Top Queensland How to Get Around in 2026

Experience the beauty of the Hinterland on this full-day discovery tour of Lamington National Park and the Scenic Rim from Surfers Paradise and Gold Coast. Embark on a scenic adventure to 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) above sea level, where you'll take in panoramic views, stroll along a peaceful canopy treetop walk, and spot wild birds along the way. Relax at O'Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, then enjoy a visit to the charming Mountain View Alpaca Farm.

Travel back in time to the golden era of train travel with a journey on the Mary Valley Heritage Railway. Experience the old world nostalgia as soon as you step into the historic Gympie Station, where you’ll learn about the history of steam locomotives before boarding the Mary Valley Rattler. Enjoy the countryside views as you head out to Amamoor, where the train is turned around for the journey back.

If you’re trying to choose between taking a bus tour or a boat tour of the Sunshine Coast you don’t have to with an amphibious Aquaduck tour. The one-hour tour starts with a land tour around Mooloolaba and then the duck becomes a boat and tours around the canals, and waterways. Learn more about the history and culture of the Sunshine Coast from the commentary and enjoy the excitement of riding in this special vehicle.

Get a more in-depth experience of Magnetic Island than most visitors do on this tour, tailored to day trippers or anyone staying on Magnetic Island. See the island's top sights as well as some off-the-beaten-path spots, and learn about local wildlife, history, geology, and folklore. Spend a leisurely hour at Horseshoe Bay for a lunch stop (own cost) and make it back to the ferry for an afternoon departure.

Get a taste of the Atherton Tablelands during this 10-hour food tour and tasting experience from Cairns. Learn about how the volcanic soil allows cultivation of diverse range of produce and taste the spoils of this region. All tastings and meals are provided, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.

Experience the beautiful Daintree River on this sunset cruise. Enjoy a small-group tour with ample wildlife viewing—crocodiles, snakes, kingfishers, flycatchers, herons and other animals are often spotted—that’s perfect for capturing memorable photos. Learn about the the river’s ecosystem from an informative local guide and take advantage of access to otherwise inaccessible corners of the Daintree in a small but comfortable vessel.

A “must-do” experience for visitors to the Towers. The 150 years old Venus Gold Battery (Mill) crushed ore from the underground mines to extract the valuable gold. Through an amazing audio-visual experience and guided tour, discover how gold was processed during the colourful North Queensland goldrush. On the outskirts of Charters Towers is the oldest and largest surviving Battery in Queensland – the Venus Gold Battery. Built in 1872, this crushing mill provided gold extraction facilities to miners for over a century. The huge “stampers” pounded day and night extracting the precious gold from quartz up until 1973. Suitable for all ages. A great experience for groups, visitors and those who love history…

Go kayaking with dolphins and 4-wheeling on the beach during a half-day tour on the Sunshine Coast, just north of Brisbane. Visit a National Park location that is only accessible by 4WD vehicle, and kayak around Double Island Point looking for dolphins, migrating whales, turtles, rays and more. Includes kayak equipment and instruction, and transportation along the beach by 4WD and ferry.

See the spectacle of whales off the Noosa coast on this boat tour along the Noosa coastline. Spend time out at sea with an expert guide and learn all about the whales that migrate through these waters. Enjoy views of the Noosa National park, and feel adventurous as the Noosa Thriller boat ventures over the surf towards panoramic views of the ocean—perfect for spotting whales.

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge. Whether you're short on time or just prefer comfortable itineraries, this half-day tour lets you see and do a lot but without cramming everything in. Cruise along the Daintree River, looking out for crocs, birds, and other wildlife. Take a nature walk in Mossman Gorge and cool off with a swim in a rainforest stream if you like.

Frankland Islands Reef Cruises are the only commercial operator allowed to land on stunning Normanby Island, offering ample space and time for relaxation and exploration. Customise your day trip with a variety of optional activities on our all-inclusive tour. The islands are also home to several endangered species like the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, spectacled flying-fox, and beach stone-curlews. Explore the vibrant underwater world with 200 coral species around Normanby and Mabel islands, part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park's total of 600 species. On Frankland Islands, stars aren't just in the sky—they're beneath your feet! Baclogypsina sphirulata, known as Sand Stars found on Normanby Island, are typically rare and found on beaches across the Indo-Pacific. They're often considered unique to Okinawa, Japan, but it's our hidden delight that you can also discover them in a secluded spot on Normanby Island.

Enjoy an evening cruise in the Coral Sea with a difference when you sail on this authentic Chinese junk. Sit back and relax with a drink and canapes as you watch the sun set over the ocean and the mountains beyond Port Douglas. Learn more about the area from the live commentary from your captain. A great way to end a lovely day in tropical Northern Queensland.

Follow an expert photographer around Cairns Botanic Gardens, after it's closed to the public, on this guided nighttime photography walk. Bridgette Gower is a highly experienced photographer specializing in the tiny, weird, and wonderful, and on this unique tour, she teaches you how to use your camera to take pro shots. Learn professional photography tricks, and all about the wildlife that live there.

Learn all about the aboriginal heritage of Cairns on this three hour group eco cultural tour. You’ll have a river cruise across the Trinity Inlet from the Cairns Marina, then a traditional Mandigalbay Yidinji welcome and smoking ceremony. You’ll also have a tour of the Indigenous Protected Area and a guided walk through the bush to hear about Indigenous customs and the critical connection between Aboriginal culture and Country.

Mooloolaba is one of many resort towns along the Sunshine Coast–the kind of place where the beaches and bars get packed during the summer. Take a break with this lunchtime cruise along the Mooloolaba coast. Dine on fresh seafood (including locally caught prawns) and enjoy views of the town’s golden beaches from inside a cozy cruise ship on the Coral Sea.

Begin your visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures with breakfast in the company of a koala and its keeper. After morning hotel pickup in Cairns or Palm Cove, transfer to Hartley's in time for your hot Aussie breakfast and conversation with the keeper about the koalas. Then you can explore at your leisure: take a boat cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon to watch crocodiles feeding. Enjoy informative and entertaining wildlife presentations throughout the day, and see Australian wildlife up close, including kangaroos, wallabies, snakes, cassowaries, quolls and more.

Exploring the Whitsundays’ natural highlights can be a hassle on your own. This full-day tour from Airlie Beach takes care of the logistics for you, pairing a visit to Cedar Creek Falls with time to relax at the secluded Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill. Swim in freshwater rock pools, unwind on the beach, and enjoy included food and a drink, all without worrying about transport or planning a route between stops.

Explore Northern Queensland’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed Kuranda Rainforest on a full-day tour from Cairns. Take in the highlights of the award-winning Rainforestation Nature Park with a thrilling Army Duck tour, followed by a guided tour of the Koala and Wildlife Park. Learn more about Kuranda’s unique Aboriginal heritage at the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, complete with traditional dancing, didgeridoo music, and spear-throwing demonstrations. Return transfers from Cairns hotels are included.

Hop aboard a catamaran to cruise the coast around Airlie Beach and Pioneer Bay at sunset—when it’s at its most atmospheric and romantic. Instead of trying to find a viewing spot on land, enjoy a vantage point only achievable by boat, right out on the water. Along the way, enjoy an included glass of sparkling wine, soak up the scenery, and snap photos of the beautiful Whitsunday coastline.

See Australian wildlife up close and in its natural setting during this short river cruise along the Daintree River. Float 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) down river in a comfortable boat with sun cover to see lush rainforest and tropical birds darting between mangrove trees and watch for animals swimming in the water below and foraging for food on the banks.

Embark on a small-group day trip from Port Douglas or Palm Cove (not available from Cairns) to explore the rainforest, aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway and the award-winning Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. After exploring Kuranda’s arts and crafts markets, enjoy breathtaking views and a relaxing stop at Palm Cove beach. Limited to 20 guests, this tour ensures personalized service and expert commentary throughout, making it an unforgettable rainforest adventure.

Discover Australia’s Gold Coast through the eyes of a local, and let a guide show you the highlight attractions and hidden gems that you don’t want to miss on this small-group tour. From wildlife spotting at Coombabah Lakeland Conservation Park to shopping along Cavill Mall, with plenty in between, there’s heaps to see and do with one easy booking.

Get your haunt on with this nighttime walking tour of the 140-year-old Toowong Cemetery in Brisbane. Learn about the history and legends of some of the 120,000 dead buried there from your guide while walking through the cemetery. This tour is great fun for friends traveling together. Receive a complimentary copy of “The Ghosts of Toowong Cemetery” book as a keepsake.

Enjoy an evening under pink Queensland skies on this sunset sail around Hervey Bay, with beautiful views of UNESCO World Heritage–listed K’gari. Leave the logistics to the experts, with hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, all-inclusive drinks—including sparkling wine—and delicious finger foods all included. All you have to do is relax and soak up the view.