Gold Coast Oceanway
This 36km network of pathways lining the entire Gold Coast coastline is a great way to explore the spectacular beaches, mangroves, dunes and rainforest. The Oceanway has markers to let you know where the next point is. Shower facilities, playgrounds and exercise equipment dot the journey. The entire route is also serviced by local buses. Where: Along the Gold Coast beaches from Gold Coast Seaway to Point Danger lighthouse.
Springbrook National Park
Luxuriate in the great outdoors at this beautiful national park, swim in a creek or go beneath the magnificent Natural
Bridge to see wildlife - all without having to pay a cent. When night falls, Australia's largest colony of glow worms light up the velvety night. Where: Less than an hour's drive inland from Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast.
Roma Street Parklands
This park is the largest subtropical garden in a city's business district. Take in free performances at its amphitheatre and explore the eclectic mix of horticultural displays, architecture and artworks. The miniature train around the parklands is a quick way to take in the sights. Where: 1 Parkland Boulevard, in the centre of Brisbane city
Cost: Free entry; Train: A$5 (S$6.52) (adult), A$3 (child)
Fraser Island
This World Heritage-listed site is the world's largest sand island. Take a dip in a freshwater lake, explore ancient rainforests and marvel at strikingly coloured sand cliffs. Where: A four-hour drive north of Brisbane to Hervey Bay, plus a 25- to 40-minute ferry ride.
Cost: A$24 for a round-trip ferry ticket. There are many low-cost accommodation options on or near the island. Or try camping. All you need is a permit (about A$5 per person). ADVENTURE
Story Bridge Adventure Climb For the ultimate adrenaline rush, climb the iconic Story Bridge, one of three bridge climbs in the world. This 2.5-hour adventure boasts spectacular views of Brisbane city, its river and surrounding bays. Where: 170 Main Street, Kangaroo Point.
Cost: Daytime climbs on weekdays are A$110 (cheaper than weekend, night or twilight climbs). Look out for "Bridge On Sale" rates online, which may be as low as A$79.
Self-drive boats
You don't need a boating licence or deep pockets to enjoy the privacy of fishing on your own boat. Get a kick out of hiring and driving a fishing boat along the Noosa River. It is economical and easy to operate. Where: Choose from several boat hire companies in Noosaville or Noosa Harbour Marina, Sunshine Coast (about two hours north of Brisbane).
Cost: From A$34 for 1st hour and A$14 for additional hours.
Wild dolphins at Tin Can Bay
Head to this fishing and boating paradise on Fraser Coast for a close encounter with wild dolphins. At the marina, just walk out on the boat ramp into the water: The Pacific Humpback Dolphins will swim up to you. Pet them, or have a swim with them. Where: 2.5 hours drive north of Brisbane.
Cost: If you want to hand feed the dolphins, you can buy packed fresh fish from Barnacles Bait and Cafe at about A$3. FAMILY FUN
City Cat cruise Check out Brisbane, often known as the River City, on the City Cat. This local river taxi service is not only a speedy and fun way of commuting, but a low-cost one as well. You can cruise the city's scenic waterways and enjoy some of the best views at the price of local bus fares.
Where: The City Cat terminals are located at various points along the Brisbane River, including South Bank and North Quay, which are in the heart of the city.
Cost: From A$2.30 (single-trip ticket) or from A$4.60 (daily ticket). You can use the ticket for the local buses and trains.
Children's Art Centre
The Queensland art gallery's exhibitions and programmes for children are nationally renowned. The Children's Art Centre offers interactive activities, exhibitions, artist-run workshops and performances. Where: Gallery of Modern Art & Queensland Art Gallery, Stanley Place, South Bank, Brisbane.
Cost: Free (except for certain exhibitions).
Discovery Forest
This delightful children's playground is located at Binna Burra Mountain Lodge in the lush Lamington National Park. It features a cubby house, three-dimensional maze, swings, caves and a "scratchand- smell" forest. Where: Binna Burra Road, Beechmont (a 45-minute drive from Surfers Paradise).
Cost: Free activity for Binna Burra guests as well as day-trippers
Strawberry Fields
Strawberry picking is a fun family activity.
Pick your own strawberries at this local farm, which is open seven days a week during strawberry season from June to November each year. It also has a shop that sells delicious strawberry ice-creams and other refreshments. Where: 133 Laxton Road, Palmview, Sunshine Coast.
Cost: Free entry.
This article was first published in The Straits Times on July 31, 2008.
