Sunshine Coast, QLD
The Sunshine Coast is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most scenically beautiful regions. Just over an hour’s drive north of Brisbane (approximately 100 km), this region is a magnet for travelers seeking variety and relaxation.
Known For
- World-class, yet relaxed beaches
- Iconic national parks
- Unique local markets
The Sunshine Coast boasts stunning beaches, verdant national parks, and a thriving cultural scene, making it a standout destination in Australian travel. Trek through the pristine rainforest dotted around the coast and visit wetland sanctuaries teeming with wildlife. Always beckoning are the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, where it’s not uncommon to see dolphins join the surfers off the rocky points.
Discover The Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast’s coastline is a masterpiece of natural beauty, offering something for every beach lover. It is a mosaic of vibrant towns, each with its own unique personality and charm.
Known for its laid-back sophistication, Noosa Heads combines natural beauty with high-end dining and shopping. Hastings Street is the heart of the town, lined with boutiques, cafes, and award-winning restaurants.
Just steps away, Noosa Main Beach offers calm waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. Nearby, Noosa National Park is a haven for walkers, with trails leading to secluded beaches and spectacular coastal views.
See the short video about Noosa below (duration: around 4 minutes).
Mooloolaba is a family favorite, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. The esplanade is buzzing with cafes, shops, and restaurants, while the nearby Mooloolaba Beach is ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
Sea Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium is a popular attraction, showcasing marine life from the region. For those keen on adventure, deep-sea fishing charters and whale-watching tours depart regularly from the Mooloolaba Marina.
At the southern end of the Sunshine Coast, Caloundra is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere. With six beaches to choose from, including Kings Beach and Bulcock Beach, there’s something for everyone. The Caloundra Coastal Walk is a scenic pathway connecting many of these beaches, offering stunning ocean views along the way. Caloundra’s Sunday markets and vibrant arts scene make it a cultural hotspot as well.
Coolum Beach is the perfect spot for those who love a laid-back vibe paired with natural beauty. The beach itself is a favorite for surfers, while Mount Coolum National Park offers a rewarding hike to the summit for panoramic views. The town is dotted with cafes and eateries, making it a great place to relax after a day of exploration.
Move inland to discover the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a region filled with rolling hills, charming villages, and natural wonders. The Glass House Mountains are a standout feature, with hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the surrounding area. These volcanic peaks are a spiritual site for the traditional custodians, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples.
See some of the highlights of the Glasshouse Mountains in the short video below (duration: around 3 minutes).
Located in the hinterland, Montville and Maleny offer a contrast to the coastal lifestyle with their quaint charm and lush greenery. These towns are brimming with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Visit Maleny Botanic Gardens for spectacular garden views or explore local cheese factories and wineries to sample some of the region’s finest produce.
Where to Stay
Accommodation on the Sunshine Coast ranges from luxury resorts to eco-friendly stays. Expand the map below for even more options!
Noosa Heads is a popular choice for high-end options, with beachfront resorts offering incredible views and premium amenities. For a unique experience, Habitat Noosa combines glamping with an eco-conscious ethos, complete with an on-site brewery.
Couples seeking a romantic escape might choose a cozy hinterland cottage in Montville, while families often opt for spacious holiday parks in Coolum or Caloundra. Each option provides its own slice of Sunshine Coast charm.
Things See & To Do
Experience the stunning views guaranteed to take your breath away in the Blackall Ranges. Visit charming mountain villages, secluded sandy beaches, national parks, state forests, rainforests or marvel at the magnificent Coloured Sands enroute to the worlds largest sand island – World Heritage Listed Fraser Island.
Some national parks in the region include: Cooloola National Park, Conondale National Park, Mooloolah River National Park, Glass House Mountains National Park, Kondalilla National Park and don’t miss the opportunity to go koala spotting in Australia’s most visited national park- Noosa National Park.
For nature enthusiasts, the Sunshine Coast provides endless opportunities to explore its diverse landscapes. Hiking is a popular activity, with trails like the ones in Noosa National Park offering access to breathtaking coastal views and secluded beaches. For those who prefer a more challenging trek, the Glass House Mountains provide trails that reward hikers with panoramic vistas of the hinterland.
Water-based activities are equally abundant. Kayaking through the Noosa Everglades allows visitors to explore one of the most pristine waterway systems in the world, with clear waters and lush greenery. Surfing enthusiasts can catch waves at Coolum Beach or Alexandra Headland, both known for their excellent surf conditions. For a unique experience, stand-up paddleboarding along the Mooloolah River offers a serene perspective of the region.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Sunshine Coast is a popular destination for families, with numerous attractions tailored to younger visitors. The Australia Zoo, founded by the late Steve Irwin, is one of the most renowned wildlife parks in the world. Visitors can interact with animals, attend daily wildlife shows, and learn about conservation efforts.
Another popular destination is the Sea Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium in Mooloolaba, which features marine exhibits, including sharks, rays, and colorful reef fish. Families can also enjoy a day at the Aussie World amusement park, offering rides and attractions for all age groups.
For a quieter outing, the Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World in the hinterland provide a picturesque setting where children can interact with exotic birds and explore beautifully landscaped gardens.
Cultural and Artistic Exploration
The Sunshine Coast’s cultural side is vibrant and diverse, with numerous art galleries, live music venues, and community events. A visit to the Eumundi Markets offers an insight into local craftsmanship and culture, showcasing handmade goods, local produce, and live performances.
Art lovers can explore the Caloundra Regional Gallery, which hosts exhibitions featuring local and international artists. The Sunshine Coast also hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the Noosa Festival of Surfing and the Horizon Festival, a celebration of arts and culture that includes performances, workshops, and installations.
Unique Experiences
Visitors seeking something out of the ordinary can enjoy experiences that showcase the Sunshine Coast’s unique offerings. A camel ride along Rainbow Beach provides a distinct way to explore the coastline, while food lovers can visit local farms and distilleries, such as QCamel, for tastings and tours.
Hot air ballooning over the hinterland provides a bird’s-eye view of the region’s landscapes, combining adventure with tranquility. For those interested in craft beverages, the Sunshine Coast’s growing reputation as a craft beer destination can be explored through brewery tours in towns like Buderim and Maroochydore.
The Sunshine Coast’s extensive range of activities ensures that every visitor can create an itinerary that matches their preferences, making it an ideal destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment.
Explore The Beaches
The Sunshine Coast boasts an array of beaches, each with its own unique appeal.
Sunshine Beach
This picturesque beach lives up to its name with golden sands and sparkling waters. It’s a quieter alternative to Noosa Main Beach and a favorite spot for surfers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Alexandra Headland
Known locally as “Alex,” this beach is ideal for surfers and families. It has a relaxed vibe, with plenty of grassy picnic areas and barbecue spots nearby. The Alex Skate Park and local cafes ensure there’s plenty to do both on and off the sand.
Kings Beach
A standout in Caloundra, Kings Beach combines a pristine shoreline with family-friendly amenities. Its ocean pool, water fountains, and playground make it a hit with kids, while the surf is perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Peregian Beach
For a village-like feel, Peregian Beach is a hidden gem. The beach itself is stunning and less crowded, while the surrounding town offers a charming collection of cafes, boutiques, and a vibrant village square.
Marcoola Beach
A quieter option, Marcoola Beach is perfect for those seeking solitude. It’s popular with anglers and beach walkers, offering a tranquil setting away from the busier spots on the coast.
The Sunshine Coast’s towns and beaches cater to every type of traveler, from thrill-seekers and surfers to those looking for a peaceful retreat. Whether exploring bustling hubs or serene shores, there’s no shortage of options to make your visit unforgettable.
Eat & Drink
Food lovers will feel right at home on the Sunshine Coast. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with Mooloolaba prawns and oysters being particularly sought after.
Located in Noosa, Ra Restaurant and Bar has quickly become a favorite since its opening. Specializing in Sri Lankan cuisine, it offers a vibrant dining experience that has been met with enthusiastic patronage.
After reopening in Noosaville, Pucca presents a modern Euro-Indian fusion menu complemented by an extensive gin bar. Plans for a supper club are underway, promising an exciting addition to the dining scene.
Situated in Peregian Beach, Bask offers a contemporary dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Its coastal ambiance makes it a delightful spot for both locals and visitors.
Cool Cafes
With its original location in Buddina and a new spot in Bokarina, Sunday Coffee & Bagels is known for its coastal vibe and delectable offerings, including bagels and iced strawberry matcha lattes. The Bokarina cafe, close to the beach, provides a relaxed atmosphere for brunch enthusiasts.
Expanding from Buddina to a waterfront location in Cotton Tree, Lil Canteen is celebrated for its organic, predominantly gluten-free menu, featuring popular items like Acai Bowls. The new venue offers stunning views and a welcoming space for community events.
Situated in Maroochydore, Criminal Coffee Co is renowned for its exceptional coffee and gourmet toasties. The cafe’s unique atmosphere, highlighted by a dusty pink pressed tin espresso bar, makes it a must-visit for coffee aficionados.
Located in Caloundra, White Picket Fence is a photogenic cafe offering a delectable menu. Dishes like the Hash Benny, featuring house-made hash topped with poached eggs and chipotle hollandaise, have made it a standout spot for breakfast and brunch.
Found in Maroochydore, The Milk Bar Coffee Co. is a local favorite for breakfast. Their menu includes indulgent options like the black truffle toastie and tangy smashed avo with whipped feta, making it a strong contender for the best breakfast spot on the Sunshine Coast.
Getting Around
The Sunshine Coast is easy to navigate, whether you’re driving or using public transport. Sunshine Coast Airport offers direct flights to major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, making it a convenient getaway. Once you’re here, buses and rental cars provide access to both the coastline and the hinterland, ensuring you won’t miss a thing.
Nearest Airport: Sunshine Coast
Experiences
- Active
- Caravan and Camping
- City
- Cultural
- Eco Tourism
- Environmental
- Farm/Station
- Historic/Heritage
- Homestay
- Honeymoon
- Indulgence/Luxury
- Mountain
- Nature based
- Relaxation
- Remote
- Romance
- Rural/Country
- Soft Adventure
Popular Activities
- Abseiling
- Adventure
- Ballooning
- Beach
- Bird Watching
- Bush Walking
- Canoeing
- City Sightseeing
- Cruising
- Cycling
- Diving
- Driving
- Fishing
- Fishing - Beach
- Fishing - Deep Sea
- Fishing - Estuary
- Fruit Picking
- Golfing
- Hang Gliding
- Horse Riding
- Jet Boating
- Kayaking
- Mountain Biking
- National Park
- Nightlife
- Off Road Driving
- Rainforest
- Reef
- Sailing
- Scenic Flight
- Seakayaking
- Shopping
- Sightseeing
- Skiing - Water
- Skydiving
- Surfing
- Swimming
- Theme Park
- Trail bike riding
- Wilderness
- Wildlife
- Wind Surfing
- Wine Tasting
- Winery
About Sunshine Coast
- State: Queensland
- Region: Sunshine Coast
- Latitude: -26.679740
- Longitude: 153.120660
- Timezone: Australia/Brisbane
