It’s always summer somewhere in the world, and while we wait for spring to break through the grey skies at home, we’re daydreaming of sunny Queensland — a place where summer feels like it never ends. Located in beautiful northeastern Australia, it’s home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes, prized for its golden beaches, incredible seafood restaurants, and, of course, some of the best access to the Great Barrier Reef.
Just a short two-and-a-half-hour flight from Melbourne to Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Sunshine Coast, or Townsville airports, Queensland is a sizeable destination with many unique spots to relax in luxury or immerse yourself in nature.
Known among Australians as a laid-back holiday spot for sun, surf, and relaxation, we had the chance to do as the Aussies do and soak in the tropical vibes across the state, including Palm Cove, Magnetic Island, and Port Douglas. While the goal was to experience the Great Barrier Reef from multiple access points, there was no shortage of gorgeous beaches and less adventurous delights along the way.
If Townsville happens to be your entry point to Queensland, you’re in luck: The Ardo, a buzzing new boutique hotel, has just opened. Sure to be the perfect home base for exploring neighbouring Magnetic Island, Ardo brings a new level of luxury to Townsville. Mixing refined tropical design with a relaxed coastal aesthetic, the hotel is light and airy, with warm cork floors, trendy terrazzo finishes, and a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Coral Sea.
Equal parts serene and sophisticated, guests can unwind at the day spa or dine at one of three standout restaurants: Marmor, an elegant steak and seafood spot focusing on premium local produce; Terasu, a sleek modern Japanese eatery; and Ardo Rooftop, a laid-back open-air bar serving cocktails and coastal bites with sweeping ocean views.
We felt immediately at home in Ardo’s rooms, which combine natural textures with clean, contemporary design to create a calm, elegant tropical sanctuary. Larger suites and one-bedroom apartments offer generous balconies and outdoor baths, perfect for soaking in panoramic views of the Coral Sea.
From there, we swapped island bays for coastal calm as we experienced Magnetic Island through the lens of Aquascene, a private charter run by locals with an intimate knowledge of the island, its history, and its wildlife. From secluded beaches tucked into quiet bays to the best reef spots teeming with marine life and dramatic granite landscapes, they guided us to hidden gems we’d never have found on our own. Along the way, they pointed out rock wallabies, interacted with bird species (there are more than 180 on the island), and shared stories only true insiders would know. We anchored at quiet spots for snorkeling and stopped at a completely deserted beach for the most peaceful lunch in the sand, with waves gently rolling in.
With the reef still calling, we hopped on a flight the nexy day heading to Palm Cove, a peaceful coastal village nestled between the Coral Sea and rainforest. Known for its laid-back luxury, palm-lined beaches, and spa culture, Palm Cove was bustling during our visit — think tropical Miami with just a hint of affluent retiree.
The Reef House provided a calm retreat after long days exploring. It isn’t just a place to unwind—it’s a sanctuary for wellness, offering guests a holistic experience that goes beyond luxury. Each room comes equipped with custom herbal tea blends and a sleep support guide designed to help visitors fully recharge after days spent exploring the reef and rainforest. Paired with their signature spa treatments and tranquil beachfront setting, The Reef House truly embodies restful, mindful relaxation.
Just down the road, local hotspot Nu Nu offered one of the most memorable dinners of our trip. Set right on the sand, Nu Nu is world-renowned for its bold, tropical-inspired dishes that celebrate Far North Queensland’s local produce. Chef Nick Holloway’s menu draws inspiration from the rainforest, reef, and farms, blending native ingredients with Asian influences. True to Queensland’s casual and breezy style, the restaurant was adorned with fresh fruit displays including huge green banana bunches hanging like chandeliers.
When it comes to exploring the reef itself, there’s really no better choice than Wavelength Reef Cruises. Departing from Port Douglas, the day feels more like joining a marine science mission than a typical snorkel tour. Wavelength visits lesser-known reef sites not frequented by other operators, offering fewer crowds and pristine coral gardens teeming with clownfish, giant clams, reef sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.
The 90-minute ride to the outer reef can be rough — and it certainly was for us — but owners John and Jenny Edmondson, along with their warm, expert team of Master Reef Guides and marine biologists, made the journey unforgettable. Their pioneering conservation work includes the patented Coralclip, a device that helps damaged coral regrow quickly and without chemicals. So far, they’ve replanted over 78,000 coral fragments — many of which we saw firsthand at one of the dive sites. It’s conservation in action, and one of the most meaningful ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef.
From reef dives to rooftop cocktails, Queensland delivered a dream-worthy escape packed with sunshine, sea life, and serious flavour. Whether you’re soaking in a Coral Sea sunset or snorkelling alongside turtles in a secluded reef, this part of Australia blends laid-back luxury with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. For anyone chasing a little more sun and soul, Queensland is calling — we’re already dreaming of the next trip back.