Summer is in the air and the weekends are looking fruitful. So this means it’s time to step away from the standard Netflix and chill, broaden your horizons and unearth your inner Eliza Thornberry. “But how? Where?” you ask.
With rivers, oceans and country-side within reach, Queensland is a day-trip goldmine. Whether you are looking for delicious food and wine, an active adventure or a winding road trip, the most carefully crafted or naturally developed stay-cations are right on your door step. To help, we’ve tracked down the top five day trips South-East Queensland has on offer.
Eumundi Markets
Calling all early birds, this one’s for you. Unload your car and make way for something different, something handmade and something special after your day trip to the Sunshine Coast… The Eumundi Markets. From handmade artworks and sculptures, clothes and jewellery, to fresh food, music and skincare, there’s something for everyone around every corner of the market.
TIP: If you’re a midweek scavenger or a weekend bargain hunter, the markets are open Wednesdays and Saturdays for all your bazaar needs.
To learn more about Eumundi Markets visit: https://www.eumundimarkets.com.au/
Tangalooma Island Resort
Say goodbye to your home turf and watch the mainland disappear as you escape to a tropical oasis right in your own backyard – Tangalooma Island Resort. Make the day trip a breeze by avoiding the dreaded traffic and instead take the scenic 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane through stunning Moreton Bay. The island paradise offers unparalleled wonders to explore and experiences unimaginable to a first timer. For the adrenaline seekers, try your hand at sand tobogganing, parasailing, or racing around on quad bikes. For our explorers, pop on some snorkels and revel in the wonders of the Tangalooma wrecks, or simply sit back, relax and soak up some much needed sun on arguably Australia’s best beach.
TIP: Make sure you jump on the 7am ferry out of Brisbane to jam pack as much island-time as possible into one day!
To view Tangalooma’s range of day trips, visit: https://www.tangalooma.com/brisbane-day-trip-cruise
Girraween National Park and the Granite Belt
Create the ultimate road trip playlist (“I’ve been everywhere man!”) and hit the road south-west bound of Brisbane for a road trip worth every bit of the view. Boasting massive granite ridges and balancing boulders, whimsical wildflowers and freshly flowing streams, Girraween National Park is awe-inspiring to say the least. Whether you’re up for a stroll or a 17km walk, there are tracks for everyone.
TIP: If you love animals, you may be fortunate to catch a glimpse of yellow-tufted honeyeaters, red-necked wallabies or spikey echidnas in the woodland or countryside.
To find out more about what to see and do at Girraween National Park, visit: https://www.npsr.qld.gov.au/parks/girraween/about.html
Bli Bli Aqua Park
Kids don’t get to have all the fun in the sun. As the temperature heats up, take a splash on the wild side at one of the South East’s best inflatable water parks – Bli Bli Aqua Park. Known as the Sunshine Coast’s top adventure attraction, the water park offers a variety of exhilarating activities from tubing to wake boarding. Expect nothing less than an exciting take on cooling down under the sun with the family and friends.
TIP: If you’re looking for less challenging and more relaxing activities, you can try your hand at Barra fishing or enjoy a scenic sweep on the water with a stand up paddle board.
To find out more about visiting the water park, visit: https://www.blibliaquapark.com.au/
Twin Falls, Springbrook National Park
Cool down in a subtropical rainforest and travel down a track within minutes of cool streams, towering rock formations and wondrous flowing waterfalls. Begin the four kilometre descent, past ancient flora and fauna, towards Springbrook National Parks’ Twin Falls. As you arrive, you will be greeted by two glorious rushing waterfalls, purified and cool air, and fresh water to dive right into. Before jumping in, walk behind the waterfall to see its sheer force!
TIP: Pack your swimming gear into a backpack and opt for joggers as you take on the circuit. Once you reach your destination, you will be rewarded with clear and refreshing waters to cool down in.
To find out more about planning your circuit at Twin Falls, visit: https://www.queensland.com/en-au/journey/twin-falls-circuit
