Here’s where to take the kids in Bluey’s hometown

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Immerse your family in the cultural phenomenon using our list of hot spots that inspire the show.

Hearing plenty of noise about some animated kids’ show? It’s time to wise up. The children’s TV series Bluey is the focus of Tourism and Events Queensland’s largest tourism campaign in a decade, inviting families to discover the home state of the show’s central character and her family.

And while the precise whereabouts of the Heeler family’s Brisbane home is yet to be revealed, there are plenty of spectacular Queensland locations that have very obviously inspired the episodes. Read on to create your own magical Sunshine State moments.

Brisbane and surrounds

South Bank, Brisbane

No trip to the Queensland capital is complete without wandering through South Bank, where the man-made Streets Beach provides inner-city reprieve from the heat and Queensland Museum shines a fascinating light on the city’s rich history.

Bluey and Bingo in Brisbane
Play the Bluey way in Brisbane.

Grab a sweet treat, just like siblings, Bluey and Bingo, did with their dad, Bandit, in the Bluey episode Ice Cream, as you savour sights including the Grand Arbour’s vibrant Bougainvillea flower display, the Wheel of Brisbane and the Aquativity water park.

a woman walking in front of The Wheel of Brisbane, South Bank Parklands
Ride Brisbane’s very own London Eye. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Brisbane suburbs

So many of the city’s vibrant suburbs, stretching out from the Brisbane River at every angle, have inspired Bluey across three highly acclaimed seasons.

Bluey and Bingo along the Grand Arbour’s vibrant Bougainvillea flower display
Visit Southbank’s Grand Arbourt to see the vibrant Bougainvillea flower display.

The Gap’s beautifully shaded Wittonga Park looks very similar to the grassy field in both Cricket and Shadowlands, Paddington’s The Java Lounge looks a lot like the café hangout in Favourite Thing, Toowong Cemetery is reminiscent of Show And Tell’s Statue World, Ashgrove Library looks like the spot in Promises and JC Slaughter Falls in Mount Coot-tha is widely believed to be the lush natural bushland setting in The Creek.

Bluey and Bingo along Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane
Brisbane’s Story Bridge regularly appears in Bluey.

Furthermore, New Farm Park, the city’s largest park located right on the river and next to Brisbane Powerhouse, resembles the serene picnic spot in Spy Game while Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout almost definitely inspired The Sign’s beautiful lookout.

purple blooms at the New Farm Park, Brisbane
The New Farm Park is famed for its stunning lawns and rose garden. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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The Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast beaches

The Heelers love exploring the state’s abundance of sand and surf (it is Queensland, after all) and the Sunshine Coast, in particular, gets a significant amount of airtime. Grab the clan’s cozzies and make a full day of doing very little at Currimundi Beach, just like the Heeler family do in Stickbird and Relax. The beach is a standout for the stunning natural lake it’s connected to.

the Currimundi Beach in Sunshine Coast
Make a day of it at the dog-friendly Currimundi Beach. (Image: Maythee Voran)

There’s also Noosa’s Noosaville, which seems to make an appearance in Piggyback, particularly the stores along Gympie Terrace. Make like the Heelers and stroll the waterfront stretch to marvel at its remarkably soothing waters or get stuck into a bit of relaxed fishing, just like the friendly locals.

a couple sitting by the bench at Noosaville Gympie Terrace
Sit and relax by the Noosa River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Sunshine Coast hinterland

If it’s the tranquillity of Bluey’s school, perched on a mountain and surrounded by lush greenery, you’re seeking, head to one of the two rumoured locations that inspire the show.

people heading towards the Glass House Mountains Lookout
The Glass House Mountains National Park is noted for its distinctive craggy peaks. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Punch Glass House Mountains State School into Google Maps to tick off another Bluey hot spot within the Sunshine Coast hinterland, before dedicating the rest of the day to the Glasshouse Mountains’ magnificent hiking trails.

a hiker standing on top of Glasshouse Mountains
Reach the summit of Mt Ngungun for panoramic views of the region. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Panoramic views of the entire region, extending to Bribie and Moreton Islands, the Maroochy River and beyond, are guaranteed to dazzle.

Cairns and Fitzroy Island

Cairns

During the 80s flashback episode Fairytale, Bandit and his family are seen holidaying in an idyllic coastal location which looks an awful lot like Cairns.

The city’s squishy brown mudflats, located right off Cairns Esplanade and juxtaposed against fluffy green grass popping out from beneath the boardwalk, are an absolute must-see.

an aerial view of the mudflats in Cairns Esplanade
Walk across to the mudflats right off Cairns Esplanade. (Image: JinaIhm)

Our tip? Soak up the city’s relaxed subtropical lifestyle before venturing out to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef.

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Fitzroy Island

Hands down one of Queensland’s most underrated island destinations, Fitzroy Island is also believed to have inspired scenes from Fairytale.

a woman dipping in Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island
Escape to the dreamy Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Featuring a designated camping ground and standalone bungalows set within the entirely unspoilt Fitzroy Island National Park, the Fitzroy Island Resort (which also houses hotel rooms) provides a glorious island experience much like the one had by Bandit.

an aerial view of the Fitzroy Island Resort
Check into the idyllic Fitzroy Island Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Gold Coast

It’s widely reported to be the chilled-out coastal home of Bluey’s grandparents, who look as though they’re living in a beachfront apartment in Burleigh Heads, so dedicate serious time to unwind on the Gold Coast.

the Tallebudgera Creek in Burleigh Head National Park
Tallebudgera Creek is an idyllic spot for kayaking on the Gold Coast. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Whether you’re ticking off the city’s world-famous theme parks, soaking up some of its postcard-perfect beaches or indulging in its epic café and restaurant culture, living the good life on the Gold Coast with your favourite people is practically unavoidable.

a group of people enjoying a ride at Dreamworld, Gold Coast
Brave the epic thrill rides at Dreamworld. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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9 experiences in and around Noosa you haven’t tried yet

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
    Noosa’s magic extends beyond the sun and sand. Uncover this popular region’s natural charms and secret spots to get more from your visit.

    Wander through bushland and paperbark forests, linger on a curve of quiet beach, hit the water or hike up a mountain. Whether you’re seeking long languid lunches, savouring the region’s best food and wine, are ready to rejuvenate or are up for an active adventure, there are Noosa experiences for everyone.

    Winter is the perfect time to visit – it’s still warm enough to bask in Queensland’s sunshine and mild temperatures while discovering the natural beauty and sustainable experiences that make this region so popular. It’s easy to see why Australian Traveller readers voted Noosa Australia’s top town to visit.

    1. Explore the hinterland

    Two women kayaking during a Noosa experiences.
    Kayak through Noosa’s peaceful hinterland.

    Choose your Noosa experience – kayaking, abseiling, rock climbing, camping or hiking – with Noosa-based Adventure Tribe. They host guided experiences throughout the region, including in Rainbow Beach, Cooloola and the stunning Noosa Everglades.

    Small group tours with Joel’s Journeys combine hinterland villages with wine and cheese or chocolate tasting, a gourmet lunch, waterfalls, the Everglades and memorable views.

    Plan ahead for the Great Noosa Trail Walk. This 56-kilometre three-day trek into the Noosa Biosphere will help you reconnect with nature over the October long weekend.

    2. Accommodation to suit all budgets

    The bedroom at Elysium Noosa Resort noosa experiences.
    Book into Elysium Noosa Resort. (Image: Elise Hassey)

    Indulge in luxury at one of Noosa’s premium resorts or bring the family for a laidback beach-focused holiday. Anywhere you choose will mean you’re never far from the vacation vibes of Hastings Street.

    The recently rebranded Elysium Noosa Resort has given new life to one of the most central spots in Noosa Heads, while Number One in Hastings Street offers a range of luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and exclusive penthouse suites, surrounded by the national park and boutique shopping.

    Families will love the space and pools of Mantra French Quarter Noosa. Over at RACV Noosa Resort, a water park and games room compete with the beach for the kids’ attention while adults indulge in the day spa or hit the tennis court or gym.

    For couples, Noosa Blue Resort’s studios and one-bedroom suites have sweeping river, bay and hinterland views from its perch atop Noosa Hill. With two outdoor heated pools, spa, steam room, yoga studio and more, it’s the complete package.

    Travelling on a budget? Halse Lodge offers heritage-listed colonial-style accommodation for backpackers and budget travellers without sacrificing style or comfort, and is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach. Family-friendly Ivory Palms has three pools, a children’s playground, jumping pillow, tennis courts and more.

    3. Reset and rejuvenate

    the massage bed at Sensaura Day Spa, Noosa experiences
    Unwind with spa treatments at Sensaura Day Spa.

    Banish stress, slow down and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Noosa while indulging in pampering treatments. Reset and recalibrate with packages from one of the many day spas – try Sensaura Day Spa Noosa or Noosa Springs Spa.

    Noosa Bespoke offers three thoughtfully designed packages that focus on wellness, active adventures and fresh local produce, all with a focus on sustainability, allowing guests to choose their own way of discovering Noosa.

    For something different, try forest bathing and take a walk in Noosa National Park.

    4. New dining experiences

    Cibaria Noosa experiences
    Enjoy authentic Italian at Cibaria Noosa. (Image: Elise Hassey)

    Stroll Hastings Street to find your own dining vibe. For authentic Italian, head to Cibaria Noosa for everything from a coffee and pastry to amazing pasta and seafood platters.

    Over in Noosa Junction, try something lighter at Atelier Wine Bar. Taste a selection of bar food and platters including charcuterie, cheeses, oysters and more. Then finish off with ‘dessert in a glass’.

    Order out or dine in at Somedays Pizza, where all the ingredients for the organic, wood-fired pizzas are sourced from local farmers, artisans and winemakers.

    5. Where the locals eat

    Rickys River Bar And Restaurant noosa experiences
    Enjoy waterfront views at Rickys. (Credit: Manuel Freudenmann)

    Perennial favourites Bistro C, Season Restaurant Noosa and Sails are absolute beachfront dining options overlooking Laguna Bay. You can almost feel the sand between your toes as you enjoy some of the finest cuisine on offer.

    Locale Noosa’s seasonal Italian menu features handmade pasta, traditional antipasti and delectable desserts. On the riverfront, Rickys River Bar and Restaurant has been luring the locals for years; come for the elegant setting and fabulous food and wine, and stay for the sunsets.

    6. Spot humpback whales

    humpback whale sighting noosa experiences
    Spot whales from May to October. (Credit: The Edit Suite)

    There are plenty of great places to watch the gentle giants of the sea make their annual migration from Antarctica to the warm waters of the Queensland coast between May and October.

    To see whales at play and teaching their calves to breach and tail slap, head to Hell’s Gates or Dolphin Point in Noosa National Park, or to one of the many vantage points along the coast from Sunshine Beach to Peregian Beach. For closer encounters, book a whale-watching boat tour.

    7. Take a country drive

    Three people walking towards Pomona during a Noosa getaway.
    Sample craft spirits at local distilleries.

    Download the Noosa Country Drive map from the Visit Noosa website, or pop into the visitor information centre for a printed copy, then jump in the car to explore craft breweries, gin distilleries, bookshops, country pubs, scenic lookouts and cute cafes.

    Through the villages of Cooroy, Pomona, Eumundi, Cooran and Kin Kin, look out for local markets and galleries for that special souvenir. Want to stay longer? There are farm stays, boutique B&Bs and glamping tents to rest your head. Take time to go horse riding or mountain biking, ride a steam train or explore a small museum. And don’t forget to pick up some fresh produce from a roadside stall.

    8. Explore the eastern beaches

    Sunshine Beach near noosa
    Visit Sunshine Beach, just minutes from Noosa. (Credit: Amy Higg Photo)

    Noosa’s near neighbour beaches, Peregian and Sunshine, are just a short drive south. Peregian Square has boutique shopping, vintage finds, homewares, day spas and antiques, and weekend markets are held twice a month in the beachside park.

    Drop into the Peregian Beach Hotel for a meal and live music, or head to the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club for views of the patrolled beach. Grab a coffee or juice at plastic-free Sunshine Social and linger on the deck under the pandanus trees.

    9. Discover the Noosa River

    A scenic boat trip during a Noosa getaway.
    Discover Noosa from the water on a scenic boat trip.

    Taking time out on the Noosa River is a serene way of exploring more of this region. Whether by canoe or kayak, a small boat or scenic boat trip, being on the water gives a new perspective on Noosa.

    Head to Terrace Marina for small boats and great coffee, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and jet skis to explore independently, or join Noosa River Cruise Co for a romantic gondola ride.

    At sunset, board the Noosa Queen to cruise along the river – cool drink in hand – to the shores of Lake Cooroibah.

    Start planning your Noosa getaway at visitnoosa.com.au.