day trip to sunshine coast from brisbane

31 Best Day Trips from the Sunshine Coast for First-Timers!

We all have those days when you just want to get out of the city. This is where the attractions listed below will help with some of the best day trips from the Sunshine Coast!

Escape the everyday grind and explore the great outdoor with secluded waterfalls, hiking trails through the rainforest, amusing things to do, and activities that are very unique to the area.

As a long time local to Brisbane, you betta believe that I’ve research this list for more than 20 years, to bring you my best selection today! So, grab your sunglasses and let’s hit the road to discover everything that’s just a short drive away from the coastal area.

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Day Trips from the Sunshine Coast

Whether it day trips from the Sunshine Coast or other things to do in city, this specially pinned map will help you locate and apply directions to everything listed. With the choice below, some will take an entire day, where as others can be combined for your day trip.

Either way, there is lots of adventure and fun things to do in the great outdoors. However, having your own car or hiring one will be the most convenient, since there isn’t a lot of public transportation in this area.

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1. Glass House Mountains Lookout

Starting off today we have the Glass House Mountains Lookout. It’s easily accessible and an absolute must-visit destination that seamlessly combines stunning views with convenience.

Once you arrive, you’ll find ample parking available, with minimal walking required to a lookout platform. Or, you can make your way up to the rotunda to get slightly higher.

As you can from the photo, this is an overall view and all the mountains are pretty far away. But, that doesn’t deter from being a brilliant spot to start your Sunshine Coast Hinterland discovery.

Tip: This is the ideal position for Sunrise behind the mountains as it rises, or you can read up on all information provided about the Glass House Mountains.

2. Mount Ngungun

Mount Ngungun would have to be my favourite Glass House Mountains to hike. It takes about 1.5 hours to complete, offering a rewarding view for those willing to embrace the challenge.

The ascent features plenty of stairs and rocky dirt tracks, but nicely formed and very easy to follow. The varying elevation makes the trek uphill a bit more strenuous and obviously takes longer than the return trip down.

Know this is a pretty popular hike for the locals getting their morning exercise, so the car park and the summit can get a bunch load of people. I also find it nicer in the wintertime, when it’s not so hot and the weather is primed with sunny clear skies.

3. Banana Bender Pub

The Banana Bender Pub is located along the A1 Bruce highway, with its quirky architecture and unique design, the pub is both a feast for the eyes and on the taste buds.

Inside, you’ll find an impressive array of memorabilia adorning the walls, celebrating its rich history and connection to the local community. The menu boasts a delightful selection of classic Australian pub dishes and one of Matts favourites, the Chicken Parmi (Parmigiana).

Fun Fact: This was once called the Ettamogah Pub and inspired by a popular cartoon series, but you won’t see some of the fun loving characters anymore.

4. Aussie World

If you have more time, right next door is Aussie World, the Sunny Coast’s equivalent in terms of theme park for thrills and excitement. This family-friendly destination features a variety of rides, from roller coasters to gentler options for younger visitors.

Start out with the Ferris wheel, a swing ride, carousels and it boasts a range of sideshow alleys filled with games and carnival-style fun, perfect for test-driving your skills and winning prizes. Along with Special shows with live entertainment and a cheerful atmosphere.

5. Australia Zoo

A fan favourite, Australia Zoo was created by the late Steve Irwin and stands as a testament to his passion for wildlife conservation. This expansive park is so vast that you’ll want to set aside an entire day to fully experience all it has to offer. And sometimes, I’m not sure that’s enough!

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One of my favourite highlights is the adorable lemurs, which are always entertaining to watch as they interact with their environment. But don’t miss the thrilling crocodile show at the Crocoseum, where you can witness the incredible skills of these prehistoric predators in action.

Additionally, you’ll find a wide variety of other fascinating animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and exotic birds that further showcase Australia’s incredible biodiversity.

Check out my Photo Gallery for sample tourism images needed for websites, blog posts, magazines articles, Marketing and/or Advertisement’s.

6. Gardner Falls

Gardner Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit in the hinterland, thanks to its very short 300metres return walking trail. Visitors can easily stroll along the gentle path, leading them to a couple of cascades with several access points, and eventually finding your way to the large water hole for swimming.

There is lots of grass and rocky areas where you can park a spot, but be on the lookout for wildlife, as a have seen a few snakes around. It also gets huge crowds here in the summertime, and it’s worth noting that parking is limited and can quickly fill up.

7. Eumundi Markets

It took me a few years to finally visit the Eumundi Markets, and I never realised how big it was. With hundreds of stalls featuring an incredible array of arts and crafts, locally made and sourced products, and delicious food from around the world.

You could easily spend hours here browsing through unique items and sampling various cuisines. Although, try to arrive early to take advantage of some free parking available outside; otherwise, expect to be charged in their specific car park.

8. Big Pineapple

The famous Big Pineapple lives once again after a long hiatus, welcoming visitors eager to experience its charm. While the staircase leading up to the top is currently not accessible, you can still enjoy the delightful offerings of a small café on-site.

There are over a hundred “Big Things” in Australia and you would have tour the country to see them all. Therefore, take advantage while you can here, with plenty of opportunity to grab your selfie’s with the famous Big Pineapple itself.

9. Pineapple Train

For a bit of fun, hop aboard the Pineapple train, which takes you on a scenic ride around the grounds filled with various fruit trees. Once brimming with a pineapple plantation, the area holds a special place in the hearts of many, and there is hope that one day it will be revitalised to its former glory.

But, right now it’s a 15 to 20 minutes round trip around the farming area and always a big hit with the kids. Listen out for the Steam Train Whistle and you can even use it to get to and from the Wildlife HQ Zoo next door.

10. Wildlife HQ Zoo

I’ve only just recently heard about Wildlife HQ Zoo. While it’s a lot smaller than Australia Zoo, I did find it interesting to visit and does have animal species I haven’t seen at other parks in the area. Not only that, but the entry fee is also a little more budget-friendly in comparison, if that’s something of a concern for you.

You’ll encounter a delightful mix of Australian wildlife, including cuddly koalas perched in their trees. Plus, a friendly deer and emu team that seem to follow you around and the bouncing kangaroos!

However, what makes this zoo particularly exciting is its diverse collection of overseas animals, such as a bear, so many different types of monkeys, and the irresistibly cute meerkats playing around their pens.

They also have a small cafes for those lunchtime snacks, although if you have any special dietary requirement, I would probably bring your own food with you.

11. Sunshine & Sons Distillery

While you’re around this area, I do recommend checking out the Sunshine & Sons Distillery. What’s highlighted here is they have actually created the Pineapple Parfait Gin, in conjunction to the Big Pineapple next door.

For just $15 , visitors can hang out for an hour tour and taste test some of their spirit flavours. The knowledgeable staff share fascinating stories about the distillery’s origins and its commitment to the Sunshine Coast community. Along with the different blends and how they were created.

They have more than 10 different blends of Vodka, Gin and Rum. So, just make sure you have a soba driver to get home!

12. Kondalilla Falls

Another one of my favourite waterfalls in the hinterland to visit is the Kondalilla Falls . The rock pool swimming waterhole is the closer point and probably just over a kilometre to get to. This is very popular in the summer time to escape the heat, but there’s plenty more to explore on the rest of the track.

Adventurous visitors can take the 4.8 km return track into the gully, leading you to experience the full drop of the falls as they crash into the small waterhole below. This scenic hike meanders through lush rainforest, providing glimpses of the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the area.

13. Noosa Northshore

While there are plenty of Sunshine Coast day trips to escape the crowds, visiting the Northshore area will limit the numbers even more. Requiring a small journey on a car ferry over the Noosa River, Northshore offers a more secluded experience with some basic stores and amenities.

Plus Visitors can spend the day enjoying swimming in the pristine waters or exploring the stunning beaches. Even better, that you don’t need a 4wd to access this part of it! Truthfully, I always find the Sunrises just amazing from this spot and it’s not to be missed,

14. Teewah Beach

If you have a 4WD, then travelling down Teewah Beach or part of the Cooloola Coast is a big favourite for locals seeking a day trip option. This stretch of sandy beach is perfect for off-road adventures, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the coastline.

Along the way, you’ll encounter the phenomenal views. As well as indulge in a bit of fishing, swimming, lounging under the sun, or the chance to spot native wildlife in their natural habitat.

15. Double Island Point

Take it that one step further from Teewah Beach and cross the Leesha Track to spend the day at Double Island Point. This is an absolute stunning location and one of my favourite beaches in Queensland .

Its offers low key swimming lagoons and beachside fun where tours from Rainbow Beach even run Surfing lessons. There is also fishing, and opportunities to bring your own kayak or canoe for a day of exploring the turquoise waters. If relaxation is what you’re after, simply laze in the sun while enjoying the postcard-perfect views of the coloured sand cliffs that line the coastline.

16. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

After living 20 years in South East Queensland, I’m surprised it taken me so long to get to the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. It’s a destination for families seeking a small visitor centre experience for learning, to then walk into a subtle trail out the back.

This beautiful reserve offers a walking trail that meanders through lush greenery. Best of all, the reserve is essentially free to visit, but they do prefer a small gold coin donation to help maintain the park.

As you explore the trail, keep an eye out for the adorable pademelons that may cross your path. These shy marsupials often dwell in the area, providing a fun wildlife spotting opportunity for visitors.

17. Mount Beerburrum

If you’re after some challenging exercise, then Mount Beerburrum is a hike that will top the scale. For me, the incline was one of the toughest I’ve done in a while, but also made me proud that I actually made it to the top.

I honestly don’t think the views don’t quite match the stunning vistas offered by Mount Ngungun. But, the journey up Mount Beerburrum certainly serves as a bigger heart starter. And, once you reach the summit, the fire tower is available for the higher views.

Fun Fact: this spot is actually used by Royal Fire Brigade when they need to manage fires in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

18. Big Kart Track

Who’s up for a truck load of fun, then the Big Kart Track is the place to be! I’ve driven karts around this track several times over the past few years and it never disappoints. Although, I will say if you visiting during the winter, make sure you have some layers on, as it can get cold.

You can purchase karting sessions in 15 or 30 minute intervals , with an option to do more at a discounted rate. Challenge your friends and family to thrilling races as you zoom around the track, and slicing the corners while your competing for the fastest lap time.

Although, know that not everyone needs to race, so you can bring along others who prefer to cheer from the sidelines and even better if someone is there taking photo’s for you.

19. Tree Top Challenge

I think the Tree Top Challenge is a big hit for kids and the younger generation, offering an electrifying way to test out your coordination abilities while having a blast. This is right next door to the Big Pineapple and starts in the old Macadamia Nut building.

With a series of ziplines and treetop walkways, ropes , that challenges participants navigating through the canopies. This all promotes both physical fitness and mental focus, as adventurers must conquer various obstacles high above the ground.

20. Booloumba Falls

Booloumba Falls is one of my favourite waterfalls to visit in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. It takes about 30 minutes to walk from the car park, but you will need a 4WD to navigate the roads leading into the Conondale National Park.

The falls feature a rather large swimming hole, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day, along with several cascades and other sections further upstream that invite relaxation or massaging.

Donut floaties or pool noodles make excellent companions for relaxing in the serene waters, especially since you can’t touch the bottom of the middle areas. Apart from that, you can extend your adventure, with the Campgrounds inside the National Park.

21. Wappa Falls

Wappa Falls is one spot that shines during the summer season or after some heavy rainfall. This picturesque location offers more waterhole swimming to cool off and can get pretty busy.

The car park is conveniently located right beside the waterhole. But you’ll need to navigate the terrain by scrambling over rocks to reach the swimming areas. This includes wearing appropriate footwear and exercise caution while walking the rocky paths.

However, I must stress the importance to prioritise safety while enjoying this natural gem. That means jumping off the rocks into the water is strongly discouraged due to potential hazards that you can’t see.

22. Birdworld & Botanic Gardens

We loved Birdworld and found it surprising with the variety of Birds and first-hand interactions.

One by one you walk through the free-flight Avery’s and some birds even sit on your shoulders. I even had one bird who wanted to get comfy on my foot and kept following me around. Obviously, this added an extra layer of laughter to our visit!

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One of the standout features of Birdworld is undoubtedly the display of macaws. These magnificent birds, with their impressive wingspans and colours, truly command attention. I even witnessed a parrot singing “Old MacDonald had a farm”!

The staff are eager to share interesting facts about the birds, enhancing your appreciation of their unique behaviours and habitats.

23. Maleny Trail or Obi Obi Creek Walk

The Maleny Trail or Obi Obi Creek Walk offers a short, family-friendly stroll through a quiet area near town. The boardwalk itself is less than a kilometre long , but some people extend that into a 6km circuit from the centre of town.

What’s great about this trail is for the resident Platypus. So, after entering the trail, be sure to remain silent for at least 10 minutes. This allows the wildlife to feel more at ease in their natural habitat. But, there can also be Turtles, Water Dragons and some birds around.

The small town of Maleny becomes thriving with South East Queensland locals almost every weekend. It’s offer eclectic shops, street side cafes, and freshly brewed coffee. Along with ice-creams, homemade pastries and plenty of local products and flavours you might not get anywhere else.

With nearby waterfalls and scenic walking trails, outdoor enthusiasts can easily explore the region’s natural wonders and stop in town for lunch or morning and afternoon tea.

A notable highlight for us, was the chocolate shop. It was located in a hidden alley way from the centre of town, but it’s where guests can savour the homemade delectable treats. However, we did find it very hard to choose from all the flavours and ended up spending way too much by the time we were done.

25. Gerrard’s Lookout

Gerrard’s Lookout is really close by and just outside of Maleny. There is a small car park off the side of the road, which provides easy access to the stunning views awaiting at the lookout point. As you step out of your vehicle, you are greeted by panoramic vistas over the lush hinterland and I’d expect a ideal spot for sunrise from the way it was facing.

Snap your happy family pic’s or use the rotunda for a light snack, or as a break from driving the windy roads.

26. Ginger Factory

Surprisingly, you can visit the Ginger Factory and shop for free, enjoying the atmosphere filled with the captivating scents of ginger, spices and delicious food. However, for those seeking a more immersive experience, the factory offers a specially prepared lunch menu featuring ginger-infused dishes that are sure to tantalise your taste buds.

Additionally, purchasing tickets to their insightful tours provides a fantastic opportunity to learn about the fascinating ginger-making process. This includes from cultivation and even a window access into their production of famous Ginger Products.

During the tour, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this beloved ingredient and have the chance to participate in a delightful taste test of their various products. Needless to say, both Matt and I have an obsession with their Naked Ginger range and the cordial.

27. Nutworks

Nutworks is conveniently located across the road from the Ginger Factory – It’s primarily functioning as a shop and café where visitors can revel in the delicious offerings made from locally sourced macadamias. While the focus is on retail, you can occasionally peek into their production process when it’s operational.

Apart from that, we did come home with a few varieties and for those who are fans of macadamias, you can choose from sweet to savoury. They even have a small café where you can try some of their selections.

28. Montville

Montville is a charming mountain village that’s very similar to Maleny mentioned before. It’s draws visitors with its country atmosphere, artistic vibe, and delightful boutique shops, as well as having Kondalilla Falls close by.

People flock to Montville over the weekends for casual low key day trips. Plus, we’ve always found it a nice spot for a late Sunday breakfast after completing some of the walking trails or going for a swim.  

29. Wild Horse Mountain Lookout

The Wild Horse Mountain Lookout features a short, 700-metre return walking trail . This ascends gently up the hill to a rotunda offering an overall views of the iconic hinterland Mountains.

Unlike the Glass House Mountains lookout mentioned before, this is located on the ocean side of the highway and faces to the west, which is really good for the sun setting behind the mountains.

Though the vantage point may not provide the closest views of these majestic peaks, it serves as the most convenient stop-off from the major A1 Bruce Highway, making it an ideal choice for those who are short on time or just passing through.

30. Brisbane

Brisbane is an easy day trip from the Sunshine Coast, offering a vibrant urban experience filled with art, culture, and plenty of outdoor activities. Try spending the day by strolling along the South Bank Parklands, explore the Queensland Art Gallery, or discover the lush botanical gardens.

To be honest, there is simply too much to see and do to mention right here. But, know there could be a few reasons why you should visit. In the end, I think if you have a week or more on the Sunshine Coast, then it’s possible to have at least one day in the Capital of Queensland.

31. Gold Coast

To be honest, I think there is plenty to do for a first-timer on the Sunshine Coast, that it’s probably not necessary to visit the Goldy Coast. While I think it’s a little too far away for a day trip, there are a few ways to enjoy a day in Surfers Paradise , if you have the time.

This includes any of the thrilling theme parks like Movieworld or Dreamworld, and maybe the Skypoint observation deck . Apart from that, there are scenic cruises, indoor skydiving, helicopter flights, or maybe the Wax museum.

Wrap Up: Day Trips from the Sunshine Coast for First-Timers

In the end, escaping the city doesn’t have to be complex and I hope this list of day trips from the Sunshine Coast has helped fill the gap.

But in all honestly, the fun doesn’t stop there and If you want more options closer to the coastal areas, please see the rest of my Sunshine Coast Articles for more activities and attractions.

“Hi, travel enthusiasts! I’m Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller Blogger. I’ve been exploring the world since 2007, documenting my journeys through the lens of my camera. Having visited over 37 countries, I’ve gained first-hand experiences that help you plan your adventures."

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25 of the best day trips from Brisbane

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: August 27, 2018  - Last updated: January 16, 2023

Looking for fun and fabulous day trips from Brisbane. We have 25 top picks here from the beach to the rainforest, lakes and rivers, wildlife, family fun and adventure.

Brisbane is a great city to both live and visit.  It’s casual and laid back but there are options here for culture, great foodie experiences and more.  It doesn’t have to hurt your pocket either. If you’re visiting the city make sure you also see our top ideas for free things to do in Brisbane .

The sub-tropical climate you’ll find in Brisbane is ideal, it doesn’t hit the scorching highs in summer that some parts of the country do but winter is mostly spent in shorts and t-shirts with plenty of beach visits all year round.

The city has it’s own surf patrolled (man made) beach and plenty of parks and attractions but as with any city after a day or two, or a solid 9-5 week, you’re probably going to want to get outside and explore further afield so we’ve put together a list of our 25 best options for day trips from Brisbane.  You’ll find plenty of variety here to suit everyone – couples, friends, families and singles.

Table of Contents

1. Glasshouse Mountains

2. lamington national park, 3. north stradbroke island, 4. moreton island, 5. currumbin wildlife sanctuary, 6. sea world, 7. bribie island, 8. tamborine mountain, 9. springbrook national park, 10. toowoomba, 12. burleigh heads, 13. mooloolaba, 14. south stradbroke island, 15. northern gold coast beaches, 16. whale watching on the gold coast, 17. wivenhoe dam, 18. eumundi, 19. mary cairncross reserve, 20. southern gold coast beaches, 21. obi obi gorge, 22. byron bay, 23. the northern new south wales beaches, 24. currumbin sculpture festival, 25. sand safari, our recommendations for day trips from brisbane.

The Glasshouse mountains are at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast only an hour from the city.  This distinctive National Park includes 12 distinctive peaks that are the remnant cores of 26 million year old volcanos that once towered above the region.

Some of the peaks have paths you can walk up easily such as Wild Horse Mountain where this photo was taken from, other’s require climbing expertise and equipment for those we prefer the walking trails that circumnavigate them from below.  There are a few cafes in the area, our pick is the Lookout Cafe for its gorgeous outlook, then just carry on a few hundred meters further up the mountain for the lookout park with incredible views, walking trails and wildlife.

Use this guide to plan your visit to the Glasshouse Mountains

Heading south of Brisbane to the Gold Coast we are often drawn to the beauty of the Lamington National Park.  There are 2 sections to this park which are accessed in very different ways so make sure you are headed to the right part.  The Green Mountain section is our favorite and commonly known as O’Reillys for the family that originally settled here and a man that carried out an inspiring rescue against the odds when a passenger plane crashed in the area back in 1937.

Today you’ll find a variety of walks many suitable for the whole family in pristine rain forest and some great destinations on these walks such as the Elabana Falls shown above.  There’s car parking, BBQ’s, plenty of picnic space and a shop and cafe here.  If you’re looking for something longer than a day trip there’s a variety of accommodation right at the park entrance from camping to luxe apartments with private outdoor spa’s.  We’ve stayed here a couple of times and if you’re interested this article will give you an idea of whats available and some of the other activities.

If you love Australian wildlife this is a sure spot to see pademelons, a small species in the wallaby and kangaroo family and the bird life is extensive, we’ve seen a huge variety here including the elusive Alberts Lyrebird and rainbow pitta.

Find some of the best walks in the Lamington National Park

Just a 25-minute ferry trip across Moreton Bay is North Stradbroke Island, a laid back island paradise right on the door step of the city.  There’s a lot to love about a day trip to ‘Straddie’ as it’s known locally but for us, it’s a tie between the wildlife, scenery and fabulous beaches.  There’s also a couple of good cafes popped up on the island recently.

You can take a car across on the car ferry but you’ll have just as much fun jumping on the bus that meets the boat and heading up to Point Lookout.  This is where you’ll find stunning surf beaches, the gorge walk, lookouts and more amazing beaches. 

If you visit in the ‘winter’ you can watch the whales passing on their annual migration, pods of dolphins playing in the surf and sea turtles feeding in the gorge.  There’s also a big mob of kangaroos and you’ll usually spot at least some of those.  Surfing and beach days are popular on the island all year round. 

We met one young Kiwi visitor who was so impressed after having dolphins join her on her wave while body surfing that she was making an impromptu decision to turn her day trip into an overnight stay hoping to repeat the experience again the next day.

Read More:  Our tops picks of what to do on North Stradbroke Island

Moreton Island is sometimes referred to as Tangalooma after the major resort on the island.  It’s another top spot for a day trip from Brisbane but there is plenty to see and do out here on the island so it’s also a popular spot to stay a few days. 

The boat runs out here from Brisbane in the morning and after a short stop you can rejoin it during the ‘winter’ months to head out whale watching.  Early in the trip we spotted turtles, dolphins and off the coast of Morton Island is where I saw my very first dugong .  The whales are in transit from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef but they still show a natural curiosity in checking out boats so the sightings were good.

We had lunch on the boat then when you get back to there island there’s time to explore.  There are wrecks offshore that have formed into reefs and provide a home for a good variety of sea life, you can hire a kayak to take a look if you don’t want to snorkel or dive.  You can also hire cycles with sand tires or head out sand tobogganing.  As a day visitor we were able to use the resort facilities and we stayed on into the evening taking the last boat back to see the great sunset and the other special attractions of Tangalooma, the visiting dolphins.

Early in the evening a pod of wild dolphins come into shore and under a special licence you are able to feed them here.  The history of this goes back a long way and led to Nari, one of the dolphins a decade or so back being able to be rescued, healed and returned to his pod after he was badly mauled by a shark (you can read more about Nari in the article below). 

Care is taken to ensure they are given locally caught fish and that what they receive only makes up only a small portion of their daily diet so they eat and play naturally the rest of the time.  Not every dolphin in the pod comes in, and those that do don’t come in every day, trained staff supervise every encounter to ensure it is done in a safe way and of course you must not touch the dolphin.

For more information see:  Whales, dugongs, dolphins and more at Morton Island

While I’ll highlight many spots to encounter Australia’s wildlife in their natural setting near Brisbane in other sections of this post,  visitors may want to include a wildlife sanctuary during their time in Brisbane to see a variety of Australian animals and for the educational aspect.

For that, we’d recommend either Currumbin or the nearby  David Fleay Wildlife Park .  These two have a strong conservation focus, they prioritise local wildlife over exotics their priority is animal welfare, conservation and education.

Read more about the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary |  Check for deals at Currumbin Sanctuary

There are a number of theme parks within easy access of Brisbane that make a great family day trip.  Sea World in Australia is heavily involved in marine rescue and many of the birds and animals here are rescues that were unable to be released back to the wild for various reasons related to their own safety.

Sea World is located on The Spit on the Gold Coast around an hours drive from Brisbane.  It’s also possible to get here with public transport or joining a tour that includes transport but we’d highly recommend driving so you can stop off at some of the stunning beaches in the area.

In addition to the animals there’s also water ski and jet bike shows, thrill rides, a water park and the Nickelodeon area featuring shows and rides for the younger family members.

Read our tips for a day at Sea World Australia   |  Check out deals on Sea World tickets

Another of Queensland’s large sand islands, Bribie, is attached to the mainland by a causeway so you won’t even need a boat to get out here.  On the inland side of the island are calm waters perfect for a day at the beach with the family, on the seaward side there’s some incredible surf.

Bribie has had increased residential development in recent years but most of the island is National Park with no roads so you’ll need a 4-wheel drive, permit and sand driving experience to see more than the southern tip.  That said, the southern tip is beautiful and you don’t need to walk very far from the car parking to find a good stretch of sand to yourself.  The island is also a bird watchers paradise and has some interesting walkways and history to explore.

Read more | Tips on visiting Bribie Island

Mount Tamborine is a relaxed hinterland area halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.  It’s only an hours drive to experience this beautiful area of rain forest on the Scenic Rim.  The National Park here is divided into 6 distinct parts containing walking tracks, lookouts, waterfalls and other attractions.  Some popular sections we enjoy are the Witches Falls and Cedar Creek tracks.

On Mount Tamborine, you’ll also find the Gallery Walk with restaurants and interesting shops to explore, a botanic garden, the Skywalk where you can observe the rain forest section from above and within, glow worm caves plus a variety of foodie treats from cheesemakers to wineries.

Another spot on the Scenic Rim with excellent National Park walks and fabulous scenery is the Springbrook National Park.  There’s a whole list of walks and lookout’s we enjoy down here but two I’d highly recommend when visiting are the Twin Falls circuit shown above and the Natural Bridge , click on either link for more visitor information. 

It’s quite possible to do one in the morning, visit another spot such as Goomoolahra Falls for your picnic lunch then complete the other walk in the afternoon.

Toowoomba is a provincial city 125 km inland from Brisbane.  A day trip out here can include the views from the impressive lookout , hiking trails and one of the best Japanese gardens in Australia.

For foodies, you’ll want to check out the farmer’s markets, farm gate sales and cellar doors.  In the city itself, there’s also a thriving cafe culture that’s sprung up in recent years and a fabulous collection of street art murals .

Our comprehensive guide to exploring Toowoomba

At the northern end of the Sunshine Coast, about a 90 minute drive from Brisbane is Noosa.  This popular holiday area also makes a fun and easy day trip from the city.  The main beach of Noosa is popular with surfers and can be quite busy but walk a little way down towards the river and the beach is just as good and almost deserted a lot of the time.  Keep walking and you’ll come to a sheltered calm water swimming beach and the river.  From here is a great place to watch the sunset.

The Noosa National Park has 15 km of walking tracks within the forest, along the cliff top and down on the beaches.  If you do the Coastal Track be aware that Alexandria Bay is illegally used as a nudist beach especially the southern end which you need to pass to rejoin and complete the 10.8 km return walk to Sunshine Beach. There are a number of excellent shorter walking tracks and a variety of wildlife including koala are regularly seen within the park

The Burleigh Heads National park is only 27 hectares but squeezed into this space you will find rainforest habitat, eucalypt forest, groves of distinctive coastal pandanus, tussock grassland, coastal heath, creeks and mangroves, the rocky foreshore and glorious sandy beaches. 

The rainforest circuit where this photo is taken from is 2.3 km return, there’s also an ocean view track which we normally like to take on the return walk.

If you enter from the northern end off of the Gold Coast Highway and turn into Goodwin Terrace you’ll find public parking here and also an excellent selection of local cafes to complete your day trip experience.

Mooloolaba is one of my personal favourites on the Sunshine Coast.  You have a long stretch of gorgeous sandy beach here, a shady boardwalk, many park areas, the river and a break wall between the ocean and the river that’s a popular walk and fishing spot.  You’ll also find Sea Life Sunshine Coast which we’ve reviewed previously and a wide selection of cafes, restaurants and accommodation.

There is so much to see and do in Mooloolaba and it’s only an 80-minute drive from Brisbane and makes an ideal day trip destination.

There are a number of tours that run out to South Stradbroke Island from the Gold Coast, it’s actually only 200 metres off the end of the Spit so it’s a quick trip over then you can spend your day as you wish, enjoy the facilities of the Couran Cove Resort, swim and explore the 22 km of sandy beaches & 1800 hectare conservation park.

For something a bit different you can kayak out to Wavebreak and South Stradbroke Islands  on a full day trip with time to explore, lunch, relaxation and activities on the island.  We’ve kayaked out with a group a few years ago and it was way easier than we expected.

The most famous and longest established of the Gold Coast beaches is Surfers Paradise, it’s still a lovely stretch of sand with a wide promenade and some great cafes, restaurants and accommodation.  Over the years Broadbeach & Mermaid Beach, one beach south, has become our favourite being a little more laid back and home to some of our top picks for cafes on the Gold Coast.

All three are surf beaches with wide expanses of soft white sand and have designated patrolled swimming areas.  Also in the northern group of beaches to explore are Main Beach, the Spit and the Broadwater.

We’ve been whale watching many times along the east coast of Australia.  Our most recent outing was on the Gold Coast.

This migratory group of humpback whales make their way from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef each year.  They are estimated to number over 30,000 based on an annual whale census and their numbers are recovering annually.  This means you have an excellent chance of some good sightings between August and October each year.  We booked for the morning trip as winds and waves tend to increase later in the day and saw a good number of whales, if you’re unlucky and for some reason don’t see a whale you can take a second trip for free.

Check Gold Coast whale watch prices and reviews

The Wivenhoe Dam was built on the Brisbane River in the 1970s to protect the city from floods.  Not only is it now the main water supply for the city but it’s also a great recreational destination for swimming, kayaking and sailing. 

There are a number of recreational parklands around the lake and not all of them allow for water based activities with restrictions for safety reasons around the spill wall.  This one closest to the spillway is one that doesn’t allow direct access to the water but it has an extensive park and picnic areas and it’s a great spot for koala spotting.

The town of Eumundi is well known for the huge and diverse Eumundi market, an ever-growing market encompassing local artists, craft, produce and more.  Originally it was all outdoor stalls but developments in recent years have expanded the market area including some undercover options.

The town has bars and cafes to stop and relax if you want somewhere to stop for a while or grab something from the market itself and you’ll find plenty of places to sit on the grassy banks.  There are regular events here too, one we really enjoyed is the Eumundi body art festival .

Just 15 minutes away is the Noosa Botanical Gardens on the shores of Lake Mackenzie and Eumundi is on the way to Noosa so the two can be easily combined into a day trip,

In the Blackall ranges on the Sunshine Coast, you will find the Mary Cairncross conservation park around 90 km from Brisbane.   There are 55 hectares of sub-tropical rainforest on the mountain here and a well developed walking path and boardwalk in parts.  Despite that it’s an excellent spot from seeing local wildlife including birds, pademelons a small marsupial in the kangaroo family and even the endangered mountain crayfish, a blue coloured found only in a couple of mountain ranges around here above 240 metres.

In addition to the walkway, you’ll find parklands, BBQ and picnic facilities an information centre and cafe.  A visit here is ideal to combine with exploring the mountain villages of Maleny and Montville.

With 66km of stunning Gold Coast beaches, it’s going to take a lot of time to visit them all so it’s necessary to make some choices to narrow it down.  The attraction of the southern Gold Coast beaches including Burleigh, Currumbin, Tugan and Kirra are that they are a little less developed and quieter than the northern beaches.

They are all strikingly beautiful surf beaches with wide white sandy stretches, many have dune areas and others have lagoon, mangrove and creeks heading inland.

The Obi Obi gorge is a diverse natural area on the Sunshine Coast near Maleny.  It’s located next to the Baroon Pocket Dam and from here you can take a 7 km return walk on the Baroon Lookout track, the views from the track are fabulous and you generally see diverse birdlife along the track.  Not far from the car park there’s a detour down to the gorge and swimming hole.  Another alternative is rock-hopping along the gorge but be prepared to get wet in parts.

The are picnic and BBQ facilities nearby at the lake edge and across the dam wall or head back up the road into Maleny for a variety of cafe options.

Byron Bay is a 2-hour drive from Brisbane and I have to admit I do prefer to stay down there for a night or two when we go but we’ve done it as a day trip several times with friends and visitors and if that’s what works for your itinerary then I’d definitely make this trip for the day, you can see and do plenty in that time.

Byron Bay retains it’s laid back surf vibe despite its ever-increasing popularity and while getting a car park can be a challenge some days you are sure to find yourself a wave and space on the sand at one of it’s 9 stunning beaches.  Byron is an iconic Aussie destination and we highly recommend a visit.

Read more about the Byron Bay beaches and other attractions in this article

Around an hour and a half from Brisbane, you’ll reach the northern New South Wales beaches including Fingal Head, Kingscliff and Salt beach.  It’s a popular holiday destination and increasingly growing as a residential subdivision but still relatively quiet.

The beaches here are gorgeous for long relaxed walks, beach days and there’s a wide walking and bike path shaded in part by the casuarina trees along the beach edge at Kingscliff.  From Fingal head and many of the other headlands along here you’ll see whales passing during the migration season and don’t miss the Giants Causeway, an interesting basalt lava rock formation that extends under the water to Cook Island.

Read more | What to see and do around the Northern  NSW beaches

My 2 final suggestions for day trips from Brisbane are annual events. There’s a big range of these and something to suit all interests, these are just 2 examples that make a great addition to your time in the region. 

The Swell Festival has been running for many years during the month of September and includes many local and international artists who create sculptures, often of significant size on the beach and foreshore in Currumbin.  During the festival, you’ll find coffee vans and food trucks offering a variety on top of the local cafes, live music and other entertainment.  The sculptures are also lit at night adding a different way to enjoy them.

Helpful tips for planning a visit to the Swell Festival

The Sand Safari is another annual event, this time in February and held predominantly at Surfers Paradise although related displays pop up around the Gold Coast.  The enormous sandcastles are created by international and local artists along the wide promenade in front of the beach. 

The artworks usually take the shape of fantasy and cartoon characters which are loved by kids and adults alike.  They are made entirely of sand and water then sprayed with an environmentally safe sealant to help them stand up to the elements for the duration of the festival.

During the event you an vote for the one you like the best and there’s an extra-large central display which is worked on by many artists for you to watch the creators at work and ask any questions.  The festival is perfect combined with a day at the beach or exploring Surfers Paradise, the best known of the Gold Coast beaches.

Have you visited one, or all, of these fantastic destinations near Brisbane?  Do you enjoy day trips as a way of exploring a region?  If you have any questions when planning your visit please ask in the comments section below.  For those places you want to add to your itinerary we have in-depth articles full of tips on many of them that we’ve also linked up above.

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3-Day Sunshine Coast Itinerary: the ultimate road trip

With year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, sprawling national parks, and an incredible food scene, Sunshine Coast is your perfect beachside retreat any time of the year.

Since the Sunshine Coast offers a great collection of stunning beaches and national parks, you will need at least three days on the Sunshine Coast to get a feel of this coastal paradise . More time is always preferred if your travel schedule allows it.

Here, I have put together a detailed 3-day itinerary for visiting the Sunshine Coast. I hope it’s helpful to you.

Day 1: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast

For most people, you will likely be visiting the Sunshine Coast from its capital, Brisbane. This can be done either by driving or by public transport.

The drive between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast only takes about 90 minutes and is relatively straightforward. This is also my suggested mode of transport when exploring the Sunshine Coast.

Although you can easily reach the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane by public transport , you will likely have trouble reaching many of the hinterland attractions by public transport.

If you haven’t already got a car, you can easily rent one from either Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast for the duration of your visit. Some car rental companies even offer return service at a location different from your pick-up location.

From my experience,  East Coast Car Rentals  and  Jucy  have the best pricing;   Budget  and  Hertz  tend to have a lot more pick-up locations and vehicles to choose from.

Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout

Wild Horse Mountain is just off Bruce Highway, about 1-hour drive north of Brisbane .

The Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout offers a spectacular view of the beautiful Sunshine Coast and the majestic Glasshouse Mountain. It makes the perfect spot to stretch your legs along the drive between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

Ample parking is available at the base of Wild Horse Mountain, which is only a short 2 minutes drive off Bruce Highway .

The hike from the base of Wild Horse Mountain to the lookout platform at the summit is along a 700-metre bitumen road, but it is a rather steep walk. So make sure you wear comfy shoes when visiting.

It took me about 10 minutes to reach Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout from the car park , but you will want to plan some extra time to enjoy the views at the lookout.

Once you have stepped onto the lookout tower (it is, in fact, a fire tower used during high fire danger seasons for spotting fires in this region), you will be presented with a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the Sunshine Coast, the striking Glasshouse Mountain, and the distant Moreton Bay area.

Glasshouse Mountain Lookout

Glasshouse Mountain Lookout is another fire tower used for fire spotting during the high fire danger seasons. It provides an intimate view of the lush green Sunshine Coast Hinterland with the beautiful coastline in the distance.

Glasshouse Mountain Lookout is also off Bruce Highway but on the opposite side of Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout. The drive from Bruce Highway to Glasshouse Mountain Lookout is much longer in comparison and takes about 15 minutes .

However, you can drive directly to the lookout tower at Glasshouse Mountain with no hiking involved. So it can be an excellent option for people with mobility issues.

That said, there were a lot more people at Glasshouse Mountain Lookout than at Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout when I visited. With limited parking available at Glasshouse Mountain Lookout, it was a bit of a challenge when it came to finding a car park.

A couple more bonus points for visiting Glasshouse Mountain Lookout are: public toilets are available here (there were no toilets at Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout) & dirt tracks are available nearby for 4WDs and dirt bikes.

After checking out Sunshine Coast’s beautiful hinterland, we will now drive directly to the heart of Sunshine Coast to explore its incredible coastline.

Point Cartwright Lighthouse

Point Cartwright Lighthouse is a modern lighthouse in the gorgeous Point Cartwright Reserve, offering scenic walking tracks & a spectacular view of Mooloolah River Mouth and the wild ocean.

Once you have parked at Point Cartwright Lighthouse, you will be immediately presented with an alluring view of the expansive Buddina Beach and the deep blue ocean. A set of timber staircases is available near the car park if you want to stroll along this soft sandy beach and dip in its refreshing water.

Signage near the car park also suggested sea turtles are regularly spotted in the water here, but I couldn’t spot any during my visit. But you may want to have a try too.

After checking out Buddina Beach, follow the walking track uphill to Point Cartwright Lighthouse to admire the views from there. Since Point Cartwright Lighthouse stands on the highest point of this headland, you can typically get a rather impressive view of this stunning coastline from where it stands.

Right next to Point Cartwright Lighthouse, there is a massive water tank, Point Cartwright Water Tank , with colourful mural art. It was a beautiful ocean-themed mural when I visited & well worth checking out when in this area.

Continue to follow the coastline around Point Cartwright Reserve, and you will eventually head down to the peaceful Mooloolah River Mouth . With benches along its picturesque tree-lined riverbank, this area is the perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by.

A loop walk around Point Cartwright Reserve only takes 15-20 minutes. But you will likely want to spend more time admiring the idyllic views along your walk.

Public toilets can be located near the Point Cartwright Reserve car park.

After a relaxing stroll around Point Cartwright Reserve, we will head down to nearby Mooloolaba Beach for lunch and a cool swim.

Mooloolaba Beach

Mooloolaba Beach is a popular area among locals and visitors, with its soft sandy foreshore and buzzing esplanade. It is the perfect spot to spend an entire afternoon relaxing along the water.

As a patrolled beach , Mooloolaba Beach is great for a cool swim in its calm water. Volleyball nets are available along Mooloolaba Beach for those interested. Public toilets and showers are located right next to the beach for convenience.

Various shops and restaurants can be easily located along Mooloolaba Esplanade , providing a range of excellent lunch and dinner options overlooking the beautiful Mooloolaba Beach.

You can also find the lively Mooloolaba Wharf across the road from Mooloolaba Beach’s volleyball court. This is, in fact, my favourite place to grab a bite near Mooloolaba Beach.

Mooloolaba Wharf houses a diverse range of eateries, many serving the freshest catch of the day . It also has a good selection of boutique stores , which are worth checking out too.

While you are here at Mooloolaba Wharf, make sure you join one of the cruise tours departing from Mooloolaba Wharf to explore the peaceful Mooloolah River and its beautiful canals. A few of the cruise tours you may wish to check out are:

• Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is a massive marine park, located between Mooloolaba Beach and Mooloolaba Wharf. It is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, such as sharks, seals, penguins, rays, jellyfish, and many more. It is a great place to be surrounded by all kinds of marine animals & especially interesting for families with kids.

Once you have visited Mooloolaba Wharf / SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, make sure you take a stroll along the well-maintained Coastal Walkway for a sunset stroll towards Alexandra Headland.

Alexandra Headland

North of Mooloolaba Beach is a 2-kilometre stretch of picturesque coastline with stunning rock formations and pristine sandy beaches. A well-maintained walkway is available along this incredible coastline to take you from the buzzing Mooloolaba Beach to the lesser-known Alexandra Headland Beach.

This walk only takes less than 30 minutes one way & makes an ideal sunset stroll with multiple beach access, so you can easily check out the idyllic beaches and rock pools along your walk.

There are also many impressive vantage points along this coastal walk, where you can obtain a bird’s eye view of this beautiful coastline.

Many lizards were resting under the trees and bushes along this walk when I visited. Some people find them cute, but I’m afraid of reptiles in general. They won’t harm you, but you may want to watch out for them if you are also scared of lizards.

Once you have arrived at Alexandra Headland Beach , the coastal landscape opens up and turns into a long stretch of golden beach. It extends all the way to Maroochydore Beach, where it meets with Maroochy River Mouth.

Restaurants and bars are available along Alexandra Parade & it can be a great option for dinner with a marvellous sunset view over Alexandra Headland Beach .

Day 2: Sunshine Coast Hinterland

On the second day of this Sunshine Coast visit, we will start the day with a morning walk in the beautiful hinterland before checking out some interesting local attractions . Towards the afternoon, we will head back to the stunning beachfront to explore the charming Coolum Beach .

Buderim Forest Park

Buderim Forest Park is a green oasis in the hinterland, only a 15-minute drive west of Mooloolaba Beach .

There are two access points for Buderim Forest Park. The most popular one is via Quorn Close , on the southern end of Buderim Forest Park. This park entry is closer to the beloved Serenity Falls. It offers access to a shorter 20-minute loop walk around the Serenity Falls & a longer 1.5-hour return walk along the tranquil Martins Creek .

The other access point for Buderim Forest Park is via Lindsay Road , on the park’s northern end. From here, you can take the 1.5-hour return walk along Martins Creek to check out Serenity Falls at the opposite end of Buderim Forest Park. The first section of the walking track from Lindsay Road entry is a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk , which can be an excellent option for wheelchairs and prams.

The walking tracks within Buderim Forest Park will take you through open eucalypt forests to ancient rainforests. With the lush green ferns and tall canopies, you will be in complete disbelief that this park is only a 15-minute drive from the buzzing sunny coast you have just visited.

Regardless of the walking trail you choose, you will eventually find a charming elevated wooden bridge over a beautiful waterfall, the Serenity Falls . It is not a big waterfall but does create a few rock pools beneath, which are popular for visitors to swim in.

Tips: The track can get quite muddy and slippery around Serenity Falls, so be careful around there.

Car parks and public toilets are available via both entrances. You can also find picnic and BBQ facilities near the car parks.

The Ginger Factory

After a morning hike in Buderim Forest Park, we will take a 25-minute drive to visit an iconic Sunshine Coast attraction, The Ginger Factory.

The Ginger Factory is where you can find everything ginger related ! Here, you can find dried ginger cubes, ginger chocolates, ginger cordials, alcoholic ginger beverages, ginger honey, ginger ice cream, ginger scones, ginger beer battered fish, and you name it! It is a fun place to visit for all ages.

Entry to The Ginger Factory is free . Once you are here, you can browse and purchase from its vast selection of ginger products & check out the Ginger Cafe for lunch . There is also a decent-sized rainforest walk for everyone to enjoy.

Guided Factory Tour and Live Bee Show are available for discovering the paddock-to-plate story at The Ginger Factory & tickets are required to attend these guided tours. Free tastings of these delicious ginger products are available during the guided tours.

For families with kids, why not check out the Ginger Train and Overboard Boat Ride , which can be great fun for your little ones? Tickets are required for both the Ginger Train and the Overboard Boat Ride.

Once you have visited The Ginger Factory, you can also check out the Nutworks & Chocolate Factory , just opposite The Ginger Factory. Here, you can taste and purchase from a vast selection of macadamia nuts and chocolates. This is another iconic attraction on the Sunshine Coast.

Eumundi Markets

If you are visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday , make sure you also check out the famous Eumundi Markets, which is only a short 10-minute drive from The Ginger Factory.

Eumundi Markets is a huge open-air market with hundreds of stalls focussing on street foods and artisan gifts . With live music and a cool vibe, Eumundi Markets is an awesome place to spend a couple of hours.

After spending most of the day in Sunshine Coast’s charming hinterland, let’s now head back to the coast for a relaxing afternoon along the beach.

Coolum Beach

Coolum Beach is a wide sandy beach about halfway between Mooloolaba and Noosa Heads. It offers an open view of the wild ocean & backed by a vibrant esplanade with various shops and eateries. Being a patrolled beach with decent surf breaks, Coolum Beach makes the perfect spot to spend the afternoon swimming, surfing, and relaxing .

Towards the southern end of Coolum Beach, you can find a beautiful boardwalk along the top of a rocky headland. This boardwalk offers a spectacular coastal view of Coolum Beach and beyond. It can also take you directly to the pristine First Bay Coolum Beach , nicely tucked away by the surrounding headlands.

Mount Coolum National Park

If you still have some time after checking out Coolum Beach, why not check out the views from Mount Coolum Summit?

Mount Coolum is a just over 200-metre tall, dome-shaped mountain, which provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Coolum Beach and the nearby hinterland.

Although it is not a long hike from the base to the summit of Mount Coolum, it is a relatively steep climb with lots of steps, so you will need to plan at least 1.5-2 hours for a return trip when visiting Mount Coolum National Park.

Alternatively, you can check out Lows Lookout instead.

Lows Lookout is located on a small hilltop, just behind Coolum Beach. It is at the end of a residential street with a few designated car parks nearby, so you can drive straight to it for a bird’s eye view of Coolum Beach and the nearby mountain ranges.

That said, due to its low altitude and the overgrown trees nearby, the views from Lows Lookout are not as spectacular as from Mount Coolum.

Yaroomba Beach to Mudjimba Beach

If you are more interested in the sand and beaches, instead of a hike up Mount Coolum, why not check out the long stretch of sandy beach between Yaroomba and Mudjimba?

From Yaroomba to Mudjimba , you can find an over 10-kilometre stretch of soft sandy beach, perfect for swimming and surfing . It is one of the most peaceful beaches along the famous Sunshine Coast. So it makes the ideal beach getaway for those who just want to be away from the crowd.

During the whale-migrating season (June to October), the open beach between Yaroomba and Mudjimba is also great for whale watching . The whales were relatively close to shore when I visited, but I still suggest bringing a pair of binoculars if you have them.

A well-maintained boardwalk is available parallel to the foreshore area between Yaroomba and Marcoola . It is an excellent place for a sunset stroll . If you have a bicycle, bring it along, as it is also a great place for cycling .

Day 3: Noosa Heads

On the last day of this 3-day Sunshine Coast trip, we will head up to Noosa to check out the most famous region on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa Heads.

Noosa National Park

Noosa National Park is undoubtedly the most picturesque place in Noosa. It is home to tranquil rainforests and numerous pristine beaches. It is by far my favourite place to visit in Noosa Heads.

Located only one kilometre east of Noosa Heads Main Beach and the buzzing Hastings Street, you can visit Noosa National Park either by car or on foot from Noosa Heads Main Beach/Hastings Street.

There are many different walking tracks within Noosa National Park & the most popular walking trail is the Noosa Coastal Walk, a 10.8-kilometre return walk along the idyllic coastline of Noosa Headland. It also provides access to numerous pristine beaches and breathtaking lookouts along the walk. Among them, the most notable spots are: 

• Boiling Pot Lookout : a spectacular view of the wild ocean swells crashing onto the rocks beneath you, making it look like a pot of boiling water.
• Tea Tree Bay Beach : a secluded beach for swimming and surfing. Located only a 15-minute walk from the main entrance, you may want to bring your surfboard to hit the waves at this beautiful beach.
• Dolphin Point Lookout : a stunning lookout to reconnect with nature. There are pods of dolphins to be spotted from this lookout, but you’ll likely need to bring a pair of binoculars. Migrating whales can also be spotted between June and October.
• Fairy Pools : picturesque rock pool, which you can swim in during low tide.
• Hell’s Gate : for a breathtaking view of Alexandra Bay.

Hastings Street

After spending the morning in Noosa National Park, reward yourself with a tasty lunch and some retail therapy at Noosa’s iconic Hastings Street.

Hastings Street is a shopping strip parallel to the famous Noosa Heads Main Beach. It offers a great selection of  fashion boutiques ,  beachside resorts ,  trendy cafes ,  high-end restaurants , and  lively bars . It is the perfect place to unwind and fill your stomach in Noosa Heads.

Noosa Heads Main Beach

Just a short walk from the vibrant Hastings Street, you will find a soft sandy foreshore area at Noosa Heads Main Beach. With its calmer water and buzzing shopping street nearby, Noosa Heads Main Beach is perfect for spending an afternoon relaxing along the beach.

Laguna Lookout

Laguna Lookout is located on a small hill in Noosa Heads. It offers an impressive panoramic view of Laguna Bay, Noosa River, Noosa Heads, and the distant Sunshine Coast Hinterland .

You can visit Laguna Lookout at any time of the day, but I highly  recommend visiting Laguna Lookout just before sunset , so you can watch the sky turning into different shades of gold and purple over the beautiful Noosa Heads.

Laguna Lookout can be accessed either by car or by walking. If you have a car, I suggest  driving directly to Laguna Lookout , where you can find free designated car parks nearby. 

You can also easily reach Laguna Lookout by walking. It is a roughly  20 minutes walk between Hastings Street and Laguna Lookout (one way) but can be steep in certain sections.

Where to Stay on the Sunshine Coast

A few suggestions you may wish to check out are:

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Brisbane to Noosa: Sunshine Coast Road Trip

This post was last updated on 2024 April 22

This article on Brisbane to Noosa: Sunshine Coast Road Trip may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase using these links, I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much for supporting Frugal Frolicker! :)

This Brisbane to Sunshine Coast road trip blog post was originally published in October 2017 and last updated in July 2020.

It may not be one of Australia’s most renowned regions, but Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is well worth a visit. Spanning from Caloundra up to Great Sandy National Park (or approximately Brisbane to Noosa), it’s delightfully low on tourists, boasts reasonably warm winters (think 70F/20C), and offers both beaches and mountains. Does it get any better?

I readily admit that the Sunshine Coast was never high on my Australian travel radar. It doesn’t really host any of the super-popular touristic hotspots that one might normally plan a trip around, so for the past couple years I’d been busy crossing everything else off my Aussie to-travel-to list.

Now that I’ve had a chance to explore this part of Australia, I feel kinda silly for ignoring it for so long. The Sunshine Coast is a downright pleasant, relaxing, and beautiful place to be, and the fact that it’s not very popular only adds to its allure.

I think the Sunshine Coast is best done as a 4-day road trip from Brisbane to Noosa. Sure, you could spend more or less time there than that, travel by bus, or base yourself in one spot – but I’m hoping I can convince you otherwise in this post.

I flew into Brisbane and began my Sunshine Coast road trip from there, but you could also fly to the Sunshine Coast airport in Marcoola which is right in the center of the region. I’d recommend starting in Brisbane because flights tend to be much cheaper into Brisbane airport, and because it’s super close to the start of the Sunshine Coast so you won’t be wasting much time in getting to/from the region.

Brisbane to Noosa is about a 90 minute drive, while Marcoola to Noosa is about a 35 minute drive – so it’s mercifully not a driving-heavy road trip.

Planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast?

These are the sites I use and recommend for booking travel:

Hotels in the Sunshine Coast: Booking.com

Flights to Sunshine Coast / Australia: Skyscanner

Car rental in the Sunshine Coast: DiscoverCars.com

Activities in the Sunshine Coast: GetYourGuide or Viator

Travel insurance for Australia: Safety Wing or World Nomads

Table of Contents

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Day 1 of this Brisbane to Sunshine Coast road trip is all about exploring the beaches of the Sunshine Coast.

The beaches here aren’t at all glitzy like Bondi or Surfers Paradise; they’re insanely chilled out and have a very “local” feel to them. You’re far more likely to see families rather than tourists enjoying the Sunshine Coast beaches.

Here are a few worth mentioning along the way:

Caloundra is the first beach town you’ll hit if you start your Sunshine Coast road trip from the south (i.e. Brisbane to Noosa).

Kings Beach in Caloundra was named the best beach in Queensland by Surf Life Saving Queensland, so you could do worse than enjoying the rock pools and calm waters here on a nice sunny day (which, honestly, is just about every single day of the year in this neck of the woods). There’s also a boardwalk that runs for 25km along the waterfront from Caloundra to Mooloolaba if you fancy a leisurely coastal walk .

Bribie Island is just off the coast and visible from Caloundra. The Pumicestone Passage separates the two land masses and is an ace spot to explore by kayak, jet ski, or paddle board (all of which you can rent from Bill’s Boat Hire ).

Coolum’s another chilled out beach town on the Sunshine Coast. Especially of interest is Mount Coolum , where there’s a very popular 800m walk up to the summit yielding fantastic views of the coastline and surrounds (2 hours return). It’s a local favorite in terms of things to do in Sunshine Coast.

We stopped for lunch at Little Boat Espresso in Marcoola. It felt like something straight out of Byron Bay and/or created specifically for Instagram. Needless to say, I enjoyed the hell out of it and my coffee.

Marcoola itself seemed to be super sleepy to me, with a near-empty beach up for grabs.

First thing’s first: this town’s name is pronounced moo-LOO-luh-bah, not moo-loo-LAH-bah (my Aussie road trip buddy thoroughly enjoyed making fun of me for that one, oops!).

Mooloolaba is one of the larger towns on the Sunshine Coast. Personally, I don’t think it hosts the best beaches; I DO, however, think it’s one of the best sunset spots from Brisbane to Noosa. Head up to Point Cartwright Lighthouse and either stake out a sunset spot from up there, or walk through Beacon Lighthouse Reserve and down to the rocky beach. From either place you’ll be able to watch the sun go down over the Mooloolah River.

Day 2: Noosa

Ah, Noosa . You could easily dedicate an entire trip to this place, that’s how much there is to see and do here.

For the purposes of this Brisbane to Sunshine Coast road trip though, I’m going to narrow it down to just the best things to do in Noosa which can easily be accomplished in one day.

Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is the main township in the Noosa region (Noosaville is another), and is where you’ll find loads of nice cafes and boutiques. If you’re in the mood for more of a lazy morning, you can sit down for brunch in town and then walk it off with some shopping or a frolic through Pelican Beach Park along the scenic Noosa River. Hit up Grind Cafe for a takeaway coffee for your river walk – we loved the coffee there!

Alternatively, for a more active morning you could hire a boat or stand-up paddle board from one of the many vendors along the river.

Whatever you do, be sure to drive up to Laguna Lookout in Noosa Heads to watch the sunset. The view over the river and beach are absolutely sensational, even better if it’s a killer sunset. This lookout is certainly one of the best things to do in Sunshine Coast Queensland.

Noosa National Park

If you’re a fellow beach bum, I’d recommend spending as much time as possible in Noosa National Park. It is just BEAUTIFUL, and 100% one of the top things to do in Sunshine Coast.

There’s an epic 5.4km-long coastal track that leads from Noosa Heads to Sunshine Beach that’s a do-not-miss. It’ll take 2-3 hours to walk one way with minimal stops, and then you can either walk back or catch a bus back to Noosa afterwards. There are a few quiet beaches along the way that tend to be popular with surfers, but they’re far less crowded than Noosa Main Beach – and a lot prettier, in my opinion.

About halfway down the track (or maybe a bit further – you can check on Google Maps), there’s a side track that leads down toward the Fairy Pools . Here you’ll have to rock scramble to find a couple of tidal pools wedged between some basalt rocks. The water in them is SO CLEAR, and you should be able to spot some coral reef growing on the rock below.

Shortly after the Fairy Pools, there’s another side track that leads down to the Devil’s Kitchen (also on Google Maps). This is a fabulous place to sit and gaze out at the churning sea below.

It’s also worth allowing some time at Sunshine Beach at the other end of the track. Beautiful and near-empty sand for miles, it doesn’t get much better!

READ MORE:  Outdoorsy Things To Do In Noosa, An Aussie Adventure Paradise

Day 3: Sunshine Coast Hinterland

As dreamy as the coastal part of the Sunshine Coast is, there’s actually a treasure trove of other incredible sights and experiences to be had inland as well. I encourage you to divert from the coast and explore the hinterland while driving back from the northern end of the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane.

You probably won’t be able to fit all of the following into one day, so pick and choose depending on your interests and time available:

Eumundi Markets

Try to plan your Brisbane to Sunshine Coast road trip so that you’re able to drive through Eumundi on a Wednesday or a Saturday, when the Eumundi Markets are held. I don’t often recommend markets as must-do activities, but WOW is this one impressive. Definitely one of the top Sunshine Coast attractions.

Whether you’re shopping for a unique gift or hungry for lunch, there are a million and one options at the Eumundi Markets. It’s far and away the largest market I’ve seen outside of Thailand, and it’s hugely popular – so much so that we had to drive a few laps around town before we found a place to park (on a WEDNESDAY).

Oh and be sure to stop next-door and grab a coffee from Humdrum Espresso. It might be the best Aussie coffee I’ve had outside of Melbourne! So good that I went back for a second flat white when I definitely didn’t need one (whoops).

Waterfall Hikes

Once you head inland, there’s actually quite a bit of lush forest in the Sunshine Coast where you can camp and hike.

There’s a fairly popular hike to Kondalilla Falls , probably best done in warmer months so that you can frolic in the rock pools at the end of it. The 4.7km circuit is said to take about 2.5 hours to complete.

We opted instead to do an easy stroll through Buderim Forest Park. The first 2/3 of the trail is lined with a boardwalk, and the final 1/3 is a dirt path involving a bit of rock hopping – but in sum, it’s an easy and very accessible hike, ideal if you’re not looking for anything too strenuous but want a quick hit of nature.

Blackall Range Tourist Drive

An excellent way to explore the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is to take the Blackall Range Tourist Drive ( click for map ) and stop along the way to take in the views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Gerrard’s Lookout is best at sunrise, where you can watch the sun come up from over the ocean and light up the Hinterland before you.

One Tree Hill is another really cool spot where you can glimpse the Glass House Mountains from a hill in Maleny… with a lone tree in the foreground.

Wine & Cheese Tasting

No road trip of mine and Teresa’s would be complete without some wine tasting and cheese nibbling, and sure enough we found a few places to do this in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. This region does not by any means produce the best wine in Australia, but it’s worth trying if you happen to be in the area.

Maleny Cheese sells cheese platters that you can enjoy out on their deck, while Maleny Mountain Wines and Flame Hill Vineyard in Montville offer wine tastings and dining amongst picturesque grounds.

Day 4: Glass House Mountains

No matter what kind of hiker you are (hardcore, casual, not-at-all), definitely carve out at least a day on your Sunshine Coast to Brisbane itinerary to explore the Glass House Mountains.

There are a few worthwhile lookouts just a quick walk from where you park your car, including the Tibrogargan Lookout and the Glass House Mountains Lookout Circuit .

Far more rewarding, though, is the hike to the Mt. Ngungun summit . At 2.8km return, it’s a pretty quick hike even with the 25 minute ascent to the top. Aim to take this on around sunset if you can, for some 360-degree pastel-colored sky action.

Check out the Queensland NPSR site for more hikes in the Glass House Mountains. Ngungun’s a pretty quick and easy hike, but there are other hikeable mountains that might pose more of a challenge if that’s what you’re up for.

Frugal Facts

As of July 2020 — To reach the Sunshine Coast, you can fly into either Brisbane airport or the Sunshine Coast airport in Marcoola and rent a car for your road trip. Brisbane to Noosa is about a 90 minute drive, while Marcoola to Noosa is about a 35 minute drive. Click here for up to $15 off your next car rental with Hertz . 

We relied on the WikiCamps app to find cheap or free campsites along the way and ended up camping at Noosa Caravan Park , the Maleny Showgrounds, and  Coochin Creek Campground  (HIGHLY recommend this one – it’s in a state forest and campfires are allowed!).

Alternatively, you can book affordable Airbnbs in the Sunshine Coast.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland & Noosa Tour $159

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland & Noosa Tour Itinerary

The Sunshine Coast ‘s Hinterland is filled with vibrant markets, stunning views, and incredible mountain ranges imbued with a heady mix of culture and history. On this one-day adventure, you’ll get to experience everything it has to offer and more as we take you around the Eumundi Markets , through the Blackall Ranges, and to the world’s largest operating ginger factory.

The tour begins in Brisbane , but we’ll quickly leave the city and head into the picturesque clutches of the Blackall Ranges. Here, you’ll have ample opportunity to marvel at the incredible views over the Hinterland and enjoy panoramic views across the Queensland coastline. On the way, we’ll weave through historic towns and past charming farmland to give you an insight into local life in this part of the country.

We’ll kick things off by visiting the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and Lookout, where you can soak up views of the Glass House Mountains and refuel with a mid-morning cup of tea. For the more adventurous travellers, there’s the chance to take a tree-top walk. Afterwards, we’ll move onto Gerrard’s Lookout which boasts breath-taking views across Coolum, Caloundra, and Bribie Island.

Next, it’s on to Montville, a charming town home to plenty of art galleries and boutique shops for you to explore before we go to Australia’s premier artisan destination, the Eumundi Markets. Here, you can browse stalls piled high with local art, food, homeware, and everything in between.

Afterwards, we’ll move on to one of Australia’s most popular beach spots, Noosa. You’ll have time to explore the exclusive town before we take you along the southern coast past the sprawling beaches of Sunshine, Marcus, Peregian, and Coolum on our way to Yandina.

When we’re in Yandina, we’ll head straight to the largest operating ginger factory in the world where you can try all sorts of delicious ginger flavoured goods before we make our way back to Brisbane.

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North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

The best day trips from Brisbane

The Queensland capital of Brisbane is perfectly positioned for day trips of every kind.

By Katrina Lobley 

Want to get out of town for the day?  Brisbane  is surrounded by fascinating destinations to discover. Take your pick of coastal cities, island getaways and hinterland mountains topped with lush forests.

Where:  80 kilometres (50 miles) south of Brisbane. 

The glitzy  Gold Coast , attracts plenty of pint-sized thrill seekers keen to spend a day at one of its theme parks. But it's not just kids who will enjoy the region. With a thriving food scene, great shopping, pumping nightlife and even a well-established health and wellness offering, it's easy to see why "the Goldie" is a favourite getaway spot. Want to see how Surfers Paradise got its name? Sign up for a surf lesson along the iconic beachfront with  Get Wet Surf School  before relaxing at one of the Gold Coast's best day spas or restaurants .

Bee Gees Way, Redcliffe Queensland © Dominika Lis

Where: 45 minutes north of Brisbane.

Redcliffe , a coastal city between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast , has one big musical claim to fame: it’s where the Gibb brothers, of Bee Gees fame, spent part of their childhood in the 1950s and signed their first music contract. The city pays homage to the stars with  Bee Gees Way , a 70-metre (230-foot) long multimedia walkway that's free and open day and night. The walkway runs between Sutton Street and the waterfront Redcliffe Parade (stroll along the promenade to enjoy views of Moreton Island). Redcliffe is also a spectacular seafood destination. Head to the Moreton Bay Boat Club for casual fare or Tempest for seafood that sizzles on a teppanyaki grill. For something more adventurous, hire a boat or jet ski from Boab Boats for a day cruising the waters of Moreton Bay. If it’s humpback migration season (June to November), hop onto a whale watching cruise to spot the curious whales.

Moreton Island

Did you know?

Guests at Tangalooma Island Resort can join Eco Rangers in hand-feeding wild bottlenose dolphins that visit the shore every evening.

Where:  40 kilometres (25 miles) off the coast of Brisbane. Take the 75-minute ferry to reach the island.

Moreton Island is a favourite day trip for Queenslanders, but don't rule out an overnight adventure. Those who love four-wheel driving can ferry their vehicles to the island and explore the bush and beach tracks. Those who prefer modern comforts can head to Tangalooma Island Resort , which offers a variety of activities, including quad biking, kayaking, parasailing and scenic flights. Snorkelling or diving the partially-submerged Tangalooma Wrecks that lie just offshore is also popular. The island is home to an interior desert with soaring sand dunes offering a hefty dose of adrenaline-inducing activity. Sign up to toboggan the steep dunes, if you dare.

Bribie Island

Bribie Island, Sunshine Coast, Queensland © John Bowden, Tourism and Events Queensland

Where: Located between Redcliffe and the  Sunshine Coast , just under an hour's drive north of Brisbane.

For a beach holiday that's all about the simple things, head to  Bribie Island . Bribie is the only Moreton Bay island you can drive to (shuttles operate from Brisbane Airport, or take a bus from Caboolture train station). Pumicestone Passage, which runs between the island and the mainland, is home to dugongs (similar to manatees) that come to feed on the seagrass, as well as dolphins and turtles.  Ferryman Cruises  offers a range of passage tours while G'day Adventure Tours can take you on a 4WD adventure to spot wildlife before heading inland through forests and wetlands only accessible by 4WD. For surf action, head to the ocean beaches at Woorim .

North Stradbroke Island

North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism Australia

Where: Drive 45 minutes east to Toondah Harbour to catch the ferry to the island.

Loved for its laid-back lifestyle and aquatic adventures, North Stradbroke Island is the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. ‘Straddie,’ as the locals call it, is home to some stunning beaches - don’t miss Cylinder Beach and Frenchman’s Beach - as well as freshwater lakes you can reach on foot. The island also offers incredible whale watching opportunities from late May to early October. The humpback whales migrate so close to shore that all you need is a pair of binoculars to watch them swim by; a  walk along the headlands is a great place to start your search. Continue your nature discovery from the glamping tents at Adder Rock , where you’ll have a chance to spot resident kangaroos, koalas and kookaburras.

Australia's most beautiful islands

Scenic Rim, Maryvale, Queensland © Mark Clinton, Tourism and Events Queensland

Where: A 1.5-hour drive south-west of Brisbane.

If photogenic mountains are your thing, head to the Scenic Rim in the Gold Coast hinterland . Known as Australia's Green Cauldron, these lush mountains were once a volcanic hotspot. Choose from over a dozen  trails that take you to breathtaking lookouts, rock pools and rainforest gorges. Prefer to see the Scenic Rim from the air? Gold Coast-based  Hot Air  offers hot air balloon rides over the region.

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Brisbane 2032 has a ‘climate-positive’ Olympics plan for lasting benefits

By ali cheshmehzangi.

The Paris Olympics have put Brisbane back in the spotlight as host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The plans for 2032 make one thing clear: these games will be different.

Brisbane is the first city required by its contract with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to host a climate-positive Games. “The carbon savings they create will exceed the potential negative impacts of their operations”, the IOC says . It’s a major shift in how sustainable the games are expected to be.

The Brisbane 2032 organisers’ strong focus on including the regions and legacy planning also distinguishes these games from past events. Brisbane isn’t looking for just a glossy four-week city show. The aim is to boost the broader region with future-focused, sustainable facilities and infrastructure. These will have lasting social, environmental and economic benefits.

The climate crisis is a challenge of unprecedented proportions. If these games serve as a much-needed push for Brisbane — and the rest of the world — to do more, then we can only be thankful.

But activities such as building the infrastructure for the event and transporting the athletes and their specialist equipment from around the world will create huge greenhouse gas emissions. Hosting a global sporting event that removes more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits will be no mean feat.

Indeed, 2021 Swiss research found recent games failed to achieve their ambitions to become more sustainable — though Sydney did relatively well in 2000.

All upcoming Olympics have committed to being carbon neutral, from 2030 onwards host cities will be obliged to go one step further and operate as climate positive. The Brisbane 2032 Olympics will be the first Games held to this standard. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1504666997453-1'); }); Read more here: https://t.co/Y8PvtCeJZk pic.twitter.com/j8JIbOv8ML — Rashiq Fataar (@RashiqFataar) November 19, 2021

How can the Olympics be climate-positive?

Such a challenging task calls for a multifaceted strategy. As QUT professor Marcus Foth has observed, it will require an entirely new approach to the economy and society, which prioritises the planet and life itself.

One simple strategy is to use existing buildings to house athletes and host events where possible. All new or significantly upgraded venues will target the highest six-star rating under Green Star building standards.

Public and active transport will be given priority. All new buses funded by Translink (the state’s public transport agency) in South-East Queensland are to have zero emissions from 2025.

As well as meeting the IOC’s climate-positive requirement, such initiatives will help to achieve Queensland’s climate ambitions. These include the goals of net-zero emissions by 2050 and powering the state with 70% renewable energy by 2032 .

How will Brisbane deliver a 'climate-positive' Olympic Games? With 'radical thinking' https://t.co/86OO6aIIBI — ABC News (@abcnews) January 7, 2023

It’s not all about Brisbane

The Brisbane games can also be a catalyst for long-term, sustainable urban and regional improvement. Regional inclusivity is a vital part of plans for the games. Sharing Olympic events across the state will distribute outcomes and prosperity beyond the city.

A design-led, precinct-based approach, taking local conditions into account, helps unlock wider community benefits. It’s an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation and local capacities.

Most events will be held across three locations: Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Some events are to be held in regional Queensland. Two interstate venues have been flagged for Sydney and Melbourne.

With venues distributed across Brisbane and regional areas, transport and infrastructure upgrades will also need to be dispersed. Road and rail capacity are to be increased on the transport corridors connecting the three Games zones. Major tourism hubs on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Brisbane will be better connected as a result.

Brisbane 2032 is aiming for 90% of travel to events to be by public transport and active transport, such as cycling and walking. There will be seven “walkable” inner-city venues. Games preparations are accelerating long-term plans for public transport and other transport infrastructure to meet the needs of the state’s growing population.

A legacy that will last decades

Brisbane’s ability to embrace and act on place-based approaches will be central to the success of these Olympics and their legacy. Place-based approaches recognise that each place has unique local needs and conditions — including environmental and cultural contexts. Such approaches deliver a range of benefits, by building community resilience, fostering a sense of ownership and encouraging engagement.

Elevate 2042 is a 20-year strategy to leverage the benefits of the event before and after the games. Its themes align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Its stated vision is: “By 2042, we will live in an inclusive, sustainable and connected society, with more opportunities in life for everyone.”

The legacy plan’s focus on the long-term use of facilities and infrastructure is promising. It offers hope that hosting the Olympics will benefit future generations and avoid the underuse of venues once attention has turned to the next host city.

This is where we’ll see our Olympic swimming heroes in 2032. The brand new Brisbane Arena will be built near Roma Street Station. After the Games, it will host major events for decades to come as the city’s new indoor entertainment centre with around 17,000 spectator seats. pic.twitter.com/n0lrGtI2Uc — Steven Miles (@StevenJMiles) August 3, 2024

Ingraining legacy planning in its preparations is a crucial move for Brisbane. The games are seen as not just a sporting event but as a vehicle to advance the economy, improve environmental outcomes and enhance connections between people and places. This will help shape progressive outcomes.

Architecture, design and planning are key professions when planning for this international event. These disciplines are working together to create thoughtful, resilient and vibrant interventions that will benefit communities for many years.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article .

Queensland unveils blueprint for 2032 Olympics and beyond

Ali Cheshmehzangi is head of school, School of Architecture, Design and Planning, The University of Queensland.

Tags: 2024 Paris Olympics 2032 Brisbane Olympics Better Cities Brisbane gold coast Net zero emissions by 2050 net zero transition olympic games Olympic legacy Queensland Sunshine Coast sustainable cities Urban planning urban transport

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