As the capital of Queensland, Brisbane is a vibrant city filled with culture, history, and modern amenities. But sometimes, you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and recharge your batteries. Fortunately, there are plenty of weekend getaways from Brisbane that are just a short drive or flight away. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a nature retreat, or a wine-tasting adventure,
Here are 20 of the very best weekend getaways from Brisbane:
Gold Coast
Located just an hour’s drive south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is a popular weekend getaway destination for its beautiful beaches, exciting theme parks, and lively nightlife. With miles of golden sand and crystal-clear water, the Gold Coast is a paradise for surfers and beach lovers. You can also visit world-famous attractions like Dreamworld, Sea World, and Movie World, or explore the charming seaside towns of Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta.
Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is another great weekend getaway option for beach lovers. Located just north of Brisbane, this stretch of coastline offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. You can also hike through the lush rainforest of the hinterland, visit the famous Eumundi Markets, or take a scenic drive along the coastal roads.
Noosa
If you’re looking for a more upscale beach getaway, Noosa is the perfect destination. This charming seaside town on the Sunshine Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and excellent dining scene. You can spend your weekend lounging on the sand, indulging in spa treatments, or exploring the nearby national parks.
Stradbroke Island
For a true island escape, head to Stradbroke Island. Located just off the coast of Brisbane, this idyllic island is home to pristine beaches, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife. You can go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, hike through the forests and sand dunes, or relax in a beachside cottage.
Byron Bay
Located just across the border in New South Wales, Byron Bay is a bohemian paradise that attracts surfers, hippies, and wellness enthusiasts from all over the world. With its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibe, and thriving arts scene, Byron Bay is the perfect weekend getaway for those who want to relax, recharge, and connect with nature.
Mount Tamborine
If you’re looking for a nature retreat that’s close to Brisbane, head to Mount Tamborine. This beautiful mountain range in the Gold Coast hinterland is home to lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and picturesque villages. You can go hiking, birdwatching, or horseback riding, or simply relax in a cozy bed and breakfast.
Lamington National Park
For a more rugged nature adventure, visit Lamington National Park. This pristine wilderness area in the Gold Coast hinterland is home to ancient rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rare wildlife like the endangered Albert’s lyrebird. You can go hiking, camping, or birdwatching, or take a guided tour of the park’s hidden treasures.
Moreton Island
If you’re looking for an island adventure that’s close to Brisbane, Moreton Island is a great choice. This beautiful island is home to crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a diverse range of marine life. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, or kayaking, or explore the island’s sand dunes and shipwrecks.
Fraser Island
For a more remote island adventure, head to Fraser Island. This stunning World Heritage Site is the largest sand island in the world, and is home to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and unique