Queensland | Great Barrier Reef: Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, Whitsundays & More Insider Tips

Queensland, Island Resorts | I loved Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays. I highly recommend renting a buggy to get around the island and explore the shops, restaurants, pools and general areas - request them early, they sell out quickly! They also offer a Buggy Rally - in teams of four, drive around the island answering a series of trivia questions about Hamilton Island, each question taking you to a new location. ~ Malia Amelita, Destination Specialist

Queensland, Island Resorts | Enjoy a romantic picnic on your own private beach when you stay at Lizard Island. You can choose your picnic menu and beverage selection the night before, then arrive at the Beach Club the following day, hop on your motorized dinghy and set out for your private beach day. Resort chefs create fresh salads, seafood and freshly backed sweets for your enjoyment and the best part ... its all included as part of your stay.

Queensland, Cairns & Port Douglas | I recommend renting a car and enjoying a day trip from Cairns to Port Douglas. The drive is only about 30 miles and it's surprisingly easy to drive on the wrong side of the road, plus you can take in the spectacular views along the way. Pack a picnic lunch to savor on Four Mile Beach or explore the market on Wharf Street on Sundays. On the leisurely drive back take in the spectacular view while enjoying an appetizer at Thala Beach Lodge, stop to stroll along Ellis Beach or enjoy an ice cream on the beachfront esplanade in the quaint town of Palm Cove. ~ Chenoa Hopkins, Marketing Project Manager