Brisbane is a top choice for many travelers to Australia for its creative and laid-back lifestyle.
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You could easily fill your days in Brisbane just with activities and things to do in Brisbane city itself, but we really urge you to plan a few extra days in Brisbane so you can explore further.
Located just outside the city are some of the best attractions Australia has to offer, and their proximity to the city makes them perfect for short day trips from Brisbane.
You’ll be amazed at the places within a short trip from Brisbane, from islands and national parks to charming country towns. Whether you are looking for adventurous Brisbane tours or Brisbane day trips that allow you to escape to the outdoors, there is something for everyone within easy reach of the city.
Here are the top Brisbane tours we recommend to add to your itinerary:
Stradbroke Island Day Tour
Duration: 9 hours
Price: $108 USD ($168 AUD) approx.
A must when it comes to day trips from Brisbane is a Stradbroke Island Day Tour. On this day trip, you’ll discover Queensland’s most popular island, affectionately known as ‘Straddie’ by the locals. Enjoy a 40-minute cruise across Moreton Bay to North Stradbroke Island, where you’ll explore its National Park, which is managed and cultivated by the aboriginal Quandamooka people.
Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world and is worth the visit for its beautiful beaches, forest, and wildlife. Plus, the crystal clear waters surrounding the North Stradbroke Island are perfect for a swim any time of the year. Or you can head to the Point Lookout and spot dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and even humpback whales.
The tour will also take you to visit a tea-tree lake where you are free to swim if you wish, and then onto the North Gorge.
This Brisbane tour costs around $108 USD ($168 AUD), depending on your travel dates. But the good thing is that the island’s sub-tropical climate makes it one of the most popular Brisbane day trips all year round.
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Check Availability For The STRADBROKE ISLAND DAY TOUR
Moreton Island Shipwreck Adventure
Duration: 1 day
Price: Starting from $108 USD ($168 AUD)
If you are looking for activity day trips from Brisbane, then the Moreton Island Shipwreck, Sand Dune & Kayak 1-Day Adventure will be right up your alley. This is a real adventure-packed Brisbane day tour starting with a cruise and includes an optional guided snorkelling tour around the Tangalooma Shipwreck. If snorkelling isn’t your thing, you can always just enjoy the Moreton Island beach!
A picnic lunch on the beach is followed by kayaking to discover the hidden wonders of the Tangalooma Wrecks. Add to that a 4×4 tour of ‘the desert’ before sand-tobogganing at 40 miles an hour…. Phew!
After all the thrill-seeking adventure, you’ll be able to take a breather back on Tangalooma Beach before heading back to Brisbane.
With the starting prices from around $108 USD ($168 AUD), it won’t break the bank and won’t cost the earth. This Brisbane day tour is organized by Australian Sunset Safaris, who are Eco-Certified and dedicated to providing quality Eco-adventure tours.
Check Availability For The MORETON ISLAND SHIPWRECK, SAND DUNE & KAYAK 1-DAY ADVENTURE
Story Bridge Adventure Climb
Duration: 2 hours
Price: $82 USD ($128 AUD)
If you love an adventure, then get ready for one of the most exhilarating Brisbane tours with the Story Bridge Adventure Climb. Take a walk along the suspended walkway before climbing Brisbane’s most iconic landmark, the Story Bridge, and learn about its history as you go.
This day trip starts at the base of the bridge, where you’ll be given an introduction to the history of Story Bridge and Brisbane. From there, you’ll begin the ascent via a spiral staircase that takes you to the suspended walkway. Then, it’s up and up and UP!
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with amazing 360-degree panoramic views of Brisbane city. The Story Bridge tour also includes a group photo when you reach the top and the opportunity to purchase individual pictures later.
Check Availability For The STORY BRIDGE ADVENTURE CLIMB
Rainforest And Glow Worm Tour
Duration: 8.5 hours
Price: $108 USD ($168 AUD)
Nature lovers looking for unique day trips from Brisbane should check out the Rainforest and Glow Worm Tour. This full-day tour is an exploration of the rainforests of Springbrook National Park and Tamborine National Park.
Springbrook National Park is one of the gems of the Gold Coast and is located less than 100 km (62 miles) from Brisbane. This Brisbane day tour is a great opportunity to explore the rainforest at your leisure. Wander through towering rainforest trees and spot pademelons, bush turkeys, goannas, water dragons, and stunning waterfalls.
Then, it’s on to Tamborine to explore the Gallery Walk before a winery visit and lunch in a restaurant overlooking the vineyards. The last stop is a chance to see the glow worm caves at Cedar Creek!
Prices for the 8.5-hour full-day tour start at $108 USD ($168 AUD) per person and include all transportation to and from Brisbane, entrance fees into the National Park and Glow Worm Cave, guide, and lunch.
Check Availability For The RAINFOREST AND GLOW WORM TOUR
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Visit with Brisbane River Cruise
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
Price: $65 USD ($101 AUD)
This Brisbane River Cruise from Southbank with Koala Sanctuary Visit is one of the best day trips from Brisbane for families or those who love getting close and personal with wildlife.
By purchasing this tour, you’ll be able to skip the queues for the boat and the sanctuary, allowing you to make the most of your day.
This half-day adventure departs from Southbank. You’ll enjoy a unique view of the city as you cruise along Brisbane River for 40 minutes on your way to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. You’ll pass some iconic landmarks along the way before reaching Lone Pine. There will be a few stops along the way for photo opportunities with the Brisbane cityscape behind you.
Once you arrive at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, you’ll be free to roam and enjoy the park for 2.5 hours before heading back to the city. You can check out the platypus and catch the animal shows with sheepdogs and birds of prey. Depending on your dates, these Brisbane tours can cost as little as $65 USD ($101 AUD) per person for the return boat trip and entrance to the sanctuary.
Check Availability For Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Visit with Brisbane River Cruise
Springbrook and Mt Tamborine Rainforest Day Tour
Duration: 8 hours
Price: $141 USD ($218 AUD)
This tour tops the list for great Brisbane day tours. Get back to nature as you wander through the thick vegetation of this mountaintop rainforest.
This day trip from Brisbane takes you to explore Springbrook National Park. Here, you can leisurely wander through the park, and don’t miss the natural bridge waterfall created by the underground volcanic activity, where you’ll find a secret hideout for glow worms! Then, you’ll encounter hiking trails where you’ll take a short hike on a sealed circuit track that takes around 45 minutes at an easy pace.
This tour offers an hour’s drive through the picturesque country town of Scenic Rim, with panoramic views from the famous landmark, Mt. Tamborine, in the Gold Coast Hinterland to the Great Dividing Range.
History buffs will be impressed as they pass by the Kokoda Army Barracks and learn about bushman Bernard O’Reilly in the Lamington National Park and his heroic rescue from a plane crash.
Following the history lesson, you’ll visit the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, where you’ll enjoy the pristine private rainforest near Cedar Creek and see waterfalls, wildlife, and ancient tree species. Finish your day with a short walk around the Eco Gallery, where you’ll find extensive displays showcasing Australian rainforest flora and fauna.
Few Brisbane day trips allow you to combine so much nature and beauty all in one go. The trip to Springbrook and Mt Tamborine Rainforest is a full-day coach tour with prices starting $141 per person.
Check Availability For The Springbrook and Mt Tamborine Rainforest Tour
Sirromet Winery Tour
Duration: 2.5 hours
Price: $58 USD ($90 AUD)
It may not be an apparent choice for a day trip from Brisbane, but is it possible to enjoy a great wine tour from Brisbane by visiting the Sirromet Winery.
Spend a very pleasant few hours on a Winery Tour & Tasting with Tuscan Terrace Lunch. Starting from a very reasonable $35 USD ($50 AUD) per person, you’ll get a tour of the Sirromet winery located at Mount Cotton, just a 30-minute drive from Brisbane.
You’ll start the tour with a behind-the-scenes look into the art of winemaking and discover the history of the winery itself. The tour part ends with a private wine tasting of six of Sirromet’s award-winning wines.
After the tasting, you can enjoy a delicious Tuscan-style lunch on the terrace. This is a great option for a group of friends or couples looking for a relaxing day trip from Brisbane.
Check Availability For The SIRROMET WINERY TOUR
Sunshine Coast Hinterland and Noosa Small Group Tour
Duration: 9 hours
Price: $90 USD ($139 AUD)
On this excursion, you’ll join a small group traveling in a clean and tidy 13-seater van. The tour starts at the mountains of the Blackall Range. You’ll enjoy a very nice view of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, including a stop at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve along the way for panoramic views of the majestic Glass House Mountains.
On this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore other Sunshine Coast natural gems like Mapleton Falls National Park, Gerrard’s Lookout, and Bribie Island along the coast. The tour will take you past cliffs with beautiful views of Noosa National Park and the ocean.
Spend a very pleasant few hours browsing the stalls at Eumundi Markets before visiting the pristine beaches of Noosa Heads, a favorite spot for the rich and famous. To conclude this Sunshine Coast trip, return to Brisbane with a brief stop at the Ginger Factory in Yandina, where you can try their delicious ginger ice cream.
This Sunshine Coast Hinterland tour is an ideal choice for groups of friends or couples seeking a relaxed day trip from Brisbane.
Check Availability For Sunshine Coast Hinterland and Noosa Small Group Tour
Tangalooma Day Trip with Whale Watch Cruise
Duration: 1 day
Price: $93 USD ($144 AUD)
During this whale-watching cruise, you’ll get to see some of the ocean’s gentle giants and other marine life near Moreton Island. You’ll be aboard Australia’s largest purpose-built whale-watching boat, designed to provide a comfortable and spacious vantage point for observing these magnificent beings in their natural environment.
You can choose to eat lunch on board or take a break at Tangalooma Island Resort in Moreton Island for some relaxation on the beach. You can also watch the “Discover the World of Dolphins” presentation at the Eco Centre or enjoy plenty of Tangalooma resort amenities, like pools, restaurants, and bars.
Check Availability For Tangalooma Day Trip with Whale Watch Cruise
Byron Bay, Bangalow, and Gold Coast Day Tour
Duration: 12 hours
Price: $149 USD ($230 AUD)
Gold Coast is famous for Surfers Paradise and Surfers Paradise beach, tourists, and big attractions like theme parks and whale watching cruises. It’s undeniably packed with things to do for everyone. This day tour will let you experience the other side of Gold Coast and New South Wales, including Byron Bay and Bangalow, in an air-conditioned vehicle, perfect for any season!
Starting at 7 AM, you’ll head down to Coolangatta in Gold Coast and then on to beautiful Byron Bay. Along the way from Gold Coast, you’ll pause at a farm for a delightful morning tea and breakfast. During this day trip, you’ll trek from the iconic lighthouse down to the beach of Cape Byron, the easternmost point of mainland Australia.
Stroll through stylish Byron Bay, shop at local boutiques, and savour coastal cuisine at your own pace. You’ll stop by at Cape Byron Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.
Your day ends with stops at a macadamia farm and Surfers Paradise in Gold Coast, where you can take a beachfront stroll. We do recommend this day trip as a hassle-free way to cross the NSW border and enjoy these popular destinations.
Check Availability For Byron Bay, Bangalow and Gold Coast Day Tour
Sightseeing River Cruise with Morning Tea
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: $32 USD ($49 AUD)
You’ll start the tour with a sunny morning on the beautiful Brisbane River, soaking in its sights and delights. Relax as your captain guides you along the waterway, savouring a lovely Devonshire tea with tasty treats.
You’ll pass by opulent homes and iconic landmarks that line the riverbanks, like Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the city centre, and Story Bridge. Throughout the cruise, there will be entertaining commentary that shares the history of Brisbane and the River. This beautiful and relaxing tour is available year-round, a nice experience for both locals and visitors!
Check Availability For Sightseeing River Cruise with Morning Tea
Evening River Cruise at Sunset
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: $35 USD ($55 AUD)
This cruise is perfect for anyone seeking relaxation after a busy week exploring the area. Enjoy an evening in Brisbane on a Sunset River Cruise along the Brisbane River with an informative guide to share the history and important landmarks.
You can unwind while sipping on a glass of wine and taking in the beautiful sunset views. As you drift along, you’ll see the beautiful skyline and landmarks and watch the city light up as the sun sets.
Check Availability For Evening River Cruise at Sunset
Abseiling at Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: $42 USD ($65 AUD)
This tour offers the thrill of abseiling down Kangaroo Point cliffs with expert guidance. Your guide will walk you through the abseiling process, demonstrating how to use the provided equipment for a safe and exhilarating descent down the rocky cliff overlooking the Brisbane River.
Take in the scenic surroundings while you wait your turn, and once you’ve made your way down, relish the sense of achievement. Your guide will be there to assist you throughout this 90-minute adventure.
Do note that snacks and beverages are not provided during the abseiling session. If you anticipate needing refreshments or a snack, do bring your own. Staying hydrated and energized is important during physical activities like abseiling.
Check Availability For Abseiling at Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Russell, Lamb, Macleay, and Karragarra Islands
Duration: 7 hourse
Price: $111 USD ($172 AUD)
If you love adventures, then get ready to explore the hidden gems of Moreton Bay on a private tour of Russell, Lamb Island, Macleay Island, and Karragarra Islands. Starting with a morning tea and a visit to an art studio in Redland Bay, then head down to Sandy Beach and other islands for nature walks.
On Macleay Island, you’ll follow the heritage trail by car, visiting art and craft studios along the way. Here, you’ll explore the scenic Tim O’Shea Wetlands, a protected area with a rich history and a permanent freshwater hole. If you have extra time during the tour, you can join a yoga or meditation class at Lamb Island.
Check Availability For Russell, Lamb, Macleay, and Karragarra Islands
Have We Missed One Of Your Favourite Day Trips From Brisbane? Share Your Experience With Us In The Comments Below!
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