Beyond Queensland's 4,300 miles of stunning coastline, there are 900 islands surrounded by turquoise water waiting to be explored. In addition to white-sand beaches, many isles offer easy reef access, lush rain forests and abundant wildlife. Don't miss the Whitsundays' famed Whitehaven Beach or kayaking around Hinchinbrook Island.
Truly spectacular and one of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system. It's home to 1,500 species of fish and 600 types of coral. Even if you have no plans to scuba dive, there are other ways to experience this wonder, including snorkeling, scenic flights and sailing.
Australia's iconic wildlife are found in droves throughout Queensland, but if you don't manage to bump into a wallaby during a bushwalk, you can encounter the fuzzy fellows (and their famous friends, kangaroos and koalas) in the state's world-class zoos and sanctuaries, including Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast.
When travelers put together their Australia must-dos, the same five experiences top the list for most: wildlife, reef, outback, cities and beaches. Tick these boxes in Queensland, where an annual 300 days of sun means that you can learn to surf, watch camels race through the outback and cuddle a koala under sunny skies.
Gourmet goodness awaits whether hunting for eats at a farmers market on the Sunshine Coast or a fine-dining spot in Brisbane. Look for regional specialties like mud crabs and tiger prawns, or try a pawpaw -- one of the many fruits that thrive in the climate. Sample vintners' works from Queensland's up-and-coming wine regions.
