Home to Brisbane and the Gold Coast, this dynamic region is brimming with world-class experiences – from rooftop cityscapes and trendy dining hubs to luxurious beachfront stays and wildlife encounters. Whether it’s exploring new attractions, indulging in great food, or seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, here’s your ultimate guide to the must-visit spots in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Brisbane: A bustling city on the rise
Named in TIME’s ‘The World’s Greatest Places of 2025’ and The Washington Post’s ‘Where to go in 2025 without crowds’ Brisbane is quickly becoming a must-visit hotspot. With new world-class attractions, this Australian gem is redefining urban travel with its perfect blend of culture, dining, and waterfront luxury.
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane – the city’s highly anticipated lifestyle precinct – officially opened in August 2024, bringing with it world-class dining, luxury hotels, buzzing entertainment, and breathtaking views.
If you’re a foodie or someone who loves exploring vibrant city hotspots, this is the place to be. While you’re here, make your way to the Sky Deck – a breathtaking 100-metre-high observation platform with sweeping 360-degree views of the Brisbane River and beyond.
Stroll across the stunning Neville Bonner Bridge from Queen’s Wharf, and you’ll step into the vibrant South Bank Parklands – a lush riverside oasis where locals and visitors alike unwind, explore, and experience the best of Brisbane’s attractions. Here, you’ll find a plethora of attractions such as The Wheel of Brisbane, where breathtaking city views await, including great vantage points of the iconic Brisbane Sign for photo opportunities.
If you’re looking for a beach getaway in the heart of the city, Streets Beach is the place to be. Dive into the crystal-clear lagoon, sink your toes into soft white sands, and unwind amid lush tropical greenery, an urban oasis like no other. Besides unwinding at the beach, take a stroll through The Collective Markets – a lively weekend hotspot brimming with handcrafted treasures, stylish fashion, and delectable street food, making it the perfect place to find unique souvenirs.
Last but not least, art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. With its world-class exhibitions, interactive installations, and year-round family-friendly activities, it’s a cultural gem waiting to be explored.
Howard Smith Wharves
Envision this: the twinkle of city lights reflecting on the Brisbane River, a warm breeze carrying the hum of laughter, and the clink of cocktail glasses beneath the majestic Story Bridge. Welcome to Howard Smith Wharves, where culinary delights, vibrant nightlife, and panoramic views fuse into an experience that lingers long after the night ends.
Tangalooma Island Resort
This slice of paradise is located just 75 minutes from Brisbane, best known for its one-of-a-kind experience: hand-feeding wild dolphins at sunset, where you’ll get up close with these gentle marine creatures in their natural habitat. But that’s just the beginning.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, Tangalooma is an adventure playground. Race down towering sand dunes on a sand toboggan, kick up the dirt on an ATV quad bike ride, or even soar above Moreton Bay on a scenic helicopter flight. From snorkelling in shipwrecks to spotting migrating humpback whales between June to October, this island escape has it all.
Gold Coast: More than just theme parks and beaches
The Gold Coast has long been known for its stunning beaches and world-famous theme parks, but there’s so much more to explore. With exciting new attractions, luxury stays, and breathtaking nature escapes, this destination offers the best of relaxation and adventure.
New theme park rides
Gold Coast’s world-famous theme parks are levelling up with brand-new, heart-pounding rides:
- The World-First The Wizard of Oz Precinct at Warner Bros. Movie World
Follow the yellow brick road to Warner Bros. Movie World, where an enchanting new world-first attraction is set to transport you straight into the land of Oz. Opened in December 2024, The Wizard of Oz Precinct brings the magic of the beloved classic film to life with two brand-new family-friendly roller coasters and a fully immersive themed environment.
- Jungle Rush Adventure at Dreamworld
Over at Dreamworld, get ready to dive into the wild with an all-new jungle-themed ride precinct. With towering loops and unexpected plunges, this attraction is designed to give you an adventure you won’t forget.
Beyond the adrenaline rush, both Warner Bros. Movie World and Dreamworld offer incredible entertainment, family-friendly attractions, and immersive worlds straight out of your favourite movies and stories. So, if you’re heading to the Gold Coast, make sure to strap in and experience these game-changing new rides.
Mondrian Gold Coast
For those seeking beachfront luxury, the first-ever Mondrian Hotel in Australia – set to open in June 2025 – is the place to stay. This high-end lifestyle hotel combines stunning ocean views with world-class service, offering an unparalleled Gold Coast experience.
Mount Tamborine
Just 45 minutes from the Gold Coast, Mount Tamborine is a lush hinterland retreat waiting to be explored. If you love good wine and great food, you’re in for a treat. Sip your way through award-winning wineries, sample unique liqueurs at Tamborine Mountain Distillery, and take a stroll along Gallery Walk, a charming strip filled with artisan boutiques, cosy cafes, and handcrafted chocolates.
For an extra dose of adventure, walk among the treetops on the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, where suspension bridges lead to breathtaking panoramic views. If you prefer a more playful experience, head to Mountview Alpaca Farm, where you can feed and walk adorable alpacas – an absolute must for animal lovers.
Whale Watching
The majestic humpback whale migration is an unmissable spectacle. Every year, these gentle giants pass through the Gold Coast’s pristine waters, creating an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Astra Lumina
Step into a world of wonder at Astra Lumina, a cosmic-themed light and sound experience that blends nature, technology, and storytelling. As night falls, this enchanting outdoor trail at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary transforms into a dreamlike journey, where twinkling lights, immersive soundscapes, and breathtaking projections create the illusion of walking among the stars. Ideal for families, couples, and friends, this magical experience under the night sky promises a night to remember.
Getting There: Fly in comfort with Singapore Airlines
Your seamless journey to Queensland begins the moment you step aboard Singapore Airlines. As one of the World’s Best Airlines, it redefines travel with unmatched comfort, impeccable service, and world-class hospitality. With seamless connectivity from 11 Malaysian cities – including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, and Kuching – via the award-winning Singapore Changi Airport, your adventure starts effortlessly, setting the stage for an unforgettable trip.
Experience luxury at 35,000 feet – fly with the World’s Best Cabin Staff 2024; unwind in spacious, ergonomically designed seating; and indulge in a world-class in-flight dining experience crafted to perfection. Plus, KrisFlyer members enjoy unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi, letting you capture travel moments, stay in the loop, or binge your favourite shows all at 35,000 feet.
Tip: Book early for the best deals, unlock exclusive fares, and elevate your journey to Queensland with seamless luxury and comfort!
Secure your adventure today and be among the first to experience Queensland’s latest must-visit attractions. Book now at singaporeair.com.
Tap here for more travel stories.