Brisbane

Elegant, tree-lined streets full of shopping with a multitude of laneways, small bars, and boutique hotels, Fortitude Valley is the place to watch the day turn into night. But it’s not just a high end shopping hub, Fortitude Valley is home to a burgeoning dining scene that takes full advantage of the year round warm weather and sun soaked days. Quaint kerbside cafes and gelaterias, sprawling beer gardens, and rooftop pool bars are the norm here. We recommend checking out Cielo to enjoy some drinks and rare tracks played by Brisbane’s top DJs as you watch the sun go down over the city. Perhaps something a bit more secret is your flavour? Head over to Ann Street and check out Savile Row, one of Australia’s top rated cocktail bars, full of solid banter, top notch drinks, and boutique lounging.

If it’s all getting too hot, then head to Southbank Parklands to have a swim at Streets Beach. With the cityscape framed in front, this spectacular man made lagoon has white sandy beaches surrounded by lush botanical gardens. As the sun sets, grab a cocktail at one of the many outdoor bars. Looking for alfresco dining, the arts, and theatre? Then once again, you’ve come to the right spot. Home to some of Brisbane’s best restaurants and cultural offerings, South Bank won’t let you down.

This calming boardwalk runs along Brisbane River and takes in some of the most idyllic suburbs and city views. The set route takes you from New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves precinct on the edge of the Brisbane CBD. If you’re looking to surpass your daily steps, start at Teneriffe and wind past the city to the Botanic Gardens. It’s the ultimate power walk if you need to curb some calories off of that backpacker diet.

Get on island time with North Stradbroke Island, only a short ferry ride away. If you’ve got a 4WD handy, get some sand on those wheels and rip into the vast off-roading. The beach driving here is epic! If not, holler at one of the several companies on the island to show you around properly without the risk of bogging your ride. There’s plenty of things to do on this island from fishing along Home Beach, to surfing the sand dunes. Or surfing actual waves – perfect for beginner or advanced. Check out Naree Budjong Djara National Park (home of Blue Lake), and tours with local Aboriginal guides to learn about the Quandamooka people, artifacts, hunting methods, bush tucker, bush medicines, and heaps more.

Moreton Island sits just off of East Coast Australia, a short drive and ferry ride from the Queensland capital. The world’s third largest sand island (K’Gari/Fraser Island is the biggest!) is packed full of incredible adventure and things to do. We recommend booking a one day tour from Brisbane so you have enough time to explore the fabulous activities on offer.
Personally we always recommend the snorkelling on the Tangalooma Wrecks as it’s one of the best snorkel spots in Australia and the biggest attraction on Moreton Island. Ultimately how you spend your day is totally down to you!