Tropical North

Where rainforest meets reef, there are few places on Earth that can boast such unique natural attractions.

Wild, unspoiled and adventurous by nature, Tropical North Queensland is home to two World Heritage-listed natural wonders and enough adventures to tick off the bucket list for even the most seasoned traveller.

The laid-back, tropical centres of Cairns and Port Douglas are major gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, also starting points for expeditions to the Gulf of Savannah and Cape York’s remote wilderness areas.

You’ll love the consistently warm temperatures, laid-back people and their outdoor lifestyle. Kick back and relax on the beach, disconnect from the world and pamper yourself at a rain forest eco-resort, perhaps spend a week diving the reef, or race down the rapids of the Barron River, the opportunities are endless.

The natural environment is as diverse as the cultures making up this little slice of paradise.

Queensland Islands

Think of the words ‘tropical paradise.’ Conjure up an image in your head. Now make that image at least 50 percent better and you might be getting somewhere close to encapsulating just how picture-perfect the Whitsunday region of Queensland is.

The Whitsunday Islands - an archipelago of 74 islands off the northeast coast - are all fringed with stunning white beaches and surrounded by glimmering oceans with the deepest turquoise, aqua and indigo colours you’re ever likely to see. Meanwhile, the towns and coastal resorts along the coast are brimming with activities to enhance your holiday.

You don’t need photo expertise to capture the incredible colours of the water that surrounds the Whitsundays island wonders. Tiny particles of coral sand in the water scatter the sunlight as it enters the water, causing that astonishing glow that will elicit signs of envy from the folks back home when they see your holiday snaps. Don’t miss the stunning sunrise over Whitehaven Beach, considered the jewel in the crown of the Whitsundays and regularly tops lists of the world’s best beaches.

Whether you’re seeking an action-packed adventure or are looking to enjoy levels of indulgence and relaxation, you’re guaranteed to find it in the Whitsundays..

Sunshine Coast

Mellow is the only way of life on the magical Sunshine Coast, which is why many of the locals from Brisbane choose to holiday here. Experience a laid-back lifestyle centred around pristine beaches, freshwater rivers and lakes, subtropical forests and warm sunshine.

Whether you’re looking for a calm sheltered swimming inlet or some waves, there are plenty of long unbroken beaches to find a spot to lay the towel down and relax in the sun or take to the water. There are great picnic areas available, many with public BBQ’s beachside.

The Sunshine Coast is much more than just a beach holiday destination. The hinterland of the Sunshine Coast offers a different type of relaxation, from wandering through galleries and enjoying a coffee in a small mountain town to reconnecting with nature at Noosa National Park – just a short walk from Noosa’s busy shopping and dining precinct of Hastings Street.

To really stretch the legs, visit the Glass House Mountains National Park, consisting of 16 dramatic volcanic crags and countless picturesque lookouts.

Take a drive north to Hervey Bay for the world’s closest whale watching encounters or explore the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island – the largest sand island in the world. An unspoilt paradise, where tall rainforests are found and more than 100 freshwater lakes are scattered around the island, including the famous white sand and turquoise water of Lake McKenzie.