Standing in the shadow of Sydney and Melbourne no more, Brisbane offers a hip city escapade and boasts a thriving cultural and food scene. But if you are looking for somewhere with a less frenetic pace, drive only a few hours from Brisbane and the options become incredibly diverse. From serene hinterlands and charming countryside villages to sun-drenched beaches and coastal towns, your weekend getaway choice couldn’t get any easier. This is our collection of the best weekend getaway locations from Brisbane.
Brisbane & The Lockyer Valley
Style: Dynamic Urban Escapade or Country Escape
Distance: 30-60 minutes from Brisbane
Attractions: Gallery of Modern Art, South Bank Parklands, West End, Brisbane Powerhouse, Queensland Cultural Centre, Brisbane Riverwalk, Lockyer National Park, Laidley Pioneer Village & Museum
Brisbane is sophisticated, modern, and artsy and offers plenty to do if you’re considering a staycation. Here, creative spaces and a flourishing restaurant and bar scene meet unique man-made beaches and riverside gardens. It’s a study in contrast that Brisbane does so well. As you travel out of Brisbane, you’ll encounter wineries, beaches, and national parks. East of the city, Moreton Bay is a haven for seaside adventures with pristine beaches, dense forests, and abundant marine life. To the west, the beautiful Lockyer Valley boasts rolling countryside, national parks and a host of fascinating historic towns.
The Gold Coast & Hinterland
Style: Outdoor Fun and Relaxation
Distance: 60 Minutes from Brisbane
Attractions: Surfer’s Paradise, Broadbeach, Dreamworld, Wet & Wild, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Mount Tamborine
If you’re travelling to the Gold Coast you’ll find no shortage of attractions and things to do, whether you are up for relaxation or adventure. With beautiful white-sandy beaches, lush rainforest and hike trails, tranquil hinterland escapes, and even exciting theme parks — the Fun Capital of Australia has it all, including some stunning and unforgettable accommodation.
The Sunshine Coast & Hinterland
Style: Sunny Seaside Getaway
Distance: 60 minutes from Brisbane
Attractions: Maroochydore, Noosa, Glasshouse Mountains, Mooloolaba, Blackall Range Scenic Drive, Montville and Mapleton Villages
Like a siren call that draws in the beach lovers, the Sunshine Coast mesmerizes with its natural beauty. Blue seas, golden sand, and verdant rainforests — everything is so vivid it’s hard to choose where to start exploring. Over a hundred kilometres of shoreline dotted with seaside accommodation and shops can be your jump-off point. Watch the humpback whale migrations, hike the pristine trails of national parks, or get lost in the charming towns of Montville and Mapleton. It’s not long before you will blend in with the locals and their sun-kissed glow.
Scenic Rim & Granite Belt
Style: Relaxing Mountain Retreat
Distance: 60 minutes from Brisbane
Attractions: Girraween National Park, Main Range National Park, Moogerah Peaks, Wineries and Breweries, Art Galleries
Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Great Dividing Range, just an hour from the hustle of Brisbane, the Scenic Rim & Granite Belt offers a place to breathe and unwind. The rolling, lush hillsides and cool climate create the perfect environment for growing grapes, olives, and fresh produce. It’s no wonder that it is known as Queensland’s wine country. But it’s not all wining and dining. Expansive bushwalking and hiking trails, art galleries, and atmospheric local pubs are enough to make you lose track of time, even days.
Byron Bay
Style: Laid-back Beach Vibe
Distance: 2 Hours from Brisbane
Attractions: Tallows Beach, Cape Byron Lighthouse, The Farm, Cape Byron Conservation Park, Belongil Beach
Byron is the quintessential Australian beach town framed by miles of picturesque coastline, superb beaches, and lush backcountry. Popular among local and international tourists, particularly surfers and backpackers, Byron Bay has often been described as a hippie heaven that exudes a carefree, slow-paced lifestyle. The area is also noted for its iconic lighthouse, teeming marine wildlife, and abundance of outdoor activities for any age, making it an ideal option for family vacations.
Looking For More Options?
If you’re happy to drive or fly, we have some of the best holiday homes, boutique resorts and luxury hotels available across Queensland. Each of these amazing retreats promises a perfect weekend escape from Brisbane. View all luxury accommodation in Queensland
Images Credit: Tourism Australia
HELP?
SHARE
TOP
