Qld rated a ‘clear favourite’ among Aussie tourists for winter travel

Whales aren’t the only ones migrating to the Sunshine State this winter, with new data showing Queensland destinations occupy all top eight places on the website’s national list.

Whales aren’t the only ones migrating to Queensland this winter, with new data showing the Sunshine State’s unrivalled appeal for frostbitten holiday-makers.

According to findings from leading booking platform Wotif, Queensland destinations occupy all top eight places on the website’s national list.

The data, based on domestic accommodation searches through the June-July school holiday period, excludes capital cities.

The Gold Coast came out on top, with Surfers Paradise (No. 1), Broadbeach (2), Southport (3) and Burleigh (4) all occupying slots in the most popular destinations, along with Cairns (5), Maroochydore (6), Palm Cove (7) and Noosa (8).

The Yarra Valley (9) and Newcastle (10) rounded out the list.

Wotif travel expert Rebecca Hurley said Queensland was once again a “clear favourite” for Aussies this winter.

QT Gold Coast staff Ashlyn Morrison and Linn Strandman are getting ready for an influx of tourist during winter to Surfers Paradise. Picture: Nigel Hallett

“Year-round, we consistently see Queensland rank as one of Australia’s top destinations, but winter is when the Sunshine State truly lives up to its name – making it a no-brainer for our southern states when it comes to escaping the winter chill,” she said.

“With mild, sunny days and fewer crowds, winter is a great time to explore everything the state has to offer – from the stunning beaches and rainforests to the family-favourite theme parks.”

QT Gold Coast general manager Dominic Rose said the Surfers Paradise resort was being inundated with bookings from those in colder climes after a sunny getaway.

“While the cold weather is perfect for our friends down at Thredbo, we have seen a big uplift in bookings … for southern travellers wanting to escape the chill,” he said.