Queensland is Australia's second-largest state, stretching from the subtropical southeast to the tropical north, encompassing the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforests, and over 7,000 kilometres of coastline. Known as the Sunshine State, it offers world-class diving, golden beaches, vibrant cities, and extraordinary wildlife experiences.
Accommodation overview
Hotels by budget
Find accommodation that fits your travel budget.
Budget-friendly (under $50/night)
YHA Brisbane City
Brisbane's most popular backpacker hostel, located in the CBD close to Roma Street Parklands and the transit centre. Clean dormitories and private rooms with excellent common facilities including a pool and rooftop terrace.
Check rates on Booking.comGilligan's Resort and Hotel Cairns
Cairns' most popular party hostel offering a huge complex with pool, multiple bars, live entertainment, and dormitory and private accommodation. The hub of Cairns backpacker social life and a great value base for reef trips.
Check rates on Booking.comBunk Brisbane
A well-regarded boutique hostel just minutes from Fortitude Valley and the Brisbane CBD. Clean, modern dorms and private rooms with a strong social atmosphere, good kitchen facilities, and helpful staff.
Check rates on Booking.comSurfers Paradise YHA
A well-located hostel in the heart of Surfers Paradise, just minutes from the beach and the entertainment strip. Offers dormitory and private rooms with a pool, communal kitchen, and a friendly, social atmosphere.
Check rates on Booking.comTravellers Oasis Cairns
A quiet and friendly budget hostel in central Cairns offering clean dormitory beds and private rooms in a relaxed tropical garden setting, popular with travellers seeking a calmer alternative to party hostels.
Check rates on Booking.comManly Hotel Brisbane
A classic Queensland pub hotel in the charming bayside suburb of Manly, offering affordable rooms in a great location near the marina and cafes. A local favourite with a popular bistro.
Check rates on Booking.comMid-range ($50-150/night)
Marriott Resort & Spa Surfers Paradise
A well-appointed resort hotel in the heart of Surfers Paradise with excellent facilities including multiple pools, a fitness centre, and convenient access to beaches and entertainment.
Check rates on Booking.comNovotel Cairns Oasis Resort
A tropical resort-style hotel in central Cairns featuring a large lagoon pool complex surrounded by lush gardens. Excellent value for the location and facilities, within walking distance of reef tour operators.
Check rates on Booking.comMantra Legends Hotel Gold Coast
A centrally located Gold Coast hotel offering comfortable apartment-style accommodation with kitchenettes, perfect for families and longer stays in Surfers Paradise.
Check rates on Booking.comBrisbane Marriott Hotel
A reliable full-service hotel in Brisbane's CBD overlooking the Brisbane River, offering spacious rooms, excellent service, and a rooftop pool with city views.
Check rates on Booking.comCoral Beach Noosa
A boutique apartment hotel in a quiet location in Noosa Heads, close to Hastings Street and the beach. Self-contained apartments with full kitchens, ideal for longer stays.
Check rates on Booking.comOaks Townsville Metropole Hotel
A comfortable hotel on the vibrant Palmer Street dining strip in Townsville, offering apartment-style accommodation with full kitchen facilities and easy access to the Strand and ferry to Magnetic Island.
Check rates on Booking.comRACV Noosa Resort
A well-appointed resort set on 14 acres in the Noosa hinterland, featuring extensive pools, tennis courts, a day spa, and family-friendly activities. A short drive to Hastings Street and the beach.
Check rates on Booking.comLuxury ($150+/night)
Qualia Resort Hamilton Island
Australia's most awarded luxury resort, occupying the northern tip of Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays. All-inclusive pavilions with private plunge pools, two infinity pools, and direct access to the Coral Sea.
Check rates on Booking.comSofitel Brisbane Central
Brisbane's most celebrated luxury hotel occupying a 30-storey tower in the CBD, directly connected to Central Station. Known for exceptional French-inspired service, the Patio bar, and superb city and river views.
Check rates on Booking.comThe Langham Gold Coast
The Gold Coast's newest luxury beachfront hotel with direct beach access — the first new beachfront hotel built in over 30 years. Features 17 room types, a stunning infinity pool, and the award-winning Supernova restaurant.
Check rates on Booking.comPullman Reef Hotel Casino Cairns
Cairns' premier hotel adjacent to the Esplanade lagoon and steps from reef tour departure points. Features a rooftop pool with Coral Sea views, multiple restaurants, and the Reef Casino entertainment complex.
Check rates on Booking.comPeppers Noosa Resort and Villas
Noosa's most prestigious resort on Hastings Street, steps from the beach and national park. Spacious villa-style suites with private balconies, pools, and access to the best restaurants and boutiques in Noosa.
Check rates on Booking.comInterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
A colonial-style luxury resort in the gated Sanctuary Cove community on the Gold Coast's northern end. Features two championship golf courses, 10 lagoon pools, and a full-service marina surrounded by lush tropical gardens.
Check rates on Booking.comPalazzo Versace Gold Coast
The world's first fashion-branded hotel, an opulent palazzo on the Gold Coast Broadwater featuring Versace-designed interiors, three outdoor pools, a world-class spa, and fine Italian-inspired dining.
Check rates on Booking.comThe Calile Hotel Brisbane
Brisbane's most stylish boutique hotel on the trendy James Street strip in Fortitude Valley. Inspired by a Miami-meets-Brisbane aesthetic with a stunning resort pool, acclaimed Hellenika restaurant, and curated interiors.
Check rates on Booking.comBest neighborhoods to stay
Choose your base based on your interests and travel style.
City Center
The heart of Queensland with easy access to main attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
Best for: First-time visitors, short stays
Old Town
Traditional architecture and local character. Walking distance to historical sites and authentic dining.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, photographers
Our top picks
Handpicked recommendations for every type of traveler.
Qualia Resort Hamilton Island
Australia's most awarded luxury resort, occupying the northern tip of Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays. All-inclusive pavilions with private plunge pools, two infinity pools, and direct access to the Coral Sea.
Check rates on Booking.comSofitel Brisbane Central
Brisbane's most celebrated luxury hotel occupying a 30-storey tower in the CBD, directly connected to Central Station. Known for exceptional French-inspired service, the Patio bar, and superb city and river views.
Check rates on Booking.comThe Langham Gold Coast
The Gold Coast's newest luxury beachfront hotel with direct beach access — the first new beachfront hotel built in over 30 years. Features 17 room types, a stunning infinity pool, and the award-winning Supernova restaurant.
Check rates on Booking.comPullman Reef Hotel Casino Cairns
Cairns' premier hotel adjacent to the Esplanade lagoon and steps from reef tour departure points. Features a rooftop pool with Coral Sea views, multiple restaurants, and the Reef Casino entertainment complex.
Check rates on Booking.comPeppers Noosa Resort and Villas
Noosa's most prestigious resort on Hastings Street, steps from the beach and national park. Spacious villa-style suites with private balconies, pools, and access to the best restaurants and boutiques in Noosa.
Check rates on Booking.comInterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
A colonial-style luxury resort in the gated Sanctuary Cove community on the Gold Coast's northern end. Features two championship golf courses, 10 lagoon pools, and a full-service marina surrounded by lush tropical gardens.
Check rates on Booking.comBooking tips
Get the best deals and avoid common mistakes.
Book 2-4 weeks in advance for better rates and availability, especially during peak tourist season.
Check multiple booking platforms — direct hotel bookings sometimes offer better rates or perks.
Read recent reviews carefully — conditions can change. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness and Wi-Fi.
Confirm your booking directly with the hotel before arrival, especially for smaller properties.
Ask about airport transfers — many hotels offer pickup services that can save hassle on arrival.
Alternative accommodations
Beyond traditional hotels, consider these options.
Guesthouses
Family-run guesthouses offer authentic local experiences and often include home-cooked meals. Great for cultural immersion.
Serviced apartments
Ideal for longer stays or families. Kitchen facilities help save money and provide flexibility.
Hostels
Budget-friendly option for solo travelers. Dorms and private rooms available with social common areas.