Southern Queensland · Travel guide · Updated 2026

The Enchanting Southern Queensland: Australia's Hidden Gem

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Southern Queensland is a region of stunning diversity and beauty. From the pristine beaches of the Gold Coast to the lush rainforests of the hinterland, this area offers something for every traveler. Whether you're looking to relax on sandy shores, explore vibrant cities, or delve into natural wonders, Southern Queensland has it all. One of the highlights of Southern Queensland is the vibrant city of Brisbane. As the capital of Queensland, Brisbane boasts a lively arts scene, numerous museums, and beautiful parks. Don't miss a visit to South Bank, where you can enjoy riverside dining, stroll through the urban rainforest, and take a dip in the man-made Streets Beach. For nature lovers, the Scenic Rim is a must-visit. This region is home to World Heritage-listed rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning mountain ranges. Hiking trails abound, offering breathtaking views and the chance to spot native wildlife. Lamington and Springbrook National Parks are particularly popular for their scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems. The Gold Coast is famous for its long sandy beaches, excellent surf, and vibrant nightlife. Surfers Paradise is the heart of the action, with its bustling streets, high-rise buildings, and iconic beachfront. For a more laid-back experience, head to Burleigh Heads or Coolangatta, where you can enjoy relaxed beach vibes and pristine waters. Southern Queensland is also renowned for its wineries and gourmet food scene. The Granite Belt region, in particular, is known for its cool-climate wines and farm-to-table dining experiences. Take a wine tour, sample local produce, and enjoy the picturesque countryside views.

Mena Creek

Paronella Park

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Maleny

Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Ballandean

Girraween National Park

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Beerburrum

Glass House Mountains Lookout

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Castle Hill

Castle Hill Lookout

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Wooroonooran

Wooroonooran National Park

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Nandowrie

Carnarvon National Park

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Glass House Mountains

Glass House Mountains National Park

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

Herberton

Historic Village Herberton

Discover Southern Queensland: From Brisbane's lively arts scene to the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, this region has it all.

When is the best time to go to Southern Queensland?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsNov–Mar
Longest daylightOct–Mar
Driest periodJun–Aug

Explore places in Southern Queensland

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Southern Queensland sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Pacific Fair Shopping Centre

    Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, where coastal charm meets retail therapy.

    Pacific Fair Shopping Centre

    Westfield Chermside

    Discover a shopping paradise at Westfield Chermside, featuring over 400 stores, diverse dining options, and family-friendly amenities in Queensland.

    Westfield Chermside

    The Store Of Requirement Samford

    Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at The Store of Requirement, an enchanting gem in Samford Village.

    The Store Of Requirement Samford

    Australia the Gift - Head Office & Warehouse

    Explore Australia the Gift for unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of Australia, from art to apparel, perfect for every traveler.

    Australia the Gift - Head Office & Warehouse

    QAGOMA Store

    Explore the vibrant QAGOMA Store in South Brisbane for unique gifts, art books, and cultural treasures that celebrate Queensland’s artistic spirit.

    QAGOMA Store

    That Shop

    Explore That Shop in Paddington for unique clothing and accessories that capture the essence of local fashion and style.

    That Shop

    City Hall Gift Centre

    Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at City Hall Gift Centre in Brisbane, your go-to spot for memorable gifts and accessories.

    City Hall Gift Centre

    Australia the Gift - Australian Souvenir & Gift Store

    Discover authentic Australian souvenirs and gifts at Australia the Gift, your one-stop shop in Surfers Paradise for all things Aussie.

    Australia the Gift - Australian Souvenir & Gift Store

    The Collective Store

    Explore The Collective Store in Wynnum for unique gifts, handcrafted treasures, and stylish Australian goods that celebrate local artisans.

    The Collective Store

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Sydney opera house side view.jpg - Wikipedia
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    Explore Southern Queensland in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Gold Coast skyline.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Surfers Paradise, QLD skyline.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:River views of Brisbane CBD seen from Kangaroo Point, Queensland in  April 2019, 04.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Koala at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Brisbane, April 20 1014.  (14444960643).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Glasshouse Mountains Sunset (210719011).jpeg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Indian Head view on Fraser Island (May 2016).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Sunshine coast 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Lamington National Park, Queensland, Australia -treetops  walk-17June2010.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Noosa Beach, Noosa Heads, Queensland, 2020, 03.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:28 - South Bank Parklands (4741163759).jpg - Wikipedia

    Planning another trip?

    Continue exploring nearby country regions around Southern Queensland, from connected city edges to neighbouring counties, coastlines, and countryside escapes.

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