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The insider’s guide to the Sunshine Coast

The insiders guide to the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most celebrated regions featuring pristine beaches, beautiful hinterland national parks, sumptuous food and wine, and so much more.

Spend some time in a destination radiating fun and relaxation. It’s an irresistible combination.

It's worth the walk to experience the panoramic vistas from atop Mount Coolum.

Sunshine by name, sunshine by nature – what’s there to do?

The options are just about endless on a sun drenched day, but here are a few starting points deserving attention.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Coolum Boardwalk for sensational coastal views and the chance to glimpse migrating whales (June to November). Alternatively, Caloundra's Coastal Walk   is an inviting stretch that links the city’s gorgeous beaches and is dotted with enticing cafés.

Caloundra boardwalk

The boardwalk offers relaxed coastal views and the chance to view migrating humpback whales (June to November). 

Joining a river cruise is a fantastic way to soak up the region’s immense beauty. Snaking through rivers, lakes, and other majestic waterways, these cruises are dominated by sparkling scenery and depart from Caloundra, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, and Noosa.

Elsewhere, the headland at  Point Cartwright  is a photographer’s delight as it overlooks  Mooloolaba , the Mooloolah River, and is a whale watching hotspot. It is also the perfect location for a picnic. 

Point Cartwright

The views from Point Cartwright are a photographer's dream.

What about a great beach?

There are plenty of strips of sand that could rank amongst the best beaches on the Sunshine Coast, and include:

Mooloolaba Beach  is a white sand wonder favoured by families.

Kings Beach,  in Caloundra is a family friendly beach with a swimming pool and time delayed water fountain for kids.

Moffat Beach, Caloundra  is the perfect stretch of sand for beach walks with your four legged bestie, and is close to cafes, restaurants and  Moffat Beach Brewing Co .

Mooloolaba beach

Mooloolaba Beach is a family favourite. 

Coolum Beach  is a surfing and golfing mecca, with a carefree holiday atmosphere distinct from its neighbouring beach towns.

Rainbow Beach  is found further north in Gympie, but is well worth a drive to discover the region's stunning natural wonders.

Peregian Beach is a magical spot for uncrowded coastal fun. 

North facing  Noosa Main Beach  is popular with swimmers and long board riders.

rainbow-beach

Spectacular Rainbow Beach.

I’m keen to hit the nature trail. What you have got?

A handful of prized Sunshine Coast national parks and reserves should rank at the top of a nature lover’s itinerary.

Contrast coast and hinterland vistas from Mount Coolum's summit in  Mount Coolum National Park  - home to rare and threatened plants as well as eye-catching wildflowers.

With its towering trees, meandering tracks and stunning waterfall,  Buderim Forest Park Reserve  is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. This subtropical oasis is just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Mooloolaba. 

Nestled on the doorstep of  Noosa ,  Noosa National Park  features some of South East Queensland's most picturesque coastal scenery.

Glass House Mountains National Park  is an icon of the region. Its funky, craggy volcanic peaks are a sight to behold and walking tracks of varying difficulty reward with breathtaking outlooks.

Glasshouse mountains

The iconic Glass House Mountains National Park is a must visit. Credit: Brent Matthews Photography.

Explore the beautiful walking track in Kondalilla National Park that leads from Kondalilla Falls down the escarpment into a lush rainforested valley.

With stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, Kondalilla National Park is worth adding to your to do list.

What are the best family friendly attractions?

Aussie World at Palmview is an action packed theme park full of entertainment including thrilling rides, attractions, and shows.

Australia Zoo in Beerwah  is the home of the Crocodile Hunter and the place to learn about native and exotic animals. Spread over 40ha, you could easily spend a day here enjoying the free shows, animal encounters and lush outlooks of this subtropical parkland. 

australia zoo

Ths kids will love a day out at Australia Zoo.

Big Kart Track, Landsborough is Australia’s largest commercial go kart track. A stack of fun for the kids and kids at heart.

You'll enjoy a day of educational, fun filled with activity including bee shows, train and boat rides, and factory tours at the  Ginger Factory , Yandina 

big kart track

Australia's largest go kart track, Big Kart Track is fun for kids and adults alike. 

Where can I go for a spot of shopping?

There is plenty of scope for a touch of retail therapy on the Sunshine Coast. Sunshine Plaza in Maroochydore is the largest shopping centre in the region and boasts a wide array of stores, including some of Australia’s biggest brands.

The Sunshine Coast and markets go hand in hand, whether you’re after local produce, arts and craft, or boutique gifts. The Original Eumundi Market held in the coast’s hinterland each Wednesday and Saturday is perhaps the most famous example and regularly attracts big crowds.

You can easily do the credit card some damage by checking out the shops of Mooloolaba Esplanade, or head to Hastings Street in Noosa for high-end fashion and eclectic homewares.  

What about a spot of culture?

Head for the Hinterland Arts Trail. The Blackall Ranges are a Hinterland highlight, sprinkled with charming towns that burst with art galleries, boutiques, cafés, and more.  Maleny  and  Montville  are key towns to stop by for gallery gazing.

​Gallery gaze in the charming town of Montville.

art gallery

Back on the coast, the enticing riverfront location of the Noosa Regional Gallery at Tewantin sets the tone for the colour and beauty dominating its interior while  Caloundra Regional Gallery  has a growing collection that showcases the strong talent of the region.

I’m keen to stroll the fairways…

Then you’ll love the wide assortment of the Sunshine Coast golf courses , many of which enjoy sensational settings. Top picks include:

• The quality, nine hole course provides visitors with a picturesque, 'golf-as-it-began' playing experience.
• Noosa Springs Country Club
• Headland Golf Club
• Pelican Waters Golf Club
• The stunning setting and challenging layout of  ensures an enjoyable game of golf for all players.
• Peregian Springs Golf Course

I fancy a drink. Any wineries or craft breweries close by?

The Sunshine Coast features a cluster of prized wineries in the hinterland area and a winning selection of craft breweries right across the region.

Flame Hill Vineyard  in Montville is a top pick, particularly if you’re dining in, and boasts a wide selection of varieties - they also do a marvellous Sunday breakfast. 

flamehill vineyard

Flame Hill Winery offers a range of delicious wines and a tasty menu. 

You can find an excellent selection of craft breweries and beer experiences from the coast to the hinterland - and if you don't have a designated driver you can hop aboard a  craft beer tour  to sip and sample at your leisure. 

I’m hungry. Where should I go for a bite to eat?

Seafood lovers should head straight to Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba where a cluster of restaurants dish up freshly caught goodies. Dine in at a fancier establishment or grab your takeaway and head to the rooftop deck to enjoy a casual meal overlooking the sea.

For something different,  Spice Bar  on the Mooloolaba Esplanade delivers an Asian fusion menu backed by a great atmosphere and is close to wine bars for an after-dinner drink.

Spirit House Restaurant  in Yandina is situated in tropical gardens and features a cooking school as well as a new bar that’s quickly emerging as a fan favourite.

Noosa is home to a wide selection of award-winning restaurants and bars while The Esplanade, Caloundra has a generous sprinkling of inviting waterfront eateries.

Spirit House Restaurant in Yandina enjoys a stunning setting. Credit: Spirit House

I know it’s the Sunshine Coast, but what should I do if it’s raining?

If the skies are grey, inject some colour into your day at  SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast . The aquarium is home to a wealth of enthralling marine life and includes talks and presentations that reveal all manner of fun facts.

Accessibility at Sea Life Sunshine Coast

Encounter a magical world of marine life at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium.

An almighty collection of machinery is on show at the  Queensland Air Museum in Caloundra.  Peer at historical aircraft, helicopters, plus loads more, and learn all about Australia’s rich aviation past through a series of absorbing displays. This article first appeared on  BIG4.com.au

Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 25 Best Things to Do in Sunshine Coast (Australia)

25 Best Things to Do in Sunshine Coast (Australia)

A comfortable climate, endless sandy beaches, big-time visitor attractions, stylish resorts, tracts of rainforest and striking mountains: The Sunshine Coast’s strengths are many, and there’s so much more than you could ever fit into a single holiday.

If you’re a fearless adventurer you can scramble down humid rainforest valleys, conquer mountains and make for the deserted Fraser Island.

But most people may be reluctant to leave the Sunshine Coast’s flawless white beaches.

Families will never have a dull moment, at theme parks, world-famous zoos, natural discovery centres and quirky museums.

1. Noosa National Park

The chic but laid-back tourist town of Noosa is the jumping off point for the glorious national park of the same name.

In 4,000 hectares and four different sections, the Noosa National Park packs remote beaches, cliff, rocky headlands and lookouts at Dolphin Point and Boiling Point where you can catch sight of dolphins leaping from the surf.

The unpatrolled Alexandria Bay carries on for more than a kilometre and is open to the full force of the Pacific.

Cut in, and there’s rainforest, heathland and sweet-smelling woodland.

A lot of the tracks at the most popular Headlands section converge at the Noosa Headland day-use area.

Elsewhere, the Peregian section is loved for its spring wildflowers, like Christmas bells and the seldom-seen swamp orchid, while you can survey the coastline for many kilometres from the summit of Emu Mountain.

2. Mooloolaba Beach

There are resort beaches and then there’s Mooloolaba beach, which unfurls along a sandy spit in the shelter of Port Cartwright.

The luxurious white beach is angled away from the Pacific, which means low, manageable waves and many metres of shallow water.

Raised slightly at the west end is the Esplanade, where the footpaths are dark under tropical trees and the unfathomable expanse of the Pacific Ocean glitters in the sunshine.

There’s a gaggle of cosmopolitan restaurants and bars a couple streets in from the waterfront.

Backing that sandy spit are plush residential neighbourhoods on canals at the mouth of the Mooloolah river.

3. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

Ecotourists have been flocking to this parcel of remnant rainforest in Maleny since the 1940s.

First off, the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is a sort of natural time capsule, growing the subtropical rainforest species that used to deck the entire Blackall Range.

The reserve has recently been equipped with a modern, multimillion-dollar Discovery Centre with multisensory hands-on displays introducing you to the delicate rainforest ecosystem.

The boardwalk ushers you past strangler figs and buttress roots, while the reserve’s viewing platform is the piece de resistance, looking southeast to the mysterious outline of Glass House Mountains.

4. Noosa Main Beach

A few things combine to make this beach on Noosa Heads’ Laguna Bay so enticing.

The headline is that it’s one of those rare Australian beaches that faces north.

Noosa Main Beach is turned away from the full brunt of the Pacific Ocean, which gives it gentle waves that will suit anyone put off by the big Pacific beach breaks.

Noosa Main Beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers every single day of the year.

Safe to say that if you’re taking you first steps on a surf board, this is the beach for you.

And for everyone else Noosa Main Beach means lounging on the sand, paddling in the shallow water and frequent trips to Hastings Street for shopping and a drink of something cold.

5. Kondalilla Falls

If things get a bit too hot on the coast you can flee for this piece of mountain paradise deep in the Sunshine Coast’s hinterland.

In the national park of the same name, Kondalilla Falls is on the Skene Creek, which plummets down a series of cascades 90 metres into a lush rainforest valley.

It’s interesting to see how the forest transforms from dry grass trees and casuarinas high on the escarpment to the west, down to Australia’s most easterly stand of bunya pines, and then ferns, piccabeen palms and pink ash in the sheltered valley.

You’ll get the best view of the waterfall from the valley floor, descending and then climbing via the Kondalilla Falls Circuit, which has more than 300 steps.

6. Kings Beach

In the south, the Sunshine Coast ends with a fanfare at the town of Caloundra.

If you had to dream up the perfect tourist beach, Kings Beach in the namesake Caloundra suburb would come close.

There’s a sandy bay that slopes gradually into the ocean and is washed by waves that break a long way out.

Kings Beach has a big spread of soft white sand to park yourself on, and if the ocean looks a bit rough there’s a saltwater swimming pool right on the oceanfront.

When the tide goes out kids will love investigating the rock pools, and on the foreshore there’s a child-friendly fountain with sudden, leaping jets of water.

7. Bulcock Beach

Just along the coast, Bulcock Beach is linked to Kings Beach by a continuous boardwalk.

This will beckon you past the green Happy Valley and Clarke Place Park, for picnics and barbecues.

Fix your eyes to the south and you can make out the slender northern tip of Bribie Island and the long Pumicestone Passage, separating the island from the mainland.

Bulcock Beach really comes into its own when the tide goes out.

The ocean leaves behind small, clear pools, warmed by the sun, and at the beach’s southernmost point there’s a decent surfing break.

Behind the west end of the beach, is a string of bars, ice cream parlours and cafes, and there are companies like East Coast Kitesurfing and Caloundra, Jet Ski, catering to people up for adventure sports.

8. Glass House Mountains

This group of 13 volcanic peaks interrupts the coastal plain along the Sunshine Coast and is inscribed on the National Heritage Register as a landscape of national significance.

The monolithic rocks are the vestiges of volcanic vents that filled with magma and cooled, to be thrown into relief as the surrounding sandstone landscape eroded over millions of years.

Most distinctive is the 364-metre Mount Tibrogargan, which if you squint looks like a face surveying the ocean.

You can walk around the base of this peak, or take on the 253-metre Mount Ngungun.

Hardy bushwalkers can test themselves on the recently opened Yul-yan-man track, a rugged Grade 5 walk winding through the range.

9. Tewantin National Park

The adventure continues at Tewantin National Park, which is an easy 20-minute drive west from Noosa Heads on David Low Way.

A mandatory visit here is the 265-metre Mount Tinbeerwah, forged by volcanic activity tens of millions of years ago.

This peak commands majestic vistas over to the Noosa coast and river system, but also inspires wonder for rare and endangered trees like the swamp stringybark, wallum heath and cabbage-tree palms.

Amphibians like the wallum froglet, green-thighed frog and giant barred frog reside in the park, as do around 70 bird species, like the red-browed treecreeper, which thrives in the mature eucalyptus forests.

The Wooroi day-use area is more suited to families, where you can picnic or have a barbecue under bloodwoods and she-oaks.

10. Maleny Botanic Gardens & Birdworld

In 110 acres, among ponds, cascades and a tapestry of themed spaces, Maleny Botanic Gardens & Birdworld has a staggering location.

You’ll be on a terraced escarpment facing southeast across the coastal plain to the Glass House Mountains.

Trails meander through the landscape, guiding you into idyllic spaces planted with roses, camellias, desert species, orchids, rainforest plants and many more.

There are also four walk-through aviaries inhabited by 700 native and exotic birds, together with a petting zoo keeping tame domestic animals.

Then at the top of the gardens you can take a seat and be wowed by the scenery over a cup of coffee.

11. Australia Zoo

Dubbed “The Home of the Crocodile Hunter”, the Australia Zoo in Beerwah has found an international audience because of Steve Irwin.

His naturalist parents Bob and Lyn opened the park in 1970, and Steve grew up around the zoo’s crocodiles.

The money made from television filming went back into the zoo, turning it into the sprawling, world-class zoological attraction it is today.

The park is owned by Steve’s widow Terri and holds more than 1,200 animals over 1,000 acres.

There are crocodile and bird demonstrations at the 5,000-capactiy “Crocoseum”, a Rainforest Aviary with 150+ birds, Sumatran and Bengal tigers at the Tiger Temple, the 12-acre “Elephantasia” and a whole precinct for South-East Asian species like Komodo dragons and Asian small-clawed otters.

You’ll also have lots of chances to get involved, petting koalas, hand-feeding kangaroos, walking with wombats or touring the zoo’s animal hospital.

12. Queensland Air Museum

For something a little different, Caloundra has the largest heritage aviation museum in the country.

Remarkably this not-for-profit attraction is run almost entirely by volunteers, who keep the museum open every day of the year except Christmas Day.

There are scores of jet and propeller aircraft on show, and the immediate post-war years are a real strong point.

From this time you’ve got a Vickers Viscount, a Lockheed Neptune, two Hawker Hunters, a Gloster Meteor, two de Havilland Caribous, two Sea Vixens and two Sea Venoms, to name a small few.

The museum has a calendar bursting with events, like the Open Cockpit Weekend in July when you can take the controls in a whole range of aircraft.

13. Maleny Dairies

The rambling hills of Maleny, in the Sunshine Coast’s pastoral hinterland are the backdrop for an award-winning and family-owned dairy farm.

Grazing in those hills is a herd of Guernsey cows, and their milk goes into the Maleny Dairies’ range of natural and healthy products, which includes pasteurised milk (naturally), flavoured milk, yoghurt, cream and custard.

You can make a dash for these cooler climes for tours, scheduled Monday to Saturday.

These kick off with a short movie about the farm and then take you down to the factory floor.

You’ll get to meet Millie Maleny Dairies’ “tour cow”, watch a milking demonstration and taste milk right from the udder.

In season you’ll get the chance to bottle-feed calves, and at the end of the tour you can sample the brand’s range.

Three times a day there are also tractor rides, past paddocks with frolicking calves and emus that you can feed by hand.

14. Point Cartwright

This promontory sticks out into the vastness of the Pacific Ocean at the tip of Kawana Beach in Mooloolaba.

Behind is the final reach of the Mooloolah River before it enters the ocean, and there’s an active lighthouse atop the cliffs, 32 metres tall and built in 1978. From the headland you can watch the waves crash against the rocks and look back to Mooloolaba, down Kawana Beach and up to the curious dome of Mount Coolum.

Be here in the evening to watch the sun setting behind Mooloolaba.

At the base of the headland is an unpatrolled beach, big with surfers for its point break.

15. Buderim Forest Park

There’s a 45-hectare oasis of rainforest, with waterfalls, cascades and tangled trees, barely a kilometre outside the village of Buderim.

No shock that Buderim Forest Park is a hit with photographers and Instagrammers, and you can discover it on a trail with two entry points, conveying you between ferns and under eldritch strangler figs, while the calls of rainforest species like catbirds and whipbirds ring out all around.

Buderim Falls (also Serenity Falls) is nothing short of stunning, especially if you pick a day when Martins Creek is swelled by rainfall.

But even in dry spells there will be a gossamer trickle spilling over the rocks.

16. Mount Coolum

This bizarre dome-shaped landform rises just inland from the suburb of the same name, 100 kilometres north of Brisbane.

Protected by a small national park, Mount Coolum is a laccolith, formed some 26 million years ago when magma forced a bulge in the earth’s surface and then cooled without breaking through.

The 208-metre peak stands alone from the Glass House Mountains, which rise to the south, and if you’re up for the climb, will grant you stupendous 360° views of the coastline, the Glass House Mountains and the Blackhall Range in the backcountry to the west.

Mount Coolum is one of only two places on the sunshine coast supporting montane heath, a habitat made up of rare and endangered plant species.

17. Rainbow Beach: Kayaking with Dolphins

Intrepid sprits may be itching to travel into the national parks that lie beyond Noosa Head in the very north of the Sunshine Coast.

The online tour platform GetYourGuide.com has plenty of experiences catering to those who want to go a bit further.

At the top of the Great Sandy National Park is Rainbow Beach, which takes its name from the 72 different shades of sand.

This eye-opening spectrum of hues and tones has been caused by erosion, revealing sands tinted by vegetable dyes and iron oxide.

The Rainbow Beach: Kayaking with Dolphins package entails a 4WD trip along the beach, and then an easy kayaking trip around double island point.

Dolphin pods, sting rays, manta rays and turtles are in these waters all year, and should make an appearance.

But if you make the trip between June and November you also stand a great chance of seeing humpback whales on their migration.

18. Aussie World

The only fully-fledged theme park on the Sunshine Coast is just off the Bruce Highway, 15 minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport.

More than 30 years after Aussie World opened, there are now more than 30 rides and attractions.

Some of these will have you clinging on for dear life, like the rollercoaster Redback, and The Plunge, a log flume, and The Wasp, which is an interactive thrill ride.

But there are also lots of more sedate ways for families to have fun.

These might be a restored carousel from 1927, a ferris wheel from the 1960s, mini-golf, the Leak’n Logs water play area and Sideshow Salley, loaded with carnival games.

Something not to miss if you’re aged 12 and up is the Mayhem Maze, which has a spine-tingling horror theme.

19. Peregian Beach

Pinned against the coast by Noosa National Park, Peregian Beach is a gorgeous seaside village with little local shops and cafes, an unending stretch of sandy beach and big tracts of nature to explore inland.

You can divide your time between the beach, a day spa and cafe table before striking out in search of unblemished natural spots like Lake Weyba.

Couched in mangroves, open forest and saltpans, Lake Weyba is a shallow body of saltwater with a sparse beauty, but also a vital breeding ground for fish.

You can spot birdlife in the bush from a kayak, or take a dip in the clear, warm water.

20. Hastings Street

Set just in from Noosa Main Beach, Hastings Street is a relaxed, upscale hangout with footpaths shielded from the sun by cafe awnings and the thick canopies of poinciana and pandanus trees.

At the foot of the street’s white, low-rise blocks are day spas, boutiques, gift shops, galleries and surf stores.

The terraces are occupied morning ’til night by bon viveurs taking coffee, champagne brunches and evening cocktails.

Then when the sun goes down Hastings Street glows with fair lights and becomes a rakish, smart-casual nightspot.

Noosa Main Beach is never more than a minute away, and at the west end you’ll suddenly leave the resort behind and find yourself in the gum trees of the Noosa Woods.

21. The Ginger Factory

The suburb of Buderim happens to have the ideal conditions for growing ginger, a crop that benefits from the local high rainfall and high humidity.

The industry took hold during the First World War, and there are now many hectares of ginger fields.

One company making ginger confectionery products is Buderim Ginger Limited, which has opened visitor a attraction next to its ginger factory about 15 minutes away in Yandina.

You can ride a century-old sugar cane train, venture through tropical gardens and take a themed boat ride with more than 200 animated puppets.

There are also live beekeeping demonstrations, and at the souvenir shop you can buy ginger spreads, cordial, ginger beers and of course gingerbread.

22. The Original Eumundi Markets

The little town of Eumundi has a nationwide reputation for its bi-weekly markets.

These are praised as the biggest and best arts and crafts markets in all of Australia.

Market days are Saturday and Wednesday, no matter the weather, laying on a cornucopia of locally produced art, ceramics, jewellery, fashion-forward clothing, furniture, homewares and a lot more than we can list.

Bring an appetite too, because some of the delicious bites include loaded baked potatoes, artisan fudge, authentic Turkish gözleme, empanadas and German bratwurst hot off the grill.

There’s entertainment too, by live musicians and street performers, and if you need time-out you could always pause for a massage.

23. Noosa Farmers’ Market

If Noosa seems quiet on Sunday morning, it’s because everyone’s at this farmers’ market under the gum trees by the Australian Football Club.

For holidaymaker’s it’s a chance to find out what the Sunshine Coast’s best producers are up to.

This means organic skincare, olives, nuts, seeds, jams, herbs, marinades, sauces, seafood straight from the ocean, cheeses, tapenades and bread and pastries baked on the spot.

You’re sure to get peckish at some point, and there’s lots of food and drink to go, like crêpes, German sausages, steamed dumplings, smoothies and fair-trade coffee.

24. Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise

In the Mooloolah Estuary, on the south side of the Mooloolaba spit there’s a labyrinth of canals where palatial waterfront houses have their own jetties.

Jet-skis zip by, and palm trees and the masts of expensive-looking yachts set the scene.

You can only get fleeting glimpses of Minyama and Mooloolaba’s canals from the little waterside parks on land, so the best way to bask in the opulence is on a cruise.

This 90-minute voyage with GetYourGuide.com includes a satisfying sit-down lunch, which can be freshly caught Mooloolaba prawns, calamari and chips, fish and chips or hamburgers.

25. Fraser Island: 2-Day Grand 4WD Exploration Tour

On the Sunshine Coast you’ll be tantalisingly close to Fraser Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest sand island in the world, at 123 kilometres long and 22 kilometres across.

With a population of less than 200 Fraser Island is a world of rainforests, mangroves, sand dunes, peat swamps, heathland and beaches that disappear into the distance.

You’ll need two whole days to scratch the surface, and this 4WD adventure can be booked with GetYourGuide.com .

There will be scores of unforgettable moments, from whales and dolphins breaching in the ocean, to the vistas from Eli Creek and Indian Head Lookout.

You’ll traverse canyons, drive along the deserted 75-mile beach, paddle in transparent creeks, see a 100-year-old shipwreck and uncover the island’s lost timber industry.

25 Best Things to Do in Sunshine Coast (Australia):

• Noosa National Park
• Mooloolaba Beach
• Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
• Noosa Main Beach
• Kondalilla Falls
• Kings Beach
• Bulcock Beach
• Glass House Mountains
• Tewantin National Park
• Maleny Botanic Gardens & Birdworld
• Australia Zoo
• Queensland Air Museum
• Maleny Dairies
• Point Cartwright
• Buderim Forest Park
• Mount Coolum
• Rainbow Beach: Kayaking with Dolphins
• Aussie World
• Peregian Beach
• Hastings Street
• The Ginger Factory
• The Original Eumundi Markets
• Noosa Farmers' Market
• Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise
• Fraser Island: 2-Day Grand 4WD Exploration Tour

Sunshine Coast

A place of flawless beaches, coveted surf and laid-back, sun-kissed locals, the Sunshine Coast spreads a golden 100km from the tip of Bribie Island to the Cooloola Coast. Resort towns dot the coast, each with its own appeal and vibe, from chic, cosmopolitan Noosa to easy, hip Caloundra. For tens of thousands of years, these coastal plains have belonged to the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) people, known as the mwoirnewar (the saltwater people) to the Jinibara people of the neighbouring hinterland.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Great Sandy National Park: Cooloola Section

Extending from Lake Cootharaba north to Rainbow Beach, this 54,000 hectare section of national park offers wide ocean beaches, soaring cliffs of richly…

Noosa National Park

Noosa's unmissable national park delivers spectacular coastal views (expect to see dolphins) and ambrosial beaches like Tea Tree Bay. The most scenic way…

Eumundi Markets

This is one of Australia's most atmospheric artisan markets, attracting over 1.6-million visitors a year to its 600-plus stalls. Dive into a leafy,…

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

The ethereal, 55-hectare Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve wraps visitors in a remnant of the subtropical rainforests that once blanketed the Blackall Range…

Tea Tree Bay

Framed by spiky pandanus, Tea Tree Bay is one of Noosa's most idyllic beaches, with wild bushland emerging onto a broad sweep of sand and pellucid waves…

Australia Zoo

Just north of Beerwah is one of Queensland’s most famous tourist attractions. Australia Zoo is a fitting homage to its founder, wildlife enthusiast Steve…

Noosa Everglades

The passage of the Noosa River that cuts into the Great Sandy National Park north of Lake Cootharaba is poetically known as the ‘river of mirrors’ or the…

Kondalilla National Park

Some 2.3km north of hilltop hamlet Montville lies Kondalilla National Park, home to swimmable rock pools, spectacular views, and a 90m waterfall. If you…

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Sunshine Coast and beyond

Our guide to the Sunshine Coast

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Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is one of the most popular beach holiday destinations in Australia.

Holiday on the Sunshine Coast for sun-drenched beaches, national parks and lush countryside and a cosmopolitan lifestyle and climate that invites year-round swimming and surfing that just can’t be beat.

Beyond popular Noosa, there’s an array of stunning locations for holidaymakers to explore including the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Kawana, Eumundi and Nambour.

The Sunshine Coast region offers endless outdoor adventure, a thriving food and dining scene, a creative community, fabulous shopping and a lively events calendar, which all adds up to an unforgettable holiday escape.

Here’s our pick of the best things to do in the Sunshine Coast to make the most of your next Sunshine Coast getaway.

Getting to the Sunshine Coast

Getting to the Sunshine Coast is easy; you can fly, drive, or catch a bus or train to the Sunshine Coast. The Sunshine Coast is a 2-hour drive from Brisbane and is serviced by Sunshine Coast Airport, located at Marcoola. Getting around is easy by car, bus, train or ride sharing services however the region covers a large area, so having your own car is recommended to make the most of your time exploring the region.

Best experiences on the Sunshine Coast

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Markets & Wineries

The Sunshine Coast embraces its creative communities and there are a host of artisan and farmers markets to browse. Eumundi Markets, held every Wednesday and Saturday heads the list of must-visit market destinations on the Sunshine Coast. Other great markets include Noosa Farmers Market and Peregian Beach Market.

The Sunshine Coast wine region encompasses vineyards situated primarily in the cooler climate Sunshine Coast Hinterland. The best Sunshine Coast wineries with spectacular views over lush vines include Flame Hill Vineyard, Settlers Rise Wines, Mason Wines Montville, Ocean View Estate and Dingo Creek Vineyard. These boutique vineyards may offer cellar door tastings and tours at selected times, so check local guides for details.

Flee to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and chase waterfalls at Gardeners Falls, a hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast. Easily accessible and supremely beautiful, visitors will be rewarded with a freshwater swim in the large swimming hole underneath the falls with grassy areas to relax and enjoy a picnic. Kondilla Falls offers walking tracks and the opportunity to take a plunge alongside the cluster of small waterfalls. There are even more waterfalls to discover nestled within the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for those seeking some natural adventure.

If it’s an adventure you seek, choose skydiving while you visit the Sunshine Coast. Sunshine Coast Skydivers offer tandem skydiving with a spectacular beach landing, making for a memorable Sunshine Coast holiday. Likewise, Skydive Noosa offers the ultimate adrenaline rush, freefalling then floating over the stunning Sunshine Coast region with views of the beaches below.

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Choosing Where to Stay on the Sunshine Coast

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family holiday or group getaway you’ll find the perfect Sunshine Coast accommodation to suit your style and budget. From Sunshine Coast caravan parks with enviable beachside locations to pet friendly holiday houses and holiday rentals to accommodate the whole family, there’s plenty of choice and assistance available to help decide where to stay on the Sunshine Coast.

Glamping & Camping

Sunshine Coast camping spots are easy to find, with great camping grounds dotted along the coastline from Caloundra to Noosa. Choose your level of comfort from powered and unpowered sites, cabin accommodation, caravan sites or traditional camping along the shimmering coastline, rivers, lakes or lush hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. If you like a little more luxury, Sunshine Coast glamping experiences are available with safari style tents, tipis or bespoke luxury bell tents across various locations. Take the hassle out of camping by outsourcing to Pitch Luxury Camping where you simply choose your location and let the Pitch team do the rest. Simply arrive, relax and enjoy!

Resorts & Hotels

The Sunshine Coast offers a choice of resorts and hotels from cheap hotels, holiday apartments to beachfront luxury resorts. There’s no shortage of accommodation, but if you’re seeking a romantic getaway in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland then consider the award-winning Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat for peace, privacy and seclusion. For large-scale luxury, book a getaway to Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort located on Hastings Street and boasting a central pool, cabana club and all the resort style facilities you’d expect from a 5 star hotel.

Make your base one of the Sunshine Coast’s best beachfront hotels for the quintessential Queensland beach holiday. Popular choices include Oceans Mooloolaba, Breeze Mooloolaba and Element on Coolum all offering modern, apartment style accommodation close enough to hear the ocean and feel the sea breeze. For absolute beachfront bliss, checkin to one Noosa’s beachfront hotels with just the boardwalk separating you and the ocean.

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If you have the kids in tow, head to the calming waters of Golden Beach Caloundra. Packed the pooch on your Sunshine Coast getaway, then head to dog-friendly beaches such as Sunshine Beach or Currimundi Beach. For the best surf on the Sunshine Coast, surfers flock to Noosa National Park, home of the Noosa Festival of Surfing.

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11 of the Best Things to Do On the Sunshine Coast Australia

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This post about things to do on the Sunshine Coast is a guest post by Ella.

At just over an hour north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast is a destination that’s just as dreamy as it sounds. Obviously, this area of Australia got its name from its sub-tropical weather and gorgeous coastline, but if you’re looking for things to do on the Sunshine Coast that involve more than just hanging out at the beach, you won’t be disappointed. 

This area of Queensland has good public transport options, and you can reach most destinations by train or bus. However, if you want to get off the beaten path, or try out a few hikes, you’ll definitely need a car.

When it comes to exploring the great outdoors, whether that’s hiking, surfing, or swimming in waterfalls, this region just has so many options! To make your decision easier, here is a tried-and-tested selection of the very best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Table of Contents

1. Hike the Noosa National Park Coastal Path

2. australia zoo, 3. go shopping on hastings street, 4. glass house mountains national park, 5. visit the carlo sandblow, 6. hike to kondalilla falls, 7. tewantin national park, 8. queensland air museum, 9. go surfing at coolum beach, 10. eumundi markets, 11. gympie music muster, final thoughts on the best things to do on the sunshine coast, 5 of the best things to do in queensland, australia, 10 cool things to do on the gold coast in australia, 7 adventurous things to do around cairns, australia, best things to do on the sunshine coast.

Noosa National Park is the most visited national park in the whole of Australia, and there’s no doubt you could spend a few days just hiking its different walking routes. Hiking the coastal track is something you can’t leave Noosa without doing!

This 5.4 km/3.3 mile track hugs the coastline, from central Noosa to Sunshine Beach, and stops off at awesome viewpoints and some of  Noosa’s most secluded beaches . This hiking route is also where you’ll find the famous Noosa Fairy Pools—large rock pools that Instagrammers just can’t resist.

The hike is fairly moderate (aside from one steep section at Sunshine Beach) but not much of the path is in the shade. For this reason, if you’re embarking on  the Noosa coastal hike  in summer, it’s important to pack a ton of water and set off either before 9am or after 5pm to avoid the worst of the heat.

Getting there:  You can start the hike at either Little Cove Beach near central Noosa or on Sunshine Beach. To get to/from Sunshine Beach from Central Noosa, take the 631 bus, which takes around 15 minutes.

With over 1,200 fascinating animals and set over 1,000 acres of land, Australia Zoo is  the  destination to visit on the Sunshine Coast if you’re interested in animals.

The zoo was originally owned by the parents of world-famous TV personality Steve Irwin. In the 1990s, he and his wife, Terri, took over management. Nowadays, thousands of visitors flock to the zoo to feed kangaroos, cuddle koalas, and check out the Crocoseum.

It’s here that the zoo staff educate visitors about crocodiles and their habits, and show how they behave.

Australia Zoo places a heavy focus on conservation. Through educational outreach programs, breeding programs, field research, media campaigns and advice to governments, the zoo raises awareness of animal conservation issues. They also place a particular focus on crocodile conservation, research and tracking.

Getting there:  Just 75 km/47 miles north of Brisbane, Australia Zoo is one of the  easiest day trips from the city . The drive takes 1 hour and 10 minutes, or you can get there from Brisbane or Noosa via the Greyhound Bus.

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Hastings Street is the beating heart of Noosa and the best place to splash some cash on the Sunshine Coast! It’s just a stone’s throw away from Noosa Main Beach, so spending the morning shopping on Hastings Street before sunbathing in the afternoon is one of the most popular  ways to spend a day in Noosa .

Hastings Street is always buzzing with activity, so the best way to start your visit is by sitting outside Aromas Cafe with an iced latte, watching the world go by.

Once you’re fully caffeinated, it’s time to hit the shops. On Hastings Street, you’ll find a ton of independent clothing boutiques, cute gift shops and plenty of fitness stores. After all, Noosa is all about healthy, outdoor living, and the shops here definitely reflect that. 

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to pick up a poke or acai bowl from Hastings Street to go and eat on the beach. There are quite a few options here, but the best is Raw + Rice.

Getting there:  Noosa is the most well-connected town on the Sunshine Coast. You can get there either by car or public transport very easily. From Brisbane, the journey is around two hours.

From Sunshine Coast Airport, the journey is approximately 30 minutes. Most buses will drop you off at Noosa Junction, which is a 17-minute walk away from Hastings Street.

The Glass House Mountains are an iconic landmark of the Sunshine Coast, and paying them a visit is a brilliant way to spend a day on the Sunshine Coast. The area is jam-packed full of winding hiking trails and epic viewpoints, so the Glass House Mountains are the best place to visit on the Sunshine Coast if you’re into hiking.

There are plenty of trails in the area, but if you’re eyeing up the mountains themselves, only two of them are open to hikers: Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Ngungun. 

The Glass House Mountains are sacred to the land’s Aboriginal owners, the Gubbi Gubbi people. The Gubbi Gubbi people don’t speak publicly about why the land is sacred to them, but ask that visitors don’t climb the other mountains out of respect for their beliefs.

Getting there:  From Brisbane, you can catch a direct train from Central Station to Glass House Mountains station, and the journey takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. You could also drive (which will make exploring the Glass House Mountains much easier), which takes 1 hour. The drive from Sunshine Coast Airport takes 40 minutes.

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The Carlo Sandblow is one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Great Sandy National Park. It’s located in the Cooloola Recreation Area of the national park and is an incredibly popular spot to visit since it only requires a short walk to reach.

The sand on the Carlo Sandblow has been building up for over 500,000 years and is one of Queensland’s most diverse biospheres. If you enjoy checking out otherworldly landscapes, the Carlo Sandblow is an essential stop on the Sunshine Coast!

Because it’s so popular, though, it gets very busy. To enjoy the sandblow without the crowds, aim to get there early (before 9am).

Of course, if you really enjoy hiking, visiting the Carlo Sandblow as a stop on the 102 km/63 mile Cooloola Great Walk is the best option. If that feels too overwhelming, though, you can drive up to the Carlo Sandblow Car Park, and from there it’s just a short walk away. 

Getting there:  You’ll need a car to visit the Carlo Sandblow. Its location is in the town of Rainbow Beach, so this is the best place to base yourself for your visit. Otherwise, the drive from Noosa is 103 km/64 miles (1 hour 30 minutes), and from Brisbane it’s 240 km/140 miles (3 hours).

The most popular hike in Kondalilla National Park is undoubtedly the Kondalilla Falls Circuit. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland has no shortage of spectacular waterfalls, but Kondalilla Falls is certainly one of the best. Because of this, the area gets very busy on weekends, so it’s best to complete the hike on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

To visit the waterfall, you’ll hike the Kondalilla Falls Circuit, a short, 4 km/2.5 mile route that’s not too challenging. Nevertheless, you’ll want to take your time so you can admire the surrounding rainforest and dip your feet into the many rock pools you’ll pass. Allocate two hours for the full trail.

The trail is a Grade 3 track, mostly due to the many stairs on the route (over 100!). This means that it’s not very challenging, but some walking experience and a reasonable level of fitness is required.

Getting there:  It’s easiest to reach Kondalilla National Park by car. From Noosa, it’s a 50-minute drive, although you can catch two buses (which will take around 2 hours). The hike starts from Kondalilla Falls Road car park.

Encompassing Mount Tinbeerwah and the Wooroi day-use area, Tewantin National Park is a natural refuge for native wildlife, where you can spot koalas, swamp wallabies and echidnas. It’s also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as you’ll find plenty of endangered bird species here.

Visiting the Mount Tinbeerwah Lookout is one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast, and the views are unparalleled. From the Mount Tinbeerwah Road car park, you’ll find the trailhead for the 1 km/0.6 mile walk to the lookout, which is very easy to follow.

From the lookout, you’ll get 360-degree views of the entire Noosa region, all the way to the coast. The best time to visit is undoubtedly sunset, when the sky is streaked with vibrant pinks, oranges and yellows.

Getting there:  Tewantin National Park is just 16 km/9.9 miles from Noosa, so it’s very easy to get to. The drive is just 15 minutes. You could also catch the bus from Sunshine Beach Road at Noosa Plaza, which also takes 15 minutes to arrive in Tewantin Central.

Run completely by volunteers, you’ll find this not-for-profit aviation museum at Caloundra Airport. It’s the biggest aviation museum in Australia, so if you’re into all things planes, this is the place to visit.

The museum’s mission is to acquire, restore and maintain historically significant aircraft, and their collection now contains over 75 aircraft! The Sunshine Coast doesn’t have many museums, so the Queensland Air Museum is a favourite of visitors looking to add a dose of history to their visit.

You can get up close to the aircraft, and the museum sometimes even opens up the aircraft for you to go inside (they advertise the dates in advance on  their website ). The volunteers here are all highly knowledgeable and passionate about aviation history, so come armed with questions and they’ll certainly have the answers for you.

Getting there:  The Queensland Air Museum is in the town of Caloundra, and is about a half an hour walk from the centre of town. To get here from Brisbane, the drive is 1 hour 15 minutes. It’s a 50-minute drive from Noosa.

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Coolum Beach produces some of the best surfing waves on the Sunshine Coast and is also the training ground of pro surfer Julian Wilson. If that doesn’t tempt you to try your hand at surfing in Coolum, nothing will!

Since Coolum Beach is large, you’ll find waves for all types of surfers on this stretch of sand. So, whether you’re an advanced surfer, have a few lessons under your belt, or have never stepped foot on a board before, Coolum is a great destination for you. For the best surf conditions, paddle out at high tide. 

Lifeguards patrol the beach, so it’s perfectly safe to surf whilst they’re on duty. Unless you’re an advanced surfer, always stay between the black and white flags.

Getting there:  Coolum beach is a 90-minute drive north of Brisbane, or a 17-minute drive south of Noosa. There are plenty of car parks near the beach.

This buzzing, open-air market has been running, rain or shine, in the small town of Eumundi since 1979. The markets are open Wednesdays and Saturdays, and on these days the town’s population skyrockets from 500 to a few thousand, who all visit to shop at the market’s 600+ stalls.

If you want a parking space, aim to arrive at the markets as early as possible, otherwise, you’ll have to park a fair walk away! 

In the markets, you’ll find pretty much everything – fresh produce, jewelry, handmade gifts, sustainable fashion and more. The highlight of any visit to the  Eumundi Markets , though, has got to be the food.

Across countless food stands, you’ll find cuisine to suit every taste. There are dishes from plenty of different countries across the world as well as plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.

A trip to the Eumundi Markets is definitely one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast!

Getting there:  The Eumundi Markets are just 20 km/12.4 miles away from Noosa, and the quickest way to get there is by car, which is a 20-minute journey. To avoid the hassle of finding a parking space, you can also catch the 630 or 631 buses from central Noosa to Eumundi.

Known as “the festival in the forest”, the Gympie Music Muster is Australia’s original and most popular music festival! Taking place deep within the Amamoor State Forest, this 4-day music festival showcases the very best of rock, country, blues and folk music. 

The festival has been running since 1982 and takes place in August (usually the last Thursday-Sunday of the month). It’s a camping festival, so pack your tent and sleeping bag and join the 23,000 other attendees for a carefree weekend!

As well as great music, the Gympie Music Muster puts on dance classes for its visitors each and every day (rock and roll, clogging and line dancing), as well as poetry events, free creative workshops and a kids’ club.

Getting there:  The festival runs a shuttle bus service from the festival car park to the entry gates, but you’ll have to use your own vehicle to get to the car park. It’s a 2-hour drive north of Brisbane or a 45-minute drive from Noosa.

Thanks to its subtropical climate, the weather on the Sunshine Coast is ideal the whole year-round, and with so many fun things to see and do there, you might need to stay that long!

With such an outstanding selection of beaches, national parks, hikes and cultural attractions, the Sunshine Coast is an unmissable stop on your Australia itinerary.

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Ella Moore is a part-time travel blogger who has been obsessed with exploring the world for as long as she can remember. In 2020, just months before the global lockdown, she started a travel blog to share stories about her adventures. Her blog,  Many More Maps , is all about seeing the world on a budget and balancing wanderlust with a full-time job.

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The Sunshine Coast: A complete guide

There are so many things to do on the Sunshine Coast, so here’s your guide to where to stay, the best food, and how to make the most of your visit!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today. He has been a journalist for more than 20 years and loves exploring different parts of Australia.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today and has been a journalist for 20 years.

Last updated: December 6, 2021

The best places on the Sunshine Coast

Use the table of contents to jump down the article - or continue reading for all my tips on the best places on the Sunshine Coast.

Maroochydore

Coolum beach, pomona/kin kin.

When I think of Queensland as a holiday destination, it’s the Sunshine Coast that comes to mind first. It’s almost as though some divine travel deity decided to craft a little pocket of coastline to have everything you would want for a warm relaxing getaway.

From Caloundra in the south, to Noosa in the north, the large towns along the Sunshine Coast offer plenty of beaches for swimming or surfing (or just sitting, while you eat and drink). And, as tourist hubs, they all offer plenty of other activities if you want a bit of adventure or exploration.

Just inland are towns like Maroochydore and Nambour that have a bit more of an urban feel – perfect for shopping, larger attractions, and space for things like breweries and distilleries.

Then there are also the charming villages like Maleny and Montville in the lush hinterland of the Sunshine Coast, where you’ll find artists, farmers, and local producers. Plus the hinterland is full of natural delights with some stunning waterfalls and viewpoints.

Throughout it all, the Sunshine Coast has also developed into a bit of a foodie’s haven so you can find some impressive meals after a day at the beach – or turn your day into a journey through all the tastes of the region.

The Sunshine Coast may not have the reef or the dramatic rainforests of northern Queensland, but it also doesn’t have the crocodiles, cassowaries, or dangerous stingers. It’s the safe (but still beautiful) environment that has made it such a popular holiday destination for decades!

Where to stay on the Sunshine Coast

Choosing where to stay on the Sunshine Coast is one of the first things you will need to work out. The good news is that there isn’t really a bad option.

Each area of the Sunshine Coast has a good range of accommodation to suit any budget and style of travel. Unless there is a specific hotel or resort you’re interested in, you should be able to find something in any area.

So then it becomes about what kind of trip you want. If you are planning to focus on the beach and the water, then the coast makes sense. Caloundra or Mooloolaba are good for more relaxed or family coastal holidays. Noosa is also great, but it tends to be a bit more upmarket and can get quite busy.

Consider the Sunshine Coast hinterland if you are interested in doing a bit of exploring. Places like Montville put you right amongst the nature, as well as easy access to incredible dining options.

And you could also base yourself in Maroochydore or even Nambour , both of which put you in the middle of it all, so you can drive to different parts of the coast each day to explore a variety of areas.

Things to do on the Sunshine Coast – coastal

Let’s have a look now at the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, starting with the main hubs along the coast. Going from south to north, these are the main areas of the Sunshine Coast and some of my tips for how to make the most of them.

As the closest Sunshine Coast destination to Brisbane, Caloundra has a fair amount of development, yet it’s still got a relaxed holiday vibe.

The water is the main focus here and there are lots of ways to experience it. For some quality time on the beach, head to Kings Beach (although there are half a dozen other options), or grab a kayak or paddle board to go a bit further out.

Heading south from Caloundra, there’s the Pumicestone Passage, a stretch of protected water that goes through some untouched nature (a jet ski is a fun option here!). Or you can go for a stroll on the Caloundra Coastal Walk that goes for 25 kilometres, all the way up to Mooloolaba.

Seeing as Caloundra may also be your introduction to the local producers, try Moffat Beach Brewing Co , or grab a coffee from the popular Pocket Espresso .

If you’re looking for a fun beach trip, then Mooloolaba is one of the best places along the Sunshine Coast. Mooloolaba Beach is the focus but there’s also nearby Alex Beach, for a bit of variety.

The path along the coast here is a great way to see a bit of the area and get some exercise. You can walk it or cycle it – EcoTekk rents electric bikes and offers tours of the natural highlights along the way.

Mooloolaba is a tourist haven and, along much of the coastline here, there are good restaurants, bars, and cafes. It’s all quite casual but there are also more stylish options.

It’s the kind of place where you can grab an excellent coffee by the sand in your bikini, have a healthy brunch on the esplanade, or find a top chef running a restaurant. A good dinner spot is Spice Bar , which has an impressive tasting menu.

At the heart of the Sunshine Coast is Maroochydore, the most bustling that this holiday region gets. It feels bigger and busier because it has large shopping malls and even some office buildings… but it is still coastal Queensland, so don’t expect a huge CBD.

Earlier I described Maroochydore as slightly inland because it does feel that way – most of the development is along the river, rather than the coast. But it still stretches out to the ocean and Maroochydore Beach is great for a swim.

But it is worth exploring the river too, where you can get a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. There is also the Bushland Botanic Garden .

But for a lot of people, Maroochydore is about the shopping, the clubs, the cinemas, and other attractions like bowling alleys. The new ropes course called Next Level at Sunshine Plaza is also a highlight – it is the largest in Australia.

If you are looking for quiet, I think Coolum is the best place on the Sunshine Coast for that. Even in a region full of people relaxing, it is noticeably calmer. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t lots of things to do.

The best thing to do in Coolum literally towers above you – Mount Coolum. Climbing up to the top of the 208-metre-high peak takes about 45 minutes and some of the track is very steep. But it is worth it for the incredible views in every direction.

Elsewhere in Coolum, the focus is normally on the beach. There are some awesome surf spots here, but there are plenty of calm spots along the sand for swimming and families.

And then, at the northern end of the Sunshine Coast, you’ll find Noosa, one of the gems of the region.

Noosa is one of the most popular areas of the Sunshine Coast – and for good reason. The beach is beautiful and it’s bordered by the gorgeous Noosa National Park, which has kilometres of trails you can walk.

And at the heart of Noosa is Hastings Street, a strip with top-notch restaurants, bars, and cafes serving the kind of food and drink you would find in the coolest suburbs of any capital city. The Noosa Beach House Restaurant Peter Kuruvita is one of the best places to eat and, for drinks, there is Moonstruck or Miss Moneypenny’s .

But all of this means that Noosa gets very busy (the terrible traffic is notorious) and tend to be more expensive than other parts of the coast. However, avoid central Noosa Heads and it gets much more relaxed.

I have a whole story about the best things to do in Noosa , which includes a thrill boat ride and the stunning Noosa Everglades – a real natural wonder but not that well known by visitors.

Things to do on the Sunshine Coast – hinterland

The beaches are just one part of the Sunshine Coast. Although the name of the region makes you think of the waterside towns – sunshine and coast do tend to conjure up images of beaches – the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is just as interesting.

There are lots of things to do in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland including exploring the nature, tasting the local produce, visiting the heritage and art of the towns. Let’s have a look at the different areas, from south to north.

The town of Beerwah just scrapes into the Sunshine Coast. It’s quite a small town and probably wouldn’t be on the tourist radar if it wasn’t for two very important attractions.

The first is Australia Zoo , the large wildlife park made famous by Steve Irwin. It has been going in some form since 1970 and has dozens of species on display from Australia and around the world.

The other attraction is much older – the Glasshouse Mountains. These 14 mountains were formed by molten rock more than 25 million years ago and each have a distinctive shape. There are walking trails around and up some of the peaks.

The national park here is one of the best in SE Queensland. To give yourself time to explore it, you can stay at the Glasshouse Mountains Ecolodge .

The small village of Maleny is set amongst fertile land that has long been used by farmers. Once it was mainly dairy, but now there’s a whole range of produce. You can ind some of it at Maleny Food Co , which is particularly famous for its cheese and ice cream.

Much of the nature is untouched and you can see waterfalls in the region, with Gardners Falls being one of the easiest to visit. There’s a rainforest walk and spectacular views at the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve.

Part of the charm of these hinterland villages is just exploring, and you’ll find some charming cafes and shops along the main street of Maleny – perfect after a bit of a hike in the mountains.

Montville is a bit larger than Maleny and has an even wider range of shops and cafes to explore. There are a few good art galleries here, showcasing the works of local artists (with pieces available for sale).

There is also good dining here and you’ll also find the region’s only winery, Flame Hill Vineyard , where you can do a tasting and stop for a bite to eat at the restaurant with impressive views across the region.

From Montville, it isn’t too far to more waterfalls and there is also the recreational area around Lake Baroon. It’s here that the Sunshine Coast Great Walk begins, a 58.5-kilometre trail that is designed to be done over four days with campsites along the way (although it’s possible to do shorter segments).

One of the region’s best accommodation options is in Montville – Spicers Clovelly Estate , which has French-inspired architecture. Here you will also find one of the top restaurants, the Long Apron .

There are so many wonderful things to do in the Sunshine Coast that Nambour, traditionally a bit of an industrial and urban centre, was often overlooked. But it has changed in recent years and it’s now got quite a bit of action happening.

In the centre, a collection of street art shows a shift to creativity. And that’s exemplified at Stalwart Brewing , where an old pub has been given a new lease of life with some modern ales.

Nearby, there is the site of the Big Pineapple, which is still good for photos although most of the tourism infrastructure around it has closed down, pending a redevelopment. But behind it there are some new businesses, including the Sunshine & Sons distillery.

There’s a vibe in Eumundi that makes the village feel like an artist retreat. It probably comes from the famous Eumundi Markets , which are held here every Wednesday and Saturday. They attract local producers and artisans from across the region and there are hundreds of stalls.

But there is more to Eumundi than just the markets. It has a laidback feel and I recommend just taking your time to try the beers at the local brewery , explore the Ginger Factory (for the kids), and visit some of the galleries and heritage buildings.

There are quite a lot of things to do in this northern end of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, and Eumundi can be quite a good base to see them all.

There is a string of little villages at the very north of the Sunshine Coast that are well worth visiting. Two of my favourites are Pomona and Kin Kin.

Both of them are much quieter than Montville or Maleny – but not in a bad way. They are just a bit further from the coastal tourism hubs so a lot of people don’t make the effort to visit (or perhaps don’t even know they exist). What you’ll find when you visit is one of the strongest collections of heritage on the Sunshine Coast.

In Pomona, there is a heritage walk that includes the Majestic Theatre from 1921, plus there is a challenging hike up Mt Cooroora. When you have done them, you can relax with a drink and a meal at the new (and very cool) Pomona Distilling Co .

Over at Kin Kin, the pace is even slower and the village is even smaller. It was once a hectic centre for the timber and agriculture industries, but now you can enjoy the heritage without the crowds. The corner pub is quite a site, but the best food in town comes from Black Ant Gourmet .

There are lots of other spots to explore in this part of the Sunshine Coast – the town of Cooroy, the Everglades, and other little villages. Turn the driving tour into a day trip and see what you can discover.

More Queensland stories

• Places to visit in Queensland
• The best things to do in Brisbane
• Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary
• Things to do on the Gold Coast
• A guide to the Sunshine Coast
• The best tours in Cairns
• Things to do in Airlie Beach
• How to visit Fraser Island

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Less than two hours north from Brisbane  you will find the picture-perfect and aptly named Sunshine Coast.

Tempting azure waters flank the sweeping honey beaches and thriving villages are sheltered in emerald valleys.

Exploring the Sunshine Coast

Venture in to some of the best-preserved subtropical rainforest at Mary Caincross for some out-of-this-world bushwalking, while a hike to the top of the volcanic crags of the Glass House Mountains rewards with a panoramic vista.

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Sunshine Coast by contacting one of our Australia specialists

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Suggested itineraries featuring Sunshine Coast

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Sunshine Coast, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Australia family tour: Sydney, national parks & Great Barrier Reef

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Map of Sunshine Coast

Places & hotels on the map, places near sunshine coast.

• Brisbane 60 miles away
• K’gari 86 miles away
• Lamington National Park 115 miles away
• Byron Bay 145 miles away
• The Northern Rivers 145 miles away
• Heron Island 232 miles away
• Wilson Island 241 miles away
• Coffs Harbour 256 miles away
• Coffs Coast 262 miles away
• Bellingen 267 miles away

Photos of Sunshine Coast

Accommodation choices for Sunshine Coast

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Sunshine Coast. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Noosa Residences

Peppers Noosa Resort and Villas

Sunshine Coast Hinterland: One-Day Self-Drive Itinerary

See the Sunshine Coast Hinterland in one day with this nature-filled road trip taking you to national parks, refreshing swimming holes, quaint country towns, foodie delights, and magical mountains.

Best Time to Visit the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Eumundi markets, dulong lookout and the big pineapple, mapleton falls national park, kondalilla national park, montville markets and main street, brouhaha brewery, maleny, mary cairncross scenic reserve, gardner falls, sunshine coast hinterland accommodation.

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One of the most marvellous characteristics of the Sunshine Coast is the contrast between its golden beaches and crisp hinterland. It’s these complimentary landscapes that make the Sunshine Coast such a desirable destination to stay and play in Queensland.

As a former Brisbanite, I’ve taken many day trips to small sections of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland over the years. Then, while recently based in Maroochydore and Buderim, I planned the ultimate one day on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

This Sunshine Coast Hinterland itinerary can be completed in a loop, starting from the Sunshine Coast or Brisbane. From Maroochydore driving west, it took us 30 minutes to get to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

For those visitors from Brisbane, keep in mind that it’s around one hour of driving to reach the southern point of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland region and around two hours to the northern point (not including the driving time between attractions). If that sounds like too much driving for one day, see our recommendations for Sunshine Coast Hinterland accommodation at the bottom of the article.

See our guide on the best things to do in Noosa for first-time visitors.

The Jinibara People are the Traditional Owners and determined Native Titleholders of the western section of the Sunshine Coast region, including parts of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

There’s no wrong season to visit the Sunshine Coast with hot summers averaging a high of 29C and mild winters averaging a low of 9C. Even in the middle of winter, you’ll find sunny and pleasant days as high as 22C. If you decide to visit in the warmer months, you’ll have the bonus of wet weather filling up the waterfalls and swimming holes in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

To avoid the crowds, book your trip outside of the Queensland school holidays .

One-Day Itinerary for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Finally, we started at the northern point of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, however, you could also choose to do this itinerary in reverse if you prefer to start south.

Start your Sunshine Coast Hinterland day trip with Australia’s biggest arts and crafts market. The Eumundi Markets are a splash of colour and activity within a small country town.

Local tip: After wandering around the Eumundi Market, wet your whistle at the Eumundi Brewery, across the road within the Imperial Hotel . People flock from all over to mingle at this market, snacking on fresh street food and shopping for handmade goods.

Location: 80 Memorial Dr, Eumundi QLD 4562 Best Time to Visit: Open Wednesdays 8 am – 2 pm and Saturdays 7 am – 2 pm How much: The market is free to enter. Parking is $7

From Eumundi heading south into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, there are a few points of interest you may wish to visit. The first is The Ginger Factory in Yandina with tasting tours and rides for kids.

Next, is the iconic Big Pineapple in Nambour. Its park and its attractions are sadly closed, however, you can still pull over to look at the oversized pineapple.

Third, is Dulong Lookout, reached after a short uphill drive from Nambour. This spectacular photo spot overlooks the Sunshine Coast towards Maroochydore.

Location: Dulong Lookout, Burnside QLD 4560 Best Time to Visit: Anytime from sunrise to sunset.

If you drive from Eumundi Markets stopping at Dulong Lookout, it’s approximately 35 minutes to Maple Falls National Park . The 58-kilometre Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk runs through Maple Falls National Park, providing shorter walking tracks for day visitors.

• Maple Falls Lookout: A 25-meter path connects the car park with a breathtaking view of the Obi Obi Valley. Both the lookout and picnic areas are wheelchairs accessible.
• Woompoo Circuit: Stretch your legs on this 1.3-kilometre return walk through the dense rainforest. For the best views of Maple Falls, check out the Peregrine Lookout.

Location: Maple Falls Viewing Point, Mapleton QLD 4560 Best Time to Visit: Anytime from sunrise to sunset.

At the next set of waterfalls in Kondalilla National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to cool off. It’s a quick 15-minute drive from Mapleton Falls National Park. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk also connects the Mapleton Falls Lookout with the Kondalilla picnic area where you’ll be starting your visit.

Here there are four short walks, with the most popular being the 4.7-kilometre Kondalilla Falls Circuit. This trail requires a reasonable level of fitness with 300 steps. However, you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing swim in the rock pools.

Location: Kondalilla Falls Rd, Flaxton QLD 4560 Best Time to Visit: Plan ahead to ensure you have enough time to return during daylight hours. The best time to see the falls is during the wetter months (December to June).

You’ll likely feel famished after your hike and swim at Kondalilla National Park. We recommend heading five minutes down the road to Montville for lunch. This picturesque small town has a charming main street dotted with cafes, art, and antique stores. After taking a stroll around town, we planted ourselves in the Russell Family Park for a picnic.

For local produce and eats, plan to arrive when the Montville Markets are on. The various stalls sell fresh fruit, locally grown vegetables, baked treats, and fair trade coffee.

Location: Village Hall on Memorial Close, off, Main St, Montville QLD 4560 Best Time to Visit: The Montville Markets run from 7.30 am to 12 pm on the second Saturday morning of each month.

Maleny is another 16-minute drive from its sister town of Montville. There’s an abundance of activities in Maleny, depending on your taste and interests. We dropped in at the Brouhaha Brewery, which now has a second Sunshine Coast location in Baringa. This brewpub sources local, seasonal fruits and sends discarded grain to feed the cows at Maleny Wagyu farms. Brouhaha then buys back those cows to use nose-to-tail in the restaurant.

Other Maleny attractions include:

• Maleny Botanic Gardens : Privately owned garden and wildlife park open 7 days a week
• Maleny Cheese : Sample award-winning cheese and yogurt in their cafe next to a working cheese factory
• Maleny Dairies : Visit Queensland’s first carbon-neutral dairy business with tours and taste testing
• Platypus Viewing Platform: This platypus viewing spot is on Porters Lane in North Maleny. Early morning or late afternoon are usually the best times to spot a platypus.

Location: Brouhaha Maleny is at Shop 5 on 39 Coral St, Maleny QLD 4552 Best Time to Visit: Open Friday to Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm.

The namesake of the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve was a devoted environmentalist whose land was used to create a 100-acre reserve. The project began in 1959 by the Rotary Club of Maleny in collaboration with Mary’s daughter and the Landsborough Shire Council.

Now the Marcy Cairncross Scenic Reserve is home to over 200 species of reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals such as the pademelon. For a gold coin donation, you’ll be able to explore the reserve and its facilities such as the Rainforest Discovery Centre and Glass House Mountains viewing platform. Eating options are available with the Mountain View Cafe or picnic tables and BBQs in the public picnic area.

Location: 148 Mountain View Rd, Maleny QLD 4552 Best Time to Visit: Open daily from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm

Gardner Falls was the last stop on our one-day itinerary for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. These falls in Maleny, close to the other attractions and a popular swimming hole for locals.

We found going in the late afternoon to be a perfect time, as many people were leaving. The waterfalls aren’t are impressive as at Mapleton Falls and Kondalilla National Park, however, this is a fun place to take a dip and relax.

Location: Obi Ln S, Maleny QLD 4552 Best Time to Visit: Anytime from sunrise to sunset.

We planned our trip to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland in a day, but you could easily spread out these activities over a weekend or longer. To help you plan your trip and book accommodation, we’ve listed some of the best places to stay in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland:

• Glass House Mountains Ecolodge (from $129 per night): Affordable and sustainable accommodation near the majestic Glass House Mountains National Park. There are options for all group sizes, whether travelling solo, with friends or family. You could even sleep in a 19th-century church or restored train carriage.
• The Guesthouse Maleny (from $144 per night): A quaint and comfortable guesthouse walking distance to Maleny’s main street and attractions such as the Maleny Botanic Gardens.
• Hunchy Hideaway (from $304 per night): Treat yourself to a gorgeous villa or cottage tucked away in Montville. Each accommodation option is self-contained with a spa bath and log fire.

We have a feeling you’ll be leaving the Sunshine Coast Hinterland completely rejuvenated, yet yearning for the next visit.

If you’re driving back to Brisbane, read how to have a fun weekend in Brisbane on a budget.

Planning to explore Australia? Head over to our Facebook Group for Australian Travel Tips or to ask a question in our friendly community.

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• People & Culture

Enjoying the Best of the Sunshine Coast in Australia

• By Christian Baines
• On April 13, 2018
• Read Time 6 mins

Home / Australia & South Pacific / Enjoying the Best of the Sunsh…

Queensland locals have known for decades that there’s a quieter, more relaxed, and local alternative to the always on-the-go Gold Coast . That doesn’t mean the Sunshine Coast, beginning an hour’s drive north of Brisbane , lacks for things to see or do on travel to Australia . It just means visitors can leave the little cares at home, enjoying the smaller cities, slower pace of life, less touristy vibe, and beautiful wilderness that add up to make the Sunshine Coast so distinctive.

How to get the most out of the Sunshine Coast? That depends on what kind of traveller you are, and whether your visit is a short stay of a few days or a more relaxed, “snowbird” style escape. In a destination like Sunshine Coast, it’s tempting just to settle in and enjoy the lifestyle. Certainly, if you’re only here for a few days, that approach works. But since the Sunshine Coast is made up of numerous small cities and towns, it’s best to rent a car if you’re staying a while or want to explore on your travel to Australia .

Life by the Beach

It should surprise nobody to learn that one of the Sunshine Coast’s best assets is its long stretches of pristine white sand beach. Even the Coast’s growing popularity with visitors has done nothing to spoil them. Offering relaxation, ideal picnic spots with ocean views, great spots for families, and even a little history, the Sunshine Coast is defined by its beaches, from Caloundra in the south to Rainbow Beach, the gateway to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island in the north. Unless you plan to spend your entire trip in the hinterland, you’re going to find a Sunshine Coast beach that calls your name. It might be the gentle, shaded shores of Bulcock Beach, the family friendly surf of King’s Beach, the long stretches of sand that guard Mooloolaba, Noosa, and Coolum, or the picture-perfect Moffat Beach. You’ll even find a bit of Sunshine Coast history at Dicky Beach, the world’s only beach name for a shipwreck.

Hike Through the Hinterland

Just as integral to the Sunshine Coast’s natural beauty are its surrounding mountains and eminently hike-friendly hinterland. We hear the term “lush green hills” thrown around a lot, but the Sunshine Coast opens up those hills for some seriously rewarding trekking on travel to Australia . Climb to the top of Mount Coolum for some unbeatable coastal views. Let your camera take in the wonders of Buderim Forest Park or Noosa National Park, or follow the track through Kondalilla National Park to Kondalilla Falls.

By far the most distinctive national park in the region however is Glass House Mountains National Park. Covering a wide stretch of forest and farmland just west of Beerwah, these rocky peaks welcome visitors approaching the Sunshine Coast from the south. The best views are well worth a detour to the Glass House Mountains lookout. If you’d rather get some fresh air, climb the easy and well-rewarded Mount Beerburrum track for a less crowded view. Other walking tracks, including the summit tracks to Mounts Beerwah (temporarily closed as of this writing), Tibrogargan, and Ngungun, vary widely in length and difficulty, from picturesque forest walks to tough scrambles over steep rocks. By all means, challenge yourself, but be realistic about your fitness level and climbing skills, respect any track or area closures, and always put your safety first. The rewards are great no matter which track you choose.

Theme Parks and Family Fun

The Sunshine Coast has always been about attractions that showcase the region’s strengths, including wildlife and local farming and produce. While many have come and gone over the years, some have endured to become icons of the Sunshine Coast. Most famous of these is Australia Zoo in Beerwah, operated by the family of late “Crocodile Hunter,” Steve Irwin . The Zoo continues a tradition of “conservation through education,” with demonstrations, animal encounters, and feeding shows every day. Not far away in Landsborough is the Big Kart Track , Australia’s biggest go kart track and a great half day outing for the entire family.

Heading north, you’ll find Aussie World , fronted by its iconic Pub. Aussie World is probably the closest the Sunshine Coast has to a traditional theme park. And it is traditional! Its 30 plus rides are mostly old-school favourites given a distinctly Australian twist. Another local favourite is The Ginger Factory at Yandina. Besides being a working factory producing ginger treats loved all over the country, The Ginger Factory offers factory tours, beekeeping demonstrations, a number of family-friendly rides, and of course, plenty of opportunities to taste and purchase the goods!

Following the Artists’ Trail

The Sunshine Coast’s natural beauty and unhurried pace has lured many to settle here, and talented artists are no exception. Drive a little way inland to the enchanting towns of Maleny and Montville, and you’ll soon find yourself on streets lined with shops and galleries – all surrounded by the stunning rainforest that makes the Sunshine Coast hinterland so special. Browse a dazzling array of functional, wearable, and decorative locally produced art, stopping to recharge at one of the many cafes and restaurants showcasing local flavours. On your travel to Australia , you can also spend a day (provided it’s a Wednesday or Saturday) at the Original Eumundi Market, where original arts and crafts can be found alongside boutique gifts and fresh local produce.

Kicking Back for a Longer, Local Stay

A big part of the Sunshine Coast’s appeal is that it’s as much a lifestyle destination as a tourist one. People raise families or retire here, enjoying the laidback coastal pace 24/7. Globetrotters booking with Goway can enjoy a taste of this in two ways. They can opt to “ snowbird ” for a month or two, staying at Centrepoint Apartments, just steps away from tranquil Bulcock Beach in Caloundra. The Sunshine Coast’s idyllic weather means this can be done year-round, and it’s a great way to let the Coast’s charms sink in slowly. For those wanting to take the next step and really feel like a local – even in a shorter space of time – Goway offers its exclusive Live Like A Local package. Like the long escape, this 15-day trip conveniently bases Globetrotters at Centrepoint Apartments in Caloundra. However, it also includes a grocery starter pack (because who wants to spend their first day on a short vacation grocery shopping?), and a welcome kit detailing local clubs, activities, and sporting organizations, along with a booklet of discount vouchers to help get the best value out of the Sunshine Coast, the way the locals do.

Suggested Itineraries: Sunshine Coast Long Stay 15-Day Live Like a Local: Sunshine Coast Australia

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Christian Baines

Globetrotting Contributing Editor - Christian’s first globetrotting adventure saw him get lost exploring the streets of Saigon. Following his nose to Asia’s best coffee, two lifelong addictions were born. A freelance writer and novelist, Christian’s travels have since taken him around his native Australia, Asia, Europe, and much of North America. His favourite trips have been through Japan, Spain, and Brazil, though with a love of off-beat, artsy cities, he’ll seize any opportunity to return to Paris, New York, or Berlin.

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The perfect Noosa and Sunshine Coast itinerary

Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast spans the glittering coastline from Caloundra up to the Great Sandy National Park . The picturesque region is the perfect base for a weekend getaway sure to inspire fun, rest and relaxation. To help you plan the perfect Noosa and Sunshine Coast trip here’s our itinerary from three nights and four days spent exploring the region. From fantastic food and vibrant local culture to the very best ways to reconnect with nature, where to stay and so much more. This is the perfect Noosa and Sunshine Coast itinerary!

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11 am Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout 

Start your adventure with the stunning views from the Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout , located around an hour drive from the heart of Brisbane . Here, you can soak in the majestic Glasshouse Mountains which have stood near the Beerburrum State Forest for over 26 million years.

12 pm Lunch on the beach in Mooloolaba 

Rather than driving straight to Noosa , slow the pace down by stopping in at Mooloolaba for lunch by the beach. Stop in at Fisheries on the Spit for perfectly cooked, fresh barramundi served with delectably crunchy chips or duck into Acai Brothers for a tasty acai bowl or smoothie. Enjoy your lunch overlooking Mooloolaba main beach while breathing in the fresh ocean air.

1:30 pm Coastal drive 

Skip the freeway and take the coastal route instead, winding your way through gorgeous towns like Coolum and Peregian. There’s plenty to see and do along the way including a stroll along the Coolum Boardwalk or a wander through Peregian’s beachside village where you’ll find boutiques, cafes and restaurants.

3 pm Check-in at the accommodation 

Noosa is one of the Sunshine Coast’s most beloved holiday destinations and the perfect base for a weekend getaway. You’ll find Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas located at the Noosa National Park, offering a range of room types from apartments through to penthouses. Fully self-contained, your room has everything you need for your stay including a kitchenette, washer and dryer, huge bathroom, lounge and living area and a cosy deck with forest views. Get settled in your room, taking a moment to breathe in the relaxation. Find more Noosa accommodation options here. 

Find and book your Noosa and Sunshine Coast accommodation using the Agoda website or app. Check out their GoLocal deals to save up to 25% on hotels!

4:30 pm Sunset at The Laguna Lookout 

Walk or drive up to the Laguna Lookout for the ultimate, panoramic views of Noosa and the Sunshine Coast. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset turn the blue sky brilliant shades of orange and pink.

7 pm Dinner at Paradise Arcade Noosa 

Indulge your tastebuds with a delicious dinner at Paradise Arcade , located a short drive away in Noosa Heads. Get cosy beneath festival lights and colourful neon signs as you tuck into a refreshing house margarita, crunchy tostadas with homemade guacamole and flavoursome, spicy and downright delicious Cali-Mex cuisine.

7 am Breakfast at the hotel 

Wake feeling rested and refreshed, ready for a day of great food and adventure. Start your day with a nourishing breakfast and coffee at your hotel. At Pepper’s Noosa Resort & Villas , you’ll experience the new era of travel with an a la carte, three-course menu boasting familiar favourites and local bites.

8 am Explore the Noosa National Park

The stunning Noosa National Park features the spectacular scenery of Noosa Headland with winding trails leading you along the pristine Queensland coastline. Make your way through the forest as you follow the Coastal Track to Dolphin Point. Take some time for yourself, grabbing a seat on the rocks overlooking the waves below. Spend a while, reconnecting with nature as you watch surfers expertly catch waves and dolphins popping up to the surface. Visit during migration season and you may just be treated to a pod of whales gliding gently by. Find a map to Noosa National Park headland walking trails here. 

If you have the time,  you may like to follow the Coastal Track towards Hell’s Gate to visit the stunning Fairy Pools.

12 pm Lunch at Piccolino

Wander back toward Hastings Street via the Noosa Main Beach Boardwalk, soaking in the glorious Queensland sunshine as you make your way to Piccolino. Grab a seat upstairs, overlooking Hastings Street and tuck into a well-deserved lunch of wood-fired pizza, delectable arancini balls and delicious pasta all washed down with an ice-cold beer or glass of wine.

1:30 pm Explore Hastings Street 

Hastings Street is the glamorous heart of Noosa Heads, renowned for luxury beachfront accommodations, boutiques, galleries, day spas and a wonderful array of bars, restaurants and cafes. Take your time exploring the area, ducking into stores to peruse their wares. Pick-up a few new garments, keepsakes or just treat yourself to something special! You deserve it!

3:30 pm Drinks at the Noosa Surf Life Saving Club 

Make your way down to the Noosa Surf Life Saving Club for a much-needed refreshment after all that shopping. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy the very best beachfront views of Noosa Main Beach while sipping on an ice-cold drink.

5 pm Noosa Junction Twilight Markets 

Once the sun goes down it’s time to head out to the Noosa Junction Twilight Markets, held on the third Friday of every month from 5pm to 9pm in Noosa Junction. Spend a few hours exploring a wide range of art, culture, design and great food picking up jewellery, clothes, accessories and so much more.  Grab a bite to eat at the markets or a nearby restaurant for dinner.

7 pm Dinner at Light Years

If you find yourself visiting on a night when the markets aren’t on or just want to treat yourself to a fantastic dinner, head directly to Light Years . Located in Noosa Junction, the menu here is designed to be shared with a selection of Asian-inspired bites just bursting with bold flavours.

7 am Breakfast at Bistro C 

Start your day with a delicious breakfast overlooking the sparkling waters of Noosa Main Beach at iconic local spot, Bistro C . Tuck into familiar breakfast favourites or sample something unique like their corn and chive waffle accompanied with avocado salsa, bacon and roasted tomato. Be sure to fuel-up with a coffee or two.

8 am Drive to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland 

It should take around an hour to drive from Noosa Heads to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a road trip which will take you through rolling, lush, green scenery. You may like to make a stop at the famous Eumundi Markets , home to a huge array of stalls selling everything under the sun! Start your hinterland adventure at Gerrard Lookout for picturesque views then make your way to Maleny . Explore the main street, ducking into boutiques, quaint stores and Sweets on Maple to stock up on fudge!

Your next stop is at Maleny Cheese for a cheese tasting and to stock up on a whole lotta local goodies (don’t worry, they have special packs available to keep your haul cold!) Then, take a short drive to Spicers Clovelly Estate and soak in the calm, serenity and cool mountain air as you tuck into freshly baked scones lavished with jam and cream. Your afternoon tea is perfectly accompanied by freshly prepared coffee.

The last stop on your hinterland adventure will take you to the quaint town of Montville . Wander along the local stores lining the streets, perusing thrift stores, boutiques and galleries and, most likely, stocking up on more sweet goodies for later. Be sure to leave yourself an hour or so to drive back to Noosa and get changed for your next adventure.

2 pm Noosa Oceanrider Thrill Ride 

You’ll meet your tour operator, Nathan, at the Noosa Marina for a pre-departure safety briefing ahead of your Noosa Oceanrider Thrill Ride . Then, you’ll climb aboard and head out along the Noosa River, over the sand bar and out into the waves. Hold on tight as the boat leaps over the crest of each wave, catching a moment or two of hang time followed by a whole lot of cheering and laughter. Along the way, you’ll learn all about the local area and glimpse more of the National Park, including Hell’s Gate. If you get queasy from boat rides (me!) be sure to take some sea sickness medication before you head out.

Find and book more great things to do in Noosa and the Sunshine Coast using Agoda’s ‘Things to do’ resource online or using the app .

4 pm Relax and unwind at the hotel 

Trust me, you’re going to be all tuckered out after so much great food, fun and adventure. Head back to your hotel for a shower, change of clothes and some time to relax and unwind at the hotel. Take a dip in the pool, sit out on the balcony of your hotel room with a good book or cosy up on the couch and watch a movie.

7 pm Dinner at El Capitano 

When the hunger starts to grow, make your way down to El Capitano Pizzeria and Bar , located on Hastings Street. The menu here is so good it makes it hard to choose but the wood-fired pizzas, made on 72-hour fermented, organic sourdough base are a must-try! Dine-in or get your feast to-go, making the most of your room’s fully self-contained facilities.

The sun is up for a final day of fun so get started with a nourishing breakfast at the hotel. There’s no rush, of course, but after breakfast, you may like to pack your bags and check-out so you can set off for the day without a worry about time.

8:30 am Noosa Farmers Market 

Nestled among the gum trees, the Noosa Farmers Market takes place each and every Sunday. Entry and parking are free but donations are happily welcomed! Take a reusable bag with you as you’re going to want to stock up on incredible local produce, including organic fresh fruit and vegetables and delicious goodies like freshly baked bread, cheese, marinades and sauces.

10 am Stand up paddleboard 

Noosa boasts some spectacular waterways so you’ll want to make your way over to Eco Noosa River Adventures for a spot of paddleboarding. Glide gently across the cool water, the warm sunshine on your shoulders, as you take in views of the area from a different perspective. There’s a place to dry off and get changed so don’t be shy about diving in for a dip!

12 pm Lunch along the waterfront 

Just in case you haven’t quite had your fill of good food just yet, grab one final bite to eat along the waterfront in Noosaville. There are quite a few to choose from, including the Noosa Boathouse , Mr Jones & Me and Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar , just to name a few. Afterwards, it’s time to head back home, refreshed, energised and well-rested after a fun-filled weekend in Noosa and the Sunshine Coast.

If you found this review useful and are considering booking a trip to Noosa, the Sunshine Coast or anywhere else in the world, be sure to use our affiliate link here! We’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you and your generosity helps keep our business running and our website ad-free.

A huge thank you to the amazing team at Agoda for supporting us and Australian Tourism by sponsoring this post and our trip. We truly appreciate it! As always, all opinions are authentically our own and this itinerary was put together by us with Agoda’s full support. 

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If you found this post useful, please use the affiliate links below. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Rest assured, these are the products and services I love and use . Read the disclaimer for more information. Thanks for your support! – Matt.

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Wildflowers, near Hamelin Pool, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

Whether you’re planning your Australian holiday around the weather, or want to travel when things are most affordable, here’s the rundown on the best times to visit Australia.

Australia is home to tropical, subtropical, desert and temperate climates – we’ve got dewy rainforests, sandy plains, snowy alps and sunny beaches. Temperature and climate are important considerations when planning your trip or packing your bags (we’re the land Down Under, so our seasons are the opposite to the Northern Hemisphere). But don’t forget to consider peak seasons, spectacular wildlife events and exciting festivals that could influence your decisions on when to visit Australia.

Get to know Australia’s seasons

Mossman Gorge, Mossman, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Summer  - December through February In summer, the average daily temperatures range from about 20°C to 37°C (68°F to 99°F) in the major capital cities.

Autumn  - March through May Things start to cool down slightly in autumn, with temperature averages slipping to between 17°C and 35°C (63°F and 95°F).

Winter  - June through August The winter months see average temperatures that range from 11°C (52°F) in the south to 30°C (86°F) in the north.

Spring  - September through November Spring boasts average daily temperatures from 17°C and 35°C (63°F and 95°F), from the south to the north, respectively.

Seasons in the tropics

The northern sub-tropical and tropical regions experience two seasons: wet and dry. The wet season, or tropical summer, is between October and April, where you'll experience a mix of sun and rain – making for epic waterfalls – and prices are more affordable. May to September is host to the dry season, with plenty of sunshine and an average maximum temperature around 35°C (95°F).

Read more about Australia's seasons

Australian Travel Seasons

Cradle Mt, Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania © Laura Helle

Like every country, Australia is bustling at certain times of the year, quiet at others, and builds momentum in between. The peak times generally revolve around weather , school holidays , public holidays and major events . Rest assured, Australia is an amazing place to visit any time of year – whether you’re after frosty fun and a Tasmanian winter or sunny safaris and a tropical Northern Territory summer . 

Low season (June-August)

Elysian Retreat, Whitsundays, Queensland © Nathan White Images

Winters in Australia are cool and cloudy, but there’s still plenty of sunshine to enjoy as well. The good thing about travelling during this period is that there are fewer tourists, cheaper flights and you can get great deals on accommodation. This period is peak season in Cairns and Great Barrier Reef region, with an abundance of sunshine and moderate temperatures to enjoy.

Must do winter experiences

When the weather turns cold, there’s no better time to enjoy a wine and admire Australia’s beautiful vineyards. With over 60 designated wine regions across the country, there’s no shortage of gorgeous Australian wine to sip on during the winter months.

Explore things to do in Australia's winter

Shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November)

Jacarandas in bloom, Sydney, New South Wales © DNSW

Spring and autumn are among the best times to travel the entire country. International flights to Australia are more affordable than in summer; the weather is warming up (or cooling down from summer highs); and the north, from  Broome  to Cairns, experiences the dry season, offering perfect travel conditions.

Must do spring experiences

Spring is wildflower season.  Blooms  decorate the fields and gardens as flower festivals are held nationwide. It is also a great time to spot wildlife as babies begin to emerge from the pouch and explore the world on their own. 

Explore things to do in Australia's spring

Must do autumn experiences

Visitors between April and May can’t miss the rich red outback of the Red Centre . These months mark the start of the dry season when the days are sunny and the nights are warm.

Explore things to do in Australia's autumn

High season (December-February)

Bondi Beach, Sydney, New South Wales © Adam Krowitz

The sun is shining, the temperatures soar and the beaches are dazzling (except in the northern regions, where it's wet season). However, summer is the most expensive time to travel in Australia, with high demand increasing the price of flights and accommodation. The popularity means that it’s important to make bookings well in advance and stay organised, so you won’t miss out. (Hint: Consider February, after kids are back in school.)

Must do summer experiences:

In Australia, you’re never too far away from some of the best beaches in the world. Whether you’re a surfer , snorkeller or a swimmer , you can't miss out on a summer’s day at the beach.

Explore things to do in Australia's summer

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