South East Queensland Travel Guide
Explore the diverse culture, natural attractions, and delicious cuisine of South East Queensland through this comprehensive travel guide. Find out about the best places to visit, eat, and stay, and learn the dos and don'ts of traveling in this region.
- Introduction to South East Queensland
- List of Places to Visit in South East Queensland
- Hiking/Biking Routes of South East Queensland
- Best Things to Do in South East Queensland: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for South East Queensland
- Food and Drink Scene of South East Queensland
- Where to Stay in South East Queensland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in South East Queensland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of South East Queensland
- Best Time to Visit South East Queensland
- Do’s and Don’ts of South East Queensland
- Safety and Health
- Getting to South East Queensland: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in South East Queensland
- Where to Go Next from South East Queensland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to South East Queensland
Located in Queensland, Australia, South East Queensland is a vibrant region that offers a diverse mix of cultural and natural attractions. It encompasses a broad range of destinations, including popular cities such as Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast, as well as smaller towns and picturesque countryside.
South East Queensland is known for its fantastic weather, with a warm and sunny climate that entices outdoor enthusiasts and beach-lovers. The region also offers a unique chance to explore Australia’s indigenous culture and history, as well as its contemporary culinary scene.
Whether you’re here for a short weekend break or an extended holiday, South East Queensland has something for everyone. Let’s begin our journey with a list of the top places to visit in the region.
List of Places to Visit in South East Queensland
When you visit South East Queensland, you will find an extensive range of attractions and destinations. Here are a few highlights to explore:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, Brisbane
- The Workshops Rail Museum, Ipswich
- Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology, Caboolture
- Australian Museum of Clothing and Textiles, Caloundra
Natural Attractions of South East Queensland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Moreton Island National Park
- Glass House Mountains National Park
- Tamborine National Park, Gold Coast Hinterland
- Lamington National Park
Hiking/Biking Routes of South East Queensland
South East Queensland is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to satisfy even the most avid adventurers. Here are our top recommendations:
- Mt Coot-tha Summit Track, Brisbane
- The Great Walk, Gold Coast Hinterland
- Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk, Sunshine Coast
- Noosa Trail Network, Noosa
Best Things to Do in South East Queensland: Activities and Tours
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an adrenaline-packed adventure, South East Queensland has plenty to offer. Here are a few of our favorite things to do:
- Catch a wave at Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast
- Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Brisbane
- Explore the underwater world at Sea World, Gold Coast
- Take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the Gold Coast
Week-Long Itinerary for South East Queensland
If you’re planning to visit South East Queensland for a week or more, you might like to follow this suggested itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Brisbane City Sightseeing Tour |
| 2 | Visit Moreton Island National Park |
| 3 | Hike the Glass House Mountains |
| 4 | Explore the Gold Coast theme parks |
| 5 | Take a scenic drive through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland |
| 6 | Relax on Noosa Beach |
| 7 | Check out the local food scene in Brisbane |
Food and Drink Scene of South East Queensland
South East Queensland offers a fantastic range of dining and drinking options, with plenty of local specialties and international cuisine to choose from. Here are a few must-try dishes and beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Moreton Bay Bugs (seafood)
- Tim Tam Slam (dessert)
- Lamingtons (dessert)
- Barramundi (fish)
Local Beverages
- XXXX Gold (lager)
- Bundaberg Ginger Beer
- Witches Chase Cheese Company (cheese making and wine tasting)
- Malt Brewing Co (beer brewing and tasting)
Where to Stay in South East Queensland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
South East Queensland offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly backpacker hostels to five-star hotels. Here are a few of our top choices:
| Type | Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel | The Calile Hotel | Brisbane City |
| Hostel | Bunk Backpackers | Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast |
| Guesthouse | Artisan Spa Views | Montville, Sunshine Coast |
What to Buy in South East Queensland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking for a unique souvenir to bring home from South East Queensland, you might like to consider one of these local products:
- Eumundi Markets (handmade crafts and art)
- Jan Powers Farmers Markets (local produce)
- Bulimba Farmers’ Market (artisanal bread, jams, and cheeses)
- Tea Centre (blends of tea and coffee)
Local Culture and Customs of South East Queensland
When traveling in South East Queensland, it’s essential to respect the local customs and culture. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Respect Australia’s Indigenous culture and heritage, and learn about its history
- Try the local cuisine, including some traditional ingredients and dishes
- Take off your shoes when entering a home or sacred space
- Use “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals
Best Time to Visit South East Queensland
South East Queensland is blessed with a sunny climate, making it a popular destination year-round. However, the best times to visit are between March and May and between September and November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner.
Do’s and Don’ts of South East Queensland
When traveling in South East Queensland, keep these tips in mind:
Do:
- Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect against the harsh sun
- Tip 10% at restaurants if service is exceptional
- Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months
- Use public transport where possible
Don’t:
- Leave your rubbish behind in nature reserves
- Swim at unpatrolled beaches
- Remove native plants, animals or heritage items
- Forget to buy travel insurance
Safety and Health
When traveling to South East Queensland, it is essential to consider safety and health matters.
Safety in South East Queensland
- Use designated pedestrian crossings when crossing roads
- Keep valuables and personal items secure
- Stay aware of your surroundings when traveling alone
- Be cautious when swimming in the ocean
Health in South East Queensland
- Apply sunscreen liberally and frequently to avoid sunburn
- Stay well hydrated and carry water with you at all times
- Seek medical assistance in case of any health issues
- Be aware of food allergies and avoid consuming unfamiliar foods
Getting to South East Queensland: Transportation Options and Logistics
South East Queensland is easily accessible, with various modes of transportation available. Here are some options:
Airports Near South East Queensland
- Brisbane Airport
- Gold Coast Airport
- Sunshine Coast Airport
Bus Stations Near South East Queensland
- Roma Street Transit Centre, Brisbane
- Noosa Bus Station, Noosa
Other Options
- Renting a car
- Taking a train
How to Get Around in South East Queensland
South East Queensland has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trains, and ferries. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, as are bicycles for rent.
Where to Go Next from South East Queensland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have some extra time in South East Queensland, or you’re looking for a nearby destination to add to your itinerary, here are some of our recommendations:
- Fraser Island
- The Whitsunday Islands
- The Great Barrier Reef
- Port Douglas
Conclusion
With its vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and beautiful weather, South East Queensland is a travel destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. From hiking trails and outdoor adventures to museums and historical sites, there’s something for everyone in this region. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and make the most of your visit.
