Jump in the car this weekend and get away to one of our favourite destinations in South East Queensland.

With minimal planning and maximum fun, here are five affordable weekend getaway ideas in South East Queensland.

Broadbeach

Broadbeach is a quiet alternative to Surfers Paradise; only 10 minutes away from the action, it's perfect for families or couples looking for a quick escape. Spend the weekend by the beach, or wander over to the park area, giving you a chance to truly disconnect and wind down.

Free activity:

• Bring some meat to put on the barbecue and cook up a storm in Kurrawa/Pratten Park, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach.
• Art and Craft Market: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month, 8am - 2pm Kurrawa Park, Broadbeach.

Stay: Mantra Broadbeach on the Park
Good for: Families, Couples.

Coolangatta

Luckily, Queensland just manages to claim Coolangatta as its own, sharing the boundary with Tweed Heads in New South Wales. Coolangatta offers a quieter, change of pace and a more local lifestyle, with an incredible view overlooking Surfers Paradise. With its chilled out atmosphere and picturesque sandy beaches, it's the perfect excuse to get out of town.

Free activity:

• Take a picnic and enjoy the view across the water at Goodwin Park, Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta.
• Art and Craft Market: 2nd Sunday of the month*, 8am - 2pm
  *plus every 4th Sunday in months with five Sundays at Marine Parade Park, Coolangatta.

Stay: Mantra Coolangatta Beach
Good for: Families, Couples, Groups of Friends.

Mooloolaba

The pure white sands of Mooloolaba combined with outdoor cafes, restaurants and fashion boutiques make it the perfect weekend getaway. Let yourself unwind at this family-friendly surf beach.

Free activity:

• Head to Eumundi Markets on a Saturday and spend time wandering through the diverse range of stalls.

Stay: Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
Good for: Families, Couples, Groups of Friends.

Noosa Heads

It's time for a road trip to Noosa! On your way, stop by Australia Zoo and spend your Saturday petting koalas. After, continue north and enjoy the cosmopolitan yet relaxing lifestyle that Noosa Heads has to offer. Between Hastings Street and the Noosa National Park, it might be worth extending your weekend away to a long weekend.

Free activity:

• Take a walk along the coastal track of Noosa National Park and stop off along the way at Tea Tree Bay Beach.

Stay: Mantra French Quarter
Good for: Families, Couples, Groups of Friends, Solo Travellers.

Surfers Paradise

Don't miss out on the action in Surfers Paradise. Relax on the beach or refuel with the extensive dining options. For those who want the best of the city life and quiet, take the chance to enjoy quieter beaches just a short car ride away.

Free activity:

• The Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets - Every Wednesday, Friday & Sunday night
  Time: 4 - 9pm all year round.
• Macintosh Island Park – enjoy a picnic and lookout for birdlife like peacocks and geese.

Stay: Mantra Legends Hotel
Good for: Families, Couples, Groups of Friends, Solo Travellers.