Hailed as Australia’s holiday haven, Queensland is home to gorgeous beaches, lush jungles, laid-back locals and an easy-going lifestyle that matches its sultry tropical climate. Outdoor activities are the order of the day, with the state offering everything from sunbathing, surfing and bushwalking to white-water rafting, sailing and 4WD adventures. It’s not hard to see how it earned its nickname as the “Sunshine State”.

The Great Barrier Reef needs no introduction, with the 2,000-kilometre-long natural wonder recognised as one of the most vibrant underwater landscapes on the planet. Fraser Island is a mecca for 4WD enthusiasts the Whitsunday Islands are a honeymooner’s paradise while coastal towns like Mission Beach, Noosa and Port Douglas ooze barefoot charm.

Queensland is served by a great network of roads and highways, which makes road-tripping an excellent way to explore the state. Major coastal towns are connected by rail, with private bus companies also making long-distance trips. Brisbane Airport is the state’s major gateway for both international and domestic travellers. For those willing to splurge, yachts and cruise ships are a magnificent way to get a taste of Queensland’s luxe ocean lifestyle.

Brisbane is the beating heart of the Sunshine State, with soaring high-rises dominating the Surfer’s Paradise skyline. The city is home to a hip coffee culture, fantastic farmers markets, boutique shopping and ambient riverside restaurants serving up some of Australia’s best cuisine. For beer enthusiasts, sipping on a pint of Queensland's infamous XXXX brew is a must.