Queensland is charging into 2025 with an energy that’s impossible to ignore, unveiling a wave of new stays, immersive experiences, and boundary-pushing attractions that make Australia’s Sunshine State feel fresher than ever. From glamorous new hotels on the Gold Coast and Hamilton Island to accessible adventures and outdoor thrills across the state, Queensland isn’t just raising the bar—it’s leaping over it.
The momentum continues into 2026, beginning with the launch of Happitat, a world-first cliffside adventure park, and the debut of guided journeys along the long-awaited Ngaro Track. With so much unfolding across the state, here are 26 exciting new reasons to book a Queensland escape in 2026.
New Places to Stay: Big Personality, Bigger Views
Luxury hospitality took on a distinctly Queensland flair in 2025.
Mondrian Gold Coast
Opening in June just steps from Burleigh Beach, the Mondrian brand’s first Australian property instantly became a design-lover’s dream. Its 208 contemporary rooms and ocean-view suites set the tone, while amenities like CIEL Spa, a sunny pool deck, and standout dining at LiTO and Haven redefined the modern beach holiday.
The Sundays, Hamilton Island
Further north, The Sundays arrived in April, bringing a serene, elevated escape overlooking Catseye Beach. This 59-room retreat embodies relaxed island living, amplified by the Catseye Pool Club’s share-style, seasonal menu crafted by acclaimed chefs Josh and Julie Niland.
Pat’s Farm, Lamington National Park
For something more grounded and nature-forward, Pat’s Farm introduced six off-grid chalets within World Heritage-listed rainforest. Private plunge pools, hammocks beneath starlit skies, and eco-conscious design set the tone for slow, meaningful stays.
Peppers Gladstone
February marked the opening of Peppers Gladstone—the region’s first purpose-built hotel in more than ten years—injecting fresh, stylish energy into the coastal city’s accommodation scene.
Nature, Culture & Wellness: Escapes That Nourish the Soul
Queensland’s hinterland became a sanctuary of wellbeing in 2025.
Sol Elements, Tamborine Mountain
Inspired by Japanese bathing rituals, Sol Elements opened in June with thermal pools, cold-plunge baths, a Himalayan salt cave, and a firepit lounge—an instant hit among wellness travellers.
Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses, Noosa Hinterland
In the Noosa region, visitors now journey by buggy to cliff-top cedar bathhouses for two-hour soaks in pure spring water, Epsom salt blends, or aromatic botanical infusions—all surrounded by wildlife-filled bushland.
Saltwater Eco Tours, Sunshine Coast
Saltwater Eco Tours launched guided, accessible canoe journeys along the Mooloolah River, sharing First Nations stories while guests paddle in traditionally painted double canoes.
The Boat Mooloolaba
Launched in August, this laid-back canal cruiser offers twilight cocktails, live music, and scenic views from the Sunshine Coast’s waterways.
Astra Lumina, Gold Coast
The Gold Coast welcomed Astra Lumina—a luminous, after-dark forest walk at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary that blends light, music, and nature into an enchanting evening experience.
Taste Queensland: New Sips & Flavours
Winnfred’s, Brisbane
Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley gained a sophisticated new Champagne destination when Winnfred’s opened its doors in August, showcasing over 360 cuvées from 60+ growers within its multi-level, Parisian-inspired space.
The Church – Local Wine Project, Granite Belt
In Queensland’s high-altitude wine country, a restored chapel became a cosy tasting room for small-batch local wines poured by the region’s passionate makers.
Flinders Street Wharves, Townsville
December marks the debut of a reimagined waterfront precinct with cafés, eateries, and a breezy rooftop bar—plus The Docks, a floating restaurant celebrating North Queensland seafood.
Adventure Awaits: Accessible, Adrenaline-Filled & Unforgettable
World’s First Accessible Bridge Climb
Brisbane made headlines in April when the Story Bridge Adventure Climb introduced wheelchair-accessible climbs—a global first and a milestone for inclusive tourism.
Surf, Jet Ski & River Thrills
- The Australian Surf Bus expanded its multi-day surf immersion on the Sunshine Coast.
- Yeppoon Jet Ski Tours delivered wildlife-filled thrills along dramatic Capricorn Coast headlands.
- Mackay’s Purple Thunder launched heart-pumping river spins along the Pioneer River in January.
Daintree & Reef Overnight Adventure
Launching in October, Cairns Adventure Group now offers a guided rainforest-to-reef journey with ziplining, croc-spotting, an overnight stay in Cape Tribulation, and reef time with Ocean Safari.
Reef Escapes: Islands, Sailing & Marine Magic
Two-Island Explorer
From September, Reef Unlimited began whisking guests to both Fitzroy Island and Green Island in a single day—perfect for snorkelling, sunbathing, and slow-paced island wandering.
ABC Reef Safaris’ Voyager
Port Douglas welcomed Voyager, the region’s first new reef vessel in seven years, offering intimate trips guided by marine biologists and Master Reef Guides.
Magnetic Island Trek & Sail
A partnership between Pilgrim Sailing and Destination Adventure now offers a hybrid hike-and-sail experience combining scenic trails, yacht cruising, and refreshing swim stops.
Coming in 2026: A Year of “Firsts”
Queensland’s 2026 tourism calendar is already stacked with major openings and new experiences.
Happitat – Opening January 2026
A world-first cliffside adventure park in the Gondwana Rainforests featuring:
- 200m zipline
- Via ferrata climbing route
- Suspended bridges and crossings
- Forest trails and swimming holes
Built high above the Gold Coast Hinterland, it’s set to become Australia’s most dramatic outdoor adventure experience.
Dreaming Trails Tour
Mystic Mountain Tours launches a full-day cultural journey through the Sunshine Coast hinterland guided by First Nations knowledge holders, featuring:
- QCamel Dairy visit
- Native ingredient tastings
- Hands-on cultural workshops
- Storytelling and rainforest walks
Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Dinosaur Canyon
Opening April, this immersive sound-and-light experience brings prehistoric Queensland to life before shifting to the Jump-Up Dark Sky Sanctuary for stargazing under pristine Outback skies.
Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel
Debuting in April with 180 bright, coastal-inspired rooms, a rooftop pool, and unbeatable beach access.
Epic New Hiking Trails
World Expeditions launches:
- Ngaro Track (May 2026): A 32km Whitsundays island trek developed with the Ngaro People, complete with purpose-built camps.
- Thorsborne Trail (2026): Guided four-day journeys along one of Queensland’s wildest island routes, in partnership with the Bandjin and Girramay Peoples.
Brisbane Oyster Farm Tours
Launching 2026, this Moreton Bay experience pairs fresh oysters with sparkling wine as guests learn about sustainable farming against the backdrop of Moreton Island’s towering sandhills.
With so many new and tantalising experiences across Queensland, holidaymakers are truly spoilt for choice. Visit queensland.com and surrender to that holiday feeling.
