Looking for your next adventure? From golden beaches to lush rainforests, Brisbane is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable road trips that blend nature, thrill, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a shutterbug chasing stunning landscapes or a family seeking memorable getaways, these scenic drives promise something for everyone.
With Malaysia Airlines resuming direct flights to Brisbane from 11 June 2025, your Queensland escape is closer than ever. Book now on call to enjoy special introductory fares, exceptional service, and seamless connections across Australia.
Here’s why Brisbane deserves a spot on your travel list — and the road trips you can’t miss once you arrive.
- Gold Coast – For Beach Lovers & Thrill Seekers
Approx. 1-hour drive from Brisbane
Just a short drive south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is where sun-soaked beaches meet world-class attractions. Surf at Burleigh Heads, snap sunrise shots from Currumbin Alley, or get your adrenaline pumping at theme parks like Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World — perfect for families.
Malaysia Airlines offers convenient connectivity across Australia — plan your itinerary to include both Gold Coast’s surf culture and a tropical detour to Langkawi with the Bonus Side Trip offer.Â
- Sunshine Coast – For Laid-Back Escapes & Wildlife Encounters
Approx. 1.5-hour drive from Brisbane
Nature lovers will fall for the Sunshine Coast’s pristine beaches, lush hinterlands, and charming seaside towns. Visit Noosa National Park for coastal walks and dolphin sightings, or get up close with native animals at Australia Zoo. Don’t miss a photo op at the Glass House Mountains — their volcanic peaks are a photographer’s dream.
- Moreton Island – For Adventure & Underwater Wonders
Approx. 1-hour drive + ferry from Brisbane
A quick ferry ride from Brisbane, Moreton Island is an outdoor playground. Snorkel around the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboard down towering dunes, or hand-feed wild dolphins at sunset. The island’s crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life make it a paradise for underwater photographers.
After landing in Brisbane with Malaysia Airlines, ferries to Moreton Island depart from nearby ports like Pinkenba or Holt Street Wharf — all easily accessible by car.
- Springbrook National Park – For Rainforest Walks & Waterfalls
Approx. 1.5-hour drive from Brisbane
Part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests, Springbrook is a haven of ancient forests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic lookouts. Don’t miss the Natural Bridge — a stunning rock arch and waterfall that glows with bioluminescent glow worms after sunset. It’s a magical sight for photographers and families alike. With Malaysia Airlines’ Chef-on-Call service available in Business Class, savour a personalised gourmet dining experience before you immerse in Springbrook’s lush greenery.
- Fraser Island (K’gari) – For Wilderness & 4WD Adventures
Approx. 4-hour drive + ferry from Brisbane
The world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island is a wonderland of freshwater lakes, towering rainforests, and endless beaches. Drive along 75 Mile Beach, float in the crystal-clear waters of Lake McKenzie, or capture the rusting Maheno Shipwreck at golden hour. It’s a nature escape that’s both rugged and serene — ideal for adventurous families.
From Brisbane, travellers can drive to Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach, where ferries to Fraser Island operate regularly. Travelling with kids? Malaysia Airlines’ family-friendly inflight services ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for all.
- Great Barrier Reef – For Iconic Aussie Experiences
Approx. 1-hour flight from Brisbane (to Hervey Bay or Cairns)
No trip to Queensland is complete without visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or dive into its vibrant underwater world, take a scenic flight for jaw-dropping aerial views, or relax on the white sands of the Whitsundays. From colourful corals to rich marine life, it’s a bucket-list destination packed with unforgettable moments and photo ops.
After landing, you can connect easily to Hervey Bay or Cairns via domestic carriers — making it simple to tick off one of Australia’s most iconic experiences.
Ready to Explore Queensland’s Scenic Escapes?From coastal getaways to rainforest retreats, Brisbane is your gateway to some of Australia’s most iconic road trips.
With Malaysia Airlines resuming direct flights to Brisbane from 11 June 2025 — and flying to other major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth — discovering the best of Down Under is easier than ever.
Plus, elevate your journey with Malaysia Airlines’ exclusive Bonus Side Trip offer. Book a return international ticket to Australia and enjoy a complimentary return domestic flight within Malaysia — perfect for adding a tropical getaway to Langkawi, Penang or other local gems before or after your Aussie escape.
