12 Best Scenic Coastal Walks in Queensland

 

 

Queensland, Australia’s sunshine state, is renowned for its stunning coastline and breathtaking natural beauty.

With a coastline stretching over 6,000 kilometres, Queensland offers a plethora of scenic coastal hikes that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes.

From pristine beaches and hidden coves to dramatic cliffs and lush rainforests, these trails allow adventurers to immerse themselves in Queensland’s awe-inspiring scenery.

This article presents some of the best scenic coastal walks in Queensland, inviting you to embark on an unforgettable journey through paradise.

 

Noosa National Park Coastal Walk

One of the standout coastal walks in Queensland, the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk is a mesmerising journey that captures the essence of the region’s natural beauty.

Stretching approximately 10.8 kilometres, this trail takes you through a pristine landscape of golden beaches, coastal heaths and lush rainforests. As you embark on this picturesque Noosa hike, be prepared to be awe-struck by the breathtaking vistas of the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Along the way, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including koalas nestled in eucalyptus trees, playful dolphins frolicking in the surf and a vibrant array of bird species soaring above.

Take a moment to bask in the serenity of Tea Tree Bay or Granite Bay, two stunning beaches that grace the trail and cool off with a refreshing dip in their crystal-clear waters.

With its blend of natural splendour and abundant wildlife encounters, the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk is a true gem, offering an unforgettable coastal hiking experience in Queensland.

 

Burleigh Heads National Park

Nestled between the bustling Surfer’s Paradise and the laid-back Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads National Park presents a captivating coastal hike showcasing Queensland’s coastline’s natural beauty.

Spanning 2.3 kilometres, this trail offers a compact yet breathtaking adventure. As you traverse the path, be prepared to be spellbound by sweeping views of Burleigh Heads with its golden sand and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, and the iconic Burleigh Heads rock formation.

The trail meanders through a diverse landscape, where ancient volcanic columns stand juxtaposed with tranquil rainforests teeming with lush vegetation. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of wildlife that calls this park home, including vibrant bird species and the occasional sighting of playful dolphins offshore.

The highlight of the hike awaits at Tumgun Lookout, where panoramic vistas unfold, stretching from the vibrant Surfer’s Paradise skyline to the distant horizon of Coolangatta. Burleigh Heads National Park offers a coastal hiking experience that seamlessly combines natural beauty, cultural significance and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for any adventurer in Queensland.

 

Cape Hillsborough National Park

Nestled just north of Mackay, Cape Hillsborough National Park presents a unique coastal hiking experience that seamlessly blends pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

The Diversity Boardwalk, a 2.8-kilometre trail within the park, takes you through a landscape of coastal dunes and enchanting rainforests.

As you wander along this scenic path, prepare for a breathtaking sunrise spectacle. Cape Hillsborough is famous for its daily kangaroo and wallaby beach visits, where these adorable marsupials emerge from the forest to greet the first light of day along the shoreline.

This magical encounter offers a truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike. Whilst exploring the park, take the time to appreciate the untouched beauty of Casuarina Beach, a pristine stretch of sand where the azure waters meet the lush greenery.

Cape Hillsborough National Park delivers a coastal hiking adventure that combines stunning natural landscapes with captivating wildlife encounters, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the best scenic coastal walks in Queensland.

 

 

K’gari (Fraser Island) Great Walk

As the largest sand island in the world, K’gari, also known as Fraser Island, boasts a captivating coastal hike that showcases the island’s unique and diverse landscapes.

Spanning approximately 90 kilometres, the K’gari Great Walk offers an immersive adventure through ancient rainforests, crystal-clear freshwater lakes and stunning coastal vistas.

This multi-day trek takes you along sandy beaches, vast sand dunes and lush forests teeming with native flora and fauna. Along the way, marvel at the vibrant hues of Lake McKenzie, float in the tranquil waters of Eli Creek and explore the towering sand blows that define the island’s landscape.

With its combination of coastal beauty and striking natural features, the K’gari Great Walk allows hikers to experience the untamed wilderness and unparalleled scenic views that make K’gari an iconic destination in Queensland.

 

Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail

For those seeking scenic coastal walks in Queensland in a tropical paradise, the 36-kilometre Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail offers an extraordinary experience.

The trail takes you on a journey through the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands, where you’ll encounter secluded beaches, dense rainforests and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Whether you choose to hike, kayak, or sail, this trail allows you to explore the uninhabited islands and discover hidden coves and stunning viewpoints. Camp along pristine beaches, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and immerse yourself in the region’s rich Indigenous history at ancient cultural sites.

As you traverse the Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail, you’ll be treated to postcard-perfect vistas, where the contrast of lush greenery against the azure sea creates a visual spectacle.

With its blend of natural beauty and tranquil seclusion, this coastal hike offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the unparalleled charm of the Whitsunday Islands in Queensland, Australia
.

 

Hinchinbrook Island Thorsborne Trail

For those seeking a challenging and awe-inspiring coastal hike, the Hinchinbrook Island Thorsborne Trail stands as a testament to the untouched beauty of Queensland’s wilderness.

Spanning 32 kilometres, this trail guides hikers through the rugged and pristine landscapes of Hinchinbrook Island, located in the state’s far north. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the island’s towering mountains and the sparkling Coral Sea as you navigate through ancient rainforests, mangrove-lined creeks and secluded beaches.

The trail offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in the untouched splendour of nature. Permits are required to ensure a pristine and uncrowded experience, allowing hikers to fully appreciate the serenity and solitude of this remote island paradise.

The Hinchinbrook Island Thorsborne Trail is a bucket-list adventure for avid hikers, providing an unforgettable journey through some of the most scenic coastal walks in Queensland.

 

 

Cooloola Great Walk

Embarking on the Cooloola Great Walk is an epic coastal hiking adventure that unveils the raw beauty of the Great Sandy National Park.

Stretching for about 102 kilometres, this trail takes you on a remarkable journey through diverse landscapes, including coastal dunes, lush rainforests and pristine freshwater lakes.

As you traverse the trail, be prepared to witness breathtaking panoramic views of the vast sandy beaches and the sparkling turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Noosa River, navigate through towering sand dunes and marvel at the region’s rich biodiversity, from unique flora to native wildlife.

The Cooloola Great Walk offers an immersive and unforgettable experience for those who tackle it, allowing you to connect with nature and explore the untamed coastal beauty of Queensland in all its glory.

 

The Great Beach Drive

For a truly unique coastal hiking experience, The Great Beach Drive offers an extraordinary adventure.

Combining driving and walking along some of the most breathtaking scenic coastal walks in Queensland, it incorporates a 100-kilometre stretch from Noosa to Rainbow Beach. Along the way, you will traverse expansive sandy beaches while also enjoying opportunities for scenic coastal hikes.

As you drive along the shores, you can lose yourself in the natural wonders that unfold before you, from towering sand dunes to pristine coastal landscapes. Make sure to explore the enchanting Cooloola Recreation Area, where you can hike through ancient rainforests, witness the colourful sands of Rainbow Beach and even visit the mesmerising Carlo Sand Blow.

The Great Beach Drive offers a unique blend of coastal exploration and hiking, allowing you to create unforgettable memories while discovering the beauty of coastal Queensland’s treasures.

 

Magnetic Island Forts Walk

Situated just off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island offers a scenic coastal hike known as the Forts Walk that combines history, natural beauty and breathtaking views.

This 4-kilometre trail takes you through picturesque bushland and leads to the historic World War II fortifications atop Magnetic Island’s highest point. When hiking along the path, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal vistas, including panoramic views of the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea and the surrounding islands.

Along the way, keep an eye out for native wildlife, such as koalas, rock wallabies and a variety of bird species that inhabit the island. The Forts Walk not only offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s natural landscapes but also provides a glimpse into its fascinating military history.

For those seeking coastal walks in Queensland that combine history, wildlife and sweeping coastal views, the Magnetic Island Forts Walk is a must-visit destination in Queensland.

 

 

Whitehaven Beach Walk

Nestled right in the middle of the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach this wonderful beach is one of the best and most beautiful in Queensland.

While it is accessible by boat, embarking on the Whitehaven Beach Walk allows you to fully immerse yourself in its pristine beauty.

This 7-kilometre return hike starts at Tongue Point and takes you to the Hill Inlet lookout, offering mesmerising views of the swirling sands and azure waters that make this beach so renowned. As you walk along the pure silica sand, you’ll feel like you’re strolling on a picture-perfect paradise.

Take your time to explore the beach’s secluded coves, swim in the crystal-clear waters and marvel at the untouched natural beauty that surrounds you. The Whitehaven Beach Walk is a scenic coastal hike that captures the essence of the state’s coastal beauty and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience on one of the scenic coastal walks in Queensland.

 

Cape Tribulation to Wujal Wujal Coastal Walk

In the far north of Queensland, where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Daintree Rainforest, lies a captivating coastal hike from Cape Tribulation to Wujal Wujal.

This 30-kilometre trail offers a unique blend of coastal and rainforest landscapes, allowing you to experience the beauty of two World Heritage-listed areas.

Traversing the trail, you’ll be mesmerised by rugged headlands, secluded beaches and dense tropical vegetation. The hike also provides cultural insights into the traditional lands of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people, offering a profound connection to the rich Aboriginal heritage of the region.

The scenic coastal views are simply breathtaking, with the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea contrasting against the lush greenery of the rainforest. The Cape Tribulation to Wujal Wujal Coastal Walk is a true gem, combining natural beauty, cultural significance and captivating vistas to create one of the most incredible scenic coastal walks in Queensland.

 

Mooloolaba Foreshore

Nestled on the Sunshine Coast, the Mooloolaba Foreshore Walk is a stunning path showcasing one of the best coastal walks in Queensland.

This 2.5-kilometre walk takes you along the spectacular Mooloolaba Beach, providing uninterrupted views of the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. As you stroll along the walkway, you’ll be greeted by the refreshing sea breeze and the sound of crashing waves.

Showcasing panoramic vistas of the coastline from the iconic Mooloolaba Spit, the walk also takes you to the vibrant Mooloolaba esplanade. Lined with palm trees, it has a buzzy atmosphere with bustling cafes, restaurants and boutique shops you can stop at for a bite to eat or to shop.

Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk, the Mooloolaba Foreshore Walk offers a serene coastal experience with ample opportunities to relax, take in the views and soak up the sunshine. You can even continue it on further for another 2.5 km to take in the coastal views on the way to Alexandra Headland.