Whether you’re a long-time local or just passing through, this list of Brisbane adventures is for you!

Brisbane River, Queensland

Regardless of whether you are a local Brisbane dweller or a traveller visiting the sunny city, a day out of the hustle and bustle can give you a world of good. With Brisbane dubbed the brilliant gateway for the countless natural wonders spread about the region. Check out our list of the top day trips close to Brisbane!

  • Moreton Island

    Moreton Island is one of the region’s greatest treasures. Nestled off the coast of Queensland, it is only a simple hour away from the mainland by ferry but feels like a completely different world. A tropical paradise home to sapphire waters, brilliant green rainforests, and golden white sands. Spend your day snorkelling the shallow waters of Moreton Bay’s Tangalooma Wrecks, a cluster of ships which sunk from 1963 to 1984, keeping your eyes out for the local marine wildlife. Otherwise, you can stay ashore and enjoy a desert safari 4WD adventure along the sand! In the afternoon, you can meet the locals at the ‘Discover the World of Dolphins’ and enjoy feeding the small pod of dolphins in the shallow shores of the island.

  • Stradbroke Island

    Affectionately known as ‘Straddie’, the Stradbroke Island offers the perfect Aussie day trip away! Escaping the hustle and bustle is easy with a quick one-hour car and ferry journey. Visitors can plunge into the exceptional surf at Stradbroke’s beautiful beaches, trek along scenic walkways, and marvel at the mesmerizing lookout points hidden throughout. One of the main appeals for this day trip is the marine life, with dolphins, tropical fish, turtles, and manta rays all common sightings. If you are visiting from May to October, you may even witness a few Humpback Whales roaming about the island’s shores.

  • Gold Coast

    Enjoy a day busting with sand, sea, and skyscrapers! Listed at the top of Queensland’s tourist destinations, the Gold Coast captivates its visitors with the countless city and sea activities for the whole family. To put it simply, the Gold Coast is built for pleasure, offering a variety of endeavours depending on your own taste. Sit back and relax at the beach, letting the kids run wild in the soft sands and surf. If you prefer an electrifying adventure, get your thrill and spills at Gold Coast’s numerous amusement parks, including the world-famous Movie World! Otherwise, you can get to know the city by exploring the magnificent views of the Gold Coast, seeing city views of Burleigh Heads and surrounding ranges.

  • Springbrook National Park

    Enjoy the scenic 100-kilometre journey south to the spectacular Springbrook National Park! This extraordinary place is a part of the ancient Gondwana Rainforest, which is the most extensive area of subtropical rainforest in the entire world. Immerse yourself in the brilliant green wonderland and discover the unique and ancient flora and fauna hidden about. Not to mention the gushing waterfalls, cool creeks, and rugged volcanic canyons scattered about as well!

Explore the Brisbane Tours

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

Previous article: