According to the latest statistics, the Great Barrier Reef, one of the biggest and most prominent natural landmarks in Queensland, Australia attracted close to 2.25 million tourists in 2024 indicating a 2% increase from 2023.
Clearly, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most visited spots in Queensland and Australia at large. While it is a must-visit destination, especially for water enthusiasts and first-time travellers, it may not be the most ideal option for introverted tourists or people seeking the sweet serenity of secluded spots.
Additionally, Queensland boasts a handful of other magical and out-of-the-world locations that not many know of.
Here we have a list of rare hidden gems in Queensland spread through some of its most prominent locations – the perfect little list for travellers who love taking the off-beaten path.
Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is one of the most iconic landmarks of Queensland. Filled with glistening beaches, soft sands, vibrant clubs, and delicious seafood, not to mention a host of adventure water sports, the region is a hotspot for tourists year-round. However, aside from the most popular locations within the city, there are a few other less-frequented areas that offer one-of-a-kind experiences.
- Lamington National Park
A world Heritage site, the Lamington National Park is a part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. Known for its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, breathtaking views, and scenic walking trails, the park offers an out-of-the-world forest trekking experience. If you’re lucky, you could also spot the rare Albert’s lyrebird – a feat possible only here.
- Twin Falls Circuit, Springbrook National Park
The Springbrook National Park, also a part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a World Heritage Site is home to several stunning green backdrops with Antarctic Beech trees and mystical waterfalls. The Twin Falls Circuit is a distinct trail that lets you explore some of the less treaded areas of the forest filled with interesting rock clefts, palm trees, ferns, cliffs and edges. Fun fact: you will find sightings of the rare pink bark of brush box trees along the track. Some of these trees are known to be carbon-dated at 1500 years, which makes them some of the oldest in Australia.
- Lady Elliot Island
Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay and the first island on the Great Barrier Reef. It is most known for being home to the manta ray. In the waters, you will find a community of more than 700 rays as well as turtles swimming around, which makes it a hot spot for snorkelling. You can choose a day trip or an Eco-certified accommodation within the islands for the complete experience.
- O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards & Mountview Alpaca Farm
Located in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland, O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards is a family-owned and operated vineyard specialising in boutique wine, and tasteful unique dining experiences established in 1998. Having won several awards for their production, the farm is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs.
In addition to strolling through the vineyards, admiring the wine cellar and homestead, and tasting the wine, the place also houses the Mountview Alpaca Farm where you can feed alpacas, interact and play with them, and even take them on walks.
- Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a spectacular walking experience spanning 1.5 km, over the majestic rainforest on the Skywalk Bridge, the 40-metre Skywalk Cantilever, and the Cedar Creek Viewing Platform. It features the safest and most thrilling viewing experience of the lush rainforests – a must-do attraction in the area.
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Brisbane
Brisbane, the capital of the Sunshine State, and its largest city, has several attractions with a stronger focus on the outdoors. Needless to say, the region is a natural tourist spot and home to exceptional parks, gardens, and sanctuaries, such as the City Botanic Gardens, Victoria Park, and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, among others. While these are the main attractions, the place also boasts an array of hidden-gem experiences, of which the below are a few.
- North Stradbroke Island
North Stradbroke Island, affectionately known as “Straddie” among locals, is the world’s second-largest sand island. With fascinating beaches to relax, a rich history, and a chance to walk around with the kangaroos hopping about, the island offers a truly one-of-a-kind laid-back experience. In addition to these relaxing activities, you can also hike to whale-watching sites, where you can witness migrating humpbacks and other marine miracles.
- Summer Land Camels, Scenic Rim
The Summer Land Camels located within the Scenic Rim of South East Queensland is Australia’s largest wild camel training centre. Here you can meet and interact with the majestic animal, feed them, take pictures and even learn more about the health benefits of camel milk. You can also see and taste some of the fresh products straight from the farm, including camel milk, cheese, cakes, and the famous camel-cino.
- Spicers Hidden Vale
Spicers Hidden Vale is a spectacular 12,000-acre property and homestead, located in Grandchester, Ipswich Area. Boasting one of the most tasteful combinations of sophistication and country charm, the property comprises an array of elegant restored colonial cottages, The Homage – an award-winning restaurant, the Grand Homestead at its heart, and The Barn. In terms of activities, there are plenty on offer; starting from mountain biking or hiking and even a personalized koala safari.
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Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is one of the most priceless natural wonders of the world. The World Heritage-listed site is a hotspot for tourists for the same reason. Cairns is the gateway to the coral reef system, and most tourists set up their base at the region before heading to the Great Barrier Reef. The two places offer a wide range of tours and activities including snorkelling, diving, helicopter flights, and many more.
Few people know that in addition to these popular experiences, these regions also offer a few unique things to do.
- Mena Creek Falls & Paronella Park
Mena Creek Falls is a stunning waterfall that covers a seven-million-year-old basalt rock. It is a sight to behold particularly at night when the falls are illuminated. With walking tracks and picnic spots, the place is a delight to spend a blissful day. On the northern side of the falls, is the famous Paronella Park – a vision turned reality of one man who dared to dream. Spread across five hectares, the park is home to a castle, endless lush green tropical plants and trees, numerous picnic spots, tennis courts, bridges, and tunnels. A tour through these wonders is a must-do activity.
- Private Chopper Ride on Vlasoff Sand Cay
The Vlasoff Cay is a spectacular coral cay that forms part of the Great Barrier Reef. Imagine experiencing breathtaking aerial views of the sparkling waters, and the lush rainforest, on a private helicopter for 40 minutes, before touching down on the soft sands of Vlasoff Cay. A private chopper ride through the most scenic backdrops of Queensland is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Silky Oaks Lodge, Port Douglas
Silky Oaks Lodge is a 5-star luxurious eco-lodging facility set on the forested banks of the Mossman Gorge River. Neighbouring the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park, the place offers the most calming and divine retreat experience, perfect for a peaceful weekend getaway. In addition to the ‘natural supermarket’ tours they host, you can also indulge in the Healing Waters Spa to connect with your senses.
- Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is a spectacular headland and coastal space in the Shire of Douglas within Daintree National Park, very close to the Silky Oaks Lodge. What’s fascinating about this beautiful hidden gem is that it is a point where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet – the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Activities like boat tours, boardwalks, zip-lining, and bird watching are popular at the Cape Tribulation.
- Atherton Tablelands
The Atherton Tablelands, also known as Cairns Highlands, is a highland region in Queensland, home to a host of lush features including wetlands, rainforests, volcanic crater lakes, waterfalls, and savannah. Because it receives plenty of rainfall and sunshine throughout the year, the place is also something of a food bowl. However, it is most famous for being the hot air balloon capital of the world.
At Mareeba, you can enjoy a spectacular experience – a slow and serene ride on a giant balloon amidst the clouds overlooking the breathtaking scenery below. All you have to do is book the ride and the team at Mareeba will pick you up, take you on a scenic journey, and drop you back at the spot. The ride, needless to say, will be an unforgettable experience, and the photos will look straight out of a Disney fairytale.
- Lizard Island
Lizard Island is another less-visited remote island located in the Northern Great Barrier Reef. A part of the Lizard Island Group and Lizard Island National Park, the place is also known as Jiigurru or Dyiigurra. Its deserted aura and secluded spots for relaxation make it a haven for tourists looking to spend a peaceful few days in the Sunshine State.
The Lizard Island Resort is the perfect place to elevate your stay with a luxurious touch. Nestled within the National Park, the resort offers special customised accommodation packages enriched with exquisite wine and dine experiences, hypnotic spas, and impeccable suites, all for the perfect little luxe getaway.
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The Whitsundays
The Whitsundays, located in the Tips to Handle Flight Delays and Cancellations & Fly Stress-Freeheart of the Great Barrier Reef comprises the mesmerizing Whitsunday Group of Islands, which includes both inhabited and uninhabited islands. A tropical paradise, you will find everything from sparkling turquoise waters to soft white sands, and uber-cool beaches here – the ultimate destination for a tropical vacation. While the most popular beaches in the Whitsundays are filled with tourists and water activities like boating, surfing, and snorkelling season after season, the place houses a few stunning untouched spots ideal for a secluded getaway.
- One Tree Hill, Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is well-known for its water activities and luxury accommodations. One Tree Hill on the island is the ultimate spot for sunset views. Located at the northern tip, the place offers the most stunning views of a dramatic sunset. As the orange miracle melts down into the coral sea, you can sit back and enjoy the show as you sip on cocktails and spend a pleasant evening with fellow sunset lovers. Later you can venture out onto the beach to explore the island.
- Underwater hotel experience
When asked what the most unique experience is at the Whitsundays, unheard of anywhere else in the world, it would have to be the Reefsuites underwater hotel experience. Australia’s first-ever underwater accommodation located on the Great Barrier Reef, Reefsuites offers a front-row seat to the mesmerising underwater world of the coral reefs. Complete with floor-to-ceiling windows and premium amenities, you get to watch the reefs come to life while you relax in the comfort of your secure suites.
- Eco-resort – Elysian Retreat
The Elysian Retreat, known as the Whitsundays’ most exclusive resort, is the epitome of a secluded paradise. Located in a private cove on a rocky beach area, surrounded by the national park rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, the resort brings a unique combination of luxury and eco-friendliness. Offering 3 gourmet meals a day, a range of non-alcoholic beverages, unlimited select Australian beer, several non-powered water activities, and personalised organic spa treatments, the Elysian Retreat is a must-visit.
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Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast, located in the southeast part of Queensland, is another highly popular tourist spot, brimming with crowds and unique activities year-round. Known for its numerous pristine beaches, subtropical forests, ample sunshine, and an overall laid-back vibe, the Sunshine Coast boasts several hotspots like the Eumundi markets, Noosa, Glass House Mountains, and more. Nestled among these, are a few unmissable hidden gems worth exploring.
- Kondalilla Falls Circuit
The Kondalilla Falls Circuit is a 4.7-kilometer walking track that leads down from the Kondalilla Falls, interestingly adorned with over 300 stairs. Boasting numerous picnic spots with barbeques, picnic tables, and toilets, the region is filled with scenic valleys and lush forested areas making for an ideal picnic trip. You will also find the distinct bunya pines with asymmetrical dome shapes, piccabeen palms, and other rare sightings as you walk through the trail, climb the ridge, and get back. Being a Grade 3 track, it is recommended to have some experience in trekking to enjoy this 300-stair trail.
- Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp
The Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp, located on the edge of Lake Cootharaba, is Noosa’s premium eco-camping and glamping destination. Awarded “Australia’s Best New Tourism Business” the place offers an array of rich accommodation options, including powered and unpowered campsites, glamping tents, and more. You can choose from a wide range of waterfront activities to do here including canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, wave skiing, kayaking, tinnie hire, and disc golfing in bushland. You can also explore The Great Sandy National Park, where you can interact with some of the wildlife in the region.
- Gardners Falls
Gardners Falls located in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, is a small but sweet little hidden gem that offers the perfect setting for a family picnic. Boasting several shallow rock pools along the trail downstream, ideal for children, and a large pool just underneath the falls, the place is a delight to relax in. Surrounded by native forested areas and bound by a grassy bank, there is ample space to spread out a picnic, bathe under the falls, and chill on the banks as your children frolic in the rock pools.
- Hike to the Glass House Mountains
The Glass House Mountains, located in Glass House Mountains National Park, are a spectacular range of 11 mountains and hills, perfect for hiking, and exploring. Needless to say, a hike to the views from above, is a bucket-list-worthy experience. What’s interesting about these ranges, technically called volcanic plugs, is that they were formed from hardened magma arising from ancient volcanoes in the region, around 25 million years ago.
There are several mountain peaks and trails leading up to them that are open for hiking, such as the Mount Tibrogargan Circuit, the Mount Beerwah Base and Viewpoint, and the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk. Pack some of your best hiking gear and set out for one of the most memorable hikes of your life.
- Ginger Factory
The Ginger Factory is an amazing free-admission iconic destination located in Yandina on the breathtaking Sunshine Coast. Filled with a host of activities including exciting tours of the factory, tasting, and playing, the place is a treasure trove for people looking to explore the world of ginger. It also features scenic subtropical gardens, 9 hectares of open grounds, the Ginger Kitchen where you can indulge in a host of homegrown ginger flavours, gelatos, and sorbets, and many boutique stores perfect for souvenirs.
Wrapping up
From lush green exotic locales to sparkling blue waters, Queensland is home to a myriad of amazing sights and experiences that go beyond the Great Barrier Reef and Gold Coast. A little detour from the touristy spots can reveal some of the most magical phenomena that are not only endearing sights but also excellent sources for flexing on social media. Over and above the aesthetics, our picks of the special hidden gems of places and experiences in the Sunshine State are perfect for those seeking peaceful getaways.
Pro tip: book convenient and all-inclusive Queensland tour packages to cover an array of attractions on the way to these hidden gems. Be sure to take advantage of well-researched flights to Queensland to make the most of your peaceful Australian adventure. Also, secure your Australia visa online well in time to avoid undue stress before your vacation.
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