The city of Gladstone in Queensland is, in a word, breathtaking. Here, you'll find a haven of unspoiled beaches, an incredible display of natural wildlife and views worthy of a travel brochure. In fact, a trip to this spectacular paradise is just as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the soul.
There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in this area, but you won't want to miss the incredible Fitzroy Reef Lagoon. The only naturally-formed lagoon on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, this enchanting place boasts striking coral displays, making it the perfect destination for snorkelers and scuba divers alike. The area also plays host to an astonishing cluster of marine life, including manta rays, dolphins, turtles, reef sharks, and over 1000 species of brightly coloured fish. You can organise a boat ride out to the reef at the Gladstone Information Centre.
The Isla Gorge is another of the region's must-see spots, offering stunning views of sunset coloured cliffs and remarkable sandstone formations. The area is also home to a dazzling array of wildflowers, which provide a beautiful contrast against the rocky surrounds. Here you'll find wedge-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons soaring above the parklands, while kangaroos and wallabies traverse the valley below. Though these parklands are always beautiful, they are at their most enchanting as the sun goes down.
The meeting of warm, tropical waters and the cooler waters from the south also makes Gladstone an excellent fishing spot. Whether you choose to fish from one of the nearby creeks, beaches, or a local island, the variety of species here is incredible, with tuna, barramundi, trevally, cod and many others to be found in these plentiful waters.
