About Queensland
Queensland, Australia's 'Sunshine State,' is a paradise of diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Stretching along the northeastern coast, it's home to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering unparalleled snorkeling and diving among colorful coral and marine life. The ancient Daintree Rainforest, another World Heritage treasure, provides lush hiking trails and unique wildlife encounters. Coastal gems like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast boast stunning beaches, surf culture, and family-friendly attractions. Inland, the rugged Outback offers adventure with national parks like Carnarvon Gorge. Queensland's capital, Brisbane, blends urban sophistication with a relaxed riverside vibe, while Cairns serves as the gateway to tropical north adventures. With a warm climate year-round, Queensland invites travelers to explore its natural wonders, from the Whitsunday Islands' pristine sands to the wildlife sanctuaries of Fraser Island. The state's laid-back atmosphere, outdoor festivals, and indigenous heritage make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Things to do in Queensland
Gold Coast 2 hour Sunset Sailing Cruise with Drinks&Tasting Plate
From A$189
5.0 (149)
Kangaroos, Rainforest & Waterfalls Experience - Small Group
Brisbane Brewery Full Day Tour with Lunch
From A$209
5.0 (66)
Premium Guided Dive Trip - Outer Great Barrier Reef
From A$715
5.0 (64)
Brisbane Shore Excursion: Must-See City Tour with a Local
Hook-A-Barra Fishing and Farm Activity
From A$115
5.0 (48)
Brisbane minibus sightseeing Tour: Scenic Locations & Morning Tea
Great Beach Drive 4WD Tour - Private Charter from Noosa to Rainbow Beach
From A$1,295
5.0 (45)
Bowen Beaches Discovery-Top of the Whitsundays
From A$150
5.0 (44)
eBike Noosa Sightseeing Tour - New!
From A$139.99
5.0 (43)
Brisbane Small Bars and Street Art Tour
From A$72.5
5.0 (38)
Quicksilver Dive 4 Day PADI Learn to Dive Course
Taribelang Bunda Cultural Tours
Full-day Tour at the Atherton Tablelands with Food Tasting
From A$295
5.0 (33)
Hook-A-Barra with Lunch & Port Douglas transfers
Places to visit in Queensland
007 Airsoft
007 Airsoft, 1411 33 Street NE, Calgary, AB T2A 5P1, Canada
Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre
Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, 33 Street NE, Calgary, AB T2A 6B6, Canada
Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre
Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, 1316 33 Street NE, Calgary, AB T2A 6B6, Canada
Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre
Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, 33 Street NE, Calgary, AB T2A 6B6, Canada
Best Western Village Park Inn
Best Western Village Park Inn, 24 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2M 3Y7, Canada
Econo Lodge
Econo Lodge, 2440 16 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0M5, Canada
Self Made Woman
Self Made Woman, 1301 16 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0L4, Canada
Ambassador Motor Inn
Ambassador Motor Inn, 802 16 Avenue NE, Calgary, AB T2E 1K8, Canada
Chilean Flamingos
Chilean Flamingos, Bow River Pathway (North), Calgary, AB T2G 3Y2, Canada
DoubleTree by Hilton Calgary North
DoubleTree by Hilton Calgary North, 17 Avenue NE, Calgary, AB T2E 1L4, Canada
Hippos
Hippos, 1300 Zoo Road NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada
Banff Trail Motel
Banff Trail Motel, 2107 16 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T2N 5E3, Canada
Markhor
Markhor, 1300 Zoo Road NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada
Tom Campbell's Hill
Tom Campbell's Hill, St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 8L6, Canada
Wapiti (Canadian Elk)
Wapiti (Canadian Elk), 1300 Zoo Road NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada
Travel Tips for Queensland
Getting Around
Queensland offers varied transport options. In cities like Brisbane, use buses, trains, and ferries via the TransLink network (Go Card for fares). Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Ola) and taxis are widely available. For regional travel, rent a car (major companies in airports/cities) to explore coastal drives (e.g., Great Barrier Reef Drive) and the Outback—ensure your license is valid. Domestic flights connect major hubs (Brisbane, Cairns, Townsville). Long-distance buses (Greyhound) serve coastal routes. In islands like the Whitsundays, ferries and boat tours are common. Download apps like Google Maps, TransLink, and local tour apps for navigation.
Best Time To Visit
May to October (dry season) is ideal, with mild temperatures (20-25°C), low humidity, and minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities, reef trips, and Outback exploration. June to August offers cooler weather for hiking. Avoid November to April (wet season) in tropical north Queensland due to heavy rains, cyclones, and high humidity, though it's cheaper and less crowded. Festivals like the Brisbane Festival (September) and Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (July) add cultural appeal.
Local Customs
Queenslanders are known for their friendly, casual demeanor. Dress is generally informal (e.g., shorts, t-shirts), but cover up when visiting indigenous sites or upscale venues. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (10% in restaurants for good service). Respect indigenous culture—seek permission before entering sacred lands or photographing indigenous people. Punctuality is valued for tours and appointments. When greeting, a handshake or smile is typical. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics unless invited. In pubs, it's customary to take turns buying rounds of drinks. Environmental respect is key: follow 'leave no trace' principles in natural areas.
Safety Information
Queensland is generally safe for travelers, but take standard precautions. In cities like Brisbane and the Gold Coast, be vigilant against petty theft in tourist areas and on public transport. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. When swimming, heed warning signs for rips, marine stingers (in northern beaches during stinger season), and crocodiles in Far North Queensland waterways—only swim in designated safe zones. In the Outback, carry ample water, fuel, and supplies; inform others of travel plans due to remote conditions. Common scams are rare, but be cautious of overpriced tour packages; book through reputable operators. Emergency services are responsive statewide.
Health Information
Queensland has excellent medical facilities, including public and private hospitals in major cities like Brisbane, Cairns, and the Gold Coast. Travelers should have comprehensive health insurance. Common health concerns include sunburn and dehydration due to the tropical climate—use high-SPF sunscreen, wear hats, and stay hydrated. In northern regions (e.g., Cairns, Daintree), be aware of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever; use insect repellent. No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry, but routine vaccines (e.g., measles, flu) are recommended. Marine stings (e.g., jellyfish) can occur in coastal waters from November to May; swim in designated netted areas or wear stinger suits. Tap water is safe to drink in urban areas.
Languages Spoken
English
Quick Facts
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
$
$
Timezone
Australia/Brisbane +10:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+61
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
5.3 million
Area
1851736 km²
Government
Constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system; state government led by a Premier
ISO Code
AU-04