The Gold Coast features 40km of sandy immaculate beaches and is located 70kms south of Queensland's capital city, Brisbane, and 947kms North the capital of New south Wales, Sydney. It has an estimated population of 480,000 and is Australia's sixth largest city.
It is also Australia's favorite tourist destination with a favorable climate, diversity of attractions, sophisticated nightlife and dining, safe environment and world class resorts. Inland from the Gold Coast is three magnificent National Parks - Springbrook, Lamington and Tamborine which feature beautiful rainforests, picnic areas, nature walks and spectacular lookouts.
Climate: The Gold Coast has a comfortable sub-tropical climate averaging in the 20's and is enjoyable all year round. Summer - December to February - 20-28 degrees C. Autumn - March - May - 15-25 degrees C. Winter - June - August - 11-21 degrees C. Spring - September to November - 15-25 degrees C.
Attractions: Four theme parks provide hours and hours if not days of entertainment value with something for everyone. The four theme parks are Movie World, Wet 'n' Wild, Sea World and Dreamworld located between Southport and Coomera. Dreamworld is also the home of Big Brother in Australia. New theme parks are also underway.
Adventure attractions are endless and include motor bike tours, parasailing, sky diving, hot air ballooning, jet skiing, power boating, helicopter tours, go karting and motor racing.
Deep dea fishing charters are popular as well as whale and dolphin watching tours. Other marine activities include diving and snorkelling.
When you get tired of lazy days on the beach a short drive takes you to the Hinterland region you can roam through World Heritage listed subtropical rainforests with spectacular views, ancient Antarctic beech forests, thundering waterfalls and amazing geological formations to name a few of the highlights.
The Hinterland is also popular for it's growing wine and vineyard industry.
The Gold Coast is also home to over 20 of Australia's leading golf resorts with picturesque backdrops and meticulously manicured greens.
Nightlife: The Gold Coast is popular for it's famous nightclubs located on Cavill Avenue and Orchid Avenue where you can party to the early hours. There are also two world class nightclubs located in Broadbeach as well as a large casino and convention centre. Taverns and Surf Clubs are also popular.
Dinind: There are over 500 restuarants on the Coast! Main Beach and Broadbeach are popular for their main streets lined with quality restuarants serving for all tastes in ambient relaxing surroundings.
Accomodation: The Gold Coast there are over 13,000 rooms available from Coolangatta through to Hope Island including Motels, Guest Houses, Apartments and Hotels. Resorts are first class and the big names include the Palazzo Versace, Marriot, Sheraton Mirage, Holiday Inn, Hyatt, Conrad Jupiters and the Sofitel. Most of these are centrally located in Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Main Beach with most having water and or Hinterland views.
Transport: You can fly to either Gold Coast Airport (30mins from Surfers) or Brisbane Airport (50mins from Surfers) and transport from there can either be via taxi, rental, bus or limousine. Buses run on a regular time table throughout the area and a train runs from Robina to Brisbane.
Major Events: The Indy championship is one of the major events on the calender as well as the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show, the Magic Millions Horse Racing Carnival, Schoolies Festival and Surf Carnivals.
With all that why not consider the Gold Coast for your next holiday!
by Rodney LHuillier
Saturday, July 14, 2007
The Top 5 Holiday Destinations
The heap of anguish caused by the claustrophobic city life can only be eradicated when you take a stride down the blue beaches of Australia or relax at the foot of Christ De Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. When life demands too much and you want to escape from this mundane world, take a flight to one of your desired destinations and spend the holiday there with your loved ones. Give yourself a chance to enjoy the gorgeous Greek Island, scintillating Cuba or the magical Thailand. The unparalleled exquisiteness of the five top destinations below is alluring visitors to feast on the amazing beauty.
1. Australia- Whitsunday Isands
The spectacular scene of Australia has made it the suitable holiday destination for people from all over the world. The very thought of the coral reefs, lush rainforests and the amazingly warm ocean water would chill you up and you won't be able to resist the charm of holidaying in this country. Whitsunday coasts and islands seem to have been naturally tailored to quench your need of getting lost in the soothing greens and serene blue of the water. The Islands are centrally located on the Queensland Coast where almost all flights have been given access. The airport is about 40 minutes away from the Airlie Beach and leisure can be enjoyed to the full extent. Apart from this Island particularly, Australia is encompassing within itself a wide array of holiday zones. The Gold Coasts, Hunter Valley, Sunshine coast, the wonderful Sydney and so on. At Whitsunday, you will get the opportunity to select resorts and hotels of your choice. The availability of the peaceful ambience, spas, swimming pools, gardens and other amenities will vary with the denomination of the accommodation you choose. The exciting Great Barrier Reef, the stunning beauty of the Proserpine River and the luxury yachts are bound to drive you ecstatic. Holiday packages to this Island will seem to be incomplete, as you will fall in love with Whitsunday forever.
2. Brazil- Rio De Janeiro
It may be the outstanding color of its beaches or the magical sound produced by the forests that has made the creation of samba music possible in Rio de Janeiro. The high-spirited people of this state make Brazil one of the liveliest places on earth. Those of you who are fond of sports must take your family to this city to enjoy the essence of sports and sporting spirit. The intense cultural life of ravishing Rio includes mind-blowing music and heart throbbing belly dances. The state is the pride of Brazilians for it includes within it, theaters, clubs, museums, beaches, gardens, forests, lagoons and the memorabilia of the World War II. Winter is full of events and it would the best time to take a flight to Rio and give your life a new refreshing turn. Hotels and inns are available at your fingertips, which you can reserve even via the Internet.
3. Greek Islands
If you are a travel freak then you must spend your next holiday at the Greek Islands, which are about 22 in number. Mykonos would take you down the memory lanes with the windmills turning the pages of history. Affordable hotels and excellent services are designed to make your visit very pleasurable. Naxos is the island of churches, Venetian castles and homes just opposite to the nightlife culture that Rhodes can give. Lesvos is a perfect destination to soothe your tired mind and eyes. Wildlife, restaurants, spas and greenery can cheer you up for the rest of the hectic year ahead. Most of the islands here are breathtaking and you can zoom through the clouds directly or can halt in mainland Greece and then move ahead. Accommodation places are always ample, just prior booking is essential.
4. Cuba
Vigorous salsa, mind-blowing architecture, exciting tropical beaches and the swashbuckling nightlife can be the most apt phrases to describe Cuba - the dream destination for most people. Relaxation coupled with luxury is going to make your holiday in Cuba one of the most memorable experiences. This unique and safe Caribbean Island has got a historic importance of its own. Fishing or sailing in a tranquil ambience can reinvigorate you to your fullest. The journey to Cuba would revitalize you, shedding all the lethargic loads that you had been carrying so far. Your stride through the Las Terrazas will enable you to relish the flora and fauna. The coffee at a famous Cafetal restaurant would make you nostalgic, and sips at the Darquiri cocktail at Tropicana Cabaret are definitely an enchanting experience. Ecological tours of the Western Cuba can also be a sumptuous and momentous moment for you. If you are looking for cheap eats and lodging, you can find it at this top holiday destination.
5. Thailand
Thailand gains prominence as one of the hottest tourist sports for the sky kissing mountains, green meadows, multi-colored orchids, fascinating native handcrafts, coupled with the tropical climate. The country is well known for the hospitality, and the local food is also superb to taste. For the active traveler, this can be the ideal spot to spend the holidays. Travel packages booked earlier can make your journey to this place an interesting one. Bangkok is the main gateway to Thailand where the international airport is situated. The religion followed in this country is Buddhism and everywhere place you visit, you are going to find information pertaining to Lord Buddha. The elephant conservation center, wildlife sanctuaries, Thai crafts and the fruit carving are simply wonderful. The capital Bangkok is of great prominence due to the natural beauty that it ensembles. Makha Puja, Flower festival, Pattya festival and the Sonkran festivals attract throngs of visitors every year to this country. For a cool escape, the southern beaches are a definite hot spot and are not to be missed, Phuket having the biggest tourism numbers followed by Koh Samui.
Holidaying in any of these top destinations will leverage the stressful life you live and will have to resume to after some days. Visits to these heavenly places will make your experience meaningful and you will find a new spirit to restart your life. So, keep aside all hesitations, pack your luggage and set off for the dream destination that you had been longing for so far!
by Jason Sands
1. Australia- Whitsunday Isands
The spectacular scene of Australia has made it the suitable holiday destination for people from all over the world. The very thought of the coral reefs, lush rainforests and the amazingly warm ocean water would chill you up and you won't be able to resist the charm of holidaying in this country. Whitsunday coasts and islands seem to have been naturally tailored to quench your need of getting lost in the soothing greens and serene blue of the water. The Islands are centrally located on the Queensland Coast where almost all flights have been given access. The airport is about 40 minutes away from the Airlie Beach and leisure can be enjoyed to the full extent. Apart from this Island particularly, Australia is encompassing within itself a wide array of holiday zones. The Gold Coasts, Hunter Valley, Sunshine coast, the wonderful Sydney and so on. At Whitsunday, you will get the opportunity to select resorts and hotels of your choice. The availability of the peaceful ambience, spas, swimming pools, gardens and other amenities will vary with the denomination of the accommodation you choose. The exciting Great Barrier Reef, the stunning beauty of the Proserpine River and the luxury yachts are bound to drive you ecstatic. Holiday packages to this Island will seem to be incomplete, as you will fall in love with Whitsunday forever.
2. Brazil- Rio De Janeiro
It may be the outstanding color of its beaches or the magical sound produced by the forests that has made the creation of samba music possible in Rio de Janeiro. The high-spirited people of this state make Brazil one of the liveliest places on earth. Those of you who are fond of sports must take your family to this city to enjoy the essence of sports and sporting spirit. The intense cultural life of ravishing Rio includes mind-blowing music and heart throbbing belly dances. The state is the pride of Brazilians for it includes within it, theaters, clubs, museums, beaches, gardens, forests, lagoons and the memorabilia of the World War II. Winter is full of events and it would the best time to take a flight to Rio and give your life a new refreshing turn. Hotels and inns are available at your fingertips, which you can reserve even via the Internet.
3. Greek Islands
If you are a travel freak then you must spend your next holiday at the Greek Islands, which are about 22 in number. Mykonos would take you down the memory lanes with the windmills turning the pages of history. Affordable hotels and excellent services are designed to make your visit very pleasurable. Naxos is the island of churches, Venetian castles and homes just opposite to the nightlife culture that Rhodes can give. Lesvos is a perfect destination to soothe your tired mind and eyes. Wildlife, restaurants, spas and greenery can cheer you up for the rest of the hectic year ahead. Most of the islands here are breathtaking and you can zoom through the clouds directly or can halt in mainland Greece and then move ahead. Accommodation places are always ample, just prior booking is essential.
4. Cuba
Vigorous salsa, mind-blowing architecture, exciting tropical beaches and the swashbuckling nightlife can be the most apt phrases to describe Cuba - the dream destination for most people. Relaxation coupled with luxury is going to make your holiday in Cuba one of the most memorable experiences. This unique and safe Caribbean Island has got a historic importance of its own. Fishing or sailing in a tranquil ambience can reinvigorate you to your fullest. The journey to Cuba would revitalize you, shedding all the lethargic loads that you had been carrying so far. Your stride through the Las Terrazas will enable you to relish the flora and fauna. The coffee at a famous Cafetal restaurant would make you nostalgic, and sips at the Darquiri cocktail at Tropicana Cabaret are definitely an enchanting experience. Ecological tours of the Western Cuba can also be a sumptuous and momentous moment for you. If you are looking for cheap eats and lodging, you can find it at this top holiday destination.
5. Thailand
Thailand gains prominence as one of the hottest tourist sports for the sky kissing mountains, green meadows, multi-colored orchids, fascinating native handcrafts, coupled with the tropical climate. The country is well known for the hospitality, and the local food is also superb to taste. For the active traveler, this can be the ideal spot to spend the holidays. Travel packages booked earlier can make your journey to this place an interesting one. Bangkok is the main gateway to Thailand where the international airport is situated. The religion followed in this country is Buddhism and everywhere place you visit, you are going to find information pertaining to Lord Buddha. The elephant conservation center, wildlife sanctuaries, Thai crafts and the fruit carving are simply wonderful. The capital Bangkok is of great prominence due to the natural beauty that it ensembles. Makha Puja, Flower festival, Pattya festival and the Sonkran festivals attract throngs of visitors every year to this country. For a cool escape, the southern beaches are a definite hot spot and are not to be missed, Phuket having the biggest tourism numbers followed by Koh Samui.
Holidaying in any of these top destinations will leverage the stressful life you live and will have to resume to after some days. Visits to these heavenly places will make your experience meaningful and you will find a new spirit to restart your life. So, keep aside all hesitations, pack your luggage and set off for the dream destination that you had been longing for so far!
by Jason Sands
Top 10 Holiday Destinations in Queensland, Australia
Queensland is regarded as Australia's 'sunshine state' as it receives around 300 days of sunshine a year. With such a fantastic climate and the laidback but friendly attitude of the locals Queensland is a marvellous destination for holiday makers and backpackers alike.
Queensland is a truly amazing state with dazzling beaches, lush rainforests and tranquil blues of the Great Barrier Reef. This state really has something for everyone.
Here is my top ten for Queensland.
1. Brisbane
Brisbane is a chic and cosmopolitan city oozing an amazing vibe. It is the third largest city in Australia and one of the most sought after places to live.
In the heart of the city centre you will find the Queens Street Mall, this is a great place for some retail therapy. You will find all the major Australian shops plus a few quirky stores thrown in for personality. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes offering all types of food. If you are on a smaller budget head to the Myer Centre in the Mall and theres a food court where you can find all types of food for very reasonable prices.
Just a short walk from the city centre you will find the glorious Southbank. This is a great place to stroll by the river or have a picnic. In the heart of Southbank you will find Streets Beach, an amazing man made beach which is great for a quick dip on a hot sunny day. Don't forget to check out Southbank on the weekend when they have there Arts and Crafts Market. Here you can find some great souvenirs or gifts.
Mt Coot-tha Reserve is situated 7km from the city centre, here you will find spectacular views of Brisbane all the way to Moreton Island. There are plenty of great spots for a picnic but if you preferred to eat out they also have a great café offering a wide selection of hot and cold food. The reserve also has fantastic Botanical Gardens showcasing Eastern and Western agriculture. Situated adjacent to the gardens is the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium which is a great place to take the kids.
If you are more into outdoor adventures head to the Riverlife Adventure Centre which is situated along the Brisbane River in between Southbank and Kangaroo Point. Here you can sign up for an array of water sports, outdoor actives and rock climbing. They cater for beginners and the more experienced adventurer.
No trip to Brisbane is complete without visiting a wildlife sanctuary and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a great day out for all ages. The sanctuary is situated about 11km south west of Brisbane and most tours will take you by ferry. This is the largest Koala sanctuary in the world and for a small charge you can cuddle up to a Koala while having your picture taken. The park also has a lot of other wildlife to keep you entertained along with a great petting farm. Around the park you will find great eateries and they have a great gift shop where you can purchase some very cute souvenirs.
Brisbane has a great transport system which is very reasonably priced. You can purchase an all day pass on the ferry for around $4.50 and you can visit all the quaint suburbs that surround Brisbane. The railway system is great and it is a very cheap way of visiting all the attractions further away from Brisbane like Australia Zoo or the breath taking Sunshine coast.
2. Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach is a great little beach town and the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.
The town itself is very charming and laidback with some great little souvenir shops and some great cafes. The nightlife is good here and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to eating.
Just along the sea front you will find a nice beach and a man made lagoon. This is a great place to spend the afternoon sunbathing and swimming. There are many areas to enjoy a nice picnic and sit back and relax.
There are 74 islands in the Whitsunday's with ferries which are easily accessible. Whitehaven Beach is a spectacular sight, the sand is pure white and the water is crystal clear. Make sure to enjoy a few hours soaking up the sun and snorkelling. Hamilton Island is only half an hour away by ferry from Airlie Beach and is a great place to visit. Once there you can explore the island by golf cart and swim in the magnificent swimming pools.
The Great Barrier Reef is about an hour and a half by ferry from Airile Beach and well worth the travel. Once there you can snorkel, dive and ride in a submarine. All equipment is provided for and they cater from the beginner to the more experienced.
3. Frazer Island
Frazer Island is the largest sand island in the world and it has to be the one of the most magnificent. There is so much to do on Frazer Island it is almost unbelievable. You can partake in a 4WD along the golden sandy beaches, walk in the lush rainforests and swim in the tranquil waters of Lake McKenzie. There are barbecues for public use so take full advantage of them. Be careful not to leave food out when you have finished though as the island is home to pure bred white Dingo's. You will need to obtain a permit for vehicles or camping but the prices are reasonable. There is accommodation on Frazer Island but if it's too costly you can stay inland and catch the ferry.
4. Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is located in the Gold Coast just south of Brisbane. Surfers Paradise is a perfect beach town with plenty to offer for all ages. The beach is picturesque and right on the edge of the town centre. Take a stroll around the fabulous shops and cafes, the nightlife is great but on weekends it can get very busy. A midweek night market operates along the seafront, here you can take a look at hand made souvenirs. The Aboriginal art is profound and very well priced. Some stalls will travel wrap your purchases.
One of the main attractions in this area is Sea World. This really is an amazing day out. They have Dolphin shows, a great Sea Lion show and two incredibly cute Polar Bears. If you get the chance go and watch the Shark feeding, they currently have Tiger and Bull Sharks which are huge! As well as all the marine life they also have a water park with waterslides.
Nearby there is also the Warner Brother's Movie World and Dreamworld. Warner Brother's is a must for any movie fan as there are great photo opportunities with movie characters and they have stunt shows and movie themed rides. Dreamworld is a theme park with some pretty scary rides but the park does cater for younger children as well. Dreamworld is also the home of TV show Australian Big Brother.
5. Cairns
Cairns is situated in Tropical Queensland and is a tourist town. Cairns is well-known around the world and is a backpacker haven.
The centre of Cairns is a quaint place to spend the morning shopping; here you will find some unusual souvenirs. Restaurants and cafes are plentiful. Just a few minutes walk from the centre towards the seafront is a man made salt water swimming lagoon. If you don't fancy a dip talk a walk along the Esplanade and enjoy the stunning views.
If nature is more your thing, why not take a stroll around Flecker Botanic Gardens? The majority of the gardens are made up of magnificent rainforests but you will also find bush tucker plants. The gardens are open Monday to Friday and you will pay a small charge for entry.
Cairns is also a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and is the most popular place for diving in the reef. Around the centre of Cairns you will find plenty of tour operators for day trips to the surrounding islands and the reef.
6. Green Island
Green Island is an amazing island surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, with a great holiday complex and walking tracks through the rain forest. Here you can lie on the beach, snorkel or go for a relaxing swim in the complex's pool. They also have a bar, cafes and shops on the island. This is a great place for a day trip as you can see it all in one day but if you wanted to stay longer you have the option. Getting here from Cairns couldn't be easier as there are many tour operators and it is not too costly.
7. Noosa
Noosa is a great spirited beach town situated on the Sunshine Coast just north of Brisbane. Noosa is the perfect place to shop, relax or have a great night out on the town.
Hastings Street is the best part of Noosa for shops, cafes and bars. You could spend all day shopping here and pick up some great purchases. They have a wide variety of food and some great bars. On a Friday or Saturday night it can be very busy though. If you want a more relaxing time the beach is only a five minute stroll. The water is clear and the sand is golden. If great views are what you are after head up to the Laguna Lookout in Noosa Junction.
Noosa National Park is a great place for scenic walks, and here you will find great beaches for surfing. The park is about 2km long and once you have reached the end you have also reached the end of the Sunshine Coast.
8. Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a quiet town with tons of character. It has quaint little boutiques and some amazing scenery.
You can catch a shuttle direct from Cairns for around $40. This will give you enough time to explore this great little town. The main street is great for shopping and they lots of great bakeries and cafes. The beach is a fifteen minute walk from the centre but it is well worth a stroll. If exploring is more what you are after head over to the harbour, it is a nice walk and you will not be disappointed when you get there. They have a small shopping centre and some great sea food restaurants where you can dine whilst over looking the harbour.
If you are in Port Douglas on a Sunday don't miss the local market where you can pick up everything from fruits and veggies to hand crafted artefacts. Once you have finished around the market take a stroll around Anzac Park.
9. Mooloolaba
Mooloolaba is a small little town on the Sunshine Coast but it has a lot too offer. The Esplanade is packed with cute little shops and cafes and the marina is picture perfect.
Underwater World is situated in the marina and is a great place for all ages. Here you can see some exotic marine life and if you are brave enough go diving with sharks. To see everything Underwater World has to offer you need to allow about four hours. They also have some great shows and presentations. Once you have finished at Underwater World take a walk around the marina, here you will find some great bars and restaurants. If you are on a budget take a look at the Hogs Breath Café they do some great meals at great prices.
If you are looking for some serious shopping catch the bus to Maroochydore. Here you will find the Sunset Plaza and probably every shop you can think of. You could quite easily spend all day shopping and not have enough time to go in every shop. They have got some great cafes but again if you are on a budget check out the food court for some cheap eats.
10. Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay is a great little place for a few days of relaxation. The beaches are idyllic and the water is clear. This is a great place to go fishing and one of the best places to go Whale and Dolphin watching.
Here you will find a small aquarium called Reef World. Here they show case a lot the marine life in the reef. You can also go Shark diving here as well.
The Whale and Dolphin watching operates between mid July and late October. Most tour operators guarantee sightings or you received a free trip.
by Candice Hoskins
Queensland is a truly amazing state with dazzling beaches, lush rainforests and tranquil blues of the Great Barrier Reef. This state really has something for everyone.
Here is my top ten for Queensland.
1. Brisbane
Brisbane is a chic and cosmopolitan city oozing an amazing vibe. It is the third largest city in Australia and one of the most sought after places to live.
In the heart of the city centre you will find the Queens Street Mall, this is a great place for some retail therapy. You will find all the major Australian shops plus a few quirky stores thrown in for personality. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes offering all types of food. If you are on a smaller budget head to the Myer Centre in the Mall and theres a food court where you can find all types of food for very reasonable prices.
Just a short walk from the city centre you will find the glorious Southbank. This is a great place to stroll by the river or have a picnic. In the heart of Southbank you will find Streets Beach, an amazing man made beach which is great for a quick dip on a hot sunny day. Don't forget to check out Southbank on the weekend when they have there Arts and Crafts Market. Here you can find some great souvenirs or gifts.
Mt Coot-tha Reserve is situated 7km from the city centre, here you will find spectacular views of Brisbane all the way to Moreton Island. There are plenty of great spots for a picnic but if you preferred to eat out they also have a great café offering a wide selection of hot and cold food. The reserve also has fantastic Botanical Gardens showcasing Eastern and Western agriculture. Situated adjacent to the gardens is the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium which is a great place to take the kids.
If you are more into outdoor adventures head to the Riverlife Adventure Centre which is situated along the Brisbane River in between Southbank and Kangaroo Point. Here you can sign up for an array of water sports, outdoor actives and rock climbing. They cater for beginners and the more experienced adventurer.
No trip to Brisbane is complete without visiting a wildlife sanctuary and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a great day out for all ages. The sanctuary is situated about 11km south west of Brisbane and most tours will take you by ferry. This is the largest Koala sanctuary in the world and for a small charge you can cuddle up to a Koala while having your picture taken. The park also has a lot of other wildlife to keep you entertained along with a great petting farm. Around the park you will find great eateries and they have a great gift shop where you can purchase some very cute souvenirs.
Brisbane has a great transport system which is very reasonably priced. You can purchase an all day pass on the ferry for around $4.50 and you can visit all the quaint suburbs that surround Brisbane. The railway system is great and it is a very cheap way of visiting all the attractions further away from Brisbane like Australia Zoo or the breath taking Sunshine coast.
2. Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach is a great little beach town and the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.
The town itself is very charming and laidback with some great little souvenir shops and some great cafes. The nightlife is good here and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to eating.
Just along the sea front you will find a nice beach and a man made lagoon. This is a great place to spend the afternoon sunbathing and swimming. There are many areas to enjoy a nice picnic and sit back and relax.
There are 74 islands in the Whitsunday's with ferries which are easily accessible. Whitehaven Beach is a spectacular sight, the sand is pure white and the water is crystal clear. Make sure to enjoy a few hours soaking up the sun and snorkelling. Hamilton Island is only half an hour away by ferry from Airlie Beach and is a great place to visit. Once there you can explore the island by golf cart and swim in the magnificent swimming pools.
The Great Barrier Reef is about an hour and a half by ferry from Airile Beach and well worth the travel. Once there you can snorkel, dive and ride in a submarine. All equipment is provided for and they cater from the beginner to the more experienced.
3. Frazer Island
Frazer Island is the largest sand island in the world and it has to be the one of the most magnificent. There is so much to do on Frazer Island it is almost unbelievable. You can partake in a 4WD along the golden sandy beaches, walk in the lush rainforests and swim in the tranquil waters of Lake McKenzie. There are barbecues for public use so take full advantage of them. Be careful not to leave food out when you have finished though as the island is home to pure bred white Dingo's. You will need to obtain a permit for vehicles or camping but the prices are reasonable. There is accommodation on Frazer Island but if it's too costly you can stay inland and catch the ferry.
4. Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is located in the Gold Coast just south of Brisbane. Surfers Paradise is a perfect beach town with plenty to offer for all ages. The beach is picturesque and right on the edge of the town centre. Take a stroll around the fabulous shops and cafes, the nightlife is great but on weekends it can get very busy. A midweek night market operates along the seafront, here you can take a look at hand made souvenirs. The Aboriginal art is profound and very well priced. Some stalls will travel wrap your purchases.
One of the main attractions in this area is Sea World. This really is an amazing day out. They have Dolphin shows, a great Sea Lion show and two incredibly cute Polar Bears. If you get the chance go and watch the Shark feeding, they currently have Tiger and Bull Sharks which are huge! As well as all the marine life they also have a water park with waterslides.
Nearby there is also the Warner Brother's Movie World and Dreamworld. Warner Brother's is a must for any movie fan as there are great photo opportunities with movie characters and they have stunt shows and movie themed rides. Dreamworld is a theme park with some pretty scary rides but the park does cater for younger children as well. Dreamworld is also the home of TV show Australian Big Brother.
5. Cairns
Cairns is situated in Tropical Queensland and is a tourist town. Cairns is well-known around the world and is a backpacker haven.
The centre of Cairns is a quaint place to spend the morning shopping; here you will find some unusual souvenirs. Restaurants and cafes are plentiful. Just a few minutes walk from the centre towards the seafront is a man made salt water swimming lagoon. If you don't fancy a dip talk a walk along the Esplanade and enjoy the stunning views.
If nature is more your thing, why not take a stroll around Flecker Botanic Gardens? The majority of the gardens are made up of magnificent rainforests but you will also find bush tucker plants. The gardens are open Monday to Friday and you will pay a small charge for entry.
Cairns is also a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and is the most popular place for diving in the reef. Around the centre of Cairns you will find plenty of tour operators for day trips to the surrounding islands and the reef.
6. Green Island
Green Island is an amazing island surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, with a great holiday complex and walking tracks through the rain forest. Here you can lie on the beach, snorkel or go for a relaxing swim in the complex's pool. They also have a bar, cafes and shops on the island. This is a great place for a day trip as you can see it all in one day but if you wanted to stay longer you have the option. Getting here from Cairns couldn't be easier as there are many tour operators and it is not too costly.
7. Noosa
Noosa is a great spirited beach town situated on the Sunshine Coast just north of Brisbane. Noosa is the perfect place to shop, relax or have a great night out on the town.
Hastings Street is the best part of Noosa for shops, cafes and bars. You could spend all day shopping here and pick up some great purchases. They have a wide variety of food and some great bars. On a Friday or Saturday night it can be very busy though. If you want a more relaxing time the beach is only a five minute stroll. The water is clear and the sand is golden. If great views are what you are after head up to the Laguna Lookout in Noosa Junction.
Noosa National Park is a great place for scenic walks, and here you will find great beaches for surfing. The park is about 2km long and once you have reached the end you have also reached the end of the Sunshine Coast.
8. Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a quiet town with tons of character. It has quaint little boutiques and some amazing scenery.
You can catch a shuttle direct from Cairns for around $40. This will give you enough time to explore this great little town. The main street is great for shopping and they lots of great bakeries and cafes. The beach is a fifteen minute walk from the centre but it is well worth a stroll. If exploring is more what you are after head over to the harbour, it is a nice walk and you will not be disappointed when you get there. They have a small shopping centre and some great sea food restaurants where you can dine whilst over looking the harbour.
If you are in Port Douglas on a Sunday don't miss the local market where you can pick up everything from fruits and veggies to hand crafted artefacts. Once you have finished around the market take a stroll around Anzac Park.
9. Mooloolaba
Mooloolaba is a small little town on the Sunshine Coast but it has a lot too offer. The Esplanade is packed with cute little shops and cafes and the marina is picture perfect.
Underwater World is situated in the marina and is a great place for all ages. Here you can see some exotic marine life and if you are brave enough go diving with sharks. To see everything Underwater World has to offer you need to allow about four hours. They also have some great shows and presentations. Once you have finished at Underwater World take a walk around the marina, here you will find some great bars and restaurants. If you are on a budget take a look at the Hogs Breath Café they do some great meals at great prices.
If you are looking for some serious shopping catch the bus to Maroochydore. Here you will find the Sunset Plaza and probably every shop you can think of. You could quite easily spend all day shopping and not have enough time to go in every shop. They have got some great cafes but again if you are on a budget check out the food court for some cheap eats.
10. Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay is a great little place for a few days of relaxation. The beaches are idyllic and the water is clear. This is a great place to go fishing and one of the best places to go Whale and Dolphin watching.
Here you will find a small aquarium called Reef World. Here they show case a lot the marine life in the reef. You can also go Shark diving here as well.
The Whale and Dolphin watching operates between mid July and late October. Most tour operators guarantee sightings or you received a free trip.
by Candice Hoskins
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