Queensland, also called Sunshine’s State, has approximately 7000km and incredible islands for all tastes! We’ve selected 4 out of the most famous to get you ready for your next holiday!

1 - Fraser Island

Located about a six-hour drive north of Brisbane, Fraser Island is the perfect getaway for those who are after an adventure trip, especially if you like driving along the island’s beaches. Fraser is the world’s biggest sand island, it covers 120-kilometre (75-mile) beach highway, 45 national park campgrounds and 100 freshwater lakes including Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby.

Fraser Island has nearly 500,000 visitors annually. Maheno shipwreck - the most famous of Fraser Island's wrecks has become a must-see attraction, as well as the wild dingoes found at dusk. Experience the Champagne Pools, natural Jacuzzis, caused by waves crashing over volcanic rocks, they are a perfect spot to relax! During the migration season (August - October) it is also possible to spot giant humpbacks on a whale watching trip. Trekking the Fraser Island Great Walk is also recommended for long stays.

2 - North Stradbroke Island

Colloquially known to locals as Straddie, is the second largest sand island in the world. Not far from Brisbane (approximately 60 min from CBD) is a 38-kilometre haven of surf and sand, perfect for day trips. Ferries and water taxis to the island depart from Cleveland, a southern Brisbane suburb.

There are five main beaches on North Straddie, including Main Beach, which is recommended for surfing; the protected Cylinder Beach; and Flinders Beach for swimming and beach camping. The island is also home to three villages (Amity Point, Dunwich and Point Lookout).

Hike to Blue Lake and Brown Lake, which are areas of special cultural significance for Quandamooka people and stay relaxed under the stars at the Minjerribah glamping tents. Wild kangaroos, humpback whales, white-sand beaches and over 100 freshwater lakes contribute to making the island a stunning escape.

3 - Moreton Island

Moreton Island, the third-largest sand island in the world, is about a one-hour ferry from Brisbane. It’s known for being home to the Tangalooma Wrecks, a total of 15 vessels deliberately sunk between 1963 and 1984. As coral started to form in and around the wrecks it became a home for over 100 species of fish and consequently a good hotspot to snorkelling. As well as in Fraser Island, champagne pools and sand driving are also famous here.

See wild bottlenose dolphins being fed every night at sunset at Tangalooma Island Resort, besides enjoying stunning views over Moreton Bay and the Glass House Mountains. Sand dune tobogganing is naturally a popular activity, and there are also various hiking trails to choose from Blue Lagoon to Mount Tempest Lookout walk.

4 - Whitsunday Island

Whitsunday is an archipelago of 74 Islands, located between the northeast coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef, a huge stretch of coral teeming with marine life.

Most of the Whitsunday Islands are uninhabited, featured by dense rainforest, hiking trails and white sand beaches, which the most famous are Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet. The best lookout on Whitsunday Island is at Tongue Point and the stunning beauty of Heart Reef seen from a helicopter is a breathtaking attraction! The islands are ideal for sailing, swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on secluded beaches and in hidden bays, a perfect paradise! The world-class luxury resort, Qualia, is located in Hamilton Island which has its own airport.

The most common way to reach the Whitsunday Islands is by plane. The town of Airlie Beach on the mainland is the tourist hub. From there you can take a ferry or book a helicopter transfer to the islands.

If you are located in Queensland, don't waste your time, explore these natural attractions now!