The Sunshine State is not called that for nothing, or do you think 300 days of sunshine a year is not enough to earn that title? Occupying Australia’s northeast, Queensland is known for its dazzling beaches, scenic landscapes and vibrant cities. It is the home to some of Australia’s most notable highlights, such as Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef, but it hides some of the country’s less known gems. So, if you are planning a trip Down Under, and are not sure where, we give you 5 reasons why Queensland should be your choice.

Rich Urban Life

There is a lot to see for a city slicker visiting Queensland – from the bursting capital with many attractions, happenings and thriving nightlife, across small towns and islands, all the way to Cairns, which is a true traveler’s mecca. Art galleries in Brisbane are always great to visit, because you can see amazing works of contemporary art of the entire Pacific. The Railroad Museum in Gold Coast will fascinate both the kids and the adults with its interesting stories about the history of trains. And when the day is over, you can enjoy fine dining in some of the most exquisite restaurants in Australia. The pulsing nightlife of the cities, especially Brisbane, will keep anyone entertained. There are many extraordinary festivals in Queensland, but Brisbane is the home to the coolest one – Soundwave.

Beautiful Nature

The Sunshine State is the home to various animal species, birds, snakes and lizards among them. You can see native Australian animals here (blue tongue lizards and kookaburras), but also the more exotic ones (Eastern Bearded Dragon Lizard and Masked Lapwing). Also, more than 14, 000 native species of algae, lichens, fungi and plants can in Queensland. Some of the most amazing Nature’s work of art in Queensland are Noosa National Park, Lakefield National Park, especially, Lakefield is Red Lilly Lagoon and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, located just 12km away from Brisbane’s centre and a home to more than 100 koalas, plus possums, kangaroos, wombats, and other.

Stunning Beaches

There are more than a thousand sandy strips in Queensland and every single one of them is absolutely sublime. With the perfect climate, golden sand, turquoise-azure waters, Queensland’s beaches are surely a sight to see. These beaches are also great surf spots, and some of them even dive locations. One of the most beautiful coastlines and the best recreational beach in whole Australia is North Kirra, located in the Gold Coast. Queensland is home to some of the backpacker’s favorite destinations, such as Rainbow Beach, where there is abundance of activities and opportunities to have a pleasant time. You can choose from diving, snorkeling, surfing, or opt for a bit more casual water sport and get yourself a stand up paddleboard for catching the waves.

Amusement and Theme Parks

Aussies love to have fun, and that is why there are several fantastic amusement parks in Queensland. One of the most popular is Warner Bros. Movie World in Oxenford lures you with its planet of movie heroes and superheroes and offers you world-class entertainment. Queensland is also home to Australia’s largest theme park with five roller coasters, more than 40 rides and attractions – Dreamworld in Gold Coast.  Last, but not the least – Aussie World, the most amusing amusement park on the Sunshine Coast. It is not nearly as big as previous mentions but it is just as fun.

Amazing Islands

The islands of Queensland can be described in one word alone – majestic. Australia’s most famous wonder of nature is located in this state. We are, of course, referring to Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef. Observe it from a helicopter or take a hot air balloon ride to see it in its full greatness or you can snorkel, scuba dive or surf. Other scenic islands to see are Whitsundays (74 islands spread through the coral sea) and Lizard Island (group of five islands where the main one has rocky terrain combined with white beaches).

The Sunshine State should be on everyone’s bucket list, and these were just five reasons for that, we could go on forever.