Only an hour’s drive north of Queensland’s capital, the laidback lifestyle of the Sunshine Coast awaits. Paddle through the Noosa Everglades, listening to the birds. Swap bitumen for beach with the Great Beach Drive that connects the Sunshine Coast to Fraser Island. Eat at one of Queensland’s best fine dining restaurants to taste the region’s abundant flavours directly from farm or trawler. Or pick up fresh produce from the local markets to cook yourself back at your hinterland home.

Combine adventure and relaxation within some of the greatest environmental wonders of the world. From the Great Barrier Reef where over 6,000 species of flora and fauna will greet you, to the remote beaches of the Daintree Rainforest where you won’t see another soul. Keep your eyes peeled for crocs and cassowaries though! Top your trip off with a truly unforgettable stay in a treehouse with your own private waterfall.

Make the most of Queensland’s summer weather with a visit to The Whitsundays, an archipelago of 74 idyllic islands surrounded by tropical blue waters. From family fun in resort towns to totally uninhabited islands, there truly is something for everyone. Ride in a seaplane to explore the reefs from above then don your diving gear to be wowed by the world below, before heading home to your beachfront villa for unbeatable sunset views.

For the quintessential Aussie escape, you can’t go past the Gold Coast. Whether catching a wave or a rollercoaster, the natural and man-made attractions inspire holidaymakers of all ages to get out and play. With 70km of uninterrupted golden beaches, it’s easy to see how the area got its name but don’t forget to check out the green behind the gold—glamping in the rainforest hinterlands offers a relaxing change of pace.

If you can’t decide whether to spend summer in the city or get back to nature, Brisbane offers the best of both worlds. Pack a picnic breakfast and watch the sun rise from the summit of Mount Coot-tha. Bike along the river’s edge where you’ll find no shortage of microbreweries. Get a real taste for the region with paddock-to-plate dining. Then catch the ferry back to your island shack for a swim beneath the stars.