Queensland means different things to different people. And with a land mass and beach front this size it should.

If you're after an urban break, Brisbane and its food /fashion/design scene continues to grow apace.

Travelling with family? The Gold Coast with its abundance of theme parks and accommodation for every budget still delivers.

Then of course, there's the magic of the Great Barrier Reef and its islands, not to mention the Daintree and inviting salt-licked hamlets galore.

And here's the kicker, almost all have luxury resorts and luxury hotels to choose from.

Best hotels in Brisbane

1. The Calile Hotel, Fortitude Valley

The hotel that single-handedly redefined the accommodation landscape in the Queensland capital continues to deliver daily.

Why we love it: the acres of red marble in the lobby, that Miami-style pool and sumptuous robes in every room.

What to consider: everyone who's anyone flocks to this plush enclave - we're talking celebs on lists A through D and influencers galore. Which makes for superb people watching.

What features does The Calile have?

• Nine tiers of accommodation with surprisingly affordable Essential entry-level rooms.

• The poolside Hellenika restaurant is one of the best all-day diners in the entire city but there are four others to choose from.

• An onsite shopping mall with heavy hitters such as Dion Lee, Camilla and Marc and Venroy - just in case someone shows up wearing your outfit.

What you need to know

The hotel sits on James Street, one of the city's vibiest retail precincts if you're looking to spend some of your hard-earned dollars on fashion or food.

It also has a compact yet stylish gym and Kailo Medispa - with its extensive range of spa treatments - will have you returning from Brisbane looking several years younger. One for the botox, sorry, bucket list.

Book at Luxury Escapes

2. W Brisbane

Sitting on the Brisbane River with views to South Bank, this hotels channels the playful atmosphere the brand is known for.

Why we love it: the cbd location is ideal for exploring the city - QAGOMA is just across the river.

What to consider: if you really want to live large, few hotel chains deliver suite wow factor like W.

What features does W Brisbane have?

• There 312 rooms to choose from including 32 suites.

• The monochrome Summer Wet Deck pool pulls double duty as a way to cool off from the tropical heat and an excellent cocktail bar.

• The Whatever/Whenever service promise means no task is too small. As long as it's legal.

What you need to know

The Spa is top notch, as is the dining. Try the Lex restaurant and its signature 48 cured Hay Smoked Wagyu.

If you want a wander, the brilliant Donna Chang modern Chinese is a mere 400 metres away.

Book at Luxury Escapes

Click here for more great hotels in Brisbane

Best hotels on the Gold Coast

3. The Langham Gold Coast

Until recently, the Gold Coast lacked a properly posh hotel. The Langham filled the gap.

Why we love it: book a stay for three nights or more and you can score 20 per cent off the flexible rate.

What to consider: with more residences than hotel rooms - 170 versus 169 - it can feel a bit like an apartment block. Albeit a suitably swish one.

What features does the Langham Gold Coast have?

• Stunning views across the ocean and Gold Coast hinterland through floor to ceiling windows.

• It's just far away from the hubbub of Surfers Paradise to be relaxed but close enough to wander to Cavill Avenue.

• Six dining and drinking choices: T'Ang Court for Cantonese, Akoya for all-day dining, the Palm Court for one of the best afternoon teas in Australia, 26 & Sunny for beach eats and a lobby bar.

What to know:

The Chuan Spa, with its emphasis on Chinese medicine, is one of the best on the Gold Coast and there is a choice of pools - outdoor and indoor.

We are also fans of the "Sleep Matters by Chuan" program which focuses on a combination of room amenities and soothing spa treatments to help you get a perfect night's rest.

Book at Escape Deals

4. QT Gold Coast

Certain hotels make you feel cool just by staying there. This is one of them.

Why we love it: genuinely quirky, playful and with its own tequila bar, Stingray.

What to consider: you will constantly be reaching for your camera to share details of this place on your socials.

What features does QT Gold Coast have?

• A dazzling pool deck ringed by cabanas.

• Six bars and restaurants - with a moreishly modern twist on high tea.

• The ultra-bougie spa Q - try the Plush Princess with its therapeutic salt scrub, massage and gua sha facial massage ($385)

What to know: The recently introduced Cabins are standalone surf shack style digs are one of the most innovative hotel projects we've seen in ages. Comfy, cosy and elegant.

Book at Escape Deals

Click here for more great hotels on the Gold Coast

Best hotels in the Scenic Rim

5. The Tamborine Boutique Hotel

It was only a matter of time before this region got its own retro motel makeover and this 1980s hacienda example is a belter. 

Why we love it: the Peacock O’Clock daily hosted aperitifs. 

What to consider: it will be a beacon for Instagrammers.

What features does the Tamborine Boutique Hotel have?

• There are 23 cute as a button rooms

•  A heated mineral pool and spa 

• There is a complimentary continental breakfast included in the rate.

What you need to know: the convivial Hub area is the nexus of this dazzling newcomer that retains its sense of intimacy and if you get peckish there is a well stocked Pantry to purchase from plus a bar snack menu. Try the Beetroot and Dark Chocolate ice cream from Tommerup’s Dairy Farm. It is the creation of the team behind the Mornington Peninsula’s effortlessly cool Cassis Red Hill.

Book at Escape Deals

6. Spicers Peak Lodge

For many years, this property has been the benchmark in the region. 

Why we love it: it sits at 1100 metres above sea level and its suites and lodges are laid out around a central chalet, whose architecture echoes the mountain surrounds. 

What to consider: this is five-star luxury at five-star prices.

What features does Spicers Peak Lodge have:

• The Spa Anise with its open stone fireplace does a hot stone massage you’ll remember for years

• The Peak restaurant blends French technique with local ingredients such as Kangaroo Island marron and Red Gum lamb rack. 

• Spicers also does a Scenic Rim hiking trail that melds high-end luxe with pristine bushwalking.

What you need to know: if you’re more of a resort person than a nature person, Spicers bridges the gap in fine style. There are just 10 suites and two private lodges so it feels like you’re staying at a (wealthy) mate’s estate. Be sure to explore the Main Range National Park while you're in the 'hood.

Book at Escape Deals

For more great places to stay in the Scenic Rim, click here

Best hotels in Airlie Beach

7. Big 4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

We’ve never met a Big4 property we didn’t like and this is no exception.

Why we love it: Aside from a waterslide park on steroids and lagoon pool, there is also an animal park, tennis courts, mini golf, outdoor cinema and kids' craft sessions.

What to consider: it's not just about little travellers - there are poolside massages for parents who deserve to spoil themselves.

What features does Big 4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort have:

• If you’re camping or caravanning, there are powered ensuite, powered slab and powered grass sites.

• If not, there are cabins and studios that run from one bedroom to three.

• Huge credit for the The Reilly Room Autism Sensory Room for visiting children who need their own space and quiet time.

What you need to know: Airlie Beach is the gateway to the World-Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef with its coral reefs and spectacular scuba diving and this is an ideal base that won't break the bank.

Book at Wotif

8. Coral Sea Marina Resort

If you want to be close to the buzz of Airlie but still want a stylish bolthole to retreat to, look no further.

Why we love it: a recent reno has refreshed this property complete with a 25-metre outdoor pool fringed sun loungers and parasols.

What to consider: if you want a bit of luxe day, hire out the beachfront cabana.

What features does Coral Sea Marina Resort:

• The onsite Coral Sea Pavilion restaurant does breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try the char-grilled squid with corn, jalapeno, salsa verde and saltbush.
• The Drift Boutique Spa is on site.
• The marina from which it takes its name provides easy access to day-trip ferries and cruises.

What to know: Check out the two-night Couples Escape packages which include the mysteriously titled Romance Box on arrival.

Book at Expedia

For more great Airlie Beach hotels, click here

Best hotels on Hamilton Island

9. qualia

This place is so fancy it doesn’t even have to bother with capital letters.

Why we love it: this where the a-list global celebs come to get a taste of life on the Great Barrier Reef. Barefoot luxury has never been more Australian.

What to consider: qualia is open to mere mortals too but know that its jaw-dropping pavilions start at $1720 a night.

What features does qualia have?

• Only guests over 16 are allowed.

• There is a pair of infinity pools (but many of the rooms have their own private plunge pools)

• The choice of the Pebble Beach fine diner and the more chilled Long Pavilion.

What you need to know: The Spa qualia is next level (with prices to match) but what is free is the use of non-motorised watersports equipment, the private fitness centre and the 24-hour chauffeur service. Only Lizard Island comes close for high-octane luxury.

Book at Hamilton Island

10. The Reef View hotel

Rooms here start at just over $400 per night and for your dollars you get ocean or garden views and a possie directly opposite Catseye Beach - one of the main activity hubs on island.

Why we love it: for an extra $30 per night, you get a guaranteed view of the Coral Sea.

What to consider: it can feel like you're a captive consumer on the island but there are ways to make it more affordable.

What features does the Reefview hotel have?

• Up to six guests can bed down in comfort with twin rooms offering the best value as they include a pair of queen beds.

• The Reef View falls under the kids stay and eat free program (for under 12s), you get access to the all resort pools, the complimentary shuttle service, airport/marina transfers, free in room wifi and you can also book a treatment as the Spa Wumurdaylin and Island Hair & Beauty.

• You can also make use of the fitness centre, kids club and free non motorised watersport equipment.

What to know: if you book a suite, they will also throw in full buffet or a la carte breakfast options. We are also hugely looking forward to the new The Sundays boutique hotel opening in May. The Hamilton Island team can also sort out a package at Reefsuites underwater accommodation a short high-speed cruise away.

Book at Hamilton Island

Click here for more great places to stay on Hamilton Island

Best hotels on the Sunshine Coast

11. Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort

You may remember it as the salmon-pink Sheraton, but after a chic all-white makeover and a management switch to Sofitel, the resort presides over Hastings Street like a bastion of holiday glamour.

Why we love it: the atmos is decidedly more relaxed than some of the brand’s big city counterparts, and why wouldn’t it be, with a sparkling resort pool the centre of attention, and cocktails from the swim-up pool bar the main order of the day.

What to consider: loved up couples are everywhere as this luxury resort is a favourite with honeymooners.

What features does the Sofitel Noosa Pacific have?

• 176 studios, suites and villas.

• A prime position on the main beach with breathtaking views

• AQUA Day Spa offers relaxation in every form from caviar lift facials to marine algae body wraps.

What to know: Noosa National Park is a 1.6km stroll away.

Book at Luxury Escapes

12. RACV Resort Noosa

This place just keeps racking up awards and with good reason.

Why we love it: there are 52 one-bedroom suites, 78 two- and three-bedroom apartments and 26 multi-storey three bedroom apartments (some with their own plunge pool).

What to consider: it's a community vibe here and a bit of neighbourliness between guests is par for the course.

What features does the RACV Resort Noosa have?

• The Arcuri restaurant will sort out any caffeine cravings.

• The One Spa is as good as any you’ll find in a five-star hotel.

• There’s a pair of heated water slides, splash park and playground for kids.

What to know: chuck in a tennis court, games room and kids club and you’re all set for a family holiday to remember.

Book at Expedia

For more great hotels in Noosa and the Sunshine Coast click here

Best hotels in Cairns

13. Crystalbrook Bailey

This 12 storey hotel is one of three Crystalbrook hotels that makes up the Cairns city skyline and is set apart by its celebration of the arts.

Why we love it: each of its 217 rooms comes complete with local and Indigenous artworks - and if that wasn’t enough, larger-than-life murals and a baby grand piano painted by Indigenous artist Natasha Davui welcome you in the lobby.

What to consider: the pool is better at Crystalbrook Flynn.

What features does Crystalbrook Bailey have?

• The Bailey offers a wide range of rooms to suit various party sizes, including a 50 metre square Family Urban that sleeps up to four adults, and a luxurious three bedroom residence that can accommodate up to six.

• There are dog-friendly rooms.

• Pachamama is one of the city's best rooftop bars.

What to know: when you join the Crystalbrook Crowd loyalty program, you immediately score a 10 per cent discount on not just accommodation but restaurants and bars too.

Book at Escape Deals

14. Big4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut

Whether you’re doing the great Aussie road trip, running a tight budget, or have a back seat of kids to entertain, a stay at Big4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut Resort is a must. 

Why we love it: true, it’s not a hotel as such, but as travel writer Catherine Best says, it's packed with “a magician’s bag of attractions.”

What to consider: there are 15 per cent discounts if you book early and 20 per cent if you stay for four or more nights.

What features does Big4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut have?

• Expect pools, waterslides, a splash park, arcade parlour, jumping pillow, and pedal cars at your fingertips.

• For the big kids, there’s also a massage caravan and alcoholic ginger beer on tap.

• Pet friendly.

What to know: there are cabins, condos, villas, caravan sites and camping grounds to choose from.

Book at Wotif

For more great hotels in Cairns click here

See also:

50 best things to do in Queensland

 14 things no one told you about Queensland

11 ways to take it easy on the Sunshine Coast