7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Brisbane

Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, is not only a hub for digital nomads who enjoy its vibrant urban scene and coworking spaces but also a fantastic starting point for exploring the natural beauty and unique attractions of southeastern Queensland. Whether you're looking to unwind on pristine beaches, hike through lush rainforests, or discover hidden gems, the region around Brisbane offers a plethora of weekend getaway options to suit every taste.

Gold Coast

Just an hour's drive south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is a playground for sun-seekers and surfers alike. With its iconic skyline, bustling nightlife, and some of Australia's best beaches, such as Surfers Paradise, it's a must-visit for anyone looking to combine relaxation with entertainment. Beyond the sand and surf, theme parks like Warner Bros. Movie World and Sea World offer thrills for all ages. The Gold Coast also boasts a burgeoning culinary scene, with a variety of dining options from beachfront cafes to high-end restaurants.

How to Get There: The Gold Coast is easily accessible by car via the M1 in about an hour. Alternatively, Queensland Rail offers regular train services from Brisbane to various stations along the Gold Coast, with the journey taking approximately 90 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to climb the Q1 building's SkyPoint Observation Deck for a panoramic view of the coast. It's particularly stunning at sunset.

Where to Stay: The QT Gold Coast offers quirky, design-focused accommodations with a vibrant bar scene, while the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort boasts an incredible pool complex right on the beachfront.

Where to Eat: Check out The Collective Palm Beach, a unique dining concept featuring five kitchens serving up a variety of cuisines, all under one roof.

Sunshine Coast

North of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its laid-back atmosphere, the area is dotted with charming coastal towns like Noosa, Caloundra, and Mooloolaba. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland offers a cooler escape with its picturesque mountain villages like Maleny and Montville, where you can explore art galleries, boutique shops, and local wineries. The region is also home to the famous Australia Zoo, founded by the late Steve Irwin.

How to Get There: The Sunshine Coast is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Brisbane via the Bruce Highway. Regular bus services also connect Brisbane to various Sunshine Coast destinations.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Eumundi Markets, held every Wednesday and Saturday, where you can find local artisan products, food, and live music.

Where to Stay: The Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort offers luxury with a touch of French elegance, and the Glass House Mountains Ecolodge provides a serene eco-friendly retreat.

Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood at the Noosa Boathouse, which offers stunning river views and a fantastic sunset bar.

Moreton Island

Moreton Island is a slice of paradise just off the coast of Brisbane, known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and the famous Tangalooma Wrecks – a cluster of shipwrecks that create a haven for snorkelers and divers. Adventure seekers can try sandboarding down the island's massive dunes or go whale watching during the migration season. Moreton Island is also a great spot for camping under the stars or staying in more comfortable accommodations.

How to Get There: Access to Moreton Island is by ferry, with services departing from the Port of Brisbane. The trip takes approximately 90 minutes.

Travel Tip: Take the opportunity to feed wild dolphins at the Tangalooma Island Resort, a highlight for many visitors to the island.

Where to Stay: Tangalooma Island Resort offers a range of accommodation options and activities, while glamping tents at Castaways Moreton Island provide a more intimate experience with nature.

Where to Eat: The Gutter Bar on Moreton Island is a casual spot known for its fresh oysters and relaxed island vibe.

Lamington National Park

For a complete change of scenery, head to Lamington National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. This park is a paradise for hikers and bird watchers, with over 160 kilometers of walking trails and numerous waterfalls. The Tree Top Walkway at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat offers a bird's-eye view of the ancient forest, and the park's remote location makes it perfect for stargazing.

How to Get There: Lamington National Park is about a 2-hour drive from Brisbane. The journey involves winding mountain roads, so it's best suited for confident drivers.

Travel Tip: Visit the Glow Worm Caves at Cedar Creek for a magical nighttime experience.

Where to Stay: O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat provides comfortable accommodation with stunning views and guided nature walks, while Binna Burra Lodge offers a rustic mountain escape.

Where to Eat: The Clifftop Dining Room at Binna Burra Lodge serves hearty meals with breathtaking views of the Coomera Valley.

Toowoomba

Toowoomba, known as the 'Garden City,' is a unique inland destination just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane. It's famous for its annual Carnival of Flowers, which showcases the city's stunning gardens and floral displays. The city also offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, with heritage-listed buildings, art galleries, and museums. The surrounding Darling Downs region provides opportunities for country drives and visits to local farms and wineries.

How to Get There: Toowoomba is easily accessible by car via the Warrego Highway. Regular bus services also run between Brisbane and Toowoomba.

Travel Tip: Picnic Point Lookout offers panoramic views of the Lockyer Valley and is an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a scenic walk.

Where to Stay: Vacy Hall is a historic boutique hotel with beautiful gardens, while Quest Toowoomba offers modern apartment-style accommodations.

Where to Eat: The Firefly Café is a local favorite, offering a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring seasonal, locally sourced produce.

Springbrook National Park

Springbrook National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, is a lesser-known gem that offers a tranquil escape into nature. The park features stunning natural attractions like the Natural Bridge, a rock formation with a waterfall that flows through a cave, and the Best Of All Lookout, which boasts views that stretch all the way to the Gold Coast. The park's ancient forests are home to an abundance of wildlife, including rare and endangered species.

How to Get There: Springbrook National Park is about a 2-hour drive from Brisbane. The mountain roads can be steep and narrow, so they're best navigated during daylight hours.

Travel Tip: For a truly enchanting experience, visit the park after dark to see the glow worms light up the Natural Bridge cave.

Where to Stay: The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat offers charming chalets nestled in the forest, while Springbrook Lyrebird Retreat provides secluded cottages perfect for a romantic getaway.

Where to Eat: Dancing Waters Café is a quaint spot in Springbrook that serves delicious homemade dishes and offers lovely views of the surrounding greenery.

Mount Tamborine

Mount Tamborine is a quaint mountain village located in the Scenic Rim region, offering a peaceful retreat with cooler temperatures and lush surroundings. The area is known for its wineries, artisanal food producers, and the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk. The Gallery Walk, a street lined with galleries, craft shops, and cafes, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. For the adventurous, there are numerous walking tracks, as well as hang gliding and paragliding opportunities.

How to Get There: Mount Tamborine is about an hour's drive from Brisbane via the Pacific Motorway and Tamborine-Oxenford Road.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Tamborine Mountain Distillery, Australia's most awarded distillery, and sample their unique liqueurs and spirits.

Where to Stay: The Escarpment Retreat & Day Spa offers luxury villas with stunning mountain views, while Pethers Rainforest Retreat is an adults-only enclave with treehouse accommodations.

Where to Eat: The Polish Place offers hearty Polish cuisine along with panoramic views of the Great Dividing Range, making it a dining experience to remember.