Divine coastline and rainforest cruises: the 5 best things to do in Queensland
When you think Queensland, you think of natural coastal wonders like the Great Barrier Reef. You think rainforest-lined rivers or you think beachfront nightlife and partying in Surfers Paradise. There’s a lot to navigate, and aside from the obvious choices, you might want to take on some totally new and unique experiences.
TripAdvisor has come up with their top 5 experiences for Queensland in 2022 based on ratings, so you won’t have to think when you’re planning out that itinerary.
1. Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
I mean, isn’t snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef on everyone’s bucket list? No surprise it’s right at the top of our best things to do in Queensland list, and it also comes in at number one for the best experiences in all of Australia.
Suitable for water enthusiasts and newbies, this day trip from Cairns takes place on a 35-metre deluxe superyacht for five hours of exploring. It stops off at two locations along the reef where you’ll be able to dive in and explore an array of tropical sea creatures, and you’ll also get a BBQ lunch included onboard to keep you fueled up.
2. Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip from Cairns or Port Douglas
Three of Northern Queensland’s most beautiful natural wonders, all in one tour.
This experience will see you visiting Mossman Gorge and taking part in a traditional Kuku Yalanji smoke ceremony, heading to Cape Tribulation for a spectacular view over the Great Barrier Reef, and journeying to the heart of the Daintree Rainforest to spot wildlife and crocs on a river cruise. Aside from the big three, you’ll also stop off at heaps of other gorgeous places like the Marrdja Botanical Walk and iconic Cape Tribulation Beach.
3. Sunset Sailing Cruise from Port Douglas
What’s more relaxing than setting sail on a luxury catamaran?
You’ll take off from Port Douglas with a welcome drink in hand before you cruise along the coastline to soak in a dazzling sunset against a backdrop of the Low Isles and surrounding mountains. Food-wise, you’re covered with a gourmet selection of canapés that can be washed down with the various drink options on board.
4. Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout & Top Snorkel Spots
The Whitsunday Islands are a tropical seeker’s paradise, and you’ve likely seen a few snaps across the gram.
This full-day tour lets you explore Whitehaven Beach aboard a motorised raft. You can pick between two tours: one that offers a snorkeling expedition or one with extended beach time at secluded spots that are mostly inaccessible on your own. A naturalist guide will talk through the flora and fauna of the area on each tour, and both will provide afternoon tea and cake on the trip. Your only job? Lounge around or glide through the crystal clear waters.
5. Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) from Brisbane or Gold Coast
Moreton Island can be found just off the coast of southeastern Queensland, and is known for its beaches and iconic dive site.
This tour features a jam-packed day of adventures that include snorkelling or kayaking at Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboarding on the surf dunes, and a 4WD-vehicle transport to get you to the island’s best spots in style. A picnic lunch is also served up on the beach to keep you going, and your ferry there and back provides an opportunity to spot dolphins or migrating humpback whales on the way.
Images: TripAdvisor
Explore more of the latest Australia travel inspiration on So Where Next.
