Where are the best day trips from Brisbane? This is always our question when we have spur-of-the-moment plans to go out on a road trip.
We all have those days when we are so done with Netflix, tired of staying home on our days off, and just want to go out for a drive.
We have done many day trips from Brisbane as a family, and we always have our personal favourites. We narrowed them down to our best and most unforgettable experiences. This list is written in no particular order.
1. North Stradbroke Island
Can you do a day trip from Stradbroke Island? Definitely! It is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere of this island paradise.
Sealink Stradbroke Ferries is located southeast of Brisbane and takes approximately 30-40 minutes to drive. From the ferry terminal, you can bring your car for a 45-minute ferry ride to the island.
Our favourite activities here with the kids include fishing at Amity Point jetty, swimming at Cylinder beach and taking in the coastal views at Point Lookout while doing the 1.2 kilometre Gorge walk.
We most especially love having brunch with great ocean views at one of the cafes nearby while enjoying some people-watching.
If you have more time to spare, you can also go camping for at least 2 nights in Straddie. Read about our North Stradbroke Island Camping Trip here.
2. Strawberry View Coffee Shack
Situated in the rural suburb of Bellmere, just an hour’s drive from Brisbane, the Strawberry View Coffee Shack enjoys a serene location surrounded by strawberry fields and scenic farmland.
Its peaceful setting offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Highlights of our visit include freshly baked scones served with homemade jam and cream, waffles with strawberries and ice cream paired with a good cup of coffee.
We bought their fresh strawberries sourced directly from their nearby fields and they are the sweetest ever!
A bonus is that you can sit back and relax while enjoying views of the surrounding countryside. They have an outdoor seating area and a playground for the little ones to run around.
With its friendly service, delicious food, and idyllic setting, it is a hidden gem worth discovering for locals and visitors alike.
3. Maleny Dairies
Maleny Dairies is situated in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a 1.5-hour drive from Brisbane.
This is one of the most memorable day trips from Brisbane that we had with the kids. A visit to Maleny Dairies offers a wonderful opportunity to experience life on a working dairy farm and indulge in delicious dairy products.
We joined a guided farm tour to learn about the daily workings of the dairy farm. We had the opportunity to meet the resident cows, see the milking process in action, and gain insights into sustainable farming practices.
We also had the opportunity to experience the fun of bottle-feeding adorable calves during our tour. This hands-on activity is a favourite among visitors of all ages and offers a unique opportunity to interact with the farm’s youngest residents.
After the farm tour, find a scenic spot on the farm grounds to enjoy a picnic lunch. You can purchase refreshments from the onsite cafe, which offers a selection of snacks, sandwiches, and locally sourced dairy products.
There are more interesting places to visit in Maleny. Read about more Things to do in Maleny with Kids here.
4. Summer Land Camels
One of the best day trips from Brisbane that we highly recommend is Summerland Camels. A drive here from Brisbane takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. It features a tranquil setting surrounded by rolling hills and lush pastures.
They offer a range of engaging visitor experiences designed to educate and entertain guests of all ages. These experiences include guided farm tours, camel feeding sessions and camel rides.
The kids especially loved feeding the camels. For a small fee, you can buy camel food outside the cafe.
For lunch, you can purchase refreshments from the onsite cafe, which offers a selection of gourmet sandwiches, salads, and camel milk products. A must-try is their popular camel ice cream.
5. Kooroomba Vineyards and Lavender Farm
Situated amidst the picturesque countryside of the Scenic Rim, Kooroomba Lavender Farm offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, vineyards, and lavender fields.
The highlight of our visit is its expansive lavender fields, where rows of fragrant lavender plants bloom in vibrant hues of purple.
You can wander through the fields, take in the aromatic scent of lavender, and capture stunning photos against the picturesque landscape backdrop.
You can also enjoy wine-tasting experiences at the cellar door, sampling a selection of handcrafted wines. Unfortunately for us, the cellar door closes at 3 pm, so we missed out on that, but we will definitely be back!
6. Montville
If you are longing for a peaceful escape from the city, but still want your kids to have fun, then a day trip to Montville might be just what you need.
Montville is a picturesque rural town nestled in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. It is a perfect escape from the busy city life. If you are driving to Montville, expect a scenic drive, greeted by stunning, lush green landscape views.
At Montville Village, you can wander through boutique shops, art galleries, and handmade craft stores, or enjoy a hearty brunch with spectacular hinterland views.
Furthermore, it offers beautiful rainforests and waterfalls, great food, wine and handmade treats.
Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat, artistic inspiration, or a taste of local flavours, Montville offers a charming and enriching experience.
For a detailed itinerary when visiting Montville, read about more things to do in Montville here.
7. Stanthorpe
A family day trip from Brisbane to Stanthorpe offers a delightful blend of scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly attractions.
Driving time from Brisbane is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Our favourite stop includes the Christmas farm, where the kids can feed farm animals and walk through their field of Christmas trees. A visit here is never complete without trying their popular hot chocolate, and trust me, it is so good!
Other activities we enjoyed in Stanthorpe are apple picking, a hike at Giraween National Park and wine tasting at one of its many vineyards.
We highly suggest visiting Stanthorpe in Autumn, as the place accentuates the striking colours of the Autumn season.
For more ideas about things to do in Stanthorpe, read about our 35 Hours in Stanthorpe with Kids here.
8. Sirromet Winery
If you want to visit a vineyard and wine cellar that is not too far away from Brisbane, then Sirromet Winery should be on the list.
It is approximately a 30 to 45-minute drive from Brisbane, offering wine tasting and cellar door tours.
We like buying a bottle of wine and enjoying it together while the kids run around the vast landscape. There are also wallabies around the area that delight the young ones.
They offer an on-site restaurant and cafe, giving you more food and drink options.
Read more about our Sirromet Winery Experience here.
9. Tropical Fruit World
Tropical Fruit World is an exciting and unique day trip from Brisbane, located just south of the Queensland border, near the Gold Coast.
It’s a family-friendly destination that offers visitors the chance to explore a plethora of tropical fruits and learn about their cultivation, history, and cultural significance.
We very much enjoyed the guided tour of the farm, where we were shown around the orchards, given in-depth knowledge of the fruit-growing process, and allowed to taste the fruit directly from the trees.
The kids’ personal favourite was cracking fresh macadamia nuts and eating them straight up! We also love the relaxing river cruise at the end of the tour.
With its fun tours, Tropical Fruit World is a hit with kids and families, making it a perfect day trip from Brisbane for all ages.
Free Day Trips from Brisbane
Here are more day trips from Brisbane that will not break the bank.
10. Burleigh Head National Park- Oceanview Track
This is one of my favourite day trips from Brisbane. We couldn’t recommend this highly enough, especially with the little ones!
The Oceanview Track is a scenic coastal walking trail situated within Burleigh Head National Park, along the Gold Coast coastline. The park is easily accessible by car and public transportation, with parking available near the entrance off Goodwin Terrace.
Upon arriving at the car park you will be greeted by spectacular ocean views. We sat on the grass for a while to take in the breathtaking view in front of us.
There are lots of relaxing spots for a picnic, and benches if you plan to sit back and enjoy a good book.
We visited this place specifically to do the walking track. It is ideal for families with young children, as it is a very easy walk and is pram-accessible. It is a 1.2-kilometre walking trail (one way).
The best part about this trail is the stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. As you walk, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the azure waters, golden beaches, and rugged headlands that characterise the Gold Coast region.
11. Tallebudgera Creek
Tallebudgera Creek is located on the Gold Coast. It is a popular spot for locals due to its stunning natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities.
This is our personal favourite if we are up for a beach trip. The water is clear and calm, so the kids can safely swim and play on the shore. The area is surrounded by lush bushland, offering a scenic environment for a relaxing day out.
It has picnic tables, barbecue areas and a very nice playground just near the water. It ticks all the boxes for the best beach day trip from Brisbane.
12. Lake Moogerah Picnic Area
If you are up for a scenic drive through the Scenic Rim region, with stops at local cafes and farm gates, then stop by Lake Moogerah. It is located approximately 90 kilometres southwest of Brisbane.
While having a picnic with the family, you will be awed by the stunning lake and mountain views as your backdrop.
Amenities include picnic tables, free barbecues, and a playground. It also has plenty of open space for the kids to run around.
13. Toowoomba Japanese Garden
The Toowoomba Japanese Garden is located approximately 125 kilometres west of Brisbane.
We highly recommend visiting during spring (September–November) when the garden comes alive with colour and the delicate Cherry Blossoms create a breathtaking scenery.
The kids have so much fun following the walking paths that lead through traditional Japanese landscaping and picturesque red bridges. They were entertained by the koi-filled ponds and gentle waterfalls.
They can spot some wildlife such as ducks, turtles, and colourful koi that add to the tranquil experience. It also has rest areas that provide a perfect place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
14. Byron Bay
Can you do a day trip from Brisbane to Byron Bay? Definitely! It is a perfect getaway for beaches, food, and nature!
Do not forget to visit the popular Byron Bay Lighthouse, as it is popular for a reason. It stands proudly on Australia’s most easterly point, offering panoramic views of Byron Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
After visiting the lighthouse, you can enjoy a picnic at Byron Bay’s beautiful beaches or just walk around the shops, blend in with the town’s relaxed bohemian vibe and enjoy its many great cafés.
15. Palm Beach Parklands
Palm Beach Parklands is a vibrant recreational area located on the Gold Coast. Known for its family-friendly amenities and scenic beauty, it’s a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
We love this place simply because of the calm waters and big open space where kids can run around and play. It has the lovely Dune Cafe nearby for a good cup of coffee or brunch.
Otherwise, the family can bring a picnic and make use of the barbecue facilities while the kids engage at the Pirate Playground, a large pirate ship play area for them to climb, slide, run and jump around.
16. Wellington Point Recreation Reserve
Wellington Point Recreation Reserve, located approximately 25 km southeast of Brisbane CBD, is a cherished coastal destination on the Redland Coast.
We personally believe this is the best place to visit if you want to witness the most beautiful sunset.
Another must-do experience is the King Island walk. During low tide, a natural sand causeway emerges, allowing visitors to walk to King Island. This unique two-kilometre return walk offers stunning ocean views.
Apart from that, the kids also get to enjoy the playground, swim in the calm waters and build sandcastles.
This place also features a jetty popular for fishing, multiple shaded picnic spots equipped with tables and benches and electric barbecue facilities.
The Wrap Up: Best Day Trips from Brisbane
There are so many day trips we can enjoy from Brisbane. It is surrounded by natural wonders and charming towns, making it a perfect base for exploring Queensland’s diverse landscapes.
You can either go for a beach trip, a picnic, enjoy nature, or just take a breath of fresh air, but at the end of the day, what matters most is getting to have a break from your busy lives and simply spending quality time with your loved ones.
