Are you a couple looking for a romantic getaway near Brisbane for a bit of RnR so you can reconnect?
No worries.
Or perhaps you’re an active couple searching for the best weekend getaways from Brisbane that offers an action-packed two day itinerary?
We’ve got you.
There are loads of amazing destinations within driving distance from Brisbane that offer endless opportunities for every type of couple. But no matter what your interests are, we’ve found 15 incredibly romantic getaways Brisbane couples will absolutely adore!
Whether you’re looking for a short trip to Noosa, an ultra luxe escape to Spicers Peak, or an adventure filled weekend on Moreton Island – one of our absolute favourite islands in Queensland.
The best weekend trips from Brisbane for couples are the ones that leave you both with memories that last a lifetime.
And we’ve found 15 romantic Brisbane getaways that will do just that!
Read on for the best Brisbane weekend getaways for every type of couple.
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In This Post:
Map of Romantic Brisbane Getaways
15 of the Best Weekend Getaways from Brisbane
Here’s a quick summary of the 15 places we’ve found for a short break or weekend getaway from Brisbane. Continue reading for more details about each location, plus accommodation recommendations.
- Noosa Heads
- Tangalooma, Moreton Island
- Spicer’s Peak
- Toowoomba & Darling Downs
- Granite Belt
- Mount Tamborine
- Rainbow Beach
- North Stradbroke Islamd
- Tweed Coast
- Byron Bay
- Sunshine Coast Hinterland
- Bunya Mountains
- Lamington National Park
- Bribie Island
- Coolum Beach
#1 | Noosa Heads
Noosa Heads is without a doubt one of the most popular short breaks from Brisbane. Loved by couples and families alike, for decades Brissie locals have flocked to this popular holiday hotspot for some sun, sand, surfing, hiking, boating, and good food.
For foodie couples, Noosa has a ton of amazing cafes and restaurants all in one tiny town. You’ll be spoilt for choice and will probably want to stay a week to try them all. Our Noosa weekend guide has you covered with all the best places to eat and drink.
Noosa also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Main Beach is the most popular spot to sunbake for the day. But if you’re feeling a little adventurous, take a walk around the National Park and visit some of Noosa’s stunning secluded beaches such as Little Cove Beach, Tea Tree Bay, or Granite Bay.
For those looking for something a little more active, there are endless choices. Why not take a hike around Noosa National Park coastal path, hire a boat and head up the Noosa River, go kayaking in the Noosa Everglades, or hire a SUP on main beach and paddle your way around the headland.
And don’t forget your credit card because the shopping in Noosa is world-class. Hastings Street has loads of quaint boutiques selling swimwear, resort wear, jewellery, artworks, and homewares. And let’s not forget the renowned Eumundi Markets – arguably the best arts and crafts markets in Australia!
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 2 hours
Where to Stay: Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort | Maison Noosa | Fairshore Noosa
Read Next: Where to Stay, Eat & Play in Noosa Heads, Australia
#2 | Tangalooma, Moreton Island
For a unique and adventurous weekend away from Brisbane, look no further than Tangalooma on Moreton Island.
Just a short 60-minute ferry ride from Brisbane, you’ll find massive sand dunes, stunning rock pools, and beaches where you can mingle with wild dolphins.
But the major drawcard of Moreton Island is Tangalooma Wrecks – a collection of fifteen old dredging ships that were deliberately sunk and is now home to scores of reef fish, and other marine life. Tangalooma Wrecks is one of the largest and most spectacular man-made reefs in the southern hemisphere.
For everything you need to know about planning a weekend trip from Brisbane to Moreton Island, we’ve got you covered. Check out our Moreton Island guide to help plan your next getaway.
How to Get There from Brisbane: Catch the Tangalooma Ferry (passengers only) from Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba, or the Micat Ferry (passengers and vehicles) from Port of Brisbane.
Where to Stay: Villa 21 Tangalooma | Beachfront Villa at Tangalooma | Castaways Moreton Island
Read Next: How to See Tangalooma Wrecks on Moreton Island
#3 | Spicers Peak Lodge, Scenic Rim
If you’re looking for an uber luxury romantic weekend getaway from Brisbane for a special occasion, then Spicers Peak lodge is the perfect place.
Nestled on an escarpment in the stunning Scenic Rim region, rests a large modern architecturally designed mountain lodge with breathtaking views. Spicers Peak Lodge literally feels worlds away from civilization.
The lodge is surrounded by 8000 acres of pristine bushland, where you will hear nothing but the birds, the wind in the trees, and the odd moo cow. And it’s not uncommon for the local kangaroos and wallabies to sun themselves in the grass right outside your room.
Spicers Peak lodge is the premier property of the Spicer Group and offers all-inclusive multi-course gourmet dining, with a selection of fine Australian wines, and exquisite accommodations.
There’s a range of activities available on the property. For adventurous couples, there are hikes and mountain bike trails, or helicopter flights over the ranges. The staff will even pack you a gourmet picnic lunch to take on your nature-filled adventures. There’s also relaxing spa and wellness treatments for those in need of a little me-time.
With prices starting at $1400 per night (all-inclusive), Spicers Peak Lodge is the epitome of luxury lodges in Australia and offers couples the ultimate Brisbane weekend away that you won’t forget!
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 2 hours
Where to Stay: Spicers Peak Lodge
#4 | Toowoomba & Darling Downs
It’s surprising that Toowoomba is not a more popular choice when it comes to quick getaways from Brisbane. Being just 1 hour and 40 minutes drive away, this charming country town is ideal for a romantic rendezvous.
Known as the ‘Garden City’, Toowoomba’s main attraction is, you guessed it, impressive parks and gardens. There are some great spots for a romantic picnic or leisurely stroll (hand in hand of course).
Check out Queens Park, Laurel Bank Park, the State Rose Garden, or the Japanese Garden. Time your visit around the annual Carnival of Flowers Festival (held in September) for a real treat.
Other things to do in Toowoomba include visiting the Cobb + Co Museum, take in the views from Picnic Point, check out the Russell Street Historical Walk, or take a hike up Tabletop Mountain.
Toowoomba has a range of accommodation options from modern hotels to quaint country cottages where you can snuggle by the fire with a glass of red – the perfect way to spend a romantic weekend retreat near Brisbane!
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes
Where to Stay: Bluestone Cottages | Vacy Hall Grand Boutique Hotel | Potters Toowoomba Hotel
#5 | Granite Belt
One of the most underrated Brisbane weekend trips is the Granite Belt region. Perhaps because it’s a little further to get there. Stanthorpe is approximately 3 hours by car along the New England Highway.
But the beauty of being further afield means less crowds. And isn’t that exactly what you want when escaping the hustle and bustle of Brisbane for a romantic weekend getaway?
Nestled on the border of NSW and Queensland, the Granite Belt region comprises of a series of towns dotted along the New England Tableland – including Stanthorpe, Glen Aplin, Ballandean, amongst others.
The perfect place for a bit of rest and relaxation, the Granite Belt regions offers an array of accommodation styles – from rustic to luxurious.
The Granite Belt is one of the few (good) wine regions in Queensland. And no weekend getaway would be complete without visiting some vineyards on the Alternative Variety Wine Trail.
For those couples looking for an active weekend getaway, the Giraween and Sundown National Parks offer endless hiking opportunities. Here you can trek amongst giant granite boulders, or through stunning remote gorges.
The Granite Belt is a great place to visit year-round. From mild summers, to stunning blooms in springtime, red and gold colours in autumn, and snow with open-fire lodges in winter. The Granite Belt is the only place in Queensland that sees snow during winter, so it’s the perfect place for a winter weekend away from Brisbane.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay: Granite Belt Retreat and Brewery | 31 The Rocks | Diamondvale B&B Cottages
#6 | Mount Tamborine
Recommendation by Melissa of Queensland Camping
Heading up Mount Tamborine is one of the most popular weekend road trips from Brisbane because it’s so close to the city and the drive there is as stunning as the destination itself.
Being only an hour or so away from Brisbane (depending on where you live), Mt Tamborine offers gorgeous vistas, quaint villages, lovely walks and cosy accommodation.
Mt Tamborine has a great climate year round. While it does get cooler in the mountains during the winter months, this is the perfect time to get cozy with your partner in front of a warm log fire. The winter months are a great time for long walks among the rainforest and spending hours browsing the boutiques and quaint villages.
Summers at Mount Tamborine are a little milder due to the cool mountain air. This makes it an ideal time to escape the humidity of the city. Summer is also a great time to make use of the various rockpools and water holes located throughout the national park. And of course anytime is great for visiting the local wineries and sampling local food producers.
One of the great things about Mt Tamborine is its ideal for all kinds of budgets and travellers. You can find great inexpensive accommodation in the form of motel rooms and cabins such as Tall Trees Motel or Kidd Street Cottages. There are also some stunning five star luxury accommodation such as Songbirds or Pethers Rainforest Retreat – both offer great restaurants too.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Where to Stay: Songbirds Rainforest Retreat | Hampton Estate Wines | Escarpment Retreat
#7 | Rainbow Beach
Photo and recommendation by Sharon of Baby Journey
If you are looking for a unique and adventurous weekend trip from Brisbane, look no further than Rainbow Beach. Voted as one of the most incredible beaches in the world, as well as the third most colourful, Rainbow Beach is truly somewhere special.
Best known for its coloured sands that give the town its name, Rainbow Beach is perfect for couples that enjoy nature and beautiful scenery.
The area is great for hiking, four-wheel driving, fishing and water sports. Even if you aren’t much of a hiker, the 10-minute walk to Carlo Sandblow is highly recommended. There’s a viewing platform over the “blow” from which you can see out to sea and possibly spot a whale passing by. Keep walking to the cliff’s edge to view the spectacular coloured sands from above.
If you have a 4WD, drive along the beach at low tide to see to the rainbow coloured cliffs towering above you. Without a car, you’ll need to walk south from the main town along the beach.
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in town, try Arcobaleno on the Beach for an Italian fix or The Deck @ Sea Salt for burgers and tapas.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay: Plantation Resort at Rainbow | Salty Vibes Retreat | Dee’s Retreat Rainbow Beach
#8 | North Stradbroke Island
Photo and recommendation by Chris of The Aquarius Traveller
If you’re looking for a weekend trip from Brisbane that’s so close (yet seems far away) from the city, then we’ve got the perfect place. North Stradbroke Island is only 46 kilometres from the city centre, but literally feels a world away from the hustle and bustle.
To get there from Brisbane, it’s a short 45-minute drive to Clevelend and then another 45 minutes by SeaLink ferry. Whether you choose to travel over as a passenger (there is a public bus to get around the island) or take your own car, you’re sure to find that perfect weekend destination.
With 2000 people permanently living there, North Stradbroke Island has a small selection of shops, cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Pick your style, ranging from camping to luxury 5-star comforts, with something to suit everyone’s budget.
Known by its indigenous name – Minjerribah – North Stradbroke boasts endless beaches, animal life, diving, snorkelling, surf breaks, national parks, and epic four-wheel driving tracks.
Spend your days soaking in the sun or swimming by the beach, riding the waves, or driving down the beaches. Alternatively, you could try jet skiing, search around for local arts and crafts or take one of the many hiking trails to explore freshwater lakes.
Wildlife can be found everywhere on ‘Straddie’, from kangaroos, to koalas, many different bird species, and an abundance of marine life. Summer or winter, you’re never going to tire of North Stradbroke Island, as it’s the perfect weekend getaway for everyone.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1.5 hours plus a 30 minute ferry ride
Where to Stay: Allure Stradbroke Resort | 23 At The Islander | Ahoy Cottage
Read Next: 15 Incredible Islands in Queensland for your Next Vacay
#9 | Tweed Coast
For those looking for some sun, surf and sand, Tweed Coast is one of the best weekend getaways from Brisbane for you!
Stretching along the coast from Tweed Heads on the QLD/NSW border to Brunswick Heads in the south, the Tweed boasts some of the best beaches in Australia. The coastline is dotted with quintessential Aussie holiday towns, such as Cabarita Beach, Kingscliff, Final Head and many more.
These beautiful beach towns make the perfect weekend away from Brisbane for anyone who loves the water. There are heaps of things to do for all types of water-loving couples, from surfing, to hiking, kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, and cruising along the Tweed River.
Foodies won’t be disappointed either. The region is home to an abundance of great restaurants, cafes, fruit farms, organic markets, bakeries, and fresh seafood suppliers.
There is some amazing luxury accommodation options on the Tweed Coast, that are also perfect for a romantic getaway, as well as tons of more affordable options too. From the uber-luxe Halcyon House, to family-friendly resorts, romantic BnBs, and rustic camping (or glamping) sites.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
Where to Stay: Halcyon House | Peppers Salt Resort & Spa | Greenmount Beach House | The Brunswick
#10 | Byron Bay
Photo and recommendation by Raksha of Solo Passport
Although it’s not situated in Queensland, Byron Bay is still one of the most popular romantic getaways near Brisbane.
Just two hours drive away, Byron Bay is well-known for its amazing beaches, festivals, and romantic vibes. This ever-popular beach town is perfect for a weekend getaway for couples.
All types of couples are sure to fall in love with Byron Bay, especially those who love adventurous activities. The town is popular with its beaches that are apt for surfing and has a well-known scuba diving site, the Julian Rocks.
For couples who prefer a bit of RnR, the town offers plenty of massage and spa centres where you can enjoy all kinds of alternative treatments with views of the ocean.
And for couples who enjoy good music, time your visit around one of the renowned musical festivals that are hosted annually in Byron Bay, such as Blues Fest.
Byron Bay also has several great restaurants and cafes that serve all kinds of cuisine – some of our faves include Bay Leaf, St. Elmo, Miss Margarita, Fish Heads, and the uber-stylish Mez Club.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 2 hours
Where to Stay: Atlantic Byron Bay | 28 Degrees Byron Bay | Crystalbrook Byron | The Watermark
Read Next: Top 50 Most Famous Landmarks in Australia to add to your Bucket List
#11 | Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Recommendation by Peta & Jonas of Exit45 Travels
One of the best short trips from Brisbane that offers a little peace and quiet is the cute towns in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. To get there from Brisbane, it’s about a 1.5 hour drive north, or around 100 kilometres via Steve Irwin Way, and then onto Maleny-Montville Road.
If drinking wine and indulging in long, lazy lunches is your ideal way to spend a romantic weekend, take your pick from the numerous restaurants and vineyards scattered throughout the hinterland – check out Spicers Tamarind, Flame Hill Vineyard, or Spirit House.
Enjoy the local produce on offer from this region by visiting the local farmers markets scattered around the area. Some well-known places frequented by locals include the Kenilworth Bakery, Rick’s Garage in Palmwoods, and Copperhead Restaurant and Brewery in Cooroy.
For those couples that love a little adventure, hit one of the many hiking trails in the national parks. You will see breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, lakes, waterfalls, forests and the coastline of the Sunshine Coast.
There are endless accommodation options available for all budgets. They range from romantic treehouses hidden within the rainforest, to luxury hilltop retreats with spectacular panoramic views. Secrets on the Lake in Montville offers cosy treehouse accommodation with a fireplace and lake views on the shores of Lake Barron.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Where to Stay: Spicers Tamarind Retreat | Spicers Clovelly Estate | Scandinavian Cabin | Maleny Lodge | Secrets on the Lake
#12 | Bunya Mountains
If you’re looking to connect with nature, then the Bunya Mountains in the South Burnett region is one of the most ideal weekend escapes from Brisbane. It’s also totally underrated (in our opinion).
Named after the stunning forest of bunya pines that blanket the mountains, it’s no surprise that the Bunya Mountains is a haven for couples who love hiking. The forest features a vast array of flora and fauna, including native wallabies, pademelons and hundreds of bird species.
There are plenty of romantic places to stay in the Bunya Mountains, from camping to quaint cottages and mountain chalets.
While you’re there, don’t forget to sample one of the local delicacies made from bunya nuts that grow on the trees in the area. Many of the local cafes and restaurants feature this protein-rich nut on their menus – check out The Bunyas Coffee Shop & Tavern.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay: Hillview Cottages | Room Motels Kingaroy | Mulanah Gardens B&B
#13 | Lamington National Park
A trip to Lamington National Park with your significant other is one of those Brisbane romantic getaways that you won’t forget in a hurry!
The World Heritage-listed national park comprises of ancient Gondwana rainforests and is split into two sections – Binna Burra and Green Mountains. This rugged national gem is home to many species of Australian wildlife and offers spectacular hiking trails, waterfalls and amazing vistas.
Some of the best hiking trails in the area include The Caves Circuit, which offers stunning views over the Coomera Valley, and Python Rock Lookout, which takes you past the spectacular Moran Falls. The Border Track is the longest trail and will take most people more than a day to complete, but it’s possible to only do some sections of the Border Track.
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat is a popular place to stay, as it’s the perfect retreat for couples looking for a romantic interlude. Another popular spot for cashed up couples is the exclusive Nightfall glamping retreat. There are also several more affordable quaint mountain chalets around the national park.
With most accommodation booked out months in advance, you’ll need to book early. The popularity of Lamington National Park makes it a pretty heavy contender for the best romantic getaways from Brisbane!
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Where to Stay: O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat | Wongari Eco Retreat | Nightfall | Canungra Cottages
#14 | Bribie Island
Photo and recommendation by Chris of The Aquarius Traveller
Reconnect with your loved one and head off on an adventurous romantic weekend away to Bribie Island. It’s located on the northside of Brisbane and is only a short drive away.
Even though it’s an island, you can drive there. Pumicestone Passage separates Bribie Island from the mainland and takes only a minute to drive over the bridge. Furthermore, this does give more options to get there by public transport or even day tours.
Bribie Island is known for its relaxed atmosphere. The west side of the island has calm beaches, and you’ll often find boats anchored or adrenalin junkies jet-skiing down the laneway. The east side of the island faces the ocean and full of surf, holiday houses and four-wheel driving tracks.
In terms of amenities, Bribie Island has everything you need from café’s, shopping stores, local markets, and groceries. Accommodation can vary from small to large groups and catering to all budgets from camping sites to luxury homes.
Just imagine waking up to the sound of the waves crashing on the beach or watching to sun go down from the shores. Bribie Island has it all and is so close to the city, so don’t pass up this destination for your next Brisbane weekend getaway.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Where to Stay: The Shack | On The Beach Resort Bribie Island | Bella Abode on Bribie
#15 | Coolum Beach
Another coastal weekend getaway from Brisbane that beach loving couples are sure to fall for is Coolum Beach. Less well-known and slightly more relaxed than its Sunshine Coast siblings, Coolum Beach is perfect for beachgoers wanting to escape the crowds.
Aside from spending days lazing on the beach, many visitors who come to Coolum make a point to conquer the aptly named Mount Coolum – the second largest rock in the world after Uluru.
It’s not a long or arduous hike by any means, but it can be steep in some sections. However, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the Sunshine Coast beaches, ocean and hinterland from the top. Sunrise or sunset is a particularly great time to climb.
There is an off-leash dog-friendly beach at Coolum, making it perfect for couples looking to take their pooch along on their weekend getaway from Brisbane.
With its laid-back holiday atmosphere, quaint beachside villages, and great surf breaks, we think Coolum Beach offers one of the most underrated weekend getaways near Brisbane.
Driving Time from Brisbane: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Where to Stay: The Point Coolum | The Dome House | Coolum At The Beach
Have we missed a spot? Can you recommend any other great Brisbane weekend getaways for other visitors to check out, let us know in the comments below!
Ready to Book Your Weekend Away from Brisbane?
While Brisbane is an awesome city to live in, sometimes you just need to escape for a weekend of RnR with your significant other. We hope this article has revealed some Brisbane romantic getaway ideas that you hadn’t already considered for your next couples retreat.
To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out more about these amazing destinations by visiting the Queensland Tourism website.
If you’re looking for inspiration on places to visit in the sunshine state, we’ve linked a few articles about great holiday destinations and short getaways in Queensland below.
Planning a Queensland adventure? Read on for more inspiration:
- 15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts
- A Guide to Visiting Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays
- 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit the Great Barrier Reef
- The Ultimate LUXE Guide to Hayman Island, Australia
- Noosa Heads: Where to Stay, What to Do + Where to Eat & Drink
- The Ultimate Travel Guide to Port Douglas, Australia
- How to See Tangalooma Wrecks on Moreton Island, Australia
- 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia to add to your Bucket List
- 10 Best Airbnbs in Cairns, Australia
Are you based elsewhere in Australia? Be sure to check out our Couples Getaway Guides from other Australian capital cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Hobart or Launceston.
Looking for Somewhere to Stay on your Trip?
Use the search box below to take advantage of the Booking.com Best Price Guarantee and get the best rates on accommodation for your next weekend getaway near Brisbane:
Booking.comLooking to explore further afield? Here’s a list of Australia’s top 50+ famous Landmarks to add to your bucket list and inspire you to discover more of this beautiful country!
Planning a trip soon? Here is a list of the websites and resources we use for booking everything from flights, to accommodation, tours, and more:
- Skyscanner for booking the best flight deals
- Booking.com | Agoda | Hotels.com for the best rates on hotels
- Airbnb | HomeAway to find the best apartment and home rentals
- Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals
- Luxury Escapes | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
- Get Your Guide for a great range of day tours
- Tourradar | Intrepid for multi-day experiential and adventure tours
- Priority Pass for airport lounge access in hundreds of locations around the world
- Skyroam to stay connected to WiFi everywhere I go
- iVisa to apply for entry visas for most countries in the world
- World Nomads for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance
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About the Author:
Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.
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