Ready for a road trip? Before you pack the car, explore our list of the best day trips from Brisbane!

Brisbane is the home to boozy bottomless brunches, beautiful picnic spots, cool coffee shops and cafes, scenic walking tracks in the city and so much more. But, if you’ve come this far, we bet that you want to leave the bustle of Brisbane, even if it is just for a day.

So, if you’re wanting some adventure by stepping outside of the city and explore more of what Queensland has to offer — whether it is just for a day, a weekend or maybe even a week — this list proves that the sunshine state has plenty for you to explore.

For some inspiration and travel tips, read on through our list of the best day trip destinations from Brisbane:

1. Noosa

Did you know that a two-hour drive north out of Brisbane will land you at one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia? Welcome to Noosa, the popular holiday destination where Noosa Main Beach takes centre stage. Apart from the gorgeous, crystal-clear water beach that is a hotspot for surfers, snorkellers and paddle-boarders, Noosa is also famed for its pockets of serenity and exceptional hospitality. A town like no other, here you’ll find a blissful blend of bushland, boutiques, bars, beaches and much more. It’s the destination where relaxation and luxury go hand-in-hand. One of the best day trips from Brisbane!

2. North Stradbroke Island

If you’re in search of a short day trip from Brisbane, hop on board a ferry from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island — Queensland’s very own slice of paradise. The two-hour journey from Brisbane’s CBD will land you on the second largest sand island in the world. This day trip destination is perfect for nature lovers and foodies alike. Spend your day immersing in the local culture, strolling through a cruisy nature walk, sunbathing on world-famous beaches or, enjoy some unique tipples and eats. With something for everyone, Stradbroke Island can be as relaxing, adventurous, immersive, romantic and, most importantly, as unforgettable as what you make it! Keen to learn more? Check out this list of the Top Things to Do on North Stradbroke Island.

North Stradbroke Island. Photography by Camila Se. Image via Shutterstock

3. South Burnett

One of the Best Wine Regions in Queensland, South Burnett is also the perfect destination for a scenic (and slightly boozy) day trip. Located three-and-a-half-hours out of Brisbane, this region, nestled within the massive rainforests and lakes that define southeast Queensland, is packed with a long list of vineyards and cellar doors. Apart from the robust cabernet sauvignon and merlot varieties that make this wine region so world renowned, South Burnett is packed with plenty of breathtaking things to do. Here you can pack a picnic and pay a visit to Lake Boondooma, stop for a snack at one of the many heritage-listed peanut silos or, to get the body pumping, you can bicycle or fish at one of the many spots around town too.

4. Springbrook

If you’re keen to see a different side to the Gold Coast, take a detour when going down south and explore the hinterland region of Springbrook. Home to the ancient Springbrook National Park, the area is also renowned for plenty of other natural wonders including the Natural Bridge, Purling Brook Falls and, the aptly named, Best of All Lookout. Hungry hikers can refuel at one of the many local cafes and, you can even stay the night at the Springbrook Mountain Chalets or the Springbrook Lyrebird Retreat. Regardless if you’re here for a day or a few nights, Springbrook will always be famed for being one of the best day trip destinations from Brisbane for nature lovers. You’ll just have to experience it for yourself!

Natural Bridge Springbrook. Photographed by Set In Stone Media. Image via Tourism and Events Queensland

5. Stanthorpe

A bit further away than others, Stanthorpe still makes for one of the best day trips from Brisbane. Located in the Granite Belt region, Stanthorpe is known for its rich farmland, wineries and orchards. This rural destination is a haven for foodies and a true escape for luxury lovers. With everything from villas to glamping and creek-side cottages, Stanthorpe has something for every budget. A breath of fresh air, no trip to Stanthorpe would be complete without a walk through the rugged and granite outcrop-filled Girraween National Park that lies to the south of this quaint rural town.

Girraween National Park Stanthorpe. Image via Tourism and Events Queensland

6. Tangalooma

Despite being a fairly popular destination for Brisbane locals, Tangalooma is a fantastic holiday spot for anyone who loves the water. You can explore this magnificent island on land, in the water and in the air. Snorkel through the man-made Tangalooma Wrecks, go kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, drive along the sand dunes in quad bikes, or for the less faint-hearted, you can even try your hand at parasailing! With so many things to do on this picturesque island setting, Tangalooma is a place you’ll never want to leave.

Tangalooma Wrecks. Image via Tourism and Events Queensland

From the bush to the beach, pitch your tent at the Best Campgrounds and Camping Spots in Queensland. Or chase your way through this list of the Best Waterfalls in Queensland.