Top 4 Day Trips from Brisbane

Brisbane is the perfect base from which to explore southeast Queensland, with many of the state’s most popular destinations right on the capital’s doorstep. Make the most of it with these top choices:

Australia Zoo

An hour north of Brisbane, Australia Zoo is the legacy left by the renowned Crocodile Hunter – the late Steve Erwin – who aimed to create the biggest and best wildlife conservation facility in the world. Now run by wife and two kids, who are equally passionate about conservation through education, the zoo offers a range of animal encounters with Australian locals like koalas and species from further afield such as tigers and red pandas.

Tamborine National Park

A nature lover’s paradise, an hour south of Brisbane, the dense rainforest here is home to Australian brush-turkeys, scrubwrens, pademelons, the near threatened Albert’s lyrebird, the Richmond birdwing butterfly and colourful noisy pittas. Nearby, be inspired at the many art and craft stores, taste homemade fudge, try a tipple at the Tamborine Mountain Distillery and take to the treetops with the Tamorine Rainforest Skywalk.

Bribie Island

Separated from the mainland by the Pumicestone Passage – a top spot for kayaking, windsurfing, kite surfing and bird watching – Bribie Island is a haven for adrenaline junkies, nature lovers and beach babes alike. Four wheel driving, fishing, golf and skydiving are all popular activities here, as is soaking up the sun on the sand. Keep an eye out for dugongs, dolphins and turtles.

Eumundi Markets

For a spot of shopping unlike any other, head to the Eumundi Markets an hour and a half north of Brisbane, in the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. Open on Saturday (7am-2pm) and Wednesday (8am-1.30pm), the market is brimming with original artworks, sculptures, furniture, handmade toys, homewares, skincare, as well as jewellery and clothes by local designers.

Image Credits: Tourism and Events Queensland