Queensland holiday hot spot this winter

The temperatures are dropping, but hot winter holiday deals are firing up some of Queensland’s top tourist destinations. SEE THE BEST DEALS

Winter is coming – and so are the tourists.

Research from leading travel agency Wotif has revealed Queensland as Australia’s top holiday destination this winter, with the Sunshine State snaring three of the five most desirable locations for travellers looking to escape the chill of Australia’s cold southern states.

The Fraser Coast is the No. 1 spot in the country, with Cairns coming in third and the Whitsundays fifth.

Spectacular winter weather is one of the main drawcards for southerners flocking to Queensland over the coming months.

Katherine in the Northern Territory (second) and WA’s Coral Coast (fourth) rounded out the top five.

The top destinations were determined using a complex data index taking into account accommodation availability, reviews, affordability, trending traveller interest, weather patterns and seasonal events.

While winter is generally regarded as the low season for tourism in southeast Queensland, it is peak time for other parts of the state which benefit from an influx of southern visitors during the sweet spot of mild temperatures and low rainfall.

The Fraser Coast region includes spectacular tourist destinations such as Fraser Island, Hervey Bay and Rainbow Beach.

Kingfisher Bay at Fraser Island. Picture: Lachie Millard

Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said there were many compelling reasons making the Fraser Coast so popular for winter getaways.

“Thanks to a warm winter temperature of 23 degrees and only four days of winter rainfall on average, you won’t find yourself cooped up inside when you visit the Fraser Coast,” he said.

“Boasting World Heritage-listed natural landmarks, beaches and wildlife experiences, the Fraser Coast is a nature lover’s paradise and the area is famous for whale watching, so plan your visit from July, when the migration season begins.”

The research also revealed the number of Aussies planning to travel around the country is rising, with 44 per cent now planning a domestic holiday compared to just 37 per cent last year.

HOT QUEENSLAND HOLIDAY DEALS

Fraser Coast

* Stay three nights and kids eat free at Kingfisher Bay Resort with 15 per cent off stays in June and July

* Up to 10 per cent off at Maryborough City Motel – Standard Room (Double Room) from $104 per night

Cairns

* Up to 24 per cent off with Wotif Mates Rates at Oaks Cairns Hotel – Internal Room from $229 per night

* Up to 10 per cent off at Motel Nomad Cairns – Queen Suite from $152 per night

Whitsundays

* Up to 20 per cent off at Discovery Parks Airlie Beach – Economy Studio Room (Double) from $134 per night

* Up to 10 per cent off with Wotif Mates Rates at Daydream Island Resort – Superior Pool View King from $446 per night