Queensland Specialty lodgings | Places to Stay in Queensland

May 1, 2023 Joeann Galban

Some of Queensland’s most remarkable sights require you to leave terra firma. Off its coast sits the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef. Snorkel and scuba among 1500 resident fish species, or sail through the Whitsundays’ white-sand atolls. Back on dry land, you’ll find tropical escapes in the Daintree Rainforest to the north, rugged outback to the west and alfresco dining on the Gold Coast in the south. South East Queensland boasts mountain views, vineyards and ‘river city’ Brisbane.
Things to do in Queensland

1. Mantra Aqueous On Port

3 - 5 Davidson St, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877 Australia
Excellent
47%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1594 reviews

Mantra Aqueous On Port

Encompassing all Port Douglas has to offer, Mantra Aqueous on Port is the ideal location for couples, families & honeymooners. Situated in the heart of the village centre of Port Douglas lies one of the most fashionable resort destinations in Tropical North Queensland. You can take advantage of the five star restaurants, designer boutiques, family eateries and a range of bars and cafes. With a contemporary design featuring an aquatic flavor, most apartments feature pool views, spa baths and balconies. The resort boasts 4 stunning pools, sundecks and cabanas with barbeques so guests can enjoy the warm tropical climate of the exclusive beachside town, Port Douglas. The Swim-Up rooms feature a swim-up pool deck with direct pool access. At Mantra Aqueous on Port you can do as little or as much as you like. Wander the quiet streets and sample some of the culinary delights or simply relax on your balcony while you watch the world go by. Important information: In accordance with recent Government directives in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19, Hotel facilities may experience temporary closures or changes to operating times and/or services provided. Please contact our reception for further details. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this time.

Can’t fault the location!

Reviewed By Vicki S

I was a little disappointed when we checked in as I was expecting more resort-like accommodation. Our room was a basic bedroom with tiny kitchenette and regular bathroom, with a spa in the balcony (which we didn’t use). There was nowhere to sit other than the bed and balcony chairs. We opted not to pay extra for daily housekeeping which was a mistake on our part, as there was soon a build up of sand from Four Mile Beach which inevitably found its way into the bed. I tried to clean it off our balcony with the dustpan and brush I found in the room. I like to avoid housework when I’m on holiday but found myself cleaning, emptying the rubbish, making the bed etc. although to be fair, there was an extreme staff shortage at the time of our visit. The bed was uncomfortable and I didn’t sleep very well. There was only a single sheet provided, which wasn’t enough. I’d have liked easier access to clean towels too, or some dropped off to our room. I couldn’t fault the location though…a short stroll to the beach and shops which was great..we could pop out to the Night Owl convenience store, or grab an ice-cream. We went to Little Larder for breakfast, just a few minutes walk away. We didn’t use the pools, preferring the beach.

2. Saltbush Retreat

63-65 Ilfracombe Rd, Longreach, Queensland 4730 Australia
Excellent
63%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 479 reviews

Saltbush Retreat

Saltbush Retreat’s rustic but beautiful accommodation reflects the unique textures and tones of Outback Queensland. Our self-contained accommodation is the perfect base for your Outback holiday and is within walking distance of Longreach hero attractions, Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum. Select from our delightfully appointed 4.5 star Homestead Stables, our 4 star Slab Huts or our 3.5 star Outback Cabins. Dust off the day’s adventures with sunset canapes and a relaxing soak at our exclusive outdoor bath terrace*. (*for guests booked in the 4.5 star Homestead Stables and 4 star Slab Huts)

Relaxing Stay

Reviewed By Bluejug

The second time we have had the pleasure of staying at the Saltbush Retreat. We booked a Homestead Stable after such a wonderful experience the first time. The attention to detail of the decor is outstanding. The bed is comfortable and kitchen is equipped with everything you could need. Can't wait to visit again.

3. Turtle Cove Beach Resort

4500 Captain Cook Hwy, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877 Australia
Excellent
69%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
3%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 562 reviews

Turtle Cove Beach Resort

Turtle Cove Beach Resort is a Gay and Lesbian, Adults Only, Absolute Beach Front Holiday Resort near Cairns, Australia. Join us in Tropical Far North Queensland and experience the most fantastic and secluded piece of unspoilt GLBT Paradise in Australia,some say the world. Be assured,Turtle Cove Beach Resort is not your ordinary Gay and Lesbian Hotel! Come and explore our totally private, clothing optional, tropical beach and have the holiday/vacation of your life time! Turtle Cove Beach Resort is an absolute beachfront slice of Gay and Lesbian Heaven and is conveniently located between Cairns, Palm Cove and Port Douglas, it is the perfect place to chill and relax.

Beautiful oasis

Reviewed By Mitchell R

My partner and I recently stayed at Turtle Cove Beach Resort to celebrate his birthday. From the moment we arrived Nathan and Julian were extremely welcoming and went above and beyond to make our stay wonderful. They even organized a special birthday dinner on the beach! The pool, spa and gym are fantastic and the private beach is stunning. I highly recommend staying here if you are looking for a relaxing holiday in a secluded and peaceful environment. We look forward to visiting the Turtle Cove family again soon.

4. Sanctuary by Sirromet

830-938 Mount Cotton Rd Mt Cotton, Mount Cotton, Queensland 4165 Australia
Excellent
77%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 192 reviews

Sanctuary by Sirromet

Nestled around the Laguna paperbark trees and giant scribbly gums, Sanctuary by Sirromet lets you escape the everyday and connect with nature. Each tented pavilion includes a private ensuite and balcony which appears to “float” above the landscape, giving guests a “tree house” impression as they gaze across the tree canopy and over the lake. Conveniently located on the grounds of Sirromet Winery, indulge your senses and dine on fresh, seasonal produce from one of the three restaurants or uncover the world of wine whilst you go behind the scenes of a working winery, followed by a tasting of Sirromet’s award-winning Granite Belt wines. The 560 acre property captures amazing views across Moreton Bay and sits in the heart of South East Queensland and is home to a large population of wallabies who graze freely around and under the decks as guests take in the views with a glass of wine as the sun goes down.

Great location, great food and wine - only one gripe

Reviewed By stevenbQ116JJ

We stayed at Sirromet and loved it. Had a fantastic wine tour and wine tasting and really enjoyed the food. The only comment I would make is the need for some staff to stop calling people "guys". Both my wife and I found this term problematic, especially in this day and age. While we found this irritating, others may find the use of this term offensive and I image there are many other words that could be used in its place.

5. Arena Apartments

9 Edmondstone St South Brisbane, Brisbane, Queensland 4101 Australia
Excellent
58%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
5%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 527 reviews

Arena Apartments

Located just meters from the West End's cafes and dining options, Arena Apartments boasts free WiFi, a heated outdoor pool and fitness center. Each modern apartment features a balcony or terrace. Guests enjoy free on-site parking for 1 car. Arena Apartments are just 7 minutes' walk from Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Center and 5 minutes' drive from Suncorp Stadium and The Gabba. South Brisbane Train Station, South Bank Parklands and Queen Street Mall are within 15 minutes' walk. Guests can relax in their self-contained apartment, self-cater using the fully equipped kitchen and watch a show on the flat-screen TV. Each air-conditioned apartment also includes a modern bathroom with free toiletries. South Brisbane is a great choice for travelers interested in theatre, museums and culture.

Great location

Reviewed By SusanC4948

Arena Apartments is in a great location if you are attending events at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. It is also excellent for exploring both the South Bank and West End areas and provide easy walking access to the cultural centre and river parks. There was a swimming pool in between the two apartment towers but with the rain we didn’t use it. The elevators were fast and the free wifi was really good. We had a deluxe one-bedroom apartment on the 10th floor with a balcony. It consisted of a bedroom, bathroom and an open plan lounge with dining area, kitchen and cupboard laundry. It was clean, light and modern and not cluttered. The bedroom and the living area had wall-to-wall windows with good double glazing giving us views across Brisbane. The balcony was a decent size and had table and chairs on it. The bedroom closet was easily big enough for all our luggage and had ample hanging space. The bed and the living room couch were both comfortable. There was a large smart tv in the living area. The dining table was pushed against the wall and had four chairs. The kitchen was well fitted out with a large fridge, big oven, stovetop, microwave, dishwasher, toaster and kettle. It was well supplied with crockery, cutlery and utensils (some were a little mismatched – which I like because it means no-one is super precious about them!) which we used for breakfast but there were so many great restaurants nearby we mostly ate out. The bathroom was simple but spacious. The bathroom shelf and toilet holder looked a little wobbly but worked fine. We were given enough supplies (towels, toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner, body wash) for our stay. We did use the closet laundry to do one load of washing and I also threw my trousers into the dryer a couple of time when I got soaked from a walk and it worked fine. There is also a drying rack on the balcony as well as an iron and ironing board. They do supply one sachet of laundry detergent and a sachet of dishwashing liquid. It was possible to get more supplies from reception while it was open. The booking process with Area Apartments was quite easy and they always gave speedy replies. There was a COVID form to fill in online before you arrive. Check-in is usually between 2 and 4 pm but we did get an early check-in on our first day and were notified by text. Check out is before 10 am. Reception hours have been reduced during COVID so they are not always open. There is a 1.5% charge for using credit cards. They do provide a luggage storage option but the reception area is quite small and there is no dedicated area. Housekeeping services are available at an extra cost but we didn’t see the need to use it. Something I hadn’t seen before was a trash chute in the hallway where you could dispose of your rubbish – you just need to read the instructions and choose between garbage and recycling. Sometimes the stuff didn’t go down the chute and needed a push. Glass apparently needs to be taken to the visitor’s car park accessed by the guest elevator to P then go to big yellow containers at the entry. Overall, staying at Arena Apartments was great. It was spacious, quiet, clean and had everything that we needed and the location was fantastic.

6. Oaks Gold Coast Hotel

2801 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland 4217 Australia
Excellent
60%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
3%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 86 reviews

Oaks Gold Coast Hotel

When you’re ready for a Gold Coast getaway where you can take a stroll along the beach or shop til’ you drop at Pacific Fair, the perfect place to call your Gold Coast home is Oaks Gold Coast Hotel. Only steps away from our spectacular surf beaches, casinos and Cavill Avenue, you can walk or take a tram, which stops at our doorstep. Feel like being a little more adventurous? Jump in the car and

Such a great vist

Reviewed By mhall237

As a frequent corporate traveler, I rate a good stay based on Friendliness most of all along with, speed of Arrival/departure, ease of parking, shower pressure & cleanliness. This hotel is a rare 5 star review from me. Great outfit.

7. Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands

Lot 20 Mellennium Esp, Tannum Sands, Queensland 4680 Australia
Excellent
50%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
3%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 347 reviews

Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands

A quiet bushland setting with direct access to the golden sands of Tannum Beach and within walking distance of the picturesque seaside communities of Tannum Sands and Boyne Island is where you'll find Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands. Just 25km's south of Gladstone, Tannum Sands is tucked away from the hustle and bustle providing a sanctuary to escape the everyday and embrace a relaxed coastal lifestyle centred on the outdoors and marine pursuits. Our caravan park sits right on the innovative and eco-friendly Millenium Esplanade, an ideal place for picnics, barbeques and of course swimming. The waters at Tannum Beach are patrolled by lifesavers during Spring and Summer, providing a safe way to cool off and with only a small variation in water temperature during the year, you can take a dip virtually all year round. There's plenty to see and do at Tannum Sand and Boyne Island with cafes and shopping facilities plus a boat ramp, skate park and golf course to keep the whole family entertained. At the caravan park you'll find a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and facilities including a resort style swimming pool, tennis court, BBQ's, camp kitchens and more . Come and take a break with Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands.

Best Discovery Park in Australia

Reviewed By juliecM6475XA

This is by far the best caravan park we have stayed in within Australia. Spacious site even able to store our boat two dog friendly open beaches for them to play in. The fishing in Gladstone is superior to everywhere we have been. We will be back. The staff are So so lovely too.

8. Freedom Shores

Lot 103 Pringle Road, Woodwark, Airlie Beach, Queensland 4802 Australia
Excellent
92%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 64 reviews

Freedom Shores

At Freedom Shores visitors can stay in a Boat Bungalow or Resort Suite, dine at the award winning Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill with a great selection of craft beers and boutique wines, enjoy a menu developed by our inspired Head Chef Zibby Deca, or just soak in the view of the water’s edge with a cocktail in hand and a moment of relaxation. Freedom Shores resort captures the natural surrounds of the ocean and lush Whitsunday tropical forests. Set in a hidden valley close to Airlie Beach, the destination provides various unique accommodation options from a converted boat, bespoke boat bungalow accommodation, through to well-appointed Resort Suites. The extensive landscaped gardens have pockets of peace, there is stunning craftsmanship found in all the buildings, and Freedom Shores offers service from highly experienced and knowledgeable staff. The venue is also poplar as an event destination.

Tropical paradise

Reviewed By alexathome86

I love this place. The rooms are cumfy clean and have great air-conditioning for those super hot days. The team at the concierge desk are always friendly and helpful and the stunning back drop of the ocean and islands leave you feeling revitalised. On the plus side your only a 1 min walk away from Northerlies and fantastic bar and resturant. Treat youself to this amazing resort you will not be disappointed.

9. Riverside Hotel South Bank

20 Montague Rd, Brisbane, Queensland 4101 Australia
Excellent
31%
Good
41%
Satisfactory
19%
Poor
6%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1498 reviews

Riverside Hotel South Bank

Riverside Hotel South Bank is a AAA rated 4 star Hotel, located in Brisbane’s South Bank, which is known as the "precinct for business, art, culture, education, dining and living." Being built in 1998, Riverside Hotel is family operated and, as for that, prizes service and guest comfort above all. Comprised of over 90 rooms and apartments, we have an array of facilities on offer to make your stay a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Our standard rooms are perfect for guests staying overnight for a corporate function or if you are in town to watch a game at the Gabba or Suncorp Stadium, while our one bedroom apartments include a kitchenette and a spacious lounge area, so whatever brings you to Brisbane, our rooms provide a comfortable home away from home. Whether planning your visit for business or leisure, Riverside Hotel offers peace of mind to all our guests by providing complimentary car parking and being located within walking distance to all major tourist and business areas of Brisbane. During your stay with us, you will be mere moments away from the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Lyric Theatre (QPAC), Museums and Art Galleries, not to mention being surrounded by a variety of over 40 restaurants, bars and coffee shops. Please allow us to reiterate that Brisbane C.B.D. and the Suncorp Stadium are also nearby. At the Riverside Hotel, you will be close to whatever brings you to Brisbane. Riverside Hotel does not just offer 4 Star quality in an ideal location, we also take pride in guaranteeing you the best rates in Southbank* for accommodation and functions.

Close to Convention centre, Southbank eateries, Nepalese Pagoda and river cat.

Reviewed By rkca56

We stayed at the Riverside on the 28/5 and it was a semi enjoyable stay. The balcony door did not lock. We did mention this to the staff on checkout on the 29/5. It was an oxymoron. Notices to say lock the balcony door yet this one didn’t!! The bathroom was a letdown: when paying in excess $200 for a one night’s accommodation at the very least one would expect a bath you can use and a shower rose you can move. The bath was for a person of very small stature and the shower was for a person of very tall stature!!!! We were expecting a room with one bed but it had a 2nd bed which made the room seem small, an observation as such not a complaint! If we were to stay again I will request a room on the other side of the premises due to the traffic noise. The upside is that Riverside is close to the Southbank eateries, Convention centre 10-minute walk if you are lucky. ?

10. Ingenia Holidays Noosa

141 Cooroy Noosa Rd, Noosaville, Noosa, Queensland 4565 Australia
Excellent
50%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
4%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 810 reviews

Ingenia Holidays Noosa

Ingenia Holidays Noosa is situated just minutes from the tranquil riverside town of Tewantin and a short drive to the world renowned Noosa Hastings Street shopping precinct, Noosa National Park and Noosa Main Beach. We offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets - from 3 bedroom villas to no frill twin rooms, powered and ensuite caravan and camping sites. Our park is the perfect base to experience the wonders of the Sunshine Coast - explore the wild at Australia Zoo, shop for local designer pieces at the Eumundi Markets or take a day trip to Fraser Island. Ingenia Holidays Noosa is the perfect Sunshine Coast holiday destination for your family!

Good Park, Staff Friendly, Ensuite Sites Modern & Clean

Reviewed By Anne B

Despite the torrential rain, making sites muddy (obviously no fault of the park) we still enjoyed our week here on an Ensuite site. The site we had was good & fairly roomy. Ensuites were clean & modern with good hot & cold water pressure. Pool was clean and heated. Park was in Good location, not far to drive into Tewantin town centre. Staff very friendly and welcoming. Only 2 issues: A small dog on the site across from us which barked constantly for 4 days at EVERYTHING that moved. Camper trailer, who lit an open fire in their brazier on the very small patch of grass that separated our vans. Every night it filled our van with smoke. We too love an open fire, but in such close quarters, we felt it was rather thoughtless.

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