The Best Weekend Getaway Destinations From Brisbane
- Hayley Yerbury
- Oct 12, 2025
- 6 min read
Looking for the perfect weekend escape from Brisbane?
From sun-soaked beaches to serene hinterlands, Queensland offers a wealth of destinations ideal for a short break.
In this guide, we explore the best spots to unwind, recharge, and explore, including Noosa, Mooloolaba, Byron Bay, Broadbeach, North Stradbroke Island, Tamborine Mountain, Maleny, Springbrook National Park, Lamington National Park, and the Southern Downs and Granite Belt.
Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, these destinations promise memorable weekends away not far from the city.
Noosa
Just 150km and a two-hour drive from Brisbane, Noosa is the perfect weekend escape offering a mix of relaxation, nature, and coastal charm.
Its stunning beaches, tranquil national park trails, and vibrant dining scene make it ideal for unwinding or exploring.
Stroll along Hastings Street’s boutique shops and cafés, kayak through the Noosa Everglades, or watch the sunset from Noosa Main Beach.
With luxury resorts, scenic hinterland villages, and year-round warm weather, Noosa blends sophistication with natural beauty.
Whether you’re after adventure, romance, or pure relaxation, this iconic Sunshine Coast destination delivers the ultimate short break from city life.
Where to stay:
Maleny
Just 95km and a 90-minute drive from Brisbane, Maleny is a serene weekend getaway nestled in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Known for its rolling green hills, panoramic Glass House Mountain views, and charming village atmosphere, it’s the perfect escape for nature lovers and romantics alike.
Wander through lush rainforests at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, browse boutique shops and art galleries, or enjoy local produce at cosy cafés and farm-to-table restaurants.
With inviting cottages, scenic drives, and a slower pace of life, Maleny offers a refreshing blend of tranquillity and creativity, which makes it an ideal retreat to recharge and reconnect away from the city.
Where to stay:
Mooloolaba
Just over 100km and an hour from Brisbane, Mooloolaba is a vibrant coastal escape combining laid-back beach vibes with modern style.
Its golden beaches and calm surf make it perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water.
The bustling Esplanade is lined with oceanfront cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Explore the Mooloolaba Wharf, enjoy fresh seafood straight from the trawlers, or take a scenic cruise along the coastline.
With luxury apartments, beachfront bars, and endless sunshine, Mooloolaba is the best weekend getaway destination for those seeking fun, flavour, and relaxation by the sea.
Where to stay:
North Stradbroke Island
Just a short 25-minute fast-ferry ride from Cleveland in Brisbane’s outer bayside suburbs, North Stradbroke Island is a tranquil escape ideal for a weekend getaway.
You can also opt to take the vehicle ferry, and you’ll arrive with your car in around 45-50 minutes from Cleveland.
Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coastal landscapes, it’s perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun.
You can also explore scenic walking trails, spot wildlife like kangaroos and koalas, or unwind at peaceful freshwater lakes.
The island’s relaxed vibe, charming cafés, and locally run accommodations create a refreshing contrast to city life.
Whether you’re after adventure, nature, or quiet relaxation, North Stradbroke Island offers a memorable coastal retreat just a short journey from Brisbane.
Where to stay:
Tamborine Mountain
Just 60km and an hour’s drive from Brisbane, Tamborine Mountain is a charming hinterland retreat perfect for a weekend getaway.
Surrounded by lush rainforest, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts, it offers endless opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and relaxation.
Discover local art galleries, boutique shops, and cosy cafés, or indulge in wine tasting at nearby vineyards.
The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk and the Glow Worm Caves add adventure and magic to your visit.
With peaceful accommodation options and a welcoming village atmosphere, Tamborine Mountain blends natural beauty, creativity, and tranquillity, making it an ideal escape from the city to recharge and reconnect with nature.
Where to stay:
Broadbeach
Just 85km and under an hour and a half from Brisbane, Broadbeach is a lively coastal escape perfect for a weekend getaway.
Famous for its golden beaches and sparkling surf, it’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing by the ocean.
The area boasts a vibrant dining scene, with stylish cafés, restaurants, and bars along the Esplanade.
You can explore the nearby Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, enjoy live entertainment, or try your luck at The Star Gold Coast casino.
With luxury resorts, modern apartments, and a buzzing yet relaxed atmosphere, Broadbeach offers the perfect mix of beachside fun, leisure, and convenience for a quick coastal escape from Brisbane.
Where to stay:
Byron Bay
Just 165km and under two hours from Brisbane, Byron Bay is a vibrant and iconic coastal getaway perfect for a weekend escape.
Known for its stunning beaches, dramatic headlands, and laid-back lifestyle, it offers endless opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sun-soaked relaxation.
Wander through boutique shops, artisanal markets, and eclectic cafés, or hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.
Wellness enthusiasts can also enjoy yoga, spa treatments, and holistic experiences. At the same time, food lovers will delight in Byron’s farm-to-table dining.
With its unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxed charm, Byron Bay promises a rejuvenating and memorable weekend retreat.
Where to stay:
Springbrook National Park
Just 90km and a little over an hour from Brisbane, Springbrook National Park is a breathtaking hinterland escape and one of the best weekend getaway destinations from Brisbane.
Renowned for its lush rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, the park offers endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography.
Wander along the Natural Bridge, hike to serene lookouts, or explore the walking trails through ancient forests filled with vibrant birdlife.
With cosy hinterland accommodations nearby, peaceful picnic spots, and the calming sounds of nature, Springbrook provides a refreshing contrast to city life.
It’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking adventure, tranquillity, and a deep connection with nature.
Where to stay:
Lamington National Park
Just 115km and around two hours from Brisbane, Lamington National Park is a spectacular weekend getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, it features ancient trees, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls.
Visitors can explore over 160 km of walking trails, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, spotting wildlife such as glow worms, birds, and pademelons along the way.
With scenic lookouts, picnic areas, and nearby hinterland villages offering cosy accommodations, Lamington combines adventure with relaxation.
Its serene environment and natural beauty make it the perfect escape from city life, offering rejuvenation and connection with nature.
Where to stay:
Southern Downs & Granite Belt
Just 150km and around two hours from Brisbane, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt offer a charming weekend getaway filled with natural beauty, gourmet experiences, and relaxation.
Known for its rolling vineyards, boutique wineries, and local produce, the region is perfect for wine tasting, farm-to-table dining, and artisanal shopping.
Explore quaint towns like Stanthorpe and Warwick, enjoy scenic drives through granite-strewn landscapes, or wander national parks featuring waterfalls and walking trails.
With cosy bed-and-breakfasts, luxury retreats, and a peaceful hinterland atmosphere, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt provide a refreshing escape from city life.
It’s the best weekend getaway destination for foodies, nature lovers, and those seeking a luxury city escape.
Where to stay:
Ready to discover the best weekend getaway destinations from Brisbane?
From beach escapes to mountain retreats, these weekend getaways from Brisbane offer the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
Whether you crave coastal sunshine, rainforest serenity, or gourmet indulgence, there’s a destination to suit every mood and season.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the best of Queensland just a short drive away.
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