains and to see more than 700 native and exotic birds at Bird World. Duck off the highway to visit Australia Zoo – founded by the late Steve Irwin – or to pick up local handicrafts and snacks at the Eumundi Markets . 

How to get to the Sunshine Coast:  Regular trains depart from Brisbane Central to Nambour, the region's main train station. The journey takes an hour and 50 minutes.

Explore lush Lamington National Park 

Lamington National Park hit the news in 2019 when bushfires swept through the area, but all is not lost. For starters, Lamington is big (more than 20,000 hectares big), and is split into two sections – Green Mountains (also called O’Reilly) and Binna Burra. Sections of the Binna Burra forest were damaged, but much of the park and the businesses within it remain open.

Join a monthly cooking class using regional produce at the Wild Lime Cooking School (which can be topped or tailed with a swim in the Christmas Creek or Lost World rock pools), or enjoy a massage and sweeping valley views at O’Reilly’s Lost World Spa . Nearby hiking options range from easy 30-minute circuits to multi-hour treks through soul-cleansing rainforest. Visit the Queensland Parks and Forest website for up-to-date trail information. 

How to get to Lamington National Park:  The park is 68 miles (110km) south of Brisbane, which equates to about a two-hour drive.

Iconic Byron Bay mixes beaches with boutique shopping

Byron Bay is a two-hour drive from Brisbane, crossing the state border into New South Wales . Arguably one of Australia’s most popular and well-known beach towns, Byron is old-school hippie and modern-age hipster rolled into one. Here, shoes are optional and bathers are commonplace within the compact town centre, but there’s an air of sophistication about the place. Boutique shops stock stylish local handicrafts and fashion labels, the dining is on-trend, and if you fancy staying overnight, Byron Bay accommodation spans a spectrum from backpacker to chic. 

The town itself hums with energy for much of the day and night (Byron manages to wake up early after partying into the wee hours), but it’s easy to escape into nature. Follow the Cape Byron Walking Track to the lighthouse – the most easterly point of mainland Australia – or take a dip in the crystalline waters of Wategos beach , where dolphins frolic and waves gently spill over a wide sand bar. 

How to get to Byron Bay:  The trip takes two hours by car (102 miles). Coaches are available from Brisbane Roma St Bus Stop to Byron Bay daily and the journey takes a little over two and a half hours.

The easiest day trip from Brisbane: North Stradbroke Island 

Stradbroke Island (or ‘Straddie’ to the locals) is split into north and south. North Stradbroke is the most easily accessible of our favorite day trips from Brisbane via a 30-minute boat ride from Cleveland. Hire a 4WD for ultimate freedom (including beach cruising potential) or buy a daily bus pass to get between the hubs of Point Lookout, Dunwich and Amity. 

Main Beach has a powerful swell and is popular with surfers and body boarders , while Cylinder Beach is a calmer, patrolled cove better suited to families and lazy afternoons. The more secluded Deadman’s and Frenchman’s beaches are dotted with rock pools, and inland there’s a freshwater lake system. This includes Blue Lake, referred to as the ‘deep silent pool’ in the local indigenous language, and Brown Lake , tinged by the colour of native tea trees. Whale watching is a popular pastime on Straddie, with migrating humpback whales a common sight between June and November.  

How to get to North Stradbroke Island: Ferries depart daily from the Brisbane suburb of Cleveland and take around 30 minutes. You can travel as a foot passenger or bring your own vehicle.

Rainforest and glow worm caves await on Tamborine Mountain 

Tamborine Mountain sits between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It’s another of Queensland’s magnificent hinterlands strewn with rainforest, criss-crossed by walking trails and peppered with cute shops and eateries. The Gallery Walk on Long Road has more than 50 cafes, restaurants and stores selling handicrafts and knick-knacks, then there are a number of wineries and breweries nearby, plus the Tamborine Mountain Distillery , which has a trophy cabinet laden with more than 300 awards. 

Tamborine is also known for its glow worms glittering in a purpose-built cave . Guided tours run throughout the day. 

How to get to Tamborine Mountain:  It's just an hour's drive south of Brisbane (45 miles).

Produced by Lonely Planet for American Airlines. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.`

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This article was first published December 2019 and updated November 2021

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10 best adventure family day trips from Brisbane

Aug 11, 2020 | Australia Family Travel , Family Destinations , Travel posts

10 best Brisbane day trips with kids

If you’re tired of the usual weekend activities, mix it up and get out of town for the day. There are tonnes of brilliant outdoor adventures within a couple of hours of  Brisbane , Australia . Here’s our pick of the best Brisbane day trips with kids!

Table of Contents

Family day trips south of Brisbane

Lamington national park.

One of the great family day trips from Brisbane is the World Heritage-listed, Lamington National Park . Here you’ll find O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, set in the unspoilt sub-tropical rainforest; home to kangaroos, wallabies, and a huge assortment of native birds. You can take a walk with a park ranger who will help identify the birds,  go it alone on one of several bushwalking trails, or feed the birds in the bird feeding area.

You can clamber up an 18-metre high bush tower, scream out loud as you whizz down the flying fox, get close to birds of prey, or just meander down a track to breathtaking waterfalls. Check for a list of  current activities . If you want to stay the night there is a variety of  accommodation  options available, and an onsite café and restaurant. There is also a  camping ground within the National Park.

Location : The end of Lamington National Park Rd, a 2-hour drive from Brisbane. Please be aware the drive from Canungra to O’Reilly’s is on a very windy road.

Tamborine Mountain

There is some serious outdoor adventure waiting for kids of all ages at  Thunderbird Park . They have a wide variety of activities for day-trippers and overnight visitors including extreme zip lining, treetop challenge, Thunderegg fossicking, rock pools, glow worm tours and laser skirmish. Nearby is  Gallery Walk , where you’ll find treats galore including fudge, ice-cream and handmade chocolates. Tamborine Mountain is a one hour drive from Brisbane.

East of Brisbane day trips with kids

Coochiemudlo.

If it’s an island adventure you’re after, then jump aboard the ferry to  Brisbane’s secret island , Coochiemudlo in Moreton Bay.  Grab some bikes  (tandem cruisers, kids’ bikes, and tag-along buggies) and explore, or rent a SUP and perfect your Stand-Up Paddleboard technique. The island is only 4km around, so biking is a perfect way to find your own little beach cove. For more adventurous kids, sea kayaking around the whole island takes about two hours. The inexpensive ferry operates every 30 minutes from early morning until late evening from Victoria Point Jetty, Masters Avenue, Victoria Point. It’s a 20-minute ride to Coochie. There’s no need to book in advance. There are a couple of cafes for snacks, and a few different  accommodation options  if you want to stay over.

St Helena Island

This second island adventure is less about water activities and more about the history of Brisbane’s only off-shore penal colony  St Helena Island , which was in use from 1867-1932. You can’t visit the island independently, so you’ll need to board the Cat-o-Nine-Tails catamaran for the 30-minute crossing. After disembarking, you’ll have to serve time as an inmate and be guided by a band of actors, singers and minstrels. The day tour is a guided dramatisation of what life was like for those interned on St. Helena back in the day, and includes great views across the bay back to Brisbane, and tucker at lunchtime. For the truly brave, there is a  night-time tour  of the island that includes being marched to the dramatic ruins and through the island’s cemetery for a spooky experience full of colourful stories of those who never left the island. Tours run daily but  must be booked in advance . They depart from William Gunn Jetty, Wyvernleigh Close, Manly.

Family day trips from Brisbane heading north

Tangalooma island.

Kids of all ages will love wading in the shallows to meet the  wild bottlenose dolphins  that visit every evening at sunset. They can even hand-feed the dolphins under the guidance of the resort’s eco-rangers. There are plenty of other activities for all ages, including snorkelling through sunken shipwrecks, exploring the island aboard fat-wheeled beach bikes, or get up high by parasailing.  The Tangalooma Island Resort  is a 75-minute catamaran cruise from Holt Street Wharf, Pinkenba. There are four  departures  daily: 7:00 am, 10:00 am, 12:00 noon, and 5:00 pm, with several return trips daily. Tangalooma Resort on Moreton Island is a perfect day trip, or if you want to make it a family weekend getaway, there’s a range of  accommodation options . We hope these have given you some inspiration to get out and explore South-East Queensland with your boys.  

Bribie Island 

Less than an hour north of Brisbane is  Bribie Island , a 34-kilometre long sand island that is about one-third uninhabited national park. Surf mad kids can boogie-board the small break on the ocean-side of the island, while families with littlies will enjoy the sheltered swimming beaches  on the Pumicestone Passage side. There are some easy bushwalks, suitable for younger children including The Banksia, Palm Grove and Melaleuca walks, or you can bring the bikes and cycle along the foreshore. After all that fun, the kids will be starving, so grab some  fish and chips  and find a spot under a shady tree. There are lots of  different camping sites on the island if you want to make a weekend of it.

Mountain biking trails – north and west

South East Queensland has some great mountain biking trails, so load up the bikes, and get into some downhill action. There are some stunning tracks around the  Sunshine Coast including the beautiful Glass House Mountains. If you’d like some guidance, these groups will arrange guided rides in South-East Queensland, or of some lesser-known trails of the  Sunshine Coast  hinterland. More fantastic trails can be found at  Hidden Vale Adventure Park , where $10 gets you all-day access to all trails 7 am -7 pm, 7 days a week. Located at 617 Grandchester Mt Mort Rd, Grandchester.

Heading west of Brisbane day trips with kids

Take the kids to Toowoomba

Come up to the top of the Great Dividing Range to  Toowoomba , and get some mountain air into your lungs.

Start off the day by  climbing Table Top Mountain . Now, this is no casual bushwalk but it is easily achievable with a moderate level of fitness. Climbing Table Top is more of a clambering and scaling of rocks, with a bit of bushwalking thrown in for good measure. The kids will get a great sense of achievement by reaching the top, plus there are spectacular views of the Lockyer Valley and beyond to take in. We wouldn’t recommend the climb for kids under 6, or if you have really bad knees, back or ankles. The climb will take around 1 ½ to 2 hours. You will need to take water and snacks as there is nothing at the top. Access to the start of the trail is via South Street and Table Top Drive.

There’s  much more to do  than you could fit into one day, so why not make a weekend of it. There are plenty of  accommodation  options in Toowoomba, and the city is bursting with excellent places to eat and drink.

Jondaryan Woolshed

If you’re looking for a great country experience close to Brisbane, head to the  Jondaryan Woolshed  on the  Darling Downs , the oldest working woolshed of its kind in the southern hemisphere. The whole family will love the relaxed rural setting with acres to run free. The kids can meet horses, goats and maybe even help shear a sheep. There’s a  self-guided tour  of the old shearer’s woolshed and museum village. When you get hungry, you’ll experience authentic country hospitality at the  Woolshed Café  or visit the  Damper Hut  for delicious Devonshire Teas or Ploughman’s Lunch. Located at 264 Jondaryan-Evanslea Rd, Jondaryan, just over two hours drive from Brisbane.

Queen Mary Falls

Disclosure:  Some of the accommodation links in this article are affiliate links. This means,  at no additional cost to you , if you book after clicking on the links, we will earn a commission.  Please consider booking through these links as it helps to support us to continue providing you with the best information on family travel.

Nicci O’Mara

I help parents overcome the challenges of international travel with kids, so they can plan, pack and go more easily and without the overwhelm. LEARN MORE

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