“It’s only a one-street town, but we liked it. It was quaint, and it’s so nice to sit outside at the pub on the corner and watch the Winton world go by.”

Despite being only home to around 856 people (according to the 2021 census) you’d be surprised by the amount of things to do in Winton.

It’s surrounded by vast, open desert plains, cutting it off from everywhere and everyone, so you can be sure the locals have created some unique attractions to keep them occupied!

The town of Winton was everything I’d romantically dreamed up about an Australian Outback town. If you’re planning a visit and not sure what to do there, here are some of the top things to do!

Is Winton Worth Visiting?

Winton QLD is definitely worth visiting. It may be a small town, but it has a lot to offer, from its fascinating dinosaur history, to opal mining history, to art installations, and of course the scenic landscapes of the Australian outback.

It also happens to be the town where Waltzing Matilda was written, which famously put Winton on the map.

With its charming, laid-back atmosphere, variety of attractions and diverse history, Winton is undoubtedly a must-visit destination.

Things to Do in Winton

1. Explore Downtown Winton

After the first evening, where we did indeed sit outside that pub on the corner, I commented to Craig how I felt like I was finally experiencing the Outback Queensland town I had imagined.

You could almost picture a Cobb & Co carriage rolling up and down the wide ambling streets and horses tied up outside the pub that sits on every corner.

Town folk sitting around the bar, open to conversations with strangers. Stories shared about the history and characters that roamed the streets, old and new, and a community where everyone knew your name.

It was all here in Winton, except for the horses tied up outside the pubs. There’s not a pub on every corner, but there are four pubs spread out about the town serving its community of only 2,000.

The Tattersalls Hotel was the pub on the corner where we sat with new friends John and Suzie on the pavement, under the stilted veranda above us.

We arrived early, and the locals did indeed sit around the bar open to conversations with us.

There was the young man from country Victoria, who worked at the Dinosaur Museum, quietly enjoying a pot of beer before going home to cook dinner. He shared with us what he loved about the town and we talked a little about footie too.

There was another local, the owner of the motel down the road, who’s made several appearances in many of the films made in the region. His word ran into each other as he excitedly asked questions and shared his takings on the town and, of course, his love for rum.

The barmaid knew everyone’s name and order and was quick with service and super friendly. There wasn’t a look that said, “Oh God the tourists have walked in.” Instead, her eyes warmly said “Welcome to our pub and how can I help you enjoy yourself.”

Ahh. I might just settle in here at this bar stool for awhile and chat. The handy toy room out back occupied the kids and allowed Craig and I do that while the girls built a farmyard.

The owner Paul popped over to say hi and shared with us how, after traveling the country, Winton was his choice of home.

We’d only been there an hour, and already we had an inkling this place was something special.

Beside us during dinner, sat a film production crew. Winton is like the Outback Hollywood of Australia.

2. Have A Drink at Walkabout Creek Hotel

On the drive into Winton from Mount Isa, we stopped in at the Walkabout Creek Hotel for a cold beer – the place where a thirsty Paul Hogan, aka Crocodile Dundee, drank.

This production crew was filming a series about the Alamo for an American production company.

Mystery Road and The Proposition are a couple of the several films and documentaries produced here. Each year in July, Winton holds the Outback Film Festival, which I’m super keen to attend.

With its outback Wild West landscapes of jumps, or mesas, and its romantic history there are a lot of stories to be told here.

3. Visit The Waltzing Matilda Centre

Winton is the place where Banjo Paterson wrote and first performed Australia’s unofficial National Anthem, Waltzing Matilda and to the great mystery was run out of town three weeks later.

Our new friend, Suzie told us parts of the story over dinner. Her great Aunt, Sara was engaged to Banjo for eight years and Suzie is making a documentary on the story herself.

You can learn all about the history of the area at the Waltzing Matilda Centre – the only attraction in the world dedicated to a song.

I will admit, I got a little teary while watching the holograph at “Billabong Theatrette.” The ghost tells his side of the story of Waltzing Matilda, a song that lives deeply in the heart of any Australian.

It’s not just a song about a sheep stealer that drowns himself to evade spending life in prison.

Death was more preferable to a loss of freedom. On my travels around the world, Waltzing Matilda was often sung in pubs and around campfires where groups of Aussies hung out.

You felt a strong connection to home and a belief that our culture was special and worth celebrating and loving.

All of this came rushing back as we sat and watched. I tried to explain to my children what it meant, hoping they’d understand the importance of it being more than a good poem and a lively tune.

For a bite to eat and your coffee fix while there, don’t miss the Coolabah Cafe attached to the centre.

Hands down THE BIGGEST focaccias, we’ve ever eaten (Craig recommends the turkey & bacon). The coffee was top notch too. AND there’s free wi-fi, that works!

4. Visit North Gregory Hotel

You can also visit the famous North Gregory Hotel, which is the place Waltzing Matilda was first performed.

5. Visit The Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum

Apparently there were also Dinosaurs in Winton, who knew? In fact, it’s considered the dinosaur capital of Australia!

Winton has more than just deep rooted Aussie cultural history; there’s also the history of another kind – the prehistoric kind – dinosaurs.

Imagine the surprise a local farmer got years ago when he stumbled upon some rocks that seemed a little unlike normal rocks.

This unearthing of dinosaur bones led to excavations and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum just outside of Winton now houses the world’s largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils.

Previous to this discovery, Australia was the only continent where evidence of dinosaurs had not yet been uncovered.

You can learn all about the history and more by visiting the collection room, including touching a real dinosaur bone at the Fossil Preparation Laboratory attached to the museum founded by the very farmer who first discovered the bones.

Just the location of the museum atop a dinosaur canyon, a rugged mesa that stands 75 metres above the surrounding plains is reason enough to visit.

You get a look out onto the flat plains now burying the dinosaur bones under a thick layer of black soil.

With a little imagining (well maybe a lot) you can picture a land that was once tropical and filled with palm trees and dinosaurs.

I’ve never in my life been that interested in dinosaurs, but Winton trapped me into their allure.

But wait, Winton still holds more magic and charm.

6. See The Musical Fence

We must talk about the musical fence. Imagine a standard wire fence with added acoustic resonators that amplify any sound in the wires, caused either by striking or by wind action.

It was right beside where we were staying and was our first port of call for our day’s exploring. As soon as we walked in we all dispersed to the instrument that called us most.

Kalyra headed for the drums, Savannah for the hanging chimes, and myself for the musical fence.

We had a great morning jamming session. None of us could hold a note too well, but who cares, we were having fun creating our own style of music.

But wait, there is something else special about this musical fence. Gotye, you know of the fame “Somebody that I used to know”, the massive Grammy award-winning hit from an Australian artist.

Well, he got a lot of inspiration for that album from the musical fence!

Before he was known, he pulled up in town in his touring van and visited the fence to jam out and record some interesting tunes, which you now hear in his interesting music!

Yay. Go the musical fence. Go Winton!

You can actually watch that video here:

7. Visit the Royal Open Air Theatre

If you’re looking for things to do after sunset, then a night at the Royal Open Air Theatre should be high on your list.

Catch a late night movie under the stars or take part in nostalgia nights, where you can get tickets for classic movies.

The open air cinema operates from April until late September/October, so be sure to check out the what’s on calendar to see what’s happening when you visit.

8. Go On The Opal Walk Tour

One of the most popular things to do in Winton is learn about its former opal mining history.

The Opal Walk tour in Winton takes you on a journey to discover the region’s precious gemstone.

This short and informative walk introduces you to the world of opal mining and tells of the life of opal miners, as well as teaches you the history of the the Royal Open Air Theatre Museum.

There is a nominal fee for the walk, and you can find out information about times and tickets from the Gift and Gem Shop.

9. Check Out Bladensburg National Park

Just a 20 minutes’ drive from Winton main street is Bladensburg National Park.

This expansive park features flat-topped plateaus, sandstone ranges, grassland plains, and river flats, and is made up of several scenic driving tracks, camp sites and walking tracks.

If you want to experience the serene surroundings of the Queensland Outback, this is the place to be.

10. Visit Diamantina Heritage Truck & Machinery Museum

Another fascinating museum in Winton is the Diamantina Heritage Truck & Machinery Museum which transports you back to the golden era of trucking and machinery.

It was established in July 2004 by a group of passionate trucking enthusiasts and community members, and showcases a remarkable collection of historic trucks, vehicles, machinery, and transport memorabilia.

11. See Dinosaur Footprints in Lark Quarry Conservation Park

For those who want to see the remains of dinosaur footprints, head to Lark Quarry Conservation Park.

This unique park is home to the world’s only known dinosaur stampede site, where over 3,000 dinosaur footprints can still be seen today.

This area, known as the dinosaur stampede national monument, travels across ancient mesas and gullies, surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes beyond the fascinating trackways left behind by these prehistoric creatures.

This is definitely a site not to be skipped.

12. Hike the Spinifex Circuit

If you enjoy hiking, then consider walking the Spinifex Circuit in Winton. This 2-mile looped trail takes you through the breathtaking jump-up country and red earth landscape of Lark Quarry Conservation Park.

As you traverse the trail, you’ll be immersed in the stunning scenery, surrounded by spinifex grass and unique rock formations.

The medium-grade trail provides an opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Outback while enjoying panoramic views from the lookout point.

13. See Arno’s Wall

Arno’s Wall is an art installation that’s made out of concrete and rock from Arno’s opal mine in the nearby town of Opalton.

What makes this wall unique is that it’s made up of every household item you can think of, such as typewriters, motorbikes, boat propellers, kitchen sink, you name it.

It was the brainchild of German immigrant Arno Grotjahan, who first found the opal in the area in the 1960s, and resided in Winton.

He spent his whole life creating this wall, which runs at 2 meters high and 70 meters in length.

Final Thoughts

Winton is also one of the friendliest places in Australia. They were friendly enough for us to comment endlessly on how friendly the people were.

I got a real sense of community in Winton, again another reason why it lived up to my romantic ideals of an Outback town.

I think it’s the only Outback town I could live in for a wee while.

And if your coming to Winton via Mount Isa the landscape along the drive is just gorgeous.

More Queensland Travel Tips

If you’re planning on visiting other parts of Queensland, be sure to check out the following helpful guides…

• Why Outback Queensland is an enriching road trip destination for families
• 2 week Outback Queensland road trip itinerary
• Tips for an Outback Queensland Road Trip with Kids
• 50 Stunning and adventurous things to do in Queensland
• 15 Best Road trips in Australia
• Unique Things to do in Longreach, Queensland
• Contemplating the Cosmos at Charleville
• Places to visit in Queensland
• Guide to driving the Savannah Way
• Is Boodjamulla National Park Queensland’s best kept secret?
• 3 things to do in Longreach
• Introducing the Undara Lava Tubes
• Going underground in Mount Isa

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Have you visited Winton? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Backed by the Mackay Highlands, this is the longest continual stretch of sub-tropical rainforest in Australia.

With its mist-shrouded mountains and dense rainforests, this ecological paradise is not only a biodiversity for over 860 plant species, but famously home to a colony of platypus.

It’s these allusive and rare creatures that bring people to Eungella NP, who have made a home for themselves in the Broken River that runs through the park.

But that’s not all there is to see and do in Eungella National Park, there are also an array of walking trails, catering to various levels of difficulty, as well as lookouts with scenic vistas not to miss.

If you’re thinking of visiting Eungella National Park to encounter Australia’s rich wildlife and escape the city, then keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this extraordinary place.

Is Eungella National Park Worth Visiting?

This trip up to Eungella National Park was special to us because we were on the hunt for wild platypus.

Every person I’d spoken to said it was pretty much a given we’d see one. But, I’ve heard that at many different places in Australia before and had never come up lucky.

It’s been a childhood dream of mine to see a platypus. Every time my parents took me to our local Australian Reptile Park, I’d press my nose against the glass silently begging one to swim out just so I could have one glimpse at this unusual elusive Australian animal.

Eungella National Park was one of the only places in Australia where we saw platypus in the wild, and for that reason, it’s absolutely worth visiting.

How To Get To Eungella National Park

To get to Eungella National Park, you will first need to head to the town of Mackay, located just 86km outside the park. This is considered the gateway to Eungella and is where most visitors base themselves before entering the park.

From here, you need to drive along State Route 64 until you reach the town of Eungella. From here, turn off onto Mackay Eungella Rd and follow it to the end to reach the national park.

Most of the roads into Eungella are suitable for a normal vehicle, but if you want to drive to Moonlight Dam, then you will need a 4WD vehicle.

Things To Do In Eungella National Park

1. Wake Up Early To Platypus in Eungella NP at Broken River

The best time to see platypus is in the early mornings and evenings, or dawn and dusk, so that’s when I headed out.

I stole away back down to the river at sunrise to take some more pictures and see what I could find.

I went to the furthest platform from Broken River Resort, where we were staying on the edge of Broken River, which I did not explore the evening before and was blown away by how pretty and serene it was.

A deep green lagoon sat at the end of the river, surrounded by ferns and intense greenery. A couple were leaving and pointed out to me the spot where they’d seen a platypus.

There in the morning light, on my own, I sat by the lagoon and watched a platypus swimming and playing oblivious to me standing there!

It was better than I’d ever dreamed as a child it could be.

The elusive platypus is elusive no more. As it turns out, you’d be unlucky if you came to Eungella National Park and did not see a platypus.

As I walked back from the lagoon, I passed a Japanese man I’d spoke to earlier coming from the other viewing platforms with a spring in my step

“Did you see any?” I asked him. “Oh yes,” he grinned and sprang right on by, “many many platypus.”

Bucket list experience, check!

2. Take a Guided Spotlight Tour at Night

Every Tuesday and Thursday evenings, The Broken River Resort has guided spotlight tours with the resident environmentalist at 8pm.

I bundled the girls up in the warmest clothes I could find – they sure weren’t lying about the cold and we stepped out into the rainforest.

Wisps of cloud circled overhead and our guide told us Eungella has cloud cover for most of the year and is really not a rainforest but a cloud forest.

Eungella actually means “Land of the clouds” or “where the cloud lies over the mountain” to the aboriginal peoples.

We were lucky to have clear skies and good weather. But, it meant the full moon was out and harder to see the animals.

We still saw plenty: geckos, pademelons, wallabies and kangaroos, leeches, and bats and we learned a lot about the different flora making up the park.

There are supposed to be plenty of bird species in the park, including kookaburras, pied currawongs, blue-faced honeyeaters and Eungella honeyeater, rainbow lorikeets, kingfishers, and tawny frogmouths.

Some other notable animals in the park are sugar gliders, orange-sided skink, and brushtail possums.

Our guide was quite well trained at spotting platypus and assured me, if we were patient and waited on the bridge, we’d see the resident platypus hunting for food down below.

After a few minutes of moving his torch around, he picked up a darting shadow in the water – sure enough, it was a platypus. I think I squealed. We watched it foraging and popping up out of the water to take a breath.

We wandered down to the other viewing platform and saw another one popping up and diving underneath the water for more food – no face pressing against the glass needed.

This was the real deal in the dark of night out in the wild, just us and the platypus.

3. Hike to Lookouts

On the way into the park, we pulled over the side of the road to a viewpoint called Sky Window.

This is an easy track to the lookout to do with kids, since it’s located on a short 0.2 mile loop walk through the lush rainforests and opens up to a natural window through the trees, looking out over the valley.

Another popular lookout is Goodes Lookout, which offers amazing views of the Pioneer Valley. This lookout doesn’t require much walking and has a toilet and rest area.

4. Visit Cedar Gallery

Cedar Gallery is an art gallery that opens in the winter. It was built by Owen and Kerry – Owen is an engineer and single-handedly built the unique wooden structure the gallery is housed in.

Kerry on the other hand has always loved fine art.

The pair opened the gallery to encourage others to appreciate the unique environment if Eungella and to admire the work of local artists.

5. Go Kayaking In Eungella Dam

If you’re visiting during a hot summer’s day and have your own boat or kayak, you may want to cool off and get out on the water.

You can go swimming, kayaking and even sailing on the waters by Eungella Dam (though look out for signs that signal the no-go zones). There are buoys set up near the Dam Wall to indicate where you cannot pass, and it’s recommended not to get too close to the wall.

There is a boat ramp you can use or you can launch from the campsite, Eungella Dam Camping Ground.

6. Visit Finch Hatton Gorge

One of the best places to see the unique plants and fauna of the park is from Finch Hatton Gorge, where leaf litter scatters the floor and moss covered boulders rise out of the ground.

It’s one of the most rugged gorges in Queensland, and is most famous for its volcanic boulders and lush waterfalls.

It’s this gorge that gives Eungella the reputation for being one of Australia’s most diverse parks.

Be sure to visit Wheel of Fire Falls, a popular waterfall for swimming in the large pool beneath the falls. To get there, you must walk along a 1.4km hike with some steep uphill segments and stairs.

If you prefer a longer walk, take the 1 hour walk to Araluen Falls, also sometimes called Araluen Waterfall or Araluen Cascades.

7. Hike the Granite Bend Circuit

This 2.6km hike is a nice, easy loop trail that takes you along the Broken River.

This is a popular trail because it provides ample opportunities to stop and look for platypus in the creeks.

Where to Stay in Eungella National Park

We were staying at Broken River Resort, on the edge of Broken River in the rainforest.

It’s the perfect cool mountain retreat to escape from the North Queensland tropical heat. We checked in and headed straight down to the river for platypus viewing.

There’s a short boardwalk through the forest with several viewing platforms. It was quiet and serene until a group of school children arrived.

They swore they saw a platypus, but I was pretty sure it was a turtle, of which there were many. There’s no way a platypus would have appeared with all that noise.

After some time spent looking, and Kalyra’s complaints of a sore belly, we decided to head back to the cabin to rest before dinner.

Our lodge had some incredible views overlooking the valley and the serene sunset beyond. Broken River Mountain Resort offers spaciousness one or two bedroom lodges, or for budget travelers, a motel-style room.

Each room comes with a living area and small kitchen area, so they are self-contained and make you feel comfortable.

We had a lovely dinner together at Possums Table Restaurant in the lodge and then Kalyra schooled me in chess in the games section of the lodge after it.

What Is The Climate Of Eungella National Park?

“It can get cold around here,” Nicole, our guide, was telling me. She told me stories of frost on windows and the odd snowflake drops up in the mist-topped mountains.

“Really?” I just couldn’t believe it. We’re in the tropics, I’m sitting under the shade of a tree to pause the sweat from trickling down my face.

“Oh yeah. There are many nights I put the heater on. It’s starting to move into those cold months,” Nicole informed us.

I regretted my decision to pack just my light cardigan. Gulp.

We were headed up to the mountain top. Now when I say mountain in Australia, I don’t mean mountain like most of you probably know mountains. I’m talking 700 metres high.

Laughable right – if all the mountains in the world got together for a class photo, Australian mountains would be sitting on the chairs in the front row.

But, 700 metres is still high enough to get colder in the sub-tropical heat of North Queensland.

Just in case you’re still not sure of the tropical vibe of this area, we’re only one hours drive from the Whitsunday Islands. So, Queensland continues to surprise me.

If you’re planning on visiting Eungella, pack warm clothes for the evenings, just in case.

Final Thoughts

I wasn’t quite sure of what to expect of Eungella National Park. It’s quiet and unassuming, but slowly starting to speak up as a tourist destination that offers many treasures.

On the way in, we drove through endless fields of sugar cane, not something I’d have thought I’d ever find beautiful, but it was.

Tall canes rose above us on either side of the car, the mountains rising behind it and the landscape so lush and green.

We then drove through lush farmlands and rolling hills into the Broken River. It was stunning and reminded me in parts of the Daintree Valley.

Yes, Eungella is beautiful alright, and definitely worth checking out if you’re driving through Queensland.

We hope this guide helped you decide what to do in Eungella and gave you some insight into how to visit and why it’s special.

We’d never heard of this small town on the Capricorn Coast, nestled halfway between Bundaberg and Gladstone in Queensland. We stumbled on it by chance on our Australia road trip.

We weren’t sure what there is to see and do, and the drive revealed nothing but forests of Eucalyptus trees, rivers and dirt roads. It certainly was not a place to be coming if you wanted a bit of action.

But again, that depends on the kind of action you’re after.

Bright lights and night time parties? You’re entering the wrong zone.

Quiet and peaceful retreat amongst nature? Now you’re talking.

If you’re thinking about making a stop in Baffle Creek but not sure what it’s all about or what there is to see and do there, then keep reading to find out…

Where Is Baffle Creek

Baffle Creek is a 6 hour drive north of Brisbane, and a short drive north of Bundaberg.

The closest airport is Bundaberg Regional Airport, which is located 96km away or just over an hour’s drive.

It has a population of about 156 people, according to the census in 2016.

Baffle Creek is so small and rural, it’s the ideal retreat for those wanting to return to nature, or take a holiday away from the maddening crowds, with stunning scenery and some of the east coast’s best river fishing.

Baffle Creek touted as one of Australia’s last pristine waterways. I’ll let you conjure up what that means for your holiday experience.

What is Baffle Creek famous for?

Baffle Creek is more river than a creek, with its widest point at over 2kms and a tidal reach of 35kms.

The length of the Baffle Creek is 120km and is home to thriving mangrove forests and an abundant array of sea critters and birds.

Baffle Creek is famous for being a protected fishing habitat – Queenfish, taylor, trevally, salmon, grunter, barra, bream mangrove jack, and whiting.

Guests of Broadwater Creek have been known to have caught 16 different species of fish in one day.

I had to text my brother in-law as soon as I heard that stat. He’s a mad fisherman, and surprisingly had not heard about The Baffle.

I’m pretty sure, it’s now on the top of his list and my sister will be helping to prepare the boat for the family’s next fishing adventure.

It’s a haven for fishing enthusiasts, and that’s what makes Baffle Creek so special.

There’s an abundance of wildlife on land in the The Baffle Creek region as well: wild kangaroos, echidnas and we even saw an emu wandering around in the forest in the Deepwater National Park.

Things To Do In Baffle Creek

Baffle Creek is a small town and doesn’t have a whole lot of attractions, it’s main attraction is fishing, which you can do from the shore or from a boat.

Aside from fishing, here are some of the best things to do in Baffle Creek.

1. Visit Wreck Rock Beach

We went for a drive to check out the Baffle Creek region, driving through the Deepwater National Park and stopping to visit some of the local beaches.

Driving along the dirt road through the jungled palm trees to Wreck Rock gave me the first inhale of what I anticipated the northern part of Queensland to be like – tropical bliss.

Wreck Rock Beach is a small, rock-bound beach and the place to come and sit for awhile in solitude and just enjoy the moment.

We also stopped off at Rules Beach which was kind enough to supply us with a natural hammock in the form of a tree branch.

2. Witness Sunrise Over Deepwater Creek

Frank mentioned how pretty the sunrise can be over Deepwater Creek, right out the front of our cabin.

Craig got up early the next morning whilst the girls slept in and captured this scene.

Thanks to the creek and ocean frontage of Broadwater Haven, some of the region’s best fishing and crabbing can be found just a few steps from your cabin door, without even needing a boat.

3. Go For a Boat Ride

Baffle Creek is private land, so you can rest assured that the only other people accessing the creek alongside you are those staying at Broadwater Haven.

If fishing is not your thing, the crystal clear water is super enticing for swimming or a boat ride.

Craig and Kalyra went for a spin with Frank, the owner of Broadwater Haven, in a tinny boat whilst I played with Savannah by the shore.

4. Visit Broadwater Haven’s Beach

Just over the creek (a short wade at low tide), you’ll find a pristine stretch of beach, where you might even catch an odd wave or two although it is open ocean and a bit wild.

There’s a small jetty to park your boat. The beach will be all yours for the day.

This is Broadwater Haven’s Beach. Frank says the sunrises from here are absolutely sublime.

We didn’t catch one from the beach front, but the sunrises we saw from the creek bank was a good sign of what could be seen on one of those extraordinary mornings.

If you don’t like to get up before the sun, enjoying an ice cold sundowner on your balcony or under the oaks by the creek is just as good.

If you had a bigger boat and wanted more “river” fishing, then the boat ramp to Baffle Creek is only 9 kms away.

5. Head to Town of 1770 for a LARC Tour

Although not located in Baffle Creek, the historic Town of 1770 is only a 45 minute drive away and is one of the top attractions in the Gladstone region of Queensland.

Like Baffle Creek, it’s known as a remote and wild town with less than 3,000 residents. Although small, it’s famous for being the second place Cook founded when he first landed in Australia, and the first place in Queensland. For that reason, it’s considered the first settlement in Queensland.

The best way to see the town is on a LARC tour, which is an amphibious vehicle that takes you from Bustard Bay and to the historic Bustard Heads lighthouse, Middle Island, and driving through four National Parks (Deepwater, Eurimbula, Mount Colosseum, and Round Hill).

Where To Stay in Baffle Creek: Broadwater Haven Cabins

We stayed just north of Baffle Creek at Broadwater Haven Cabins on the estuary of Deepwater, Mitchell, Blackwater and Cow Creeks.

This eco-friendly property is owned by Frank and Noela Goetz who moved here from Gympie 16 years ago.

They’re happy to sit on your deck and chat with you about the local area and their lifestyle, one they are passionate about.

They loved the relaxing lifestyle so much they decided to create a haven for those wishing to escape and connect to the beauty the region has to offer.

The beautiful warm day, birds singing, slight breeze, the smell of gorgeous lemon scented Australian bush plants off my balcony made me wish we were staying so much longer.

A time to disconnect to reconnect was exactly what I needed.

Frank and Noela are keen to get their little place on the map, but not so much to steal away its charm.

Their park has 10 eco-friendly 4-star waterfront self-contained cabins, which sleep up to 6. They’re well thought out, modern and comfortable.

But, you don’t even need to worry about the cabins, it’s the scenery and outdoor activity you’ve come to spend most of your time interacting with. It’s far too pretty to spend indoors.

Final Thoughts

Finishing off a magical day at Broadwater Haven can only be done one way: around the campfire with a glass of red wine under a sky blazoned with stars.

The Baffle and Broadwater Haven will take you back to a time when life was far less complicated and nature was all you cared about interacting with.

There’s nothing too baffling about that.

More Capricorn Coast Queensland Tips

Planning on visiting other parts of the Capricorn Coast? Here are some other helpful guides…

• Go to Carnarvon Gorgee National Park if you want to see kangaroos
• 5 day itinerary for the Sandstone Wilderness
• Quick getaway to Great Keppel Island
• Why you should visit Agnes Waters and the Town of 1770
• 50 Stunning and adventurous things to do in Queensland
• Crocs, bat poo and owl spew – education in Rockhampton

I’m not a fan of those cheap supermarket cornetto ice creams, it’s got to be the best quality.

So when we traveled around Australia on an 18 month road trip, I would only stop for an ice cream if it was considered one of the best ice creams in Australia.

While we didn’t try every ice cream shop in Australia, there were a couple of places our taste-testing girls remember for great ice-cream on the trip.

Get ready for an ice cream shop adventure!

At A Glance: Top 10 Ice Cream Places in Australia

Want to know where the best places in Australia for ice cream are but don’t have a lot of time? Here are the top 10!

Looks like Queensland wins for ice cream in Australia, with Cairns rocking it!

1. Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour, Bathurst
2. Millers Ice Cream, Margaret River
3. Daintree Ice Cream Company, Daintree Rainforest, Qld
4. Gelato Messina, Fitzroy Vic
5. Gelatissimo, Surfers Paradise
6. My Gelato Kirra, Coolangatta, QLD
7. Gelocchio, Cairns, QLD
8. Devine Gelato, Cairns, QLD
9. Coffee Barn Gelateria, Moonta Mines, SA
10. Amo Gelato Noosaville, Qld

The Best Ice Cream in Australia

Now you know the top 10, here are our ultimate favorites from this list and why we like them so much…

1. Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour, Bathurst

Annie’s came highly recommended on our Facebook page to check out when Craig and Kalyra visited Bathurst. The line up out the door of Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour agreed it’s a Bathurst institution.

Many folks suggested the locally named Sofala Gold variety or Bridle Track, but Kalyra was having none of it and went straight for a scoop of blueberry + cookies & cream

2. Millers Ice Cream, Margaret River

Millers Ice Cream is located on a dairy farm in Margaret River. It’s a drive to get to, but scenic and worth it. There is a playground and space for the kids to run around when they’ve finished licking their lips.

There’s a wide variety of ice-cream and is expensive, but the scoop sizes make up for it!

3. Daintree Ice Cream Company, Daintree Rainforest, Qld

Even I splurged out here. How can you say no to an exotic ice cream made from the fruits of the Australian rainforest?

The Daintree Ice Cream Company is expensive ice-cream, but it’s a unique tasting experience worth coughing up the cash for and all the fruit is grown is native and naturally grown on the property.

I loved the Black Sapote and Wattleseed and Coconut. The flavours change each day and in relation according to what has fallen from the trees!

4. Gelato, Messina Surry Hills

My friend Chrissy from Hair Romance told me about her addiction to Messina Gelato in Surry Hills, Sydney.

She was their number one fan on Instagram and would duck around the corner to join the queue each time they released a phone of their new flavour creation.

When Kalyra and I went to meet her new distance education teacher before we set off on our road trip just around the corner, we decided to toast our new travel life with an ice cream from after it. It was worth it!

Best Ice Cream On The Gold Coast

Since, this best ice cream in Australia list from Trip Advisor is only new and we are no longer road tripping around Australia, we decided to test whether the two Gold Coast ice cream places mentioned on the list from the Gold Coast were worthy.

We set out for a day of ice cream tasting! Hello, five-kg hips and off-the-wall children. They were in ice-cream heaven!

5. Gelatissimo, Surfers Paradise

Gelatissimo Surfers Paradise is the best place to get ice cream in Surfers Paradise!

The best thing about Gelatissimo Surfers Paradise is that they also have a vegan mango option, so everyone can enjoy some of the delicious flavors no matter what your diet.

They also have low-calorie flavors of sorbet. Unlike many sorbet makers, Gelatissimo Surfers Paradise is made with fresh fruit. There you go hips; it’s all good to eat!

The lemon, mango and raspberry were my favourites – so refreshing.

The ice cream was so good; and they also have a dairy-free and sugar-free option as well.

Okay, Gelatissimo’s you win! The girls happily gorged on different sweet treats and chocolate, announcing that the chocolate brownie was the best.

Triple thumbs up for Gelatissimo. Pop it on your Gold Coast itinerary.

6. My Gelato, Kirra

Our afternoon stop for ice cream was at the other end of the Gold Coast at Kirra Beach, just around the corner from Coolangatta.

My Gelato is listed in Trip Advisor as number 3 restaurant in Coolangatta, the raving reviews and the walls covered in newspaper articles noting their ice-cream fame pointed to a great experience.

I was happy to sit in the swinging chair while the girls played in the small kiddie section and we waited for the hordes of people to leave so we could order our treats.

I was tempted to grab a scoop of the chilli chocolate, but after tasting it, and loving the burst of spice through the chocolate, I decided an entire cup full could teeter on the break-me line.

If you don’t want to carry through with the dare either, I recommend you, at least, grab a taste test.

Then scoop up some of the bailey’s flavour in a cup or cone after it for a softer experience.

Another triple thumbs up.

I can clearly see why these two ice creams are on the best ice creams in Australia list. The Gold Coast is the perfect place for ice cream. It’s the perfect place for almost anything!

Best Ice Cream Brands in Australia

If you’re traveling internationally to Australia and you’re thinking about trying an Australian brand of ice cream, then you can find the below brands in any supermarket.

We personally prefer the gelato ice creams from ice cream shops, but we get that international travelers want to taste some of the local products.

1. Paddle Pops

For those who prefer something creamy and fun, then Paddle Pops are a popular favorite.

Kids particularly like the Rainbow Paddle Pops, which are made with creamy milk, and a whole lotta E-numbers.

We’re personally not a fan of the E-numbers, so prefer to go for the classic chocolate Paddle Pop.

2. Mango Weis Bars

If you prefer something fruity, go for the Mango Weis Bars, which are a small, snack-sized ice cream bar that’s perfect for cooling you down on a hot day.

They are made with real fruit and Australian dairy, and are even gluten-free. They’ve been a family favorite since 1957 and are made with 96% Australian ingredients.

You can find them in Woolworths, Coles and IGA supermarkets.

3. Drumstick

Of course, you’ve probably seen the Drumsticks in the supermarket, and not just in Australia too! Drumsticks can be found globally, but not many realize they are an Australian ice cream.

They are produced by Peters, who have been making ice cream since 1907. The Drumstick was Australia’s first ice cream product and are still a favorite today.

They are Australian-made in Mulgrave, Victoria, and come in a variety of flavors.

The vanilla caramel choc chip and the choc mint are delicious, but if you prefer something with less sweetness, the boysenberry swirl is a nice fruity option. Of course, all the flavours are sweet though.

4. Golden Gaytime

Kids will go wild for a Golden Gaytime ice lolly. They are a sweet blend of smooth, creamy textured ice cream and coated in a biscuit crumb topping.

They are produced by an Australian confectionary company called Streets and are toffee and vanilla ice creams, with chocolate coating and vanilla biscuit-like crumbs on top.

Golden Gaytime are one of my all time favorite ice creams!

More Australia Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your trip to Australia? Check out these other resources…

• 25 Outstanding National Parks in Australia
• A Visit to Flinders Ranges National Park, South Australia
• Things to do on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia
• 12 awesome things to do on Fraser Island
• Why Rottnest Island should be on your bucket list
• Best Road Trips in Australia
• How to plan a two week vacation to Australia
• Best of Australia
• Top 20 Places in Australia
• 45 things to know about Australia

The Savannah Way is a scenic road trip through, as the name suggests, tropical savannahs. It connects many of Northern Australia’s top destinations such as Borroloola, Katherine, Derby and more.

We originally thought we’d take a few days to drive The Savannah Way in Tropical North Queensland, and it would just be a few days of transit driving, stopping only for food and sleep.

We quickly realized this was no ordinary highway, and we had stumbled across one of Australia’s best kept secrets.

The Savannah Gulf region is a dry and barren place, yet on closer look, a thriving one.

If you’re thinking of driving the Savannah Way Drive, then keep reading to find out which stops you need to know about on this hidden gem road trip.

How Long Do You Need To Drive The Savannah Way?

The entire length of the Savannah Way is 3,700 km, which takes 40 hours without stopping.

Of course, you are going to want to stop and check out the sites, which is why we recommend spending at least two weeks on the Savannah Way road trip.

As well as stopping at the many attractions, it’s also worth spending a few minutes stopping at the many viewpoints to admire the landscape.

The Savannah Way is not short on, dry river banks, which are the perfect place to stop and contemplate what it must look like during the wet season when it’s completely full of water – and then some.

Imagining that water breaking the banks and rising up like the 1974 floods.

It will blow your mind. You just can’t imagine how it can go from bone dry to flooding with enough water to provide the needs of Australia and then some.

But that is this amazing Gulf country in northern Australia.

Our Experience On The Savannah Way Drive

We were kind of chuffed to be travelling along The Savannah Way with our own little Savannah.

We named her Savannah for two reasons: because we love the city in America, and because we love the African Savannah – a wild place.

Now she gets to meet her namesake in Australia, except this Savannah is filled with kangaroos and emus instead of man-eating lions.

There’s plenty of things here that will kill you though, from snakes to salt water crocodiles, and poisonous plants, so keep your wits about yourself.

The Savannah Way is the ultimate road trip in Australia, stretching from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia.

We decided to drive from East to West, since we were combining it with a road trip up the East Coast.

The majority of the svannah Way is sealed road, but there are sections that turn to gravel and plenty of tributaries offering that wild off-road driving experience.

Our Ford Territory is an all-wheel-drive and not built for the hard-core 4WD section, so we took the alternative routes.

We didn’t complete the entire drive, though we have visited the other landmarks on the drive around Broome and the Top End of Australia on another trip, so in total we have seen most of the drive.

You’ll need a car to get around this region or to join a group tour. Check DiscoverCars or RentalCars.com for the best deals on car rental.

We can recommend this Top End Australia tour with Cosmos or Treasures of the Top End with Globus. Use the code: YTRAVEL when booking online or via phone for our exclusive yTravel discount: Save $100 per person on select 2023 and 2024 Globus and Avalon Waterway Vacations.

Stops on The Savannah Way

Below is are some places to visit along the Savannah Way, if you are driving from Cairns to Broome.

Just reverse it if you’re coming from the opposite direction. We have a map at the end of the post with all the Savannah Way places to visit pinned.

The Atherton Tablelands

We stayed for two nights in Atherton, and depending on your interests this is enough time to see the highlights.

It’s a beautiful region that varies from agricultural farmlands, to ancient rainforest with stunning waterfalls and scrub land.

Ravenshoe

Ravenshoe is the highest town in Queensland and worth a pit stop if having a drink in Queensland’s highest pub is your thing.

Otherwise, there’s not much else to see,

Stop in at the Innot Hot Springs to dip into the thermal pools.

Don’t expect to see any springs on a grand scale like Rotorua in New Zealand.

It’s actually more of a small puddle, lol. But, it’s nice for sitting in, though bear in mind it’s really hot. 

Undara Lava Tubes

What a fascinating discovery Undara Volcanic National Park was!

Here you will find the world’s longest lava tubes a phenomena I knew nothing about until coming here.

Plan to spend two nights so you can make the most out of what’s on offer.

Do the Archway Explorer Tour and have a bush brekkie. You can set up your caravan or camper trailer, or how about sleeping in an old railway carriage.

Mount Surprise & Georgetown

Stop at Mt Surprise along the way. Grab a burger – like they used to be before they were ruined – at the BP cafe. 

You can also take a quick trip to O’Briens Creek to see if you can find some topaz in the dried up river beds there.

Then, fuel up at Georgetown before taking the unsealed 80km road to Cobbold.

Pulling our Jayco Camper Trailer took us about 90 minutes for this section.

The scenery is true outback gorgeousness with the red dirt, blue skies, huge termite mounds and scrub trees. I’d so love to see it in the wet when the greenery comes out.

Cobbold Gorge

Yet another special place on the Savannah Gulf. We stayed at Cobbold Gorge for one night, you might like to rest a while – it’s peaceful enough with plenty to keep you entertained, and the infinity pool has amazing views.

The only way to explore this narrow gorge is on a three-hour tour, which takes you on a boat trip through the gorge and a short walk up the escarpment.

Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the area and the Savannah Gulf and so passionate about it. It was easy to fall in love with it too.

She shared many stories about the flora and fauna, took us to some beautiful view points and told stories about the early settlers and the mysterious death of pioneer John Corbett.

Normanton

There’s not much in between Cobbold Gorge and Normanton so be prepared for a drive of about 4 1/2  hours.

We arrived in the afternoon and stayed for a night at the Albion Hotel so we could arrive early in the morning for our Gulflander experience.

Don’t expect too much comfort here but the barra & chips for dinner in the pub restaurant was enjoyable.

Normanton town is basically a refueling stop, although you can stick your head inside a replica of one of the largest crocs ever caught, Krys the croc, who measured a whopping 8.5 metres.

The Gulflander Experience

Train enthusiasts will love this experience on the historic and legendary Gulflander.

Originally built to connect the once bustling river port of Normanton with the rich gold fields of Croydon, today the Gulflander is a tourism icon and working tribute to the early pioneers of the Gulf of Carpentaria.

We experienced the “Billy tea and damper” excursion to Critters Camp located at the picturesque 11-mile camp.

The three-hour journey is filled with anecdotes, facts, fascinating trivia and information about the history of the Gulflander, the Savannah Gulf landscape and it’s rich past.

It was one of the best billy and damper teas I’ve experienced on the road trip.

Karumba

If you love fishing or stunning sunsets then Karumba, only an hour’s drive from Normanton, is worth a visit.

It’s a very chilled beach town, but remember no swimming in the beach here – this is croc territory!

Grab a drink, and some takeaway fish and chips from Ash’s across the road and sit on the beach and watch the sky light up in flames as it goes down.

There’s also a sunset tavern should you wish for tables and chairs and a more formal dinner.

We stayed in a unit at Ash’s on the Point for two nights. Sunset Caravan Park is just down the road.

Fishing is the thing to do here and many people get stuck here for months spending their mornings bringing in the catch for the day – or perhaps for the week.

Like our friend Emma who returned with six blue salmon and a beaming smile. 

Gregory River

There are two ways you can go from Karumba to Gregory River.

The unsealed road via Burketown, or the sealed road via the Burke and Wills Roadhouse.

We found the Burke and Wills disappointing and just a fuel stop and a place to stretch the legs and grab a quick bite to eat.

If you drive through Burketown from September and November, be sure to look up to the sky for the annual Morning Glory cloud formations, which have made this town famous.

The drive on the sealed road takes about four and a half hours and takes you through pretty outback scenery.

This was the first time we’d seen emus in the wild and the Big Red kangaroos.

This is one of those moments where the difference between wet and dry water levels will blow your mind. 

You can free camp on the dry river banks of the Gregory River. Look up several metres into the paperback trees and see the debris of branches stuck above so you know how high this river gets.

The little fast flowing stream next to your campsite leaves no clues. 

Except those related to fun.

Grab your tube, or boogie boards and jump in and allow the stream to take you for a ride.

Watch the sharp turning corners – odds are you’ll end up in the pandanus bushes on the other side.

Kick yourself off though, don’t grab them as you could slice up your hands.

This outback oasis is a little piece of serenity and a definite place to kick back for a day or two and converse with the trees.

There’s a small pub a short walk back up the hill that does meals, cold beer and fuel.

Adels Grove

Next up was a relatively short drive of 90km from Gregory River to Adels Grove, which feels like it’s just around the corner for Outback standards.

Lots of open road and blue sky to take in here.

For those wanting a little more civilization and facilities, you can either camp at Adels Grove or stay in furnished river tents or rooms.

There is a beautiful creek and natural swimming hole beside the shady camp sites, or a more secluded camping spot out the back.

A two-course meal and buffet breakfast is on offer at the restaurant.

From Adels, you have easy access to the amazing Boodjamulla National Park via a 10km unsealed road.

Boodjamulla National Park / Lawn Hill Gorge

Boodjamulla National Park has been one of the most delightful finds on our Australian road trip so far. How had we never heard of this magical oasis in the middle of the Queensland Outback?

Walt Disney could not have designed it any better.

Emerald colour water so clear you can see the fallen logs and big fish swimming by. If you’re lucky you might even spot a freshwater croc. No salties here, which means swimming is okay.

And what incredible kayaking and swimming there is on offer – gushing waterfalls and overhanging ferns and palm trees. 

It offers so much more with beautiful bush and gorge walks to take it all in. Don’t miss the Upper Gorge lookout walk.

From Boodjamulla, we took the drive to the Northern Territory border with a stop off at Camooweal pub for some lunch.

Limmen National Park

Nestled along the Gulf of Carpentaria coastline in Top End Australia is Limmen National Park, a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

With its breathtaking sandstone formations, lush wetlands, and meandering rivers, the park provides a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Limmen NP offers a plethora of activities to indulge in, from boating, and fishing to bushwalking, camping, and wildlife spotting, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Discover the Southern Lost Cities, wander through butterfly springs, and immerse yourself in nature. Be sure to stay at The Southern Lost City Campground which is enveloped in jaw-dropping nature.

Mataranka Springs, Elsey National Park

If you want a better hot spring to dive into that’s more than just a pond, head to the breathtaking Mataranka Springs.

These warm thermal springs have long been a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, providing a serene oasis amidst the desert landscape.

But there’s more to Mataranka Springs than just its pools. Explore the walking trails of the nearby Elsey National Park or walk along the Botanic Walk.

Bitter Springs and Mataranka Falls are also popular attractions for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Kakadu National Park

Perhaps the most famous national park in Australia is kakadu national park, which is a large expanse of wetlands, grasslands, boab trees and riverways.

It’s best known for its aboriginal rock art sites and large population of salties.

Hop on a boat cruise through the wetlands, hike through ancient landscapes, or spot wildlife in their natural habitat, or take in the expansive scenery in a once in a lifetime helicopter flights.

Established in stages during the 1970s, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not to be missed. See the rock art that’s more than 5,000 years old, visit some croc-free swimming holes, and be sure to check out the sunsets.

Kakadu NP is the perfect combination of adventure, history, and relaxing nature.

Kununurra & Lake Argyle

There are not many places along The Savannah Way where you can swim safely, but Lake Argyle is one of them since it’s salt water croc free! You may have a few freshies but they aren’t to be scared of.

Located in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, Lake Argyle is a marvel of human engineering paired with natural wonder. This vast man-made reservoir, is Western Australia’s largest and Australia’s second largest lake.

Originally created in the 1970s as part of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme, Lake Argyle now offers a myriad of activities for visitors. Cruise or fish in its expansive waters, teeming with wildlife.

Indulge in the breathtaking views from Discovery Resorts’ famous infinity pool or embark on scenic hikes along its shores. Book your stay in advance at Lake Argyle – it’s a place not to miss!

Timber Creek

Located on the banks of the Victoria River is Timber Creek, another hidden gem in Australia’s Northern Territory.

This small town, traditionally known as Makalamayi, is steeped in history. Be sure to learn about the original custodians, the Ngaliwurra Aboriginal people, who have long provided valuable bush knowledge and acted as guides to early European settlers.

Nature lovers can indulge in breathtaking hikes through nearby parks, spot unique wildlife, or take a cruise along the majestic Victoria River.

Gregory National Park

Also in the Top End of the Northern Territory, is Gregory National Park, formerly known as Judbarra National Park.

This expansive park covers a staggering 1.3 million hectares, offering a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts.

Delve into the rich history of the region as you uncover ancient Aboriginal rock art sites that tell stories of the traditional custodians.

Embark on exhilarating hikes along the Nawulbinbin Walk, immersing yourself in the park’s breathtaking beauty, and marvel at the rugged gorges, cascading waterfalls, and stunning panoramic views.

The Bungle Bungles & Halls Creek

Nestled within the breathtaking Purnululu National Park in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, you’ll find the captivating Bungle Bungles, a series of sandstone rock formations dating back millions of years.

Embark on guided tours to delve into the area’s ancient Aboriginal heritage and marvel at the intricate rock art.

Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes as you hike through narrow gorges, discover hidden waterfalls, and witness the rugged grandeur from scenic lookout points.

Afterwards, stay in the town of Halls Creek, a town that transports you back in time. It’s one of the largest predominantly Indigenous communities in Australia.

Immerse yourself in the local culture, visit art galleries showcasing unique Aboriginal artwork, and learn about the ancient traditions that have shaped this land for thousands of years.

Fitzroy Crossing

Fitzroy Crossing is another small town known for its aboriginal history. Explore the ancient rock art sites of the Gooniyandi people and immerse yourself in their fascinating culture.

Set on the banks of the majestic Fitzroy River, the town serves as a gateway to nearby Devonian National Parks, where you can marvel at stunning landscapes and discover an abundance of wildlife.

Katherine Gorge

Nestled within the magnificent Nitmiluk National Park, Katherine Gorge is another park known for its lush landscapes.

Carved through ancient sandstone by the Katherine River, this deep gorge offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts.

Canoe, or kayak along the meandering river, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and immersing yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Take a guided tour to learn about the indigenous Jawoyn people who have called this land home for thousands of years and see ancient rock art sites.

Savannah Way Map

Click here to access the map. You can make a copy of it and then edit to suit your particular itinerary and route.

Final Thoughts

We drove from Cairns to Boodjamulla along 1,786km of The Savannah Way and enjoyed every minute of it, well almost.

I don’t think you’ll find us back in Normanton anytime soon, but it’s definitely one of our road trip highlights of our trip around Australia so far.

For more information on driving The Savannah Way and other drives in Outback Queensland visit DriveNorthQueensland.com.au.

More Outback Queensland Tips

Thinking of visiting some other parts of Outback Queensland? Here are some other helpful guides…

• Why Outback Queensland is an enriching road trip destination for families
• 2 week Outback Queensland road trip itinerary
• Tips for an Outback Queensland Road Trip with Kids
• Stunning and adventurous things to do in Queensland
• Best Road trips in Australia
• Contemplating the Cosmos at Charleville
• Places to visit in Queensland
• Why Winton is our favourite outback town
• Best things to do in Longreach
• Going underground in Mount Isa

Have you driven The Savannah Way Drive? Please share any thoughts in the comments below!

Brisbane is the third largest city in Aus and is a buzzing city with a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere. Brisbaners have a laid-back attitude and are incredibly friendly, making all who visit here want to unpack their bags for good.

Not to mention the subtropical climate which boasts warm sunshine all year round, it’s the perfect city for those who love the outdoors and being outside. Simply walking along the Brisbane River is enough.

In this guide, we have shared our Brisbane travel tips and knowledge on the best attractions in Brisbane, Queensland, so you can plan your trip to Brisbane with ease.

Things to Do in Brisbane

Despite many people skipping Brisbane on their visits to Australia because Sydney seems to steal all the attention, there’s lots to see and do in Brisbane.

It’s worth spending some time in the city and enjoying it, rather than just using Brisbane as a stopping point on the way to the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, or Byron Bay.

1. Go to the lookout at the top of Mount Coot-tha

Hiking up to Mount Coot-Tha is one of the top things to do in Brisbane for those who love the outdoors. It’s nestled in Brisbane’s Botanic Gardens, and from the top, you’ll be surrounded by rainforest and sweeping views of the city.

There are regular buses to the summit or to the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium at the base if you’d like to walk to the top through the city botanic gardens.

Go at sunset for fantastic 360-degree views over Brisbane to the coast.

There’s a restaurant and a cafe at the summit, both of which are over-priced for the food they serve but are still a good place to hang out for a drink with top views.

2. Take a ferry on the Brisbane River

There are plenty of boat tours of Brisbane and CityCat ferries to help you get around but my tip is the free Cityhopper.

It just launched on 1 July and links various Brisbane hot spots, including Eagle Street and the South Bank, along the inner city stretch of the Brisbane River and runs from 6am until midnight.

3. Walk The Promenade along the Southbank

Brisbane has long river walks on both sides of the river but the Southbank is particularly vibrant.

There are free pools for the summer months. You’ll also enjoy playgrounds for the kids, markets, and street performers to entertain you.

The sparkling Brisbane River next to the South Bank parklands sets everything off beautifully and there’s a huge range of cafes and restaurants.

If you fancy a dip, head over to Streets Beach where you can paddle in the river.

4. Visit the Southbank Museums

While your in Southbank, check out the museums in the precinct. Do visit the Queensland Museum, Brisbane’s (free) State Museum where you can learn about Queensland’s history, geography, and native people from the hands on displays and beautiful exhibits.

The Sciencenter next door to Queensland Museum is great if you have kids. There’s a charge for entry but it’s worth it so allow plenty of time as the kids will want to stay and play all day.

The Museum of Brisbane which is located inside Brisbane City Hall is a great museum with fascinating temporary exhibitions. It’s free to enter and has great views of the Tower Clock.

The Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) across the street will give you great insights into life in Queensland including works by Queensland-born or Queensland-based artists and a colourful collection of indigenous art.

Next door to GOMA the State Library of Queensland is a relaxing place to hang out, research your travel options and tap into the free wifi.

5. Visit Pine Koala Sanctuary

If you’re into seeing and cuddling Australian animals and can’t make it to Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast then Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary will deliver the goods.

This is your chance to get up close and personal with a koala, and even cuddle one. You can also learn about how they have been protecting koalas since 1927 and helping with wildlife conservation in Australia.

They also have other native Aussie animals such as kangaroos and wallabies.

6. Explore The Neighborhoods in Brisbane

One of the best ways to get to know a city is to stroll around the neighborhoods and take it all in. In Brisbane, there is so much to see and so much going on, that just walking around and seeing it all come to life is one of the top things to do.

Be sure to check out the following neighborhoods…

• Fortitude Valley, known to locals as the Valley, is one of the most fun areas to hang out in within central Brisbane and is home to Brisbane’s Chinatown. It’s also full of hip young people, boutique shops and myriad restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
• New Farm is one of Brisbane’s most cosmopolitan suburbs and contains many of the city’s trendiest bars and restaurants. Thanks to its proximity to the city and riverside location, it is also becoming one of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs.
• Brisbane CBD and Queen Street Mall to stock up on essentials before you head off to rural Australia.
• The Southbank, with its lovely location by the Brisbane River, has something for everyone, from endless dining options to free swimming in the man-made lagoons
• Kangaroo Point is a green area with spectacular views of Brisbane city centre and impressive structures including Story Bridge and natural sandstone cliffs, both of which you can climb on tours.

7. Go Bar Hopping in Fortitude Valley

There are bars and nightclubs galore in Fortitude Valley. Sadly my bar hopping days are over but a little bird told me that these are the hip and happening spots you should check out.

• Sky Room on Wickham Street for cocktails.
• Emporium at the Emporium Hotel on Ann Street if you want to go upmarket and get dressed up.
• Cloudland, which is THE place to see and be seen in Brisbane.

For a quiet drink and an extensive wine list including wines from the nearby Granite Belt head to Bar Barossa on Queen Street just a block back from the river.

8. Check Out The Markets and Shopping in Brisbane

Queen Street Mall is Brisbane’s most popular shopping area with boutiques, chain stores and department stores to suit every budget.

The Southbank markets on Friday evenings and weekends are fun.

The Powerhouse Farmers Markets in New Farm are open on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month

9. Attend Brisbane River festival

When it comes to festivals in Brisbane, the big one is the Brisbane River festival in September when you can catch a flotilla of boats cruising down the river as well as a fireworks display.

There are plenty of other events including film festivals, arts festivals, and fashion events throughout the year. Just look out for the free local press which you can usually find in your hostel or hotel.

10. Take A Day Trip from Brisbane To The Beach

Brisbane’s location on the East Coast means it’s a great base for exploring other coastal towns and areas. It’s just a stone’s throw from the Gold Coast, and if you want quieter beaches, I’m a bit biased toward Noosa and the Sunshine Coast where I live.

If you head up there you’ll find miles of beautiful white sand beaches with ocean swimming possible all year round. If you visit during the winter months (June to November), you might even get a glimpse of a humpback whale migrating off the shores.

For beach lovers who want to stay closer to Brisbane try Moreton Bay and Bribie Island. North Stradbroke Island is another great island off Brisbane to explore and is known for its excellent beaches, camping, and position for whale watching.

The Granite Belt is also a short day trip away. It’s a well-known wine-growing area with heaps of vineyards and wine tastings as well as Girraween National Park, which is gorgeous.

11. Take a Brewery Tour

Queenslanders love beers, and Brisbane is the home of the world-famous beer, XXXX. You can learn all about the XXXX production on a brewery tour..

On the tour, you not only get to learn about the brewing process, but see how they are made and learn to pour the perfect pint.

The tour takes you behind the Learn how the brewery and tells you about its 135 years of history, see the inner chambers and see the bottling room.

This is one of the more unique things to do in Brisbane and is perfect for beer enthusiasts.

12. See A Show at Brisbane Powerhouse

The Powerhouse is a live performance venue and is a great place to catch a comedy show, watch live music, or a theatrical performance.

If you’re planning a visit for May, then you will have come to Brisbane during the Brisbane Comedy Festival, and some of the biggest comedy names and performers will be showing their acts at the Powerhouse.

Any visitors to Brisbane should check to see what’s on at this venue, as there is always something good on. It’s my top tip for things to do in Brisbane at night.

13. Feast at Eat Street Northshore

Eat Street Northshore is a night market serving street food and delicious meals from its quirky market stalls made out of shipping containers.

It’s a bit of a way out of the CBD, located on a disused historic wharf next to the Brisbane River, but it’s worth the trek for the atmosphere.

Not only does it have 70 stalls and five themed bars, but it also have live entertainment, music and quirky shops. You can sample cuisines from pretty much any country, and enjoy your delicious meal while listening to a live band play.

Since it’s only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, it’s one of the top things to do in Brisbane at the weekend.

14. Take The Kids to New Farm Park

If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, pack up a picnic and head over to New Farm Park. It’s only three CityCat stops from the CBD and is the oldest and biggest urban park in Brisbane.

While your kids run around the grassy areas you can sit back and take in the scenic river views, or head over to the playground where your kids can let off some steam.

On a Saturday morning, you’ll find a farmer’s market here from 6am – 12pm. It’s the perfect place to sit back and relax.

15. Go Rock Climbing at Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Another park in Brisbane is Kangaroo Point Cliffs which is known for having amazing rock climbing and abseiling facilities.

The climbing precinct is by the ferry terminal and Maritime Museum. Click here to join an organized abseiling experience with instructor.

The park also has public barbecues, a picnic area, and a boat ramp where you can launch your own canoe or kayak.

If you’re not into climbing, it’s another waterfront park where you can sit back and relax to serene river views.

Best Time of Year to Visit Brisbane

The great thing about Brisbane is there is no bad time to visit in terms of the weather. It’s always sunny in Brisbane, making it a great holiday destination all year round.

If you don’t like crowds, I would avoid visiting during the summer school holidays in January when it’s super hot and the entire Southbank is crawling with people.

Where to Stay in Brisbane

Spring Hill has plenty of great hotels and hostels for the budget traveler including Brisbane Quarters.

For luxury check out the Sofitel in the CBD or the Treasury Hotel and Casino.

If you’re traveling with friends or family booking an apartment at Central Cosmo Apartment is a great deal. We have also stayed at the Novotel Brisbane South Bank before which was fantastic.

Many of the apartments have spectacular river views and they’re all right on the river and within easy walking distance of Fortitude Valley.

Getting To And Around Brisbane

Qantas has international flights to Brisbane Airport from big transport hubs like Auckland, Los Angeles, and Singapore and there are plenty of domestic flights to other big cities around Australia.

You can also get here by train or bus and driving around the city is quite easy too if you have your own wheels.

When it comes to getting around Brisbane, you can pretty much walk anywhere.

Walking along the river makes it fun to walk around. If the distances are too far or you’re in a hurry there are buses and river ferries as well as services like Greyhound buses to get you out of the city to your next destination.

Where to Eat in Brisbane

Brisbane’s foodie scene is taking off with endless great cafes and restaurants to choose from.

For the best assortment of international restaurants, including a dizzying array of Asian restaurants in Chinatown, head to the Fortitude Valley area and try:

• Wagaya – Set on a first floor over Brunswick Street this huge, busy Japanese restaurant has several booths as well as private rooms and traditional Japanese-style rooms. With touchscreen ordering and a vast choice of dishes, this is a cheap and cheerful place to eat that’s got something for everyone.
• Grill’d – For gourmet burgers including beef, chicken and lamb along with three rather fine vegetarian options.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Brisbane

I love Brisbane because it’s got a fabulous sub-tropical climate so it never gets that cold, plus it’s got all the glitz and glamour of a big city yet it’s easy to get around and the people are friendly.

Tours in Brisbane

More Queensland Inspiration

Are you planning to visit other parts of Queensland? Then you may find these other guides helpful…

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Fortunately, The Gold Coast is well equipped with places to stay for families, with a plethora of hotel and holiday rental options to choose from. In fact, the hardest part about finding a place to stay is narrowing down your options.

And that’s where I come in. We used to live on the Gold Coast in Australia, but now go back from time to time to visit friends and family.

As a family of four, we’ve been fortunate to stay in some of the best family-friendly accommodation options on the Gold Coast, and so I’ve decided to share those accommodation options with you because I understand the headache it can give you.

In this guide, I’ve shared my picks for the best Gold Coast accommodation based on our personal experience staying at all of these Gold Coast apartments, best family hotels, hostels, and campgrounds, as well as from our extensive research and recommendations from friends and family.

Where Is The Best Place to Stay on the Gold Coast, Queensland?

But first, let’s talk about the neighborhoods and districts you can stay in. For first-time visitors, I recommend you stay in Surfers Paradise.

The Gold Coast is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia and Surfers Paradise was featured on TripAdvisor’s destinations on the rise list for 2016.

We’ve visited the Goldy many times and also lived on the Gold Coast, and found that this is one of the most popular areas for family tourists because it’s close to the theme parks, that is Movie World, DreamWorld, and Sea World, and all the thrilling activities the Gold Coast is famous for.

Plus, it has a Hard Rock Cafe (which, we’ll admit is good) a couple of great water tours, and the usual touristy tacky things like Ripley’s Believe It or Not.

If you’re looking for an up-and-coming place to stay and you have older kids, we’d like to replace Surfers with Burleigh Heads as a destination on the rise.

It would be the perfect location for your Gold Coast family holiday as it’s quieter, has more space, and allows you to get out and enjoy the beaches and nature without the need for a car.

I like Burleigh as it is the midpoint of the Gold Coast so closer to Surfers Paradise.

But if it’s natural beauty and relaxed vibes you’re after, take it from us, frequent visitors to the Gold Coast and former locals – from Burleigh south to the border at Coolangatta, and the Hinterland is the best part of the Gold Coast.

But don’t tell too many people as we don’t want the local, low-key vibe to be destroyed. This is the region you want to stay if you want to lap up that Gold Coast local beach life.

Aside from the areas mentioned above, some other great places to stay for families in the Hinterland area would be Currumbin (for the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary), Kirra and Coolangatta.

Best Budget Family Accommodation on the Gold Coast

Now you know a little bit about where to base yourself, it’s time to take a look at the best accommodation options.

I’ve compiled a list of the best family accommodation on the Gold Coast ranging from budget hostels to apartments, hotel stays, and luxury homes.

I begin this list with the best budget options. Although these are on the lower end of the price scale, remember prices for the Gold Coast accommodation will vary depending on the time of the year you visit.

1. Paradise Resort Gold Coast

When it comes to choosing a place to stay that the whole family will enjoy, there will be few families who won’t enjoy the facilities at Paradise Resort Gold Coast.

It’s the mother of all family resorts and has everything you could ever want or need. In fact, you don’t even need to leave the resort there’s so much to do (though I highly suggest you do, there’s so much to do on the Gold Coast).

It’s located in the center of Surfers Paradise and has its own water park with a lagoon pool, kids club and games room, ice-skating rink, and a spa for mum and dad to chill in.

It also has daily activities such as a magician performance and a trivia night.

It has a convenience store and bistro on site, and all rooms are simple but have the necessities such as air-con.

But what makes this the best family accommodation in the Gold Coast is that under 12s get to stay FOR FREE. The only downside is the wifi signal is poor, but who needs it with all this stuff to do!

2. NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort

Another great holiday park for families that’s packed with amenities and things to do is the NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort.

It’s located in Biggera Waters, which isn’t our favorite location, but it is within a 20-minute drive from the theme parks.

Besides, it has an outdoor cinema, games room, giant jumping pillow, tennis court, outdoor gym, four giant swimming pools, spas for mom and dad, and a pirate-themed mini golf course.

It also offers self-contained villas for rent, so you have the luxury of your own space.

3. Turtle Beach Resort

Mermaid Beach is a great location as it sits right in the middle of Burleigh Heads and Surfers Paradise, offering the best of both worlds – quiet and relaxed beach vibe, but close to the main attractions.

Turtle Beach Resort offers self-contained accommodation in a resort-like setting that’s ideal for families.

It has four huge swimming pools, one of which is a lagoon pool and one has a water slide. There’s also a spa pool for mom and dad.

The Splash Zone Water Park is the highlight of the resort and is where you will find water activities, water cannons, and slides for toddlers.

It also has a mini gold course, and a games room with video games.

4. Sea World Resort

Located on the Southport spit is the Sea World Resort, which is just a 15-minute drive from Surfers Paradise.

It has a huge 50 meter lagoon pool and aquatic playground for kids. It also has an award-winning restaurant, Hatsuhana, which serves Japanese cuisine.

And of course, the best part of the resort is you get to sleep near the tropical fish of Sea World.

5. Burleigh Beach Tourist Park

We’ve stayed at the Burleigh Beach Tourist Park twice. Once on the first lap of our Australian road trip, and then when we returned for a few weeks while we were searching for more permanent accommodation.

It’s grown a lot since we last visited. Before it was just a campsite, but now you can rent little 2-bedroom cabins and even a vintage camper!

The powered campsite is the more affordable option and it’s smallish and doesn’t have many facilities. It has an amenity block with toilets and showers, but that’s it.

However, its position is premium, which makes this the perfect accommodation for families on the Gold Coast.

Who needs facilities, when the beach is just across the road?

Turn right and you enter another of our favorite Gold Coast walks – through the Burleigh National Park and the headland. Come join me for 6 am boot camp as we run up the hill and die.

Mid-Range Family Friendly Accommodation on the Gold Coast

If you have a bit more budget to spare, it’s worth putting it into your accommodation. Below I’ve listed my mid-range options for places to stay on the Gold Coast.

6. Mediterranean, Burleigh Heads

When we arrived in Burleigh, we moved out of the caravan park after three weeks, because the holidays finished and it ticked over into shoulder season.

That meant we could rent an apartment in Burleigh for only $20 extra a night than stay in our tiny camper trailer we were sick of!

The Burleigh Mediterranean Resort is across the road from North Burleigh beach and within walking distance of the bus stop, supermarket, North Burleigh Surf Club (our fave), and awesome cafes. They have a great swimming pool area the kids will love.

7. Mantra, Coolangatta

The Mantra Coolangatta has some of the best views that I’ve ever experienced in an apartment stay. It’s right on the Esplanade at Coolangatta and within walking distance of everything you need including our favourite sunset spot on the East Coast of Australia – Snapper Rocks.

The Self-contained apartments are small but comfortable. The good news is the private balcony is big and I can guarantee you won’t want to leave it.

In fact, I even said that I could live at Mantra Coolangatta if I could! It’s the ideal accommodation option for families who need more space and the comforts of home, such as a full kitchen, gym with sauna, and laundry facilities.

Plus there’s an on-site pool as well. Coolangatta is the closest Gold Coast town to the Gold Coast Airport. Cross over the main street in town and you’ll be in NSW.

8. Couran Cove Island Resort, South Stradbroke Island

If you’re looking for a much quieter and more natural Gold Coast family holiday, stay at Couran Cove on South Stradbroke Island.

Leave your car on the mainland and cruise around the resort and island on your bike. It’s located on the water’s edge and is surrounded by a natural forest and beaches.

All apartments and villas at Couran have water views and the resort has outdoor pools and other facilities like beach volleyball, tennis, bike hire, and mini golf.

This is the tranquil family Gold Coast accommodation that would suit families who want to escape the bustle of city and enjoy the beauty of nature.

9. Binna Burra Mountain Lodge, Lamington National Park

Far too many people ignore the Gold Coast Hinterland for those stunning Gold Coast beaches! Don’t!!

The Hinterland is one of my favourite spots in Qld, it’s only an hour from the coast, but full of adventure and serenity in ancient rainforests. It’s magical.

Binna Burra Mountain Lodge has family accommodations ranging from campsites to cabins, to a bit more lux apartments. It’s a great relaxing getaway for families who want to kick off from the digital life an unwind with nature.

Plus there’s no better sunset than the one by the BBQ area. Oh yes, it has BBQ facilities too!

Because of its lush mountainside location, you can find many hiking trails, waterfalls, bushwalks, and lookouts nearby. We also enjoyed the guided bush walk with a ranger when we visited.

Another thing that makes Binna Burra unique is that it has eco-friendly cabins, which are perfect for those environmentally conscious travellers.

10. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Lamington National Park

While Binna Burra was quiet and all about being in nature, another Gold Coast hinterland accommodation known for being family-friendly is O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.

Like, Binna Burra, it is situated within a different section of the Lamington National Park, but unlike Binna Burra, it has more onsite attractions, such as the Flying Fox zip line, a bird of prey show, and several bush walks.

There’s an inexpensive National Park campground just outside the retreat, and inside it ranges from a lodge to cabins to lux villas with spa baths on the deck overlooking the rainforest.

It is one of the best family accommodations on the Gold Coast for your hinterland retreat.

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11. QT, Surfers Paradise

Uptown funk you up. Uptown funk you up! That’s the QT in Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast!

Full of funk and quirkiness.

From the tropical shirt-clad concierge waiting to greet you with an iced lemonade, to the chic custom design of each room, your head will be turning and conversation will be flowing about the QT during your stay on the Gold Coast. Tell me you don’t feel like you’re in Miami.

Plus, the QT has an amazing buffet style with a QT twist dinner and breakfast at the Bazaar plus the Stingray is one of Surfers hottest bars. Not sure you’ll be going there with kids in tow though!!

Instead, you might want to check out the Spa.

The QT on the Gold Coast is accommodation that tells a story.

12. Kirra Surf Apartments, Kirra Beach

Again, another great family accommodation on the Gold Coast with an epic ocean view is Kirra Surf Apartments.

They are edging into that luxury accommodation market with its divine views and stylish beach decor, but the price tag is still reasonable and affordable for families.

It’s in a quiet location, but within easy walking distance to cafes and restaurants, and go a little further around the point and you’ll be in Coolangatta. There’s also a pool in case the beach doesn’t tickle your toes enough.

13. Bujerum Apartments, Burleigh Heads

I rate Bujerum Apartments as my favourite places to stay on the Gold Coast. I even hesitated about putting it in the luxury accommodation bucket, and the price is way more affordable than you think for the value and experience you’ll receive.

It, without a doubt, has the perfect position of any other family accommodation on the Gold Coast I’ve mentioned in this post or seen.

Sit on the balcony from sunrise to sunset and you will not be disappointed. There are no high-rises blocking your view, you’re right on the surfer’s point watching them catch the waves in.

There’s an easy-going vibe and pace here perfect for your Gold Coast family holiday. Burleigh Hill is my favourite spot on the Gold Coast. It’s where we usually walk daily to chill and watch the surfers.

14. Mouse House Rainforest Retreat, Springbrook National Park

This is where I want to plan our work retreat for next year. The Mouse House Rainforest Retreat in Springbrook on the Gold Coast is the most enchanting place I’ve stayed.

Our cabin was Doc, and as we walked through the misty rainforest, to uncover Doc hidden behind the twisted vines, I felt like I was Snow White discovering the Seven Dwarfs Cabin.

It’s located only 40 mins from the coast in the Springbrook National Park, which is a magical ancient rainforest area filled with walks and waterfalls. I can’t wait for a sunny day so we can explore it more.

Luxury Accommodation on the Gold Coast

Now we have the 5* hotels, luxurious apartments, and spangly deluxe options. If you’re looking to push the boat out, here are some of the top luxury places to stay on the Gold Coast.

15. The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast

I stayed at The Star Grand, formerly the Star Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, formerly Jupiter’s Casino, during my participation in the mock Commonwealth Games event.

I really enjoyed it. The rooms had just been refurbished.

I had gorgeous views out over Broad Beach, and my favourite feature was walking into the room and having the blinds and curtains automatically open so I could see the views – extraordinary. I’ve never seen that before ever.

What also makes Star’s a great place to stay on the Gold Coast is the entertainment on offer right at the bottom of the lifts. You have plenty of restaurants and bars and the casino (be careful!)

The Garden Kitchen and Bar is one of our favourite places to eat on the Gold Coast. It’s also right across the road from the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.

You can check out the crazy Commonwealth Games event I was part of by clicking play below:

16. Marriott Resort & Spa, Surfers Paradise

We stayed at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, Gold Coast when Savannah was a baby. It’s considered one of the best family resorts because of its lagoon pool with lazy river and waterslide, but we found it to be a great family accommodation on the Gold Coast purely for its location.

We didn’t stick around in the hotel much, not when everything we wanted to see and do in Surfers Paradise was right on the doorstep.

We loved the location as it was within walking distance of everything in Surfers and close enough to the Theme Parks, including Sea World, which we were in town to explore.

The views over the ocean were brilliant, and we loved the pool area which is a gorgeous saltwater lagoon pool. They have buffet breakfast and Citrique was a worthy restaurant to eat in.

17. Hilton Hotel and Apartments, Surfers Paradise

Rising high above Surfers Paradise, with epic views of Surfers Paradise beach or canal/hinterland, are the twin towers of Hilton apartments in one and hotel suites in the other.

We stayed in one of the two-bedroom apartments and loved it for Gold Coast family accommodation. Its located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, right in the middle of the Cavill Avenue action, so it’s easy to walk around, but also easy for you to escape the madness if you want a quiet night in.

Hilton Hotel and Apartments is the home to another of Surfers hottest bars, the Fix Bar, and the Salt by Luke Mangan is a popular place to dine or enjoy a buffet breakfast. The Deck Pool Bar is also a great place for a swim and a cocktail.

18. Palazzo Versace, Main Beach

No, we haven’t stayed at the Palazzo Versace yet, but I’m putting this hotel on the list because you’ve got to dream right.

I mean, who wouldn’t want to stay at a Versace property, the ultimate in style and luxury, and feel like a rock star at least once in your life?

We dined at the property though at the Vie Bar + Restaurant and the food was superb, so I can only imagine the rooms would be just as elegant as the restaurant was.

Final Thoughts on The Best Gold Coast Accommodation

So there you have it, those are the best places to stay on the Gold Coast for families, and I think you’ll find a lot of diverse options from my list.

Each of these hotels and apartments has been picked based on personal experience or recommendations, and while they each offer something different, they all offer a great base for a family.

I hope this guide helped you plan your trip to Goldie. andgave you some inspiration for where to stay,

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Whether it’s finding a hidden beach or backstreet cafe or hiking to the top of a hill, you can experience more or the city and the joy of the landscape just by wandering around.

There are many Gold Coast walks for you to choose from.

Sure the Gold Coast has its imposing concrete skyline, but it’s built around the great outdoors and the local council has done a great job in providing excellent footpaths, walking tracks, and cycleways for the active locals to enjoy their own backyard.

But if you’re not sure which walk in the Gold Coast you want to add to your itinerary, below are my favourites…

Is the Gold Coast Good for Hiking?

The Gold Coast is a great base for hikers and walkers, it’s one of the reasons we loved living on the Gold Coast.

Get up at 6.00 am on the Goldy and it feels like midday with everyone out walking, cycling, and surfing. You can’t help but get caught up in the energy of the place.

And the great thing about taking a bush walk on the Gold Coast is that it’s FREE and you’re seeing things at a slower pace, which means you’ll take more in and appreciate an area more.

The Gold Coast is so great for walking, when we lived there, we didn’t own a car. Plus, many of the walks are family-friendly and our small children could do them too.

If you want more strenuous hikes, the surrounding national parks have plenty of green mountains you can explore.

The best thing about the Gold Coast is you’re not sitting in traffic or rushing around on public transport, instead, you’re soaking up the local landscapes and walking off the overindulgence of eating on your holiday.

The Best Gold Coast Walks

So once you’re done with the theme parks and laying on the beach, get active and get beyond the concrete skyline and choose one of the many fantastic bush walks on the Gold Coast.

1. Burleigh Heads National Park

• Distance: The combined Oceanview Track and Rainforest Circuit is 3.4 km
• Time to complete: 1.5 hours without stopping for breaks
• Difficulty: easy
• Start / Finish: start and finish at the park entrance near Tallebudgera Creek

Burleigh Heads is one of our favorite spots on the Gold Coast, but for reasons I can’t answer, we’d never ventured into Burleigh Heads National Park before.

We’ve been recommended this walk many times as one of the best and most popular walks on the Goldy. Finally, we’ve done it.

We suggest getting up early for this Gold Coast hike. Grab a takeaway coffee from Nook Espresso then head to the point and catch the magnificent sunrise whilst watching the surfers at one of Australia’s most famous point breaks.

After the sun has risen and you’ve had your coffee fix and been inspired by the surfers, head off on the ocean view walk around the rocky Burleigh headland.

A wild, natural headland in the heart of the Gold Coast offers walks along the rocky foreshore and through the rainforest, and the chance to see whales in spring and sea eagles soaring along the coast. The terrain was paved all the way.

At Burleigh Head, where ancient volcanic columns meet the sea, this park features rainforest, eucalypt forest, pandanus groves, tussock grassland, coastal heath, and mangroves.

Its northern side is one of Australia’s most famous surfing point breaks. Walk the Ocean view walk around the rocky headland from Tallebudgera Creek and look at the tumbled masses of six-sided basalt columns.

Explore the Rainforest circuit, wander through a living museum of plants, and watch for humpback whales from the Tumgun lookout in winter and spring. See Australian brush-turkey nesting mounds, seabirds and water dragons.

Picnic on Burleigh foreshore or relax on Echo Beach.

It’s a beautiful start to the Burleigh Heads National Park hike as you round the bend getting awesome ocean views combined with walking through eucalypt forest.

After you round the Burleigh headland, you’ll come upon what must be one of the Gold Coast’s hidden gems, Tallebudgera Creek. I’m sure only the locals, or those in the know, spend time at this Talle.

We stopped at secluded Echo Beach whilst the kids played in the sand and climbed on the rocks, and watched a few kayaks and paddle boarders cruise down picturesque Tallebudgera Creek.

When you finally drag yourself away from here head uphill and begin the rainforest walk which loops you back to the starting point at Burleigh.

About half-way back you’ll come to Tumgun Lookout which offers awesome views back over Tallebudgera Creek and Palm Beach off in the distance.

This photo hangs above my office in our home in Raleigh to remind me of my beautiful Australian home.

Burleigh Heads is where we’d live if were in Australia.

It’s pretty much downhill from here and once you get back to the Burleigh foreshore grab a seat on the grass with a drink, or maybe even a picnic, and enjoy the view of Burleigh Beach.

The coastal walk combined with part of the rainforest circuit is about 2.5 km all up.

It’s not difficult as both of our young kids walked most of the way, just keep an eye on your young ones on the ocean part of it.

2. Coolangatta to Point Danger, Southern Gold Coast Walk

• Distance: 2km
• Time to complete: 1 hour (longer when stopping for photos)
• Difficulty: easy
• Start / Finish: Coolangatta Beach

This is a great little Gold Coast walk we did over and over again whilst staying in Coolangatta for 5 days.

If you only do it once, we suggest saving it for late afternoon as the sunset views you get at the end are magical, as you’ll see in a moment.

This walk may not take you long, it’s about 2 km in total, but that really depends on how often you stop as the scenery along the way will have you reaching for your camera at every outlook.

Start this walk on the path that runs parallel to Coolangatta Beach and head towards Greenmount Beach. If you desire, grab a coffee from the Go with the Flo Cafe at Greenmount surf club then start heading around the Greenmount headland.

Greenmount Beach is our little piece of paradise on the Gold Coast, family friendly for a swim and from the pathway you get a nice view back over Coolangatta.

The point is also a popular surfing spot for the locals.

Once you’ve seen the surfers catch a few waves keep heading around the headland and shortly you’ll get to Rainbow Bay which is also a top spot for families.

From here you have two options. Walk on the sand up to Rainbow Bay Surf Club, or simply stay on the path.

Along this section of the pathway is a playground for the kiddies to enjoy whilst you take a seat on the grass and admire the beach.

Continuing past the Surf Club you’ll come to Snapper Rocks, one of the most famous surf breaks in the world and home of the Quiksilver Pro surfing contest.

And once you climb the small hill up to Point Danger on the Queensland / NSW border you’ll be overlooking another well-known surfing beach, Duranbah.

If you have done this walk in the afternoon, now is the perfect time to grab a cold drink or even dinner on the west facing deck at Rainbow Bay Surf Club.

You can’t beat the views of the sun setting over the Gold Coast and the Surfers Paradise skyline from here!

3. Lamington National Park Hike, Gold Coast Hinterland

• Distance: 180 meters
• Time to complete: 10 minutes
• Difficulty: easy
• Start / Finish: O’Reilly’s Reception and car park

Fancy a bit of Rainforest bushwalking but don’t have a lot of time?

Lamington National Park is in the Gold Coast hinterland great walk, and the place to stay up there is O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. You could do a day trip, but it’s a windy road and a good 3 hour return trip from Surfers Paradise.

Once you’re at O’Reilly’s, there are two short walks beginning near the entrance to O’Reilly’s Reception, The Booyong Walk (the entire walk is 10 miles, but you only do a short section of it) and the Tree Top Walk.

O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk allows you to walk through a canopy of flowering and fruiting trees covered by vines whilst you explore the epiphytic orchids and ferns surrounded by the many birds and animals that inhabit the tree tops.

The Tree Top Walk, was the first of its kind in Australia, is 180 metres in length and is made up of nine suspension bridges, with much of the walkway being 15 metres above the ground.

Profiles depicting the rainforest flora close by have been placed along the walkway to assist visitors in identifying the plants in the immediate vicinity.

Two observation decks have been constructed in a Strangler Fig above the walk way, the highest one being 30 metres (approximately 110 feet) above the ground.

The Tree Top Walk is a unique and innovative structure that gives visitors what can only be described as an exhilarating experience – a chance to observe life in the rainforest canopy at close range for the first time in their lives.

The Tree Top Walk consists of 9 suspension bridges up to 16 metres above ground allowing you to walk through a canopy of trees and at the end of one bridge is a ladder up a fig tree that leads to a deck 30 metres above ground.

The Booyong Walk in the Lamington National Park is easy to navigate and suitable for young kids in a stroller, and it’s popular with the bird lovers out there.

4. The Gold Coast Oceanway

• Distance: 36km (one way)
• Time to complete: The entire walk will take you 7 to 8 hours without stopping, so we recommend you do it in sections
• Difficulty: moderate
• Start / Finish: Point Danger Lighthouse to The Spit

The Gold Coast Oceanway is a 36 kilometre network of pathways along the beaches of the Gold Coast, from Point Danger Lighthouse (Coolangatta) in the south to the Gold Coast Seaway (The Spit) in the northern Gold Coast.

It’s an epic Gold Coast walk!!

Once our kids are older it’s on our list to one day walk the entire length but on this recent visit we managed to walk a 10km section one-way from Burleigh Heads to Surfers Paradise which took us 2 hours with minimal stops.

If you want to replicate this walk on the Gold Coast, grab yourself a juice from the kiosk underneath Burleigh Surf Club, pack some snacks and water in a day pack, and off you go.

At the North Burleigh end you’ll climb a cliff and some stairs to a viewing platform lookout over Surfers Paradise.

You might also want to bring your swimmers and towel for a dip along the way, and if you want a lunch or coffee break we recommend the BSKT Cafe in Nobby’s Beach.

We did most of this walk on the pathway, but as we got closer to Surfers Paradise we did the last section on the beach.

We didn’t get great weather on this walk, but this is what the Oceanway looks like on a nice day in Surfers Paradise.

5. Twin Falls Circuit, Springbrook Plateau

• Distance: 4km
• Time to complete: 2 hours
• Difficulty: easy to moderate
• Start / Finish: Tallanbana Picnic Area or Canyon Lookout

Springbrook National Park is full of amazing hiking trails that pass through rainforests and take you to some beautiful waterfalls.

The whole part is over 6,100 hectares and is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.

One of my favourite walks in the national park is the Twin Falls circuit.

As it was drizzling when I did the walk, I chose to take on the 4-kilometer twin falls circuit alone while leaving Caz and the kids at home.

Starting at either the Tallanbana Picnic Area or Canyon Lookout, hikers can explore the track counterclockwise while marveling at the stunning gorges and palms along the way.

The path is well-marked, guiding trekkers through the forest and rocky crevices. However, parents with children should remain vigilant as the terrain can be demanding.

The Gold Coast area has much more to offer than its beautiful beaches, which the Twin Falls trek clearly shows.

Once I arrived at the falls, the serenity of two simultaneous waterfalls was unbeatable.

Although not directly in the centre of Goldie, Springbrook’s only a brief drive from our coastal home. However, if you’re traveling from Brisbane, you can arrive in just under an hour as well.

6. Warrie Circuit, Springbrook National Park

• Distance: 14km
• Time to complete: 5-6hrs walking time.
• Difficulty: moderate to challenging (grade 3)
• Start / Finish: Canyon Lookout

If you finish the Twin Falls circuit in record time, you can find the Warrie Circuit from the same trailhead (Canyon Lookout).

The terrain of this one is much more rugged with some rocky parts that may be impassable after a heavy rain storm. Some of the trail is also overgrown and not well maintained.

But I personally think the best thing about Springbrook National Park is its ruggedness, and this trail is a true example of this.

This walk is the longest and most fascinating walk in the park and takes you on a circular loop around the Springbrook plateau before heading back to The Canyon.

You’ll pass the Goomoolahra Falls, Rainbow Falls, and several creeks before climbing back up the gorge.

7. Curtis Falls Track, Tamborine National Park

• Distance: 1km
• Time to complete: 45 minutes
• Difficulty: moderate
• Start / Finish: There is a car park off Dapsang Drive where you can enter the trail

A well-maintained walk in Tamborine National Park is the Curtis Falls Track, which although is only 1km long, has been listed as grade 3 because it’s quite strenuous.

The walk takes you through a wet eucalypt forest and gum trees, which is known to be a haven for Australia’s bird species.

Once you’ve climbed your way through the forest, you will meet a huge curtain of water tumbling over. the rocky cliff and into the pool below.

In the pool, you may see some turtles, fish, platypus, and eel. At night, glow worms light up in the surrounding cliff-face.

8. Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park

• Distance: 1km
• Time to complete: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: easy to moderate
• Start / Finish: Bakers Road

Springbrook National Park’s Natural Bridge is one of its most popular attractions and can be reached very easily from the trailhead on Bakers Road.

The formation itself receives its name due to the natural rock that looks like a rock bridge amid a cavernous waterfall.

To get there you must hike through the dense subtropical rainforest where you can observe local fauna, however, due to vulnerable ecosystems and rare glow worms, there is now limited access to the Natural Bridge area, and swimming is strictly prohibited.

Don’t forget to make time to explore the Cave Creek trail located nearby, as it is another breathtaking wonder of nature.

9. Witches Falls, Tamborine Mountain

• Distance: 3.1km
• Time to complete: 1 hour
• Difficulty: moderate
• Start / Finish: parking lot on Main Western Road

A little further out of the city in the Witches Falls section of the Tamborine National Park, the first national park in Queensland, is the Witches Falls Circuit.

This is an uphill bushwalk through dense forest and overgrown bush. The trail is a natural surface and requires some level of fitness to make it up the mountainside.

However, those who do will be rewarded with incredible sweeping views of the verdant valley and of course, Witches Falls.

10. Cedar Creek Falls, Mount Tamborine

• Distance: 1km
• Time to complete: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: easy to moderate
• Start / Finish: Thunderbird Park

Another popular bush walk in the Gold Coast region is Cedar Creek Falls, which is located in Tamborine National Park.

The walk is short and sweet, at only 900 meters in total. The path winds down from the car park to a picnic and bbq area about 500 meters away, where you will meet the refreshing creek where you. can paddle or swim.

The first section of the track to the picnic area is easy to walk along and is also suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, but those with reduced mobility might struggle to make it to the next area.

Continue on for another 400 meters and you will reach the falls which have lush swimming holes underneath that you can swim in. It’s one of the few croc-free swimming holes in Queensland so it’s worth the trek!

More tips for the Gold Coast

Are you in need of more inspiration for a trip to the Gold Coast? Then you may find the below resources helpful…

Gold Coast Tours

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If you’re not familiar with the term, it’s used to describe how you can make physical, mental, and behavioral changes in order to regulate your sleep–wake cycle. It is in the easiest terms, a way to install a healthy rhythm to your life.

We had arrived at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in the Tallebudgera Hinterland on the Gold Coast for a weekend of rest and relaxation. And to reconnect with our circadian rhythm.

We were feeling like the world we live in has messed it all up with our bright lights, gadgets, and flashing neon signs, enticing us to stay up and play like a nocturnal animal.

Our bodies are confused and restless and slowly breaking down.

But they’re designed for living in tune with the seasons that surround us and the movement of the sun.

It was time to get back to that.

That’s why we arranged to stay at Gwinganna Health Retreat, to help us switch off from the bright lights and reconnect with a healthier rhythm.

About Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

But first, what is Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat? The Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is a wellness haven that is located on the property of an old farmhouse that has been transformed into a bed and breakfast with a day spa.

It’s the largest spa in the Southern Hemisphere and can be found in the Tallebudgera Valley, just a 30-minute drive from the Gold Coast, Queensland.

It is owned by fitness entrepreneur Tony de Leede and is also part-owned by Hugh Jackman, the Hollywood actor.

Gwinganna respects the local indigenous people who are the original custodians of the region, and to who they dedicate their name to. In aboriginal language, Gwinganna means to ‘lookout’, which is very fitting as you have sweeping views from most parts of the property.

Gwinganna is also dedicated to ecotourism and creating as little impact on the environment as possible.

It was the winner of the World’s Best Eco Spa Award in 2022 from the World Spa Awards.

Facilities at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

Gwinganna has so many facilities I don’t know where to begin! Of course, the main reason people come here is for the wellness facilities.

The Wellness Education Complex provides presentations, classes, speakers, and seminars with a long directory of programs and topics to choose from.

All the programs are targeted at some form of stress management or wellness ethos.

Aside from this, there are two heated swimming pools, a huge dining room, and several lounges and places to relax. There are also tennis courts and several walking tracks through the gardens.

The spa is pretty extensive, with three levels of programs and treatments on offer. Whether you want to ice bath in a plunge pool or take in a talk at the amphitheatre, there’s every wellness facility you can think of here.

What We Learned From Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

We started our weekend at Gwinganna with a talk from Sharon Kolkka, the Wellness Director of the retreat, who offered a moment to honour the traditional custodians of the land.

This area we know as the Gold Coast Hinterland did not belong to one tribe, but many as they walked from mountains to sea to stay in connection with the earth and all their bodies needed from it.

They do not want to be recognised as nomadic people, but as seasonal ones.

People who were in rhythm with how the earth moved.

Who hunted and gathered by day and, at night, sitting around a warm red light to connect and slowly ease into sleep – keeping in tune with the circadian rhythm.

We then spent two days learning about the circadian rhythm and gained some insight into how to tap into it. Here’s what we learned…

What’s circadian rhythm?

In short, it’s the body clock.

The process our body moves through as the sun wakes us up and puts us to bed. We wake up with daylight (blue light), which signals our brain to start making serotonin – yep the happy drug.

No more sleeping in folks. “Rise and shine,” my mother would sing to me of a morning as she whipped open the curtains, “The world needs you Caz!”

Time to greet the sun and feel happiness.

As the sun dips below the horizon some hours of busyness later, the light turns to red and signals our bodies to start making melatonin – the sleepy drug.

It’s why they recommend a good sleep comes if you close the eyes before 10pm – four hours after the sun has gone down and your body is ready to sleep.

We keep feeding it with blue light by way of our screens and artificial lights, so it’s confusing and makes less melatonin to help us.

We become insomniacs, reaching for the glass of wine of an evening to help us drift off.

Reaching for the cup of coffee in the morning to help us wake up and then the wine again in front of the bright blue glare of the screen of the evening to help us unwind.

It’s why our bodies are so messed up when we fly and why earthing is a remedy I often suggest for

It’s why our bodies are so messed up when we fly and why earthing is a remedy I often suggest for overcoming jetlag.

“We’re so screwed up.” It was all I could think of listening to that talk. How the hell do we fix this?

How travel helps our natural rhythms

I started to get a little agitated because it’s all well and good to know this and to experience this for a return to our circadian rhythm a couple of days, but we have to return back down there – to the life that consumes us.

How do we get back to the circadian rhythm when modern life is doing everything it can to stop us? My thoughts drifted to travel as they always do.

That’s why I feel so good when I travel – I mean in a long-term sense, not those whirlwind two-day city explorations or resort stays where unwinding often means late night dinners and spins of the roulette wheels.

I mean when travel becomes a lifestyle and you move slowly and in rhythm with the earth.

Our road trip around Australia had us almost in connection with the circadian rhythm. The sun goes down and we unwind as we have no TVs and only a few lights to keep us awake.

Even when Craig and I were backpacking we often went to bed not long after dark, and after a few chapters of a paperback book would fall asleep early.

We’d be up early with the sun to run along the beach and enjoy those happy serotonin hormones.

No wonder I’m always longing to return to it.

Nature makes us happy

Then we learned about fractal patterns of nature and how the research shows that it dramatically affects our health and well being.

I took a sharp intake of breath. It’s why I’m addicted to travel and why it’s so good for my health. My gaze is focused for much of the day on the fractal patterns of nature.

A fractal is a never ending pattern, and it’s easy to agree, from trees to rivers and coastlines to mountains, nature has an abundance of them.

Layer on top of that the sounds of nature and the feeling of the warm sun on your skin or the cool breeze through your hair and you have a Zen feel good experience.

Being in nature increases our happiness and modern life is taking us away from it, particularly our children, which is having frightening implications for stress and health.

We’re shutting ourselves away in our offices or lounge rooms and on our TV screens and phones which causes an unhealthy build-up of stress, which increases our blood pressure, depletes our energy, decreases our cognitive ability, and reduces our immunity.

Looking at fractal shapes generates a sense of well-being and peace in the observer. When we slow down, stop the busy work, and take in beautiful natural surroundings, not only do we feel restored, but our mental performance improves too.

It’s why I feel so calm here in my apartment looking out across the road from my balcony to the treetops and the crashing waves.

All I hear is the sound and the birds chirping and I feel at ease and happy.

Just breathe and all will be okay

I was at the retreat to learn simple ways to unplug and integrate that back into my real world.

Our Breathe and Relax wellness weekend was led by Andy, a guru of breathing and yoga. How funny to have a guru of breathing. But, as Andy said to us over and over again,

“I’m not teaching you anything new. You all know this. You all did it so beautifully when you were babies. But, then you got older and started holding your breath and forgot to tap into this power that helps remove your problems and brings you back to a sense of power and peace in an instant.”

He lead us through meditation and breathing exercises and with each one it was clear the difference that conscious breathing makes to our psyche.

He had us utilizing the power of the sigh and insisted that if we were to take one thing away from the weekend it would be that.

Every time we noticed ourselves holding our breaths, we are to let out a big sigh.

I can imagine all the faces of the retreat attendee’s colleagues around Australia now as they suddenly start sighing over and over again in the office. It was a great stress management exercise.

Our Stay at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

At the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, you’re surrounded by the fractal patterns in nature.

From the balcony of our suite, we looked out over the old orchard garden and to the pretty face wallabies and their babies jumping about.

You know how much I love macropods and pretty faces are my favourite – is there a more beautiful fractal pattern?

There are no sounds other than kookaburras laughing and trees rustling, there are no strong artificial lights or imposing buildings.

There’s a beautiful blend of historic buildings and modern wooden buildings that blend in with nature.

On our first evening, we walked along the sunset track for stunning views over the Tallebudgera Valley.

The clouds covered the setting sun but it was still mesmerizing. You could see each of us slowly let go of the civilized life energy that entraps us and is welcome in the earth’s purity.

At Gwinganna, you end the day on the sunset track and start it on Sunrise Hill looking out over the ocean.

From atop of the hill as I start my morning with a gentle Qi Gong class -a restorative moving meditation – watching the sun rise up from the ocean I see the top of the Burleigh high rises and I’m thinking, “I don’t want to go back there. I don’t know how I can go back there and make it work.”

Sigh out the sickness – help from the kind staff

A big sigh was what I let out upon arrival at Gwinganna as I started to feel a few aches and pains in my body and a sore throat.

We had a phone call from Kalyra’s school only an hour before to say she was not feeling well.

Bugger.

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat gave us the most comfortable bed in our Orchard Suite, permission to sleep early, and the quietest, darkest environment to help you do that effortlessly and I spent our first evening tossing and turning wide awake alternating between fever and chills and awful body aches.

I was so grateful when the morning wake up call came at 5:30am because it meant I could get up out of that bed and perhaps focus on something else other than my sick body.

There was no better place for me to be than Gwinganna.

The care I received from the staff was exceptional. A nurse was present who put me on bed rest and gave me many supportive lotions and potions (natural of course).

They spent the entire weekend making immunity juices for me and doing everything they could to support and nourish my body.

I was impressed. If I was at home, I’d have the kids jumping over me and would not be able to allow my body space to heal.

What To Do at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

I was pretty devastated about being sick as visiting Gwinganna has been a dream of mine since I first heard of it way back in 2009. Despite being ill, I gained so much from my visit.

I’d spent the two weeks before arriving training so I could participate in the diverse activities and wellness seminars like yang classes of boxing, and integrated animal flow classes (super interesting but apparently very challenging), but I was unable to attend them.

They offer more relaxing yin classes as well, so I was able to do a gentle yoga and stretch class.

Craig went all out and attended a creative tribal dancing class and surprised himself with his coordination and how much he enjoyed the combination of movement, chants, and stretching.

On the second day, I chose the luxury of sleeping instead of early morning Qui Gong. Everything at Gwinganna is about choosing what your body needs.

There is nothing compulsory, only encouraged and a range of activities to suit your body’s needs. Mine was clearly calling for sleep.

And if you visit when the weather is favourable, Gwinganna has this gorgeous infinity pool with a custom-designed edge with views over the Gold Coast.

Gwanganna Day Spa

I’m not too sure if it was the best thing for me to be sick and having all the toxins moved around my body through a massage.

But, I was not going to sacrifice that one.

If I was sick already I might as well get it all out in one gigantic bang. Better out than in right?! Well, I was sick for about 8 days in total so possibly the massage may have extended it. Who knows?

But I do know for that 80-minutes of my Hawaiian bodywork massage I loved it.

I’d not experienced a traditional Lomi Lomi massage before.

It was incredible and my therapist was amazing. She had beautiful music soulful music playing and she sang as she danced around me and massaged me. It felt like my entire body and soul was being massaged at once.

Craig chose to go with an integrated massage that combines the best deep-tissue massage techniques with acupressure, reflexology, polarity energy healing, breathing techniques, and passive stretching.

After my massage, I headed straight for the relaxation class where I allowed my body to slowly sleep into sleep.

The Gwanganna Spa also has many spa treatments and rejuvenation packages available, or you can use the gym, sauna, and steam room.

Listen and unplug

Learning what your body needs and giving it was one of the biggest takeaways for me from my visit. To listen, appreciate and love more.

To learn simple techniques to increase my vitality and reduce my stress.

It all starts somewhere. Unplugging is gradual. An hour here and there turns to a day turns to a weekend and turns to a lifestyle change.

That’s the benefit of attending a health retreat such as Gwinganna. It’s designed to bring you back to Mother Earth, to your body, to your sense of calm. You switch off your devices, hand over the cigarettes and the alcohol and succumb to earth’s natural rhythms.

It’s designed to bring you back to Mother Earth, to your body, to your sense of calm. You switch off your devices, hand over the alcohol and caffeine, and succumb to earth’s natural rhythms.

You wake up with the blue light and sleep with the red. Every meal is carefully designed and created by highly trained nutritionists so it cleanses your body and enriches it with pure energy.

Enjoy gluten and dairy free organic cuisine

I was in heaven to know I could eat delicious organic food without fear of falling sick.

Don’t fear, on weekend retreats a glass of organic wine is allowed at dinner. Should you stay for a longer > week-long retreat though you’re detoxing.

The restaurant offers a paddock-to-plate ethos, where all the produce has been grown organically or locally sourced.

Everything from fruit, vegetables, and herbs has come from the on-site gardens and has been specifically chosen to improve digestion and liver detoxification as well as many other health benefits.

Before each meal, guests are given a small shot of apple cider vinegar which is said to aid digestion.

You will find a never-ending supply of detoxifying herbal teas, but there is a strict no juices or smoothies rule.

Water is also prohibited with meals (though you can of course drink after) as it’s said to hinder your digestion.

The Changes I’ve Made Since Visiting Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

You can’t have an experience like Gwinganna without making changes to your lifestyle.

You can’t look into that sacred space of your health, of peace and vitality, and mother nature and go back to how you once were.

It takes time and you can’t flip your world around after one weekend, but you can make a start and implement some changes.

We’ve been home from Gwinganna for a while now and since then I’ve made the following changes:

• I’ve had very little coffee and alcohol. Definitely not my daily dose. I feel great and in control. I learned how reaching for that glass of wine when you stressed is a lethal combination. The sugar in the wine mixes with the stress levels and together they create more stress and excess weight. Your body feels like it’s under attack and so starts stockpiling the weight to protect you. And the release of stress is short-lived.
• I’m getting to bed before 10pm 95% of the time and set my clock for 8 1/4 hours of sleep. Sleep is the number one thing that’s required for maintaining weight and vitality. We learned all of this in a fascinating talk with head personal trainer Duncan, who ran a vitality analysis that provides a snapshot of several biomarkers that help determine your vitality, including muscle mass, quality of muscle, cellular health, and hydration, body fat percentage, basal metabolic rate, and physiological age. A great introduction to wellness therapies. Craig excelled at this, scoring a 90/100, and mine were pretty good except for verifying what I knew – my core strength could be better and I could do with losing some excess fat! It’s not a lot but enough to make me move more. I’m finding getting the required amount of sleep each night the most difficult thing to do. It’s not easy when you have kids.

• I’ve set a goal to move 10,000 steps a day, which equals about 6km a day, and you can accumulate that to 42km a week. I’m walking and running in order to do that. Either will burn the same amount of fat. Running just helps me hit the target quicker. I’m running two times a week and doing yoga at least three times, with a focus on core strength.
• I’ve installed Flux onto my computer so it reduces the blue light to red light once the sun sets. I want to get off the computer for an evening, but I just can’t make it work. We juggle our business around the kids, putting them as a priority, which means nighttime is when we can get a lot of work done. It will be the same when we are on the road. I can’t be delusional; I just have to do the best I can.
• I immerse myself in fractional patterning even more.
• I’m leading with my heart and talking to Kalyra and Savannah about doing the same. That simply means when walking instead of having your head sticking out leading, have your heart go first. I’ve explained to Kalyra that it’s a way to use our superhero powers without anyone seeing it. When you lead with your heart you automatically feel more powerful, kinder, and open, and no one sees your heart leading, they just notice that you ooze confidence and strength like a superhero.
• I’m sighing a lot. With a loud clear exhale. It feels good.
• I’m using a few of the meditation breathing techniques Andy taught us to slip into sleep at night and if I wake up restless. It works a treat.
• I’m spending most mornings gazing at the sun rising. It simply could be the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ll keep you updated on my progress.

Final Takeaway…

Of all the guests I spoke to at the retreat (there were 58 of us in total) everyone said how a weekend was not enough and how they want to come back.

Many had been before and many were staying on for a week-long detox.

They waved us goodbye with a joyful smiles as the rest of us trudged onto the bus to return to a world so out of sync with circadian rhythms, seasonal living, and fractal patterns.

We went away having learned a great deal and made some positive changes to our lives.

There can be no doubt that the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat made a big difference for us, but of course, everyone is different.

I hope this guide helped you understand what to expect from the retreat.

More places to love on the Gold Coast Hinterland

• Staying At The O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Lamington National Park
• The 10 Best Springbrook National Park Walks: The Green Behind The Gold Coast
• Escape To Binna Burra Lodge, The #1 Gold Coast Hinterland Accommodation
• 3 Gold Coast Hinterland Accommodation Options
• The Ultimate 2 Day Gold Coast Itinerary for 2023

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