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 handpicked collection of the best luxury escapes & weekend getaways from Brisbane that are perfect for a getaway with the family or a group of friends. If you’re looking for more intimate properties that are suitable for couples, see our handpicked list of the Top Romantic Getaways in Queensland.
1. Spicers Hidden Vale, Grandchester, QLD
Ideal for couple retreats and family vacations, Spicers Hidden Vale is a luxurious and traditional Australian homestead just one hour from Brisbane. Hidden Vale combines style and comfort with the warmest of country welcomes. It also boasts an award-winning restaurant, Homage, that specialises in exceptional ‘paddock to plate’ dining.
2. Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay, NSW
Just 2 hours from Brisbane, Crystalbrook Byron is a luxe retreat nestled in 45-acres of magical subtropical rainforest. Set only a short walk from gorgeous Tallow Beach and a short drive from the town centre of Byron Bay, this newly renovated resort offers the perfect blend of intuitive service, impeccable detail and stunning natural surroundings.
3. JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Surfers Paradise, QLD
Boasting a coveted location on the Gold Coast and brand new guest rooms, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa is the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful beaches of Surfers Paradise. This recently redesigned hotel offers many superb amenities, including peaceful lagoons and an outdoor resort pool, a modern fitness centre, and a relaxing day spa.
4. Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast, QLD
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort is an absolute beachfront luxury resort, with the soft sands of Mirage Beach just steps away from your room. Set amongst 6 hectares of lagoons and lush gardens, the resort is a unique tropical oasis. Here you can treat yourself to a cocktail in the Oasis Pool swim-up bar, dine in one of the hotel restaurants, before retiring to your opulent suite or villa.
5. Spicers Clovelly Estate, Sunshine Coast Hinterland, QLD
Boasting European-inspired luxury, Spicers Clovelly Estate is a boutique hillside retreat located in the gorgeous Sunshine Coast hinterland. Surrounded by grand figs, shaded jacarandas and groves of magnolias and gardenias, Spicers Clovelly Estate is the perfect place to celebrate everything that’s special in life.
6. Atlantic Byron Bay, Byron Bay, NSW
Atlantic Byron Bay boasts an ideal location in Byron with cafes, shops and white sandy beaches all just a few steps from your deck. Just under 2 hours drive from Brisbane, this adults-only guest house is the perfect place to relax under a palm tree with a book, freshen up with a swim in the pool, or enjoy a balmy evening around the fire pit.
7. The Island Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, QLD
The Island Gold Coast is a newly renovated boutique hotel in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Meticulously designed and restored from head-to-toe, The Island boasts stunning views across the Surfers Paradise CBD and the Gold Coast Hinterland. Here you can enjoy a meal indoors at the all new Goldie’s, alfresco at the relaxing Island Pool Deck, or savour a classic cocktail at the Island Rooftop.
8. Noosa Residences, Noosa Heads, QLD
Nestled between the lush hinterland and the ocean, Noosa Residences are the perfect base from which to explore the delights of the Sunshine Coast. These 2 & 3-bedroom, self-contained residences feature outstanding architectural design within a natural bushland setting adjacent to Noosa National Park, making them the ideal holiday experience with all the comforts of a luxury home.
9. QT Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, QLD
QT Gold Coast is a designer hotel set in the heart of the action in Surfers Paradise. This super-stylish hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, restaurants, bars and a host of impressive event spaces. It also houses the beautiful SpaQ where you can indulge in some seriously relaxing massages and spa treatments. Ah…. heaven!
10. 99 Acres Bangalow Retreat, Byron Bay Hinterland, NSW
Situated upon one of the highest ridges in Bangalow, 99 Acres Retreat is a stylish escape from everyday living. Away from the madding crowds but close enough to everything you need, this is the perfect base from which to explore the Byron Hinterland and beyond. There are 5 rooms in the main guesthouse, or you can choose one of the four individual villas for more privacy.
11. Vue Broadbeach, Gold Coast, QLD
Relax poolside on a sun lounger or enjoy a glass of bubbles on your private balcony while you watch waves crash just metres from your doorstep. Welcome to Vue Broadbeach that promises refined coastal luxury at its very best. Choose from a selection of spacious & stylish apartments and penthouses that can accommodate from 2 to 12 guests.
12. Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, QLD
Enjoy a weekend getaway at Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise with uninterrupted views over the white sandy beaches and crystal waters of the Surfers Paradise foreshore. Soaring 77 levels above the beach, this hotel has been designed to delight and surprise with superb facilities including a luxurious day spa, gym and spectacular swimming podium with striking beach views.
13. Breeze Mooloolaba, Mooloolaba, QLD
A luxurious beachfront haven on the Sunshine Coast, Breeze Mooloolaba features a selection of beautiful one and two bedroom, self-contained apartments that are ideal for couples or a small family. Here you’re only metres from the beach and the many restaurants, cafés, shops and other attractions of Mooloolaba Esplanade.
14. Allure Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast, QLD
Located in the heart of Mooloolaba, only one street back from Mooloolaba Beach, Allure Mooloolaba offers stylish holiday accommodation where everything is right at your doorstep. Set across 7 levels, this boutique holiday destination offers a superb selection of fully self-contained one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
15. Peppers Noosa Resort and Villas, Noosa Heads, QLD
Surrounded by the tropical wilderness of Noosa National Park, Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas is the perfect base on the Sunshine Coast. Enjoy the serenity of the resort with its lush gardens, heated pools with spas and the relaxing onsite day spa. Hastings Street is only a short stroll away, or the hotel will take you there with a complimentary golf buggy transfer.
If you’re happy to drive or fly a little further, 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
