10 Days in Queensland: Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and the Reef

Queensland is a travel dream in miniature: vibrant city life, sparkling coastlines, and a living aquarium that dazzles even seasoned explorers. In just 10 days, you can experience the cultural buzz of Brisbane, the sun-kissed beauty of the Sunshine Coast, and the world famous Great Barrier Reef. This itinerary blends city culture, laid back beaches, and unforgettable marine adventures into a single, unforgettable Queensland journey.

Introduction

If you crave a guided taste of Australia that spans urban sophistication, pristine nature, and a once-in-a-lifetime reef encounter, a 10 day escape through Queensland is hard to beat. Start with Brisbane, a modern city perched on the Brisbane River with a thriving arts scene and riverside dining. Then slow down on the Sunshine Coast, where rainforests meet golden beaches and Noosa's chic vibe steals the show. Finish with the reef, the ultimate Australian icon, where snorkeling or scuba diving among dazzling corals feels almost ceremonial.

This plan presents a practical route that minimizes backtracking while maximizing time on the ground. With careful planning, you’ll cover all three major highlights—Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and the Great Barrier Reef—without feeling rushed. The result is a balanced itinerary that appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers alike, with plenty of options to tailor to your interests.

Itinerary at a glance

• Day 1-2: Brisbane – city at the river, cultural heart, and scenic viewpoints
• Day 3-5: Sunshine Coast – Noosa and beyond, beaches, markets, and nature
• Day 6-10: The Great Barrier Reef region – Cairns or Port Douglas for reef adventures

Now, let’s dive into a detailed plan you can use as a blueprint for your own Australian adventure.

Day by Day Detailed Plan

Days 1-2: Explore Brisbane, the River City

What to do and see

• South Bank precinct: parklands, markets, riverside dining, and the famous Wheel of Brisbane
• Museums and galleries: Queensland Museum, Sciencentre, and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
• Mount Coot-tha Lookout: sweeping views of the city and the surrounding countryside
• CityBotanic Gardens and riverfront walks: easy, scenic strolls and coffee stops
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (optional day trip): cuddle a koala and meet friendly kangaroos
• River cruise or CityCat ride: see Brisbane from the water, a relaxing way to unwind after a day on foot

Sample two-day plan

• Day 1: Arrive, settle in, and explore South Bank
  • Breakfast by the river, stroll through sculpture walks, ride the Wheel for city views
  • Afternoon: Queensland Museum or GOMA, followed by dinner at Eagle Street Pier
• Day 2: Culture, cafés, and lookout vistas
  • Morning visit to Mount Coot-tha for panoramic city views
  • Lunch in New Farm or West End, then a stroll along the river or a short river cruise
  • Evening at a riverside restaurant or a live show in the CBD

Practical tips for Brisbane

• Getting around: Brisbane’s public transport is efficient and easy to navigate. Use ferries (CityCat) for scenic river travel and trains for quicker hops around town.
• Where to stay: South Bank is popular for its proximity to dining and culture; Brisbane City or Fortitude Valley offer a more urban vibe.

Days 3-5: Sunshine Coast – Noosa, Nature, and Beach Vibes

Why the Sunshine Coast is ideal after Brisbane

The Sunshine Coast is a short drive or train ride from Brisbane, yet feels miles away in pace. It’s a region of pristine beaches, lush hinterland, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Noosa is the crown jewel, but the quiet towns of Mooloolaba and Coolum offer a quieter rhythm and excellent beaches.

What to do and see

• Noosa Heads and Noosa National Park: famous coastal walks with whale watching in season, and sheltered coves for swimmers
• Hastings Street: chic dining and boutique shopping
• Noosa Main Beach: gentle waves, excellent for families
• Noosa Everglades Kayak or Electric Boat Tour: a serene waterway experience
• Eumundi Markets (Wednesday and Saturday): local crafts, food stalls, and live music
• Glass House Mountains: scenic drives and viewpoint stops for dramatic landscapes
• Mooloolaba Beach and Wharf: family friendly and great seafood options

Two or three day plan

• Day 3: Travel to Noosa, base yourself in Noosa Heads
  • Morning arrival and a coastal walk in Noosa National Park
  • Afternoon on Hastings Street with a beachfront lunch
• Day 4: Noosa Everglades and hinterland
  • Take a day trip that includes a kayak tour through Noosa River or a guided Everglades excursion
• Day 5: Beach day and Hinterland explores
  • Optional stop at the Glass House Mountains for a coffee break with a view
  • Evening in Noosa or drive to Mooloolaba for a different vibe

Practical tips for the Sunshine Coast

• Getting around: A car provides flexibility to explore beaches and hinterland towns. If you prefer public transport, trains connect Brisbane to the coast, and local buses cover major towns.
• Where to stay: Noosa is perfect for a stylish, relaxed base; Mooloolaba is fantastic for families and water activities.

Days 6-10: The Great Barrier Reef – Cairns, Port Douglas, and Reef Adventures

Why end with the reef

The Great Barrier Reef is Australia’s most iconic natural wonder. To experience it at its best, focus on Cairns or Port Douglas, where daily reef trips and protected national parks create a golden reef itinerary. Five days gives you reef time plus rainforest and island experiences.

Getting there from the Sunshine Coast

• Fly from Sunshine Coast to Cairns or Port Douglas (usually with a connection in Brisbane or another Australian city). If you’re pressed for time, flying from Brisbane direct to Cairns is a straightforward option.
• From Cairns, you’ll find a wide range of reef trips and day cruises that depart from the city’s marina.

What to do and see

• Outer Reef day trip: Snorkel or dive among vivid corals, tropical fish, and perhaps turtles. Many tours offer semi-submersible viewing for non-swimmers.
• Green Island or Fitzroy Island: Easy day trips that combine snorkeling, beaches, and optional glass-bottom boat tours.
• Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation: A full-day rainforest adventure that showcases ancient ecosystems and stunning river views.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail (optional add-on): A scenic detour back to Cairns, offering a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest.

Sample five-day reef-focused plan

• Day 6: Travel to Cairns and settle in
  • Check into a hotel near the esplanade, enjoy a waterfront dinner
• Day 7: Outer Reef cruise
  • Full-day snorkeling or introductory scuba course, lunch included on board
• Day 8: Green Island or Fitzroy Island
  • Short ferry ride, relaxed island adventures, sea kayaking, or snorkeling
• Day 9: Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
  • Guided tour or self-guided exploration with a guide for immersion into the rainforest
• Day 10: Free day and departure
  • Last minute shopping on the Cairns waterfront, or a light morning walk
  • Fly out from Cairns or Port Douglas depending on flight times

Alternatively, Port Douglas is a quieter reef gateway with access to the Outer Reef, Agincourt Reef, and the iconic Low Isles. If you want a more intimate reef experience or a boutique base, Port Douglas is a superb option.

Practical reef travel tips

• Best time to visit: May to October generally offers calmer seas and clearer water, ideal for snorkeling and diving. November to April brings warmer water and a higher chance of stingers; wear a wetsuit and stinger suit on reef trips during this period.
• What to bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, lightweight clothing, reef-friendly insect repellent, and a dry bag for water activities.
• Reef etiquette: Do not touch corals, keep a respectful distance from marine life, and follow the guide’s instructions during snorkel trips.

Practical tips for the entire trip

Getting there and getting around

• Best routes: Fly into Brisbane to start your journey; fly to Cairns or Port Douglas to reach the reef section. Domestic flights within Queensland are frequent and reliable.
• Ground travel: Consider a rental car for the Sunshine Coast to maximize flexibility. For the reef section, most travelers rely on organized tours for reef access, though some ports offer shuttle options to the boats.

Where to stay

• Brisbane: South Bank or CBD areas for easy access to sights and nightlife
• Sunshine Coast: Noosa Heads for a chic, easygoing vibe; Mooloolaba for a family-friendly beach scene
• Cairns/Port Douglas: Choose your base by reef access needs; Cairns is convenient for day trips, Port Douglas is more laid-back and close to outer reef experiences

Packing list essentials

• Light, breathable clothing for warm days
• A light rain jacket or windbreaker (Queensland weather can be changeable)
• Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Waterproof camera or dry bag for reef days
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
• Snorkel gear if you own and prefer a personal fit (many tours provide gear, but you may want your own)

Food, culture, and local experiences

• Brisbane has a thriving dining scene. For a taste of the city, explore dining precincts along Eagle Street Pier and Fortitude Valley
• The Sunshine Coast offers farmers markets and seafood eateries. Eumundi Markets are a great place to sample local produce and handmade goods
• On the reef, most day trips include meals. In Cairns and Port Douglas you’ll find a mix of modern Australian cuisine with tropical influences

Responsible travel and reef conservation

• Choose reef-friendly operators that follow best practices to protect corals and marine life
• Respect wildlife and local rules on protected islands and in the reef
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching corals or wildlife
• Support local communities by choosing locally owned accommodations and tour operators

Health and safety considerations

• Hydration and sun protection are essential in tropical Queensland
• Jellyfish season requires caution; follow local safety advisories and swim in designated areas
• If you have a sea sickness history, plan ahead for boat trips with appropriate precautions

Conclusion

A 10 day escape through Queensland captures a quintessential mix of Australia: dynamic urban culture, pristine coastlines, and the awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef. By starting in Brisbane, moving to the sun-kissed beaches of the Sunshine Coast, and finally delving into reef adventures around Cairns or Port Douglas, you create a complete, well-paced travel experience. It’s a journey that appeals to first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, offering options to tailor the itinerary to your pace and interests.

If you dream of a trip that blends artful city strolls with island breezes and underwater wonder, this Queensland itinerary delivers. You’ll leave with memories of vibrant city nights, sunlit shores, and a reef that hums with color and life. The Land of Smiles, sunshine, and sea awaits.

Would you like me to tailor this plan even further to match your travel dates, pace, and preferred reef hub (Cairns vs Port Douglas)? I can adjust the itinerary to fit specific flight times, accommodation budgets, or family-friendly needs, and suggest a ready-to-book checklist with recommended tours and operators.