We reckon Brisbane is one of Australia’s coolest cities. There’s an amazing riverside vibe, fabulous nightlife and great weather. Another HUGE plus is that it’s really easy to enjoy weekend escapes from Brisbane and beyond. There’s a major international and domestic airport, a well-connected rail network, and some excellent road links, so you can escape the city when you fancy a change of scenery. From family holidays to romantic retreats or breaks with your mates, we’ve got a trusty guide to help you plan your weekend.
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Caloundra, Sunshine Coast > 95 km from Brisbane
If you want a fun, chill family weekend trip from Brisbane, Caloundra is the place to go. It’s at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast, and popular for its laid-back vibe and stunning coastline, and plenty going on for families.
Start your day with a walk along the Coastal Pathway and then head to the famous Kings Beach Saltwater Pool. You can also spend time browsing the local markets or taking part in one of the events that take place throughout the year. We reckon the best time to visit is between June and October, so you can go on a whale watching tour and get the chance to spot humpback whales as they migrate along the Queensland coast. And of course, for keen surfers, Caloundra is also a great place to take a surfing lesson.
Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort is perfect for families. It’s one of Australia’ leading family resorts and has all the things you need for a fun family break, including a stylish pool, on-site water park, adventure playground and roomy accommodation designed for families of all sizes. Adults and kids will be kept entertained and enjoy being on the Sunshine Coast.
Coolangatta, Gold Coast > 105 km from Brisbane
Coolangatta is a really popular place for a short break from Brisbane. There’s a nice mix of stunning beaches, waterfront dining and chilled atmosphere that people love visiting over and over. You’ll find it on the southern Gold Coast and is the perfect spot for both relaxing and some fun.
We reckon the beaches are worth exploring, with opportunities for water sports or simply chilling on the sand. You can also find plenty of cute shops and cafés overlooking the ocean. If you want to kick things up a notch in the evenings, venture up to Surfers Paradise! You’ll find plenty going on there.
Stay at the Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites so that you’re right on the beachfront. The apartments are roomy and come with everything you need for a weekend break. There’s also a lagoon-style swimming pool, tropical gardens and most importantly, direct access to the beach. Couples, families, and groups will love it, and you’ll love exploring the Gold Coast too.
Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast > 100 km from Brisbane
Mooloolaba is another popular spot on the Sunshine Coast, and it’s one of our faves for a weekend escape from Brisbane. The beaches are unreal and there’s a lively esplanade and relaxed coastal atmosphere, making it ideal for all types of visitors.
You’ll have to head to the famous Mooloolaba Beach, which is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while The Wharf Mooloolaba has restaurants, shopping and some great family entertainment. Visitors can also check out the region’s marine life at the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, enjoy a sunset cruise, or take in the amazing views from the Point Cartwright Lighthouse. And if you wanna stay close to all of it, Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel is the place to stay at. With direct access to Mooloolaba Main Beach, gym, spa and uninterrupted rooftop views you’ll have your best holidays ever.
Another option, just a short drive away in Alexandra Headland is the Oaks Sunshine Coast Seaforth Resort. It’s comfortable and convenient, and there’s plenty of space for guests in the spacious apartments. The views are unbelievable too and there’s swimming pools, spa facilities and close access to the nearby beaches.
Redcliffe / Moreton Bay > 35 km from Brisbane
If you’re looking for one of the closest weekend trips Brisbane has to offer, head to Redcliffe. It’s on the Moreton Bay Peninsula and will give you the break you’re looking for, without the long drive.
You won’t be short of things to do in Redcliffe. It’s a gorgeous spot for some long strolls, cycling and picnics on the beach. Top of your list should be the Settlement Cove Lagoon (which is also great for families), Suttons Beach and the stunning Moreton Bay Cycleway. If you want a little culture, the Redcliffe Art Gallery is worth a visit, as is the famous Bee Gees Way, which celebrates the legendary band members who spent some of their childhood here.
The Oaks Redcliffe Mon Komo Suites are chic, modern apartments that overlook the bay. The suites are roomy, and guests will love the swimming pool and its incredible views. There’s also a great selection of restaurants, cafés and bars nearby, and it’s really one of our favourite short breaks from Brisbane.
Ipswich > 40 km from Brisbane
If you want something a little different from classic Queensland’s coastal destinations, head to Ipswich. It’s got everything, including a bit of heritage, history and culture, so it’s perfect if you want a weekend that’s about more than just the beaches.
Ipswich has some amazing historic buildings, plus galleries and museums that give insight into its fascinating past. Spring is particularly popular thanks to the spectacular jacaranda blooms which are found on many of Ipswich’s streets. Check out some performances at the Ipswich Civic Centre, explore Queens Park or spend time discovering native plants at the Kholo Botanical Gardens.
Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites are right in the middle of the city, with some epic views. It’s got everything you’d expect from Oaks, including attractive rooms, a rooftop pool and convenient access to local attractions. It’s a good mix if you want to enjoy exploring the city but enjoy a bit of RnR too.
Toowoomba > 125 km from Brisbane
Toowoomba is known as Queensland’s ‘Garden City’ and is an excellent alternative short break from Brisbane if you fancy something different to the coast. There’s beautiful parks and gardens (over 150 of them!), rich heritage, and a cool arts scene. It can be a bit cooler because of its elevated location, and a very popular choice for a weekend away.
One of the city’s biggest events is the Carnival of Flowers during spring time (September - October), which attracts visitors from across Australia each year. Outside of the gardens, there are local art installations, colourful street art, and the incredibly popular Toowoomba Farmers Market. If you want a more active weekend, you can hike Table Top Mountain and enjoy the unforgettable views.
Stay at Oaks Toowoomba Hotel, and enjoy amazing facilities in a convenient and central location. The rooms and suites are modern and have their own balconies for chilling and looking over the city. The hotel is close to several restaurants and is within walking distance of the city’s main attractions, so you’ll have everything you need just outside your door.
Hervey Bay > 290 km from Brisbane
Hervey Bay may be a little further for a weekend escape from Brisbane than the other destinations on this list, but it makes a top long weekend away. It’s one of Australia’s best whale watching destinations and is perfect for a nature-themed weekend.
July to October are the months to visit if you want to enjoy a whale watching tour, as this is peak humpback whale season. And if you choose to visit another time, you can soak up the atmosphere on the beach, try some water sports, or check out the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens and Arkarra Lagoons.
Stay at the Oaks Hervey Bay Resort & Spa and enjoy a really fun weekend. It overlooks the marina, and has an amazing pool, stunning spa and rooms you won’t want to leave (although you should explore Hervey Bay!). It’s in a fantastic location with easy access to the Fraser Island ferry stops, so you can explore the Fraser Coast region easily.
To wrap it up!
We hope we’ve given you the inspiration you were looking for for some weekend trips from Brisbane. From family trips to the Sunshine Coast to romantic long weekends in Hervey Bay, there are a lot of great destinations to choose from. Everywhere is easy to get to thanks to excellent transport links, helping you see some of the best bits of Queensland. Most places are between an hour and a two-hour drive, so you won’t have to go far to enjoy beaches, wildlife, and a bit of culture too.
