Explore Map ➔Explore The Gladstone Region
The Gladstone Region begins approximately 450 kilometres north of Brisbane. As the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, the region contains some incredible natural wonders, including Heron Island, Lady Musgrave Island, Masthead Island, North West Island and Wilson Island.
To the south, the natural surrounds of the Discovery Coast will entice you to discover the burgeoning township Miriam Vale, the white secluded beaches of Agnes Water and the birthplace of Queensland in the Town of 1770. From here, you can also spend a day experiencing the breathtaking reef adventures of Lady Musgrave Island and Lagoon.
The Gladstone Region is not just all about the coast and islands though! To the southwest you will find the spectacular Boyne Valley and Sandstone Wilderness. This area abounds with opportunities for intrepid travellers to explore the spectacular hinterlands or enjoy a genuine farmstay experience.
At the centre of the region is the city of Gladstone. Known for being the ‘engine room of Queensland’, this dynamic regional city is full of surprise and unexpected experience. Surrounding Gladstone are townships of Calliope, Benaraby, Boyne Island and Tannum Sands. This part of the region is home to many fishing hotspots including one of Australia’s premier freshwater fishing locations, Lake Awoonga.
It’s all waiting for you here in the Gladstone Region – where great begins!
GETTING HERE
TOURS/ATTRACTIONs
FOOD & DRINK
EVENTS
Islands & Reefs
BROCHURES & GUIDES
Boating & Fishing
Trails & Paths
GETTING HERE
BY PLANE
For the quickest route to Gladstone, air travel is ideal. QantasLink and Virgin Airlines provide multiple 50 minute daily flights between Gladstone and Brisbane. Gladstone Airport also has flights to scenic destinations like Heron and Wilson Islands. For bookings and more information, visit the websites of Bonza, Qantas, and Virgin Airlines.
BY TRAIN
Queensland Rail offers convenient and reliable train services to the Gladstone Region. The Tilt Train, which stops at Gladstone and Miriam Vale, is the primary service in the area. For schedules, reservations, and more details, visit the Queensland Rail Travel website or contact their customer service.
By BUS
Greyhound Australia provides regular BUSSES to the Gladstone Region, arriving at the Dawson Road Puma Service Station for convenient access to the city and nearby attractions. Greyhound’s coaches offer comfortable and reliable transportation for both leisure and business travelers. For schedules, routes, and tickets, visit THEIR WEBSITE, or call 1300 GREYHOUND
BY CRUISE SHIP
Cruising to Gladstone offers a great way to explore Queensland’s coastal beauty. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Feast on East Markets and the Marina Parklands, where you can take in picturesque marina views and indulge in delicious food and unique shopping.
*NOT AVAILABLE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Driving to Gladstone from the NORTH
The Gladstone Region is conveniently located around 450 kilometers north of Brisbane, making it easily accessible via the Bruce Highway. There are several key access points along the highway that lead to different parts of the region. If you’re looking to explore the picturesque Discovery Coast, you can turn off the Bruce Highway at Miriam Vale. This route will take you to the stunning coastal destinations along the Discovery Coast, including Agnes Water and Town of 1770, renowned for their pristine beaches, national parks, and outdoor recreational activities.At the Boyne/Tannum intersection, you can take the exit to reach the seaside communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands. These coastal towns offer beautiful beaches, fishing spots, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.For those heading directly to the city of Gladstone, the exit at Benaraby is the way to go. Gladstone is the main urban center of the region and offers a range of attractions, including the marina, museums, parks, and shopping precincts. From here, you can easily explore the surrounding areas and enjoy the region’s natural wonders.Whichever access point you choose along the Bruce Highway, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Gladstone Region, ready to embark on a memorable journey through its coastal and country landscapes
Driving to Gladstone from the SOUTH
If you’re coming from Mackay, it will take approximately five and a half hours to drive to the Gladstone Region. The route will take you southward along the Bruce Highway. As you approach Gladstone, you can turn off at Mt Larcom to venture into the city itself. Mt Larcom serves as a gateway to Gladstone and offers access to various attractions and amenities within the region. On the other hand, if you’re traveling from Rockhampton, it will only take around one hour to reach the Gladstone Region. The Bruce Highway will lead you directly to Gladstone, and you can continue along the highway for additional exits that will take you to Boyne Island, Tannum Sands, and the Discovery Coast. These coastal areas are known for their pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and relaxed seaside atmosphere. If you’re interested in exploring Gladstone’s hinterland and the Boyne Valley, you can turn right into Calliope. Calliope serves as an exit point for accessing the Boyne Valley, a picturesque region characterized by lush greenery, rural landscapes, and charming small towns. This area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Whether you’re driving from Mackay or Rockhampton, the Gladstone Region is easily reachable by road. By taking the appropriate exits along the Bruce Highway, you can access various parts of the region, from the city of Gladstone itself to the coastal communities, the beautiful Discovery Coast, and the scenic Boyne Valley.
Driving the PORT CURTIS WAY
Highway 58 provides a convenient route through Gladstone, connecting the towns of Benaraby to the south and Mt Larcom to the north. This road diversion only adds approximately 6 kilometers to the coastal drive, making it a worthwhile option for those looking to explore the Gladstone Region. By taking Highway 58, you can enjoy a scenic drive while still easily accessing the various attractions and destinations within Gladstone. Whether you’re heading south from Benaraby or north from Mt Larcom, this route allows you to experience the beauty of the coastal drive while efficiently reaching your desired destinations within the region. As you travel along Highway 58, you’ll have opportunities to take in the natural surroundings, enjoy the coastal scenery, and potentially make stops at points of interest along the way. The slight detour via this route ensures that you can explore Gladstone and its surrounding areas while adding just a small additional distance to your coastal journey. So, if you’re planning to drive through Gladstone along the coastal route, opting for Highway 58 will provide a seamless and picturesque route, ensuring you make the most of your visit to the Gladstone Region.
Driving tHE INLAND HIGHWAYS
If you’re traveling north along The Country Way, you’ll reach the town of Biloela, which serves as a hub in the Banana Shire. Upon arriving in Biloela, you have the opportunity to turn right and embark on the scenic Gorges Way. This route will lead you through breathtaking natural landscapes, allowing you to appreciate the region’s natural splendor and explore its stunning gorges and valleys. On the other hand, if you’re journeying north along the Leichhardt Highway, you can enter the Gladstone Region through the Dawson Valley, located south of the township of Theodore. As you travel through this picturesque valley, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring scenery and the tranquility of the hinterland. The Dawson Valley offers stunning vistas and the chance to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty. Whether you choose to venture along Gorges Way or explore the Dawson Valley, both routes offer captivating landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities. From gorges to valleys and hinterland vistas, these areas showcase the diverse natural wonders of the Gladstone Region. By incorporating these routes into your journey, you’ll have the chance to appreciate the stunning scenery and experience the natural splendor that the Gladstone Region’s hinterland has to offer.
Click here to view the Department of Transport and Main Roads traffic and road conditions.
Click here to view the Gladstone Regional Council Flood Webcams.
Getting AROUND
CAR HIRE
Once you arrive in the Gladstone Region, hiring a car is easy – with all major car hire companies located conveniently at the Gladstone Airport Terminal or close by. Our preferred agencies are Avis Gladstone and Budget Car and Truck Rentals.
TAXI
Taxis are readily available with taxi ranks situated at the GLADSTONE airport and in the city centre, or phone 131 008.
For AGNES WATER TAXI & SHUTTLE SERVICES, Contact: Agnes Water/ Town of 1770 Taxi & Shuttle on 0417 749 000.
ISLAND TRANSFERS
Curtis Ferry Services provide regular passenger and vehicle services to Curtis and Facing ISLAND, as well as island drop offs to North West, Masthead and Lady Musgrave Islands. Australia by Seaplane operate daily scenic seaplane transfers to Heron Island Resort.
BUS
CDC Gladstone operate urban services around Gladstone City from Monday to Friday. For timetable, routes and ticket information click here.
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