Queensland Family Adventure

Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia and is the capital of Queensland, the "Sunshine State". It is set along the Brisbane River and was the traditional home to the Jagera and Turrbal Aboriginal mobs before Europeans founded a convict colony in what is now the central business district in 1824.
Modern-day Brisbane is one of the fastest-growing cities in Australia and has a rich, culturally diverse population. There is no shortage of attractions to visit and explore. Across the river from the CBD, South Bank is home to the city's Cultural Centre with world-class galleries and entertainment. Just an hour from the city, discover Brisbane’s stunning natural surrounds including the Scenic Rim and Somerset World Heritage rainforests, lookouts and majestic mountain peaks, while Moreton Island and Redlands Coast offer pristine waters, wildlife experiences, diving and snorkelling.

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Brisbane accommodation.

Cruising along the beautiful Brisbane River, sit back and relax as your skipper takes you along the calm waterways. Aboard the boat, you will get a complimentary Devonshire tea, with a tea or coffee to enjoy along the ride. Throughout your tour enjoy the sights of the city including the Riverside precincts, Kangaroo Point, homes of the rich and famous, historical landmarks, and much much more.

Experience Brisbane like no other than climbing the Story Bridge during twilight. As the sun begins its descent, the sky is painted with vibrant colors, the city lights are sparkling and the city is beginning to undertake the transition from day to night. As you reach the summit you will be greeted with stunning views of the CBD, as you are climbing around, your guide will provide knowledgeable information about the bridge and the surroundings.

You will be met by the driver for a private transfer.

Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. From economy hatchbacks to SUVs, we can help you decide on a car suitable for this leg of your trip. Insurance can often be included with a small excess or deductible.

This popular cruise has been taking visitors to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for over 60 years and is a "must-do" experience while in Brisbane. The cruise travels through the city's most historic landscapes, iconic attractions, historical homesites and interesting wildlife habitats as you listen to an entertaining and informative commentary. Enjoy 3 hours exploring Lone Pine, before re-joining the cruise for a relaxing return journey on the river back to the city.

It's a short and simple drive from Brisbane to Gold Coast, as you will follow the Pacific Motorway (M1) from one city to the other. The journey is about 80km (50 miles) and the time it takes depends on traffic as mornings and afternoons can get quite congested as people travel to and from work. Gold Coast is Australia's premier holiday destination visited due to its stunning beaches, shopping, nightlife, theme pars and surf breaks. Surfers Paradise, the most famous Gold Coast's suburb, offers almost two miles of golden sand, sunny atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle.

The Gold Coast's star attraction is its white sand beaches, including the world-famous stretch of sand at Surfers Paradise. Beyond the beaches, a the Gold Coast boasts Australia's tallest building - the Q1, a booming culinary scene, rainforest walks and the Gold Coast's famous theme parks.

Experience an exciting night time tour with stargazing, delicious dessert at a local restaurant and a fully guided rainforest walk to the waterfall. This is a great tour for you to discover the bio-network of rainforests and to experience nocturnal wildlife spotting. Journey to the peaceful and picturesque Gold Coast hinterland. A local mountain-top restaurant awaits you to serve tea, coffee or hot chocolate accompanied by a selection of delicious cakes.
With the knowledge of your guide, discover the lush forests of Tamborine National Park and spot native nocturnal wildlife. Everyone has a flashlight to light the walkway. At the end of the trail emerges Curtis Falls, a subtropical waterfall and habitat to the stars of the show, the ever-fascinating, glow worms.

Famed for its beaches, including the world-renowned Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast has plenty to offer away from the sand and sea. In order to make the most of your free day make sure you include some of the following:
Beach hop between Coolangatta and Currumbin or take a surf lesson at Surf In Paradise from The Spit near Main Beach. Consider heading over to Wave Break Island with Queensland Scuba Diving and experience the fantastic snorkeling and diving. For the more experienced surfers, head to Burleigh Heads. This beach often has whales from April to September.
If thrills are what you are after, head to any one of Gold Coast's world-class theme parks. Holoverse, Wet 'n' Wild, Sea World, Infinity Attraction and Topgolf Gold Coast are just a few.
For those looking for wildlife encounters, look no further than Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. This iconic park gives its visitors the opportunity to wander through open animal enclosures, feed kangaroos and befriend cuddly koalas. It's newest precinct is home to lemurs, cotton-top tamarins, red pandas, capybaras, and exotic birds and reptiles. As a non-profit organisation, all proceeds are put back into wildlife and conservation programs.
Feeling a bit peckish? Rick Shores and the Fish House are popular spots at Burleigh Heads for lunch and dinner. If you're hoping for a craft beer experience, have a pint of one of the award-winning beers from Burleigh Brewing Company, Black Hops, Fortitude Brewing Co., Balter or Lost Palms Brewing Company.

Movieworld is one of Australia's most significant entertainment-based tourist attractions, giving you a taste of 'Hollywood' on the Gold Coast, making movie magic come alive. Meet your favorite movie stars and experience the thrill of the rides, attractions, and roller coasters - there is something for everyone!

Dreamworld is the ultimate theme park for family fun! Here you will find thrill-seeking rides for that spine-tingling experience the adrenaline junkies amongst you will love. If thrills aren't quite for you, visit Tiger Island to get up close and personal with tigers that are part of conservation work with DWF. You can also immerse yourself in the daily wildlife presentations, cuddle a koala, meet a dingo or witness crocodile feeding time! More than just rides, slides and wildlife, there are also live performances and daily shows, including a foam party!

Discover Tamborine National Park, known as the Gold Coast Hinterland's crown jewel on the Kangaroos & Mountain Views Morning tour. Today's adventure begins with a peaceful walk through Coombabah Lake Conservation Park, where you may encounter Kangaroos and Koalas in their natural habitat. Continuing to Mount Tamborine, sample homemade scones topped with jam and cream and sip on a warm cup of tea at the enchanting historic Hotel, The Manor. Browse through Gallery Walk, immersing yourself in exquisite and unique boutiques. Enjoy a guided rainforest walk to the beautiful Curtis Falls waterfall. As you stroll through the lush greenery, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the diverse flora and fauna of the region, making this a truly enriching experience.Take in the spectacular panoramic views of Gold Coast Skyline at Tamborine Mountain before returning to Gold Coast. Throughout the tour, learn about the traditional landowners, their connection to the land, and the significance of the natural landmarks you’ll encounter throughout the day.

The drive from the Gold Coast to Noosa offers a mix of coastal views and lush countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass through lively towns and quiet rural areas, with the Sunshine Coast adding some scenic charm. As you reach Noosa, its relaxed beach vibe and beautiful coastline make for a great destination.

Explore deep into the tranquil waters of Australia's only everglades in the Noosa River system, within the sand dunes of the Cooloola National Park. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this diverse ecosystem which showcases ancient landscapes and spectacular photo opportunities. The cruise will take you on a journey through the southern end of the everglades system whilst your guides provide expert commentary on the fauna, flora and rich history of the region. Throughout the afternoon you will also get to enjoy a glass of beer or bubbles whilst gliding through the reflective waterways as the sun begins to set.

Noosa is one of the most popular beachside holiday destinations in Australia for local and international tourists alike. You can spend your days relaxing on one of many local beaches or travel a little further to explore the stunning national parks. There are plenty of beautiful walking trails and bike paths and plenty of spots for you to have your own Aussie-style picnic by the beach.
After a long day of relaxing or exploring, Noosa has no shortage of great local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood (local Maroochydore prawns and Moreton Bay bugs are highly recommended) and lots of delicious locally grown produce.

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride with the Noosa Thriller Jet Boat Ocean Adventure! Hold on tight as you embark on this high-speed, heart-racing experience, perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike.  Feel the rush as you leap over waves, surf the ocean swells, and spin into 360-degree turns and figure-eights. All the while, you'll be treated to stunning views of Noosa's coastline and vibrant marine life. Aboard the high-octane "Noosa Thriller," you’ll enjoy an exhilarating ride with the highest safety standards, thanks to a skilled skipper. Buckle up for a 90 minute journey that combines heart-pounding action with breathtaking natural beauty.

Begin the journey by travelling towards Eumundi, famous for its markets which operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays. From here, you will head North West on a ride through Queensland inland. First stop could be Gympie, the small town known for its gold field. Here you will find a number of historic buildings and the vintage Mary Valley Rattler Train to explore the area. Continue through towards the Fraser Coast and make another stop in Maryborough. The Longtime Botanic Garden by the river with its flower beds and grassy laws is a perfect place to have a snack or if time allows you can head towards the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary before heading to the coast and Hervey Bay. Your final stop is a perfect place for whale watching and boating, but also the perfect gateway to the "well worth a visit"-Island K'gari.

Hervey Bay is the world's first "World Whale Heritage Site" – a recognition awarded for the region’s commitment to conservation and protection. Here, you can witness migratory humpback whales playfully salute with their flippers and nurture their young calves in the calm protected waters from July to October every year. Expect up-close natural encounters and look these gentle giants straight in the eye from the platform of a whale watching tour boat, or while snorkelling. 
The town also serves as the gateway to K'gari / Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world, and if you're willing to venture a little further, you can take a day trip to Lady Elliot Island, a true coral cay island located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef.

Led by an experienced local guide, you’ll see the island’s iconic sights on a curated itinerary of highlights. You'll be transported on a custom designed 4WD bus, which is airconditioned for your comfort and fitted with panoramic windows.
Highlights include Lake McKenzie, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a revitalising swim in the crystal clear blue waters and relax on the picture-perfect sandy white beaches. You'll also visit 75 Mile Beach, driving along this golden beach highway, you may spot birds of prey flying above or humpback whales as they migrate past (between July – November). Enjoy a photo stop at the rusting wreck of the Maheno Shipwreck, washed ashore during an out-of-season cyclone in 1935 – it’s one of Fraser Island’s most recognisable sites. Drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach.

Start your journey in Hervey Bay, driving north through the historic town of Maryborough. Continue on the Bruce Highway, passing Bundaberg’s famous rum distillery and scenic sugar cane fields. Stop in Rockhampton to explore its historic charm before heading along the Capricorn Coast. Arrive in Yeppoon, where sandy beaches and coastal views await, completing your scenic drive.

Experience the magic of the Keppel Islands sunset with Funtastic Cruises. This enchanting cruise allows you to watch the sun set over the sparkling water while enjoying a delicious cheese platter. Every sunset is unique, and the stunning array of natural colors provides the perfect backdrop for your evening. Our catamaran sunset cruises depart at various times depending on the time of sunset. The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to take in the breathtaking views of the Keppels. When you step on board, you will be greeted with a glass of champagne, setting the tone for a relaxing and elegant evening. Once on board, a delicious Cheese & Deli Board will be served. You are welcome to bring your own alcohol (BYO), and they will provide coolers and ice to keep your drinks chilled. As you sail, take in the serene beauty of the surroundings, capturing the stunning colors of the sunset over the water. This sunset cruise promises a truly unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, delicious food, and great company.

Avoid the crowds on this small group all-inclusive Full Day Cruise with Funtastic Cruises, the perfect way to experience the magnificent Keppel Islands. Departing daily from Yeppoon, your adventure promises a day filled with sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Start your day with an early departure from Yeppoon as you board our comfortable vessel, setting sail towards the beautiful Keppel Islands. Enjoy the serene morning breeze and stunning views of the ocean as our crew provides a brief introduction and safety overview. Arrive at the Keppel Islands and prepare to explore the underwater wonders of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel in the clear, pristine waters, teeming with colorful coral and vibrant marine life. For those preferring to stay dry, stand-up paddle boarding is a fantastic way to glide across the calm waters and take in the breathtaking scenery. After your aquatic adventure, take some time to explore the secluded beaches and bays, perfect for a leisurely stroll or simply relaxing on the sand. As the morning activities wind down, gather on the deck to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch prepared by our talented crew. Savor a variety of fresh and tasty dishes while taking in the stunning island views. After lunch, you have the option to continue exploring the islands, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or relax on the deck soaking up the sun. As the afternoon progresses, reboard the vessel and begin the leisurely sail back towards Yeppoon. Enjoy the calm waters and the warm afternoon sun as you relax on the deck, perhaps with a refreshing drink in hand. Arrive back in Yeppoon as the sun begins to set, marking the end of a perfect day spent exploring the Keppel Islands. The crew will assist with disembarkation and ensure you leave with unforgettable memories of your Funtastic Cruise experience.

Depart Yeppoon, past the Capricorn Caves, if you haven't stopped and visited these, take some time to pop in for a cave tour of this ancient cave system before you head north.
Back on the highway, you will pass through the inland towns of Etna Creek, Milman, Yaamba, Kunwarara, Marlborough and St Lawrence before heading out towards the coast again. The town of Sarina welcomes you with 'Buffy' its Big Cane Toad statue in the centre of town. Cane toads were introduced into Australia to control destructive beetles in Queensland's sugarcane crops, but like many other introduced species, they have lead to the destruction of native flora and fauna.
Carry on to Mackay, an easy, straightforward drive from Sarina. The real highlights of this trip are the parks surrounding Mackay. For local food fare, be sure to head to The Dispensary, serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner. Boasting Mackay's largest wine and whisky collection, craft beers and cocktails, you won't have to look very far to find something to quench your thirst.

If you didn't do it as a day trip, consider heading to Cape Hillsborough on your way out of Mackay. This 2 hour journey takes you past vast sugar cane fields, which has been grown in the region since the 1860s.
Acting as the gateway to the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach is one of Australia's top beach destinations. For a truly iconic experience, consider taking a scenic flight over Heart Reef or join the Journey of the Heart tour for a helicopter trip to the Heart Reef pontoon where you will be taken snorkelling in the surrounding crystal blue lagoon.

Considered the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach provides a picturesque mainland base from which to explore the natural wonders of the area. There is a 15-minute walk from the main point and check out the Airlie Beach craft markets. On your way to the boardwalk is a nice little walk to the Lagoon town centre and a great place to swim. A wonderful sunset stroll on the Bicentennial walk would definitely make your night. The Airlie Beach Lagoon is situated right in the heart of Airlie Beach and has become a focal point and favourite local hang-out. The beachfront parks, palm-lined beaches, al fresco restaurants and lively seaside markets entertain on land, while the crystal-clear blue sea and soft white sand beaches lend themselves to snorkelling, diving, swimming, and sailing. For boat lovers must visit the coral sea marina and enjoy some magnificent views. The Airlie  Beach Bicentennial Walkway provides a nearly 4 km waterfront walk, showcasing spectacular coastal views, with plenty of opportunities for food and drink along the way, and keen observers might even spot marine life such as fish and turtles during their stroll.

Spend a full day exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the World Heritage-listed wonder off the Queensland coast. The journey here through the lush Whitsunday Islands will have you reaching for your camera – watch for migrating Humpback Whales between July and September – but underwater is really where the magic happens. Incredible numbers of bright tropical fish and more than 1,400 species of coral await.

Make your way out of Airlie Beach towards Bowen. Known as 'the fruit bowl' and home to the Big Mango, Bowen is a great spot to stretch your legs and cool off with a dip in the sea.
Continue through Gumlu, spying the Big Pumpkin on the side of the road, and stopover in Home Hill, where historic World War Two radar stations which can be found on Charlies Hill or for a step back in time, make a stop at Tom's Toybox to view a private collection of working farm machinery from yesteryear.
Just outside of Townsville you can stop off at one of Australia's best animal sanctuaries, Billabong Sanctuary. Home to a variety of mammals, birds and reptiles, its interactive experiences and exceptional staff will leave you with amazing memories.
Townsville has a variety of activities to get amongst and some fantastic restaurants serving up meals you can really sink your teeth into. Nearby Magnetic Island is a utopia offering a myriad of wildlife encounters whether on land or underwater.

Townsville's crown jewel, Castle Hill, is a majestic 286-meter pink granite monolith. Hike the challenging 2km "goat track" from Hillside Cres. or drive the scenic 2.6km Castle Hill Rd. up Gregory St. At the summit, explore short trails revealing the city, Cleveland Bay, and even Magnetic Island. Beyond its beauty, history whispers here. American WWII soldiers used the hill's vantage point, with legend claiming they even offered to build a bridge to Magnetic Island with the rock! A WWII bunker stands as a testament to this past. Castle Hill facilities include car parking, public amenities, drink fountains and shaded seating to enjoy while taking in some of the best views of the city and across to Magnetic Island.

Conducting up to 17 daily return services to Magnetic Island, SeaLink can have you in paradise in only 20 minutes a state-of-the-art, high-speed catamaran. Relax on a secluded beach, cruise the tropical waters of North Queensland or try one of the many adventure activities on offer on Magnetic Island.

 Unleash an unforgettable Magnetic Island adventure with Aquascene, the award-winning local family business for over 38 years. They know this island like the back of their hand, having grown up exploring its hidden coves and vibrant reefs. Cruise past Magnetic Island's dramatic coastline, dive into the crystal-clear waters and snorkel at secret locations teeming with life. Relax on secluded beaches with a delicious morning tea, and learn all about the island's fascinating history and marine life from our friendly, expert crew.

We recommend getting up early for this 350km (217 mile) drive as there are lots of great opportunities to stop along the way as you head north on the Bruce Highway to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region.
Leaving Townsville behind, you will travel on Bruce Highway/State Route A1 north. The first stop of the day should be at the Cardwell Spa Pools. This naturally-fed, seasonal creek has been a favourite local swimming hole for years and for good reason! If you're not keen on swimming there are plenty of walking tracks, waterfalls, and other creeks to check out.
If time is on your side, the next great detour is to Paronella Park. This detour takes you about 20 minutes off the highway to Mena Creek, where Spaniard Jose Paronella realised his dream to build a castle. The 5 hectare grounds include a picnic area by the falls, tennis courts, bridges and a tunnel, 7500 plants that are now a rainforest and is considered one of Queensland's top attractions.
Your journey continues north on the Bruce Highway and another great detour will take you to the Babinda Boulders, located about 6km (3.7 miles) from the highway. These smooth, granite rock formations are conveniently located within a delightful swimming hole and are the ideal spot to cool off. Surrounded by lush green foliage and stunning waterfalls, you'll marvel at how easy it was to access the location when it feels light years away from civilisation.
As you carry on the final stretch along Bruce Highway, it is approximately 1 hour until you reach Cairns. About 30 minutes from Cairns, you will spot Walshs Pyramid off to your left, rising steeply out of the ground above the historic sugar-milling town of Gordonvale. Keep following Bruce Highway into Cairns and put your feet up for a rest after an adventure filled day.

A Cairns dinner cruise is the perfect way to end a perfect day in paradise. Board the sailing catamaran and enjoy an evening of calm water cruising on Trinity Inlet, taking in the sights and sounds of this tropical port city and its surrounds as they transition from day to night.

Expertly guided aboard one of Billy Tea Safari’s custom 4WD vehicles, this immersive wet-tropics experience showcases the flora, fauna and diverse landscapes of the oldest continually surviving rainforest on the planet. Highlights include a scenic coastal drive, Daintree River cruise, guided rainforest walk, lunch in a beautiful rainforest setting, opportunity for an invigorating rainforest swim, free time at Cape Tribulation beach, complimentary tropical fruit ice-cream and a cable ferry crossing of the Daintree River.

Dive into an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventure with Tusa Reef Tours! This exclusive, all-inclusive day trip from Cairns whisks you away to the outer reef's breathtaking beauty. Limited to just 40 guests, enjoy the highest service level with a low guest-to-crew ratio. Your day starts with a sumptuous breakfast on board, followed by a scenic 90-minute journey. Marine experts provide a detailed briefing and pick the best two snorkel sites boasting vibrant fish, pristine coral, and majestic sea turtles. Expert guides assist beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike, pointing out hidden wonders. After exploring the underwater world, savor a delicious lunch featuring local ingredients. Throughout the day, learn about the reef's ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts. Escape to the Great Barrier Reef in style and create memories that last a lifetime

Return your rental vehicle to Cairns Airport terminal before checking in for your flight.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consult about planning your next stop!