If you happen to be in Brisbane, you’re in a prime location for day trips that are defo amazing! You have the Gold Coast in the South, Sunshine Coast up North, North Stradbroke Island in the East—you’re absolutely spoilt for choice!
But need a little help choosing from the best day trips from Brisbane? We’ve got you covered—just keep scrolling!
- Australia Zoo
- Surfers Paradise
- Moreton Island
- Lamington National Park
- Toowoomba
- Queen Mary Falls
- Tamborine Mountain
- Springbrook National Park
- Noosa Heads
- North Stradbroke Island
1. Australia Zoo
The legacy of the legendary Steve Irwin lives on at Australia Zoo!
The ultimate day trip from Brisbane by car for wildlife lovers is Australia Zoo in the Sunshine Coast, famous for being the home to the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin and his family. Enjoy 700 acres of wildlife parkland with animals from all over the world and catch the Wildlife Warriors, an exciting show that features birds, snakes, and ferocious crocs!
2. Surfers Paradise
Hop on a hot air balloon in Surfers Paradise and soar across the Gold Coast!
Surfers Paradise in the Gold Coast is another well-loved day trip from Brisbane, thanks to the coastal town’s wide surf beach and jaw-dropping city skyline. While surfing and swimming are definitely on top of everyone’s to-do list, the town is also known for its waterfront restaurants and hinterland walks.
A great way to really get to know Surfers Paradise is on a Gold Coast hot air balloon ride, where you’ll soar above the coast and enjoy spectacular views of the sprawling Gold Coast hinterland.
Looking for other Queensland getaways aside from Gold Coast? Check out our recs of places to visit in Queensland:
3. Moreton Island
Tangalooma Wrecks is a staple destination in Moreton Island.
Moreton Island is a large island in the Northeast of Brisbane known as an ideal setting for beach and nature escapades. Start our Moreton Island day trip from Brisbane by hopping on the MiCat Ferry until you reach the breathtaking island where you can marvel at the Tangalooma Wrecks on transparent kayaks, and even go for a swim.
4. Lamington National Park
Ditch the busy city for a day and head to Lamington Park for a nature getaway! Image credits: Chris Fuller on Unsplash
A bit further south of the Gold Coast is Lamington Park, a haven for nature lovers with lush rainforests, lengthy ecological walks, and remarkable ancient trees. Part of the ancient Gondwana Rainforests, the park is one of the most extensive subtropical rainforests globally, where you can take it slow and enjoy flora and fauna.
5. Toowoomba
Toowoomba may stray away from the Queensland coast, but it has no shortage of quaint gardens, heritage walks, parks, and other nature retreats! Image credits: @toowoombaregion on Instagram
Now we journey to the west to Toowoomba, the largest inland city in Queensland, where nature melds beautifully with city life. If you’re looking for a day trip in Brisbane that deviates from the usual Queensland coastal areas, this is the way to go. You can explore the local art scene and restaurants, and take it slow at the many beautiful parks Toowoomba has to offer such as Laurel Bank Park and Queens Park.
6. Queen Mary Falls
The majestic Queen Mary Falls is worth the two-hour drive from Brisbane. Image credits: @photouki on Unsplash
Want a longer road trip during your day trip from Brisbane? Then head south on a two-hour drive to Queen Mary Falls in Main Range National Park, where you can stroll around and immerse yourself in nature, from the fragrant eucalypt-topped ridgeline to the lush, rainforested gorge.
7. Tamborine Mountain
No need to swing from tree to tree to explore Tamborine Mountain’s forest canopy on the Rainforest Skywalk! Image credits: @Tamborinerainforestskywalk on Instagram
Another spectacular nature retreat destination South of Brisbane is Tamborine Mountain, one of Queensland’s hidden gems. Feel free to trek the lush greenery and even go camping for days on end! You can even go on the Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk, where you can walk across the forest canopy across a walkway that’s safe for the whole family!
8. Springbrook National Park
Springbrook National Park is ready to accommodate you for a nature retreat! Image credits: to BAILEY MAHON on Unsplash
This day trip from Brisbane is an hour and a half drive away and a sanctuary for weary city dwellers and nature enthusiasts. Filled with mountain streams, creaks, thick foliage mainly of eucalyptus, and impressive views from atop the mountain, Springbrook National Park is a sight for sore eyes.
9. Noosa Heads
Noosa Main Beach is a must-visit during your trip up North of Brisbane. Image credits: to Raygar He on Unsplash
A little North of the Sunshine Coast is Noosa Heads, a coastal town that’s the epitome of a beachside holiday laden with beaches, bays, parks, and strips of cafès, restos, boutiques, and holiday resorts. Mainly known for its beaches, Noosa Heads is ideal for a laidback time with mates and fam under the sun.
10. North Stradbroke Island
The Straddie offers the best of surf, sand, and sea near Brisbane! Image credits: Finn on Unsplash
Last but not least on our list of day trips for Brisbane is North Stradbroke Island, located East of the city and accessible via the city’s coast. Also known as “the Straddie” by the locals, the island is a famed spot for dolphin-watching, surfing, and just good ole’ seaside fun.
Need more ideas on fun things to do in Brisbane for any occasion? Here’s our recs of unique birthday ideas and best new pub crawls:
