6 Best Summer Holiday Destinations
Enjoying year-round sub-tropical warmth, Brisbane dwellers know a thing or two about making the most out of the heat when summer arrives. Here are six of the best summer holiday destinations in balmy Brisbane and its regions that locals love, and we think you will too.
1. Brisbane City and surrounds
Our first suggestion should come as no surprise, but Brisbane City and its surrounding suburbs are no stranger to heat and are well equipped to cool you down. Chill out at one of the many summer-perfect hotels where you can spend a day lounging by and plunging into one of the gorgeous pools, enjoy refreshing cocktails in each of the hotels’ in-house restaurants and bars, and rest easy in luxurious bedding and aircon. Try W Brisbane, The Westin Brisbane, Hyatt Regency Brisbane, Amora Hotel Brisbane, and InterContinental Brisbane all found in the heart of The City. Find Hotel X, The Emporium Hotel South Bank, Crystalbrook Vincent, Novotel South Bank and The Calile Hotel in the surrounding suburbs for a dose of chilled, breezy vibes.
For those who can draw themselves away from their sunlounges, Brisbane offers a multitude of open-air shopping destinations from iconic local boutiques in James Street and Paddington to high-end luxury stores in The City.
If you want to explore while staying in the aircon, wander through one of the many cool museums in Brisbane. Start at the Museum of Brisbane where you can discover the stories and artists shaping this City. Next, voyage across the bridge to Brisbane’s Cultural Centre in South Bank. Take your time as you meander around the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), experience a live performance at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), be wowed by natural and ancient history at the Queensland Museum, then enjoy a refuelling feast along Fish Lane.
Feel the wind in your sails when you explore Brisbane on the river. Take a refreshing ride with Jet Ski Tours Brisbane, hire a private GoBoat and cruise away an afternoon picnicking on the water, or party it up on YOT Club or Oasis Brisbane to cruise the river in style.
2. Moreton Island/Mulgumpin
Moreton Island/Mulgumpin’s pristine beaches make it an easy choice for holidaymakers come summertime. From adrenaline-fuelled activities, to snorkelling and nature experiences, there’s so much adventure to be had on this tranquil haven.
Only 25km from Brisbane’s shoreline, ferry services make it easy to access Moreton Island/Mulgumpin, as well as the range of accommodation, from the comfortable to the luxurious for those longer stays. Many choose to stay at Tangalooma Island Resort, where you can take your pick of outdoor adventures, including helicopter rides and water activities.
When it comes to food, never fear, you won’t have to fish for your supper on this island getaway. There are plenty of enticing eateries to visit while you’re cast away. Think fresh seafood, delicious cocktails, classic pub feeds and beachside café meals.
3. North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah
Jump on a Sealink ferry from Cleveland for a 45-minute trip bound for North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah and prepare to be transported to an oasis that feels a world away from the bustle of life. This sprawling island, with its depth of history, striking beaches, and beautiful views, presents one of the best summer holiday destinations for families, friends and couples alike.
From retro beach shacks to glamping, North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah accommodation inspires a sense of adventure. There’s no shortage of things to keep holidaymakers entertained and intrigued all summer long. From cultural tours and nature walks to swimming in crystal-clear water or tea-tree-infused lakes, there’s something for everyone to do on the island. And yet, the ultimate thing to do on the island is relax and unwind.
Be it a gelato store, a bush food tasting or a brewery tour with a view, the food experiences are sure to excite the senses on this verdant island off the Redlands Coast.
4. Scenic Rim
An escape filled with country hospitality and old-world charm, the Scenic Rim and its heritage-listed rainforests form a lush, green oasis during hot summer days. Spend days in the cooling shade of ancient trees, visit vineyards and enjoy their wares alfresco, chase waterfalls to take a cooling dip in creeks and swimming holes, or feel the breeze when you try your hand at hang-gliding.
If food is something you map out your summer holidays around, you’ve arrived in the right region. In the Scenic Rim, there’s an abundance of producers – from cheesemakers to brewers or distillers – world-class restaurants, top-notch cellar doors and innovative chefs. Hop between the wineries, distilleries and breweries of the region; discover the best eateries in the Scenic Rim, or take a gourmet tour with an expert guide.
And, whether you want to sleep among the wilderness in a glamping tent, tree-top stay or eco-pod, wish to wake up to animals at a farm stay, or prefer the modcons of a luxurious hotel getaway, you’re bound to find your ideal accommodation in the Scenic Rim.
5. Moreton Bay Region
For many, the idea of the best summer holidays in Brisbane (and beyond) likely prompts images of alfresco dining beneath the sunshine, seaside drinks, walks along the waterfront and days on the water. If you’re planning to visit the Moreton Bay region, that’s exactly what you can expect. This coastal region made up of seaside villages, ticks all the boxes worth listing on a summer holiday.
So, where do you start? Cool down at the region’s local public pools, including a pristine lagoon and outdoor water park, discover its best beaches (including Bribie Island) and visit its peaceful hinterland. Or, jump on a jet ski, boat or gondola and get out on the water, take a day tour, or immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region – there’s endless things to do in Moreton Bay.
When it comes to eating and drinking in Moreton Bay during the summer months, it’s all about fresh seafood eaten outside with a water view, open-air winery experiences, market strolling and seaside picnics.
Stay a while this summer at one of Moreton Bay’s enticing accommodation offerings. There’s a location to suit all tastes with apartments, glamping tents, winemakers’ cottages, waterfront hotels suites and bush retreats awaiting visitors from near and far.
6. Redlands Coast Region
Just a 35-minute drive from the centre of Brisbane, the Redlands Coast region offers an easy getaway by the bay and plenty of activities for people of all ages.
The Redlands Coast has a little bit of everything, from wineries, bayside parks, islands galore – including one that you can walk to from the mainland, and botanic gardens. With so much to explore, you may want to stay for a few nights, alongside island camping, accommodation on the Redlands Coast includes rainforest retreats, winery glamping, refurbished fishing cottages and island holiday houses.
When it comes to food on the Redlands Coast, a bounty of flavourful experiences await. From petite cafes to farmhouse restaurants, waterfront bars to French bistros, your appetite is the only limit to dining in this sunny region of Brisbane.
Plan to visit Brisbane and its regions and make the most of your summer season in Brisbane.
