Gladstone Queensland Attractions

Things to do:  

Gladstone, Queensland is a sunny and remarkable town which offers a range of attractions for any type of traveller. Gladstone region is a unique location that embraces the city, harbour, coastline and hinterland. From museums to national parks, sandy white beaches and the Great Barrier Reef, Gladstone has everything you would want in a holiday destination and more.

Entertainment and Arts

Everything you need in entertainment and arts is available at Gladstone. The Gladstone Entertainment Centre is the main entertainment hub for the region and is a platform for local, national and international performers. The main auditorium seats 674 people in a tiered theatre room and great view of the stage. There’s also the Glen Drive-In Theatre which opened in the 1960’s and has one screen set amidst a natural setting and a relaxing place to see a movie under the stars. There are a range of museums and galleries to view including the Gladstone Maritime Museum, Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum and Calliope River Historical Village.

National Parks and Gardens

Gladstone region has an array of pristine national parks with plenty of opportunities for animal watching, kayaking and bush walks. Deepwater National Park is situated on an unspoilt coastline where you can fish, swim or set off on a walking track. This park is an emerging sight for bird watching and turtles. Facilities include picnic tables, toilets, a cold shower and basic camping facilities (permits are required). Tondoon Botanic Gardens has 170 hectares of lake and forestry with walking tracks and spectacular rainforests. The gardens are a great place for a family outing with barbeque and picnic facilities, children’s playground and a Japanese tea house for your convenience.

Recreation

Surf and swim at the states’ popular beaches, Agnes Water and Tannum Sands. There are an abundance of activities at neighbouring towns Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water which includes surfing, kite surfing and kayaking. Lessons are also available. Take a stroll along the popular Barney Point Beach and swim in the netted safety area.

Harbour

Enjoy the views of Gladstone Harbour from the comfort of a leisure cruise. For a relaxing two hours you will receive a commentary of historical information and an appetising morning tea.

Island Trips

Heron Island is situated 72 kilometres north-east off the Gladstone coast and is only accessible from the Gladstone Marina or by helicopter. It is located on the Great Barrier Reef and is boasts white sandy beaches, translucent waters, stunning coral displays and various marine life. Choose from guided reef walks, cruises and romantic beach picnics. It is an ideal spot for snorkelling and scuba diving with some of Australia’s top dive spots.

The Great Barrier Reef, an Australian landmark is the most stunning attraction that the Gladstone coastline has to offer. For a bird’s eye view of the reef a chartered helicopter flight is recommended over the south end of the Great Barrier Reef. There are also various day trips to the reef in operation.

Shopping

Gladstone region has an assortment of shopping complexes in all the major towns including Gladstone CBD, Tannum Sands and Agnes Water. Major retailers, specialty stores and hairdressing salons are available.

Wine and Dine

There is some fantastic local seafood that can be sampled at Gladstone restaurants and seafood markets, or trying catching some of your own.

The Gecko Valley Winery has a showcase of superb award winning local wines. Go along for wine tasting or to dine at the Mediterranean inspired cafe.

The Gladstone region is a sunny and relaxed environment with an array of islands, beaches and bushland to enjoy during your stay.
Tours and attractions can be booked through the Gladstone Visitor Information Centre located at the Gladstone Marina.