sunshine coast best places to visit

• Let's fly
• Explore hotels
• Travel insurance
• Pride Flight
• Featured sales
• Sign up to V-mail
• Retrieve your Travel Bank details
• Change or cancel
• Upgrade options
• Redeem travel credits
• Disruption information
• Rapid rebook
• Flights to Sydney
• Flights to Melbourne
• Flights to Brisbane
• Flights to Perth
• Flights to Gold Coast
• Flights to Cairns
• Explore all destinations
• Flights to Bali
• Flights to Fiji
• Flights to Queenstown
• Flights to Tokyo
• Travel inspiration
• Destinations
• Sydney to Melbourne
• Sydney to Brisbane
• Melbourne to Sydney
• Melbourne to Brisbane
• Brisbane to Sydney
• Adelaide to Melbourne
• Perth to Melbourne
• Sydney to Bali flights
• Melbourne to Bali flights
• Brisbane to Bali flights
• Sydney to Fiji flights
• Melbourne to Fiji flights
• Brisbane to Fiji flights
• Travel agents
• Cargo services
• Airline partners
• Specific needs and assistance
• Flying with kids
• Group travel
• Travelling with airline partners
• Carry-on baggage
• Checked baggage
• Dangerous goods
• Baggage tracking
• Connecting flights
• Airport guides
• Transfer maps
• Cabin classes
• Onboard menu
• In-flight entertainment
• Get connected
• Health onboard
• Travel and entry requirements
• About the program
• Join Virgin Australia Business Flyer
• Partner offers
• Why choose Virgin Australia
• Other solutions
• Enquire now
• Transfer credit card points
• Points earning credit cards
• Earning points
• Redeeming Points
• Buying Points
• Velocity home
• Transferring Points
• Member benefits
• Shop using Points
• Shop to earn Points
• Velocity Wine Store by Laithewaite's
• How to use Points for flights
• Status membership
• Flight status
• Destinations /
• Sunshine Coast /

20 top things to do in Sunshine Coast for every kind of traveller

Credit: Martin Valigursky from stock.adobe.com.

From Australia Zoo to glamping in the hinterland, the Sunshine Coast provides plenty of things to do for all kinds of travellers, whether you want to relax, explore, or indulge in the local scene. 

The Sunshine Coast , located in south-east Queensland between Noosa and Caloundra, stretches for more than 60 kilometres of stunning coastline. It is a must-visit holiday destination for its pristine natural landscapes, variety of attractions and activities, and a pleasant subtropical climate. Similar to the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast holds much of the same appeal to travellers, but often with fewer crowds and more unique attractions to uncover. 

The Sunshine Coast has excellent weather nearly all year round and is popular due to its stunning beaches, picturesque hills, valleys and forests of the hinterland, and its relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. From the charming areas to the array of outdoor excursions, there are plenty of things to do in Sunshine Coast - whether you’re travelling from Sydney  or Melbourne with your partner, family, a group of friends, or even on your own. 

For couples, Sunshine Coast offers dozens of wineries, breweries, and an abundance of fresh local seafood that will make you want to extend your vacation. There are also exceptional national parks to explore and white sandy beaches awaiting you if you’re in the mood for a relaxing, quiet getaway.

As for families, there’s no shortage of activities and things to do in Sunshine Coast with kids. Children will love visiting Australia Zoo or the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium to experience the local wildlife up close and personal or even enjoy partaking in a surfing class at the beach.

There are also plenty of free things to do in Sunshine Coast, and an array of nighttime activities that will keep you occupied and entertained for your entire trip. To plan your holiday after you book your flight to the Sunshine Coast , here’s our comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Sunshine Coast  for adults, couples, families, and even those visiting for the first time!

Table of contents

• SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
• Noosa Heads Main Beach
• Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
• Australia Zoo
• Amaze World
• The Ginger Factory

Eumundi Markets

• Aussie World
• Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
• Noosa National Park
• Relax on the beach
• Take a helicopter ride
• Glamp in the hinterland
• Road trip to Montville
• Taste your way through the local food scene
• Climb to the peak of Mount Coolum
• Cruise along the Noosa River at sunset
• Hike to waterfalls
• Shop at the local markets
• Go strawberry picking

Things to do in Sunshine Coast for families

Things to do in sunshine coast for couples, things to do in sunshine coast for free, things to do in sunshine coast at night, top 10 things to do in sunshine coast – attractions, 1. sea life sunshine coast aquarium.

Credit: Krista Eppelstun for Tourism and Events Queensland

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium is a multi-award-winning aquarium in Mooloolaba, just a short walk from the beach. With thousands of different marine and freshwater creatures, you could spend the entire day venturing through this attraction. One of the most famous things to do at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium is the 80-metre Ocean Tunnel, which offers visitors the chance to walk underneath sharks as they swim above.

For those travelling with kids, there are 11 different interactive zones across three different floors. From seahorses to jellyfish to penguins to tropical fish, families love visiting SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, whether you spend a morning or take an afternoon off the beach. Make sure to set aside at least two to three hours to fully explore all that this beautiful aquarium has to offer. 

Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/sunshine-coast/

Location: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: 9am to 3pm every day

Cost of entry:  Online from $35.20 per adult and $24 per child, and from $30 per one adult and one child under two (weekdays only).

Book your SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium and earn Velocity points here.

2. Noosa Heads Main Beach

Located just 36.5 kilometres north of Sunshine Coast, Noosa Heads Main Beach is one of the Sunshine Coast’s favourite beaches, and rightfully so! With pristine waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning seascapes, what’s not to love? Lay down and relax in the warm sand or go for a swim and enjoy the crystal-clear seawater in Laguna Bay. It’s also an excellent spot to catch a sunrise if you’re up for an early morning.

For adventurous and athletic tourists, Noosa Heads Main Beach is one of the best places to learn how to surf. Both beginners and advanced surfers are welcome to ride the waves in Noosa. If you need a board, hire one on the beach before you head into the water. Whether you’re visiting with family, kids, or your partner, Noosa Heads is a must-visit spot in Sunshine Coast for a half-day attraction.

Location: Noosa Heads Main Beach, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: 24/7

3. Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World

If you love exploring the local wildlife, then Maleny Botanic Garden & Bird World is a must during your vacation. Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World is a privately owned botanic garden with several walkways to explore, unique animal encounters, and colourful birds worldwide. The botanic garden is located on seven hectares of gardens with idyllic views of lakes, ponds, and the backdrop of the Glasshouse Mountains.

With several aviary tours and animal enclosures, this gem of an attraction is a nature lover’s paradise. Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World is ideal for a half-day trip and close enough to other attractions, like Australia Zoo, so you can plan a day surrounded by the lushest landscapes while learning about the flora and fauna indigenous to the Sunshine Coast. 

Website: https://www.malenybotanicgardens.com.au/

Location: Maleny, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: 9am to 4:30pm

Cost of entry:

Garden only:

$14 per child 

$22 per adult

$58 per family (2 adults and 2 children)

Garden & Bird World:

$27 per child

$42 per adult

$111 per family (2 adults and 2 children)

Book a Maleny Botanic Gardens Aviary Tour here and earn Velocity Points

4. Australia Zoo

Credit: Christopher Meder from stock.adobe.com.

Australia Zoo was first opened in 1970 by the Irwin family and has since become a world-famous attraction in Beerwah, located just 25 minutes from Sunshine Coast. Totalling over 280 hectares in size, the zoo is currently run by Terri Irwin, the late Steve Irwin’s wife, and her children, Bindi and Robert. The zoo comprises over 1,200 animals from around the world, including crocodiles, which have become one of the most beloved attractions at the zoo’s Crocoseum. 

With several shows per day, you’ll have your pick of what to see at the zoo. From tortoises and elephants to koalas and birds of prey, you’ll learn a great deal about their efforts to preserve wildlife and discover more about the unique animals that live in Australia. Plan at least a half day, but a whole day is best for those who genuinely want to explore all Australia Zoo offers. 

Website: https://australiazoo.com.au/

Location: Beerwah, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: 9am to 5pm

Single day ticket:

$44.95 per child 

$69.95 per adult

$209.95 per family of four and $239.95 per family of five

There are also options for entry with Hospital Sneak Peek and two-day passes. There are also options for students and seniors with valid IDs.

Book your Australia Zoo General Admission Tickets including Wildlife Hospital Sneak Peek and earn Velocity points.

5. Amaze World

Amaze World is one of the most unique outdoor attractions in Sunshine Coast and was voted the number one thing to do in Sunshine Coast in 2021. As a family-owned and operated business, this destination includes a vast living hedge maze, mini golf, and immersive augmented reality experiences for the whole family. You’ll also want to explore the natural playground, a delightful part of Amaze World that kids enjoy. As the recipient of the Business of the Year Award for Sunshine Coast in 2023, this destination is great for travellers of all ages.

If you and your children are looking for a fun day of riddles, mazes, and puzzles, Amaze World is a must-see spot for your trip to the Sunshine Coast. Plan to spend at least three hours here to explore all this destination has to offer. 

Website: https://amazeworld.com.au/

Location: Tanawha, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: 10am to 4pm

$27 per child 

$33 per adult

$110 per family of four or $134 per family of five.

All-inclusive prices. There are also options for students and seniors with valid IDs.

Book your Amaze World Entry Tickets here to earn Velocity Points. 

6. The Ginger Factory

The Ginger Factory, located only 20 minutes from Sunshine Coast, is a free-admission park that offers you the chance to play, taste, and discover. Learn about the secrets of ginger and explore the lifecycle of honeybees or take a ride on the Ginger Train to enjoy a view of the picturesque attraction and its gorgeous landscapes and gardens. While the park is free, attractions like the Ginger Train carry additional costs.

Travellers enjoy the ginger growing and harvest tours, a walk through the kaleidoscope of colours at the Rainbrella Project, and a trip to the Potting Shed to see what ginger plants are available to take home with you. If you’re bringing the whole family, don’t forget to take a ride on Overboard to help a gingerbread escape, complete with 200 different handmade puppets. To truly enjoy all that the Ginger Factory has to offer, plan for at least three hours here. 

Website: https://www.gingerfactory.com.au/

Location: Yandina, QLD – Google Maps  

7. Eumundi Markets

Those looking to explore the Sunshine Coast and the local hotspots won’t want to miss a visit to the largest open-air market in Australia: Eumundi Markets. Located just 30 minutes from Sunshine Coast, stroll through the markets to view work from local artisans, exclusive live performances, and more amazing finds. You can shop for handcrafted items at the many stalls in the market or try some delicious food while you watch the free shows.

From health and wellness to food and produce, there are numerous stalls to explore, whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or simply enjoying the view. Eumundi Markets are only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, so you’ll want to plan accordingly for your visit. To ensure enough time to explore all this spot offers, set aside at least three hours for this excursion.  

Website: https://eumundimarkets.com.au/

Location: Eumundi, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: Wednesday 8am to 2pm, Saturday 7am to 2pm

8. Aussie World

Aussie World is just 14 kilometres from Sunshine Coast and boasts fun for the entire family. As Sunshine Coast’s only theme park, there are over 30 different attractions to try, including the Wasp, Speed Stars, Platypus Ponds Mini Golf, the Plunge, and Giggle Go Round. From Ferris wheels to carnival rides to horror walkthrough attractions, Aussie World is perfect, whether you like walkthrough attractions, roller coasters, or even water coasters. 

Best of all, Aussie World is great whether you plan a half-day or a full day at this spot. It’s a compact theme park perfect for kids of all ages and usually has little to no queue for most rides. If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in Sunshine Coast, this should be at the top of your list.

Website: https://www.aussieworld.com.au/

Location: Palmview, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: 10am – 4pm

Online bookings:

$46 per person over the age of 14

$166 for a family of four

$208 for a family of five 

Guests 14 years and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult.

9. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

Credit: vekidd from stock.adobe.com.

If you’re looking for outdoor attractions in Sunshine Coast, then Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is an exceptional choice for hiking, cookouts, and discovering more of the unique wildlife of Queensland. The reserve encompasses 55 hectares of rainforest and several walking tracks, ranging from 1.3 kilometres to 1.7 kilometres in length, to immerse yourself in the beautiful natural landscapes of the region.

Visitors enjoy visiting the Rainforest Discovery Centre to learn more about the rainforest within the park and walking to the Viewing Deck for a stunning view of the Glasshouse Mountains. There’s also a captivating 150-metre-long Elevated Glider Gallery Boardwalk, as well as barbecues and picnic shelters for a quick meal. If you’re coming to this scenic reserve, set aside time for a half-day trip. 

Website: https://mary-cairncross.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/

Opening hours: 9:30am to 3:30pm

10. Noosa National Park

Credit: Aerometrex from stock.adobe.com.

Just a short distance from Noosa Heads Main Beach is the scenic Noosa National Park, one of the most popular destinations in Queensland. With stunning coastal scenery, Noosa National Park is a wonderful place to visit if you’re a nature lover or want to explore more of the unique landscapes of the Sunshine Coast. The park covers 4,000 hectares and has four distinct sections: Headland, Peregian, Emu Mountain, and East Weyba.

While visiting Noosa National Park, you can rock climb or fish, but camping is prohibited. Swimming, snorkelling, and surfing are available but not recommended due to the lack of patrol along these beaches. You’ll see koalas, short-nosed bandicoots, eastern ground parrots, and eastern yellow robins while you walk through the many walking tracks. Between June and November, you may even see some humpback whales as they swim along the coastline. This destination is excellent for a day trip to  rest and rejuvenate in the Sunshine Coast . 

Website: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/noosa

Location: Noosa Heads, QLD – Google Maps

Top 10 things to do in Sunshine Coast – Activities

1. relax on the beach.

Sunshine Coast is one of the best places to relax on the beach, whether you choose Noosa Heads or another scenic spot to enjoy the sand and surf. Noosa Heads is an excellent choice for surfing, while Kings Beach offers protected swimming areas, a salt water rock pools, and a gorgeous view of the Coral Sea. Locals love beaches like Dicky Beach, but Kawana Beach is another favourite and one of the longest beaches you’ll find on the Sunshine Coast.

If there’s anything that Sunshine Coast is known for, it’s the stunning beaches that line its coastline. With dozens of beaches that offer unspoiled scenery, tranquil turquoise waters, and abundant sunshine, you have your pick of where to go. No matter what you choose, you’ll find an idyllic spot to lounge and listen to the waves as you relax on your holiday. 

Dicky Beach

Location: Dicky Beach, QLD – Google Maps

Kings Beach

Location: Kings Beach, QLD – Google Maps

Kawana Beach

Location: Buddina, QLD – Google Maps

2. Take a helicopter ride

Book a helicopter ride during your holiday for a bird’s eye view of one of Australia's most beautiful destinations. A helicopter tour gives you an exclusive look at some of the most renowned spots on the Sunshine Coast, including Noosa Heads, the Noosa Everglades, the Glasshouse Mountains Helicopter Tour, and even K’Gari (Fraser Island), famously one of the most beautiful Australian islands . Several companies offer helicopter tours for the whole family, group excursions or romantic dates, ranging from short trips to one hour or more spent in the air while you explore the region.

Whether you want a 10-minute ride in the skies or an hour and a half spent up in the air as you travel from Noosa to K’Gari (Fraser Island), you’ll surely enjoy the experience of a lifetime. Be sure to organise in advance to secure your spot – book a Sunshine Coast Helicopter Flight from Caloundra for two and earn Velocity Points at the same time!

3. Glamp in the hinterland

Credit: Jesse Lindemann for Tourism and Events Queensland

Those seeking a truly one-of-a-kind experience in the Sunshine Coast will enjoy glamping in the hinterland . This luxurious holiday option provides secluded accommodation while you explore all the natural beauty that this region offers travellers. Depending on where you stay, you’ll enjoy several modern amenities, including laundry, kitchen facilities, showers, and barbecues.

With most glamping spots in the hinterland of Sunshine Coast, you’ll wake up to stunning landscapes that will make you feel like you’re a world away from city life. Some of the most popular spots for glamping in the hinterland include Noosa, Maleny, Kenilworth, and West Woombye on the Sunshine Coast. Book in advance to find some of the best accommodations, whether planning a romantic getaway romantic getaway near the Sunshine Coast or a weekend with the kids disconnected from the city. 

4. Road trip to Montville

Credit: Reuben Nutt for Tourism and Events Queensland

One of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast is to road trip to Montville, a beautiful hidden gem within the hinterland. Depending on your route, you’ll travel through numerous scenic hinterland towns: Forest Glen, Woombye (home to The Big Pineapple!), Palmwoods, and more. It only takes thirty minutes to drive to Montville from the Sunshine Coast, but once you arrive, you’ll be in your own quaint hideaway.

Montville was founded in 1887 and offers several unique accommodations, art galleries, and boutiques to explore, including the picturesque Kondalilla Falls at Kondalilla National Park. If you’re a wine lover or seeking romantic activities for your holiday, visit Flame Hill Vineyard for wine tasting. Nature lovers will want to take a trip to Baroon Pocket Dam to kayak or fish at the lake. Regardless of what you plan for Montville, a road trip through the idyllic hinterland is a sought-after adventure that you’re guaranteed to enjoy. 

Website: https://experiencemontville.com.au/

Location: Montville, QLD – Google Maps

5. Taste your way through the local food scene

Credit: Mark Fit from stock.adobe.com.

If you’re a food lover, you’ll definitely want to check out some of the local cuisine and the best restaurants in the area. Best known for its local seafood, don’t miss out on some freshly caught fish you can enjoy along the coast. Restaurants like Market Bistro are favourites among locals and tourists, offering a unique vibe and top-notch meals you’ll crave long after your meal.

However, you don’t just have to visit the restaurants to get a taste of the Sunshine Coast’s unique food scene. A trip to Eumundi Markets provides numerous international food stalls to try, while the Ginger Factory is another great destination to visit to get a taste of the local food available in this region. There are also plenty of cafés and waterfront dining options, so you can enjoy dinner and an unforgettable view. No matter your choice, it’s sure to be delectable and memorable!

Make a day of it and book a Montville Scenic Food and Wine Tour or a Mooloolaba Sunset Seafood Cruise.

6. Climb to the peak of Mount Coolum

Credit: Dave from stock.adobe.com.

Mount Coolum, a 208-metre-tall mountain, is located 14 minutes north of Sunshine Coast and provides visitors with captivating views of the coastline and the surrounding region. Known as one of Sunshine Coast’s best hikes up to the top is 1.5 kilometres in total, but travellers should note that the path can be steep at specific locations. The best time to take the walking track is during the cooler months, as the summer can get hot as you make your way to the top.specific locations. The best time to take the walking track is during the cooler months, as the summer can get hot as you make your way to the top.

When you arrive at the top of Mount Coolum, you’ll enjoy a picturesque view of Mount Coolum National Park and 360-degree views of the entire coast. While you make your way up to the top, don’t forget to view the remarkable plant diversity, including over 700 different species of plants within the national park. You may even catch a glimpse of a peregrine falcon.

Website: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/mount-coolum

Location: Mount Coolum, QLD – Google Maps

7. Cruise along the Noosa River at sunset

Credit: nicolas from stock.adobe.com.

For a romantic evening and a gorgeous view as the day turns to night, a sunset cruise along the Noosa River is one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast for couples. You can book a short cruise for only an hour or two or a dinner cruise with three courses and picturesque scenery. With some cruises, you can even indulge in a drink of your choice while you take in the beautiful setting.

However, cruises along the Noosa River aren’t just for couples but also for families and groups of friends. Take your travel buddies for a boat ride to remember what many call Noosa’s most beautiful attraction. With so many cruise companies to choose from, you can plan the perfect evening and get a glimpse of one of the most stunning scenes on the Sunshine Coast. 

8. Hike to waterfalls

The more adventurous travellers should plan to hike to some of the best Sunshine Coast’s waterfalls . There are dozens of waterfalls, but Gardners Falls, Baxter Falls, and Serenity Falls are among the most captivating destinations. Gardners Falls is located near Maleny and only a short distance from the car park to the waterfall's edge. Once you arrive, you can even rope swing into the swimming hole!

Baxter Falls is more of a hike, requiring a two-hour roundtrip journey that requires some fitness. However, when you arrive, you’re surrounded by views that make the trip worth it. Serenity Falls is another highly recommended destination, especially among Sunshine Coast locals. It’s only 800 metres before you arrive at the swimming hole, where you’ll feel like you’ve found your own little idyllic getaway. 

Gardners Falls

Baxter falls.

Location: Obi Obi, QLD – Google Maps

Serenity Falls 

Location: Buderim, QLD – Google Maps

9. Shop at the local markets

The local markets are some of the best destinations for travellers seeking to explore the region and all that the Sunshine Coast offers. Eumundi Markets are a great place to start. Still, there are several other notable spots to check out if you truly want to indulge in some shopping and local treats and see exquisite performances from local artists and performers.

Some of the best local Sunshine Coast markets include Marcoola Market and Pomona Country Markets. Marcoola Market is held on Fridays in the evenings from 4pm to 8pm and Saturdays from 8am to 12pm, while Pomona County Markets are held every Saturday from 7am until 12pm. No matter what market you choose for your holiday, you’ll enjoy local delicacies and exciting performances and browse stalls full of fascinating art and products. 

Marcoola Market

Location: Marcoola, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: Friday evening Twilight Market 4pm to 8pm, Saturday morning Farmer’s Market 8am - 12pm

Pomona Country Markets

Location: Pomona, QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: Saturday 7am to 12pm

10. Go strawberry picking

One of the most unusual things to do in Sunshine Coast is strawberry picking, but it is an ideal activity for any traveller looking to explore more of the hinterland. Perfect for families, strawberry picking is at its peak from late May / early June to November, and some farms have several varieties of this delicious fruit. McMartins Strawberry Farm is an excellent choice for picking your own strawberries, and you can also try their award-winning ice cream, made with fresh fruit from their harvest.

Several other farms are open to the public during the strawberry harvesting season, so you’re bound to have numerous choices as you plan your trip. No matter where you choose to go strawberry picking, you’ll enjoy fresh fruit and beautiful views of the Sunshine Coast and the hinterland. 

Website: https://www.mcmartinsfarm.com.au/

Location: Bli Bli , QLD – Google Maps

Opening hours: Open from June 2024

Credit: Jesse Smith for Tourism and Events Queensland

Sunshine Coast is a fantastic destination if you’re planning a trip for the whole family. You'll find several activities to fill your holiday, from incredible wildlife excursions, zoos, and aquariums to extraordinary theme parks like Aussie World. If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss out on the chance to pick your very own strawberries in the hinterland or go whale watching. More adventurous, family-friendly excursions include helicopter rides over the Noosa River and the surrounding region, allowing you and your children to make memories that last a lifetime.

Top 5 activities for families

• Visit the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
• Plan a day at Australia Zoo
• Enjoy the rides at Aussie World
• Go strawberry picking at McMartins Farm
• Spend some time in Noosa

Credit: Picture Co for Tourism and Events Queensland

Couples travelling to the Sunshine Coast will have no shortage of romantic excursions, outings, and adventures to make the perfect trip. Outdoorsy couples will want to plan time at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve to enjoy the local wildlife and the picturesque scenery. Those desiring a more lavish experience can’t miss indulging in the local restaurants to get a taste of Sunshine Coast’s local delicacies or a weekend spent glamping in the hinterlands. If you want to create the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening while on vacation, cruise along the Noosa River. Alternatively, spend an evening exploring Eumundi Markets for some delicious treats and fun souvenirs to take home. 

Top 5 activities for couples

• Explore the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
• Indulge in the local Sunshine Coast food scene
• Shop at Eumundi Markets
• Glamp for a weekend in the hinterland

Credit: Courtney Atkinson (AWOL Family) for Tourism and Events Queensland

If you’re looking for a cost-effective holiday, Sunshine Coast boasts several free excursions that still allow you to explore this gorgeous region. Take a trip to some local waterfalls for unrestricted views of the area’s stunning biodiversity, or spend the day at Noosa Heads Main Beach, where you can swim, surf, or snorkel. Explore the walking tracks of Noosa National Park or hike to Mount Coolum on a bright, sunny day for 360-degree views that will forever be imprinted in your memory. Of course, a trip to Sunshine Coast would not be complete without a trip to Ginger Factory, a free attraction with plenty of fun activities.

Top 5 activities for free

• Hike to local waterfalls
• Spend the day at Noosa Heads Main Beach
• Take a trip to the Ginger Factory
• Visit Noosa National Park and walk the tracks
• Climb up to Mount Coolum in the morning

Those desiring to explore the nightlife will love what the Sunshine Coast offers, ranging from bars and music to more natural, secluded opportunities. City lovers indulge in local restaurants to experience the local seafood or plan time taste testing at Eumundi Brewery when the sun goes down. Cruises along the Noosa River at sunset and later are ideal for gorgeous night sky views, or you can plan some time to stargaze in the hinterlands, where the stars will be far more visible. Even if you dance the night away at a local bar or club, you’ll enjoy what the Sunshine Coast offers when the sun goes down.

Top 5 activities for nighttime

• Dine at a local restaurant on Hastings St, Noosa
• Taste test at Eumundi Brewery
• Go stargazing in the hinterlands
• Take a boat ride along the Noosa River after dark
• Enjoy live music at a local bar or restaurant 

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Sunshine Coast, Australia

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Mar 22, 2022

The Sunshine Coast, in South East Queensland, is certainly true to its name. Sunny skies and an idyllic subtropical climate lure tourists here year-round. Add to this a string of squeaky-clean beaches, world-class surf breaks, wildlife-rich national parks, and countless tourist attractions, and it's no wonder this is one of Queensland's most popular tourist destinations.

The "Sunny Coast," as it's affectionately called by locals, is a much quieter alternative to the glitzy Gold Coast just to the south. It stretches north from the popular beaches of Caloundra to the sweeping sands of Noosa North Shore, where 4WD vehicles plow a wild stretch of dune-backed beach.

Sunshine Coast destinations are packed with things to do. You can feast on fresh-caught seafood at buzzing Mooloolaba Beach , look for wildlife in the national parks, hike to the summit of Mount Coolum, soak up the salty air on scenic coastal walks, or shop for designer clothes on Noosa's chic Hastings Street or at Sunshine Plaza.

Traveling with kids? You'll find plenty of fun Sunshine Coast attractions for families, including SEA Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium, the Ginger Factory, and the famous Australia Zoo .

Not far from the Sunshine Coast's beautiful beaches , the emerald-hued hinterland offers its own sleepy charm. Top things to do in the Sunshine Coast hinterland include exploring quaint mountain villages, tasting artisan foods, shopping at colorful markets, and rainforest hikes.

Wondering how to get here? The Sunshine Coast Airport in Marcoola has frequent flights from destinations around Australia.

Discover the best places to visit in this sun-soaked holiday hot spot with our list of the top tourist attractions on the Sunshine Coast, Australia.

1. Noosa National Park

2. australia zoo, beerwah, 3. noosa main beach and hastings street, 4. mooloolaba beach, 5. the original eumundi markets, 6. the charming mountain villages of montville and maleny, 7. noosa north shore and rainbow beach, 8. coolum beach and its hidden bays, 9. noosaville & the noosa river, 10. kings beach, caloundra, 11. mount coolum, 12. caloundra coastal walk, 13. glass house mountains national park, 14. sea life sunshine coast aquarium, mooloolaba, 15. sunshine plaza, maroochydore, 16. the ginger factory, yandina, 17. spirit house restaurant and cooking school, yandina, map of tourist attractions on the sunshine coast, australia.

Noosa National Park is one of the Sunshine Coast's natural jewels. The park encompasses more than 9,800 acres of paperbark forests, pristine beaches, dunes, heathlands, and rainforest.

The most popular section of the park is the Noosa Headland section. Exploring the 15 kilometers of hiking trails here is one of the top things to do in Noosa Heads .

If you're visiting the park for the first-time, the scenic coastal track offers a great introduction. As you wander along the trail, you'll see gorgeous views of the blue-green sea peeking through the pandanus trees. Look up every now and then, and you might spot a glossy black cockatoo or, if you're really lucky, a koala snoozing in the crook of a eucalyptus tree.

After about a kilometer, a lookout at Dolphin Point offers panoramic coastal views and sometimes even glimpses of whales and dolphins. Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay are the perfect spots for a picnic or a paddle in the rock pools. Continuing even farther, Hell's Gates offers breathtaking views of pounding surf and Alexandria Bay . Conveniently, the coastal track is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers all the way to Dolphin Point.

Parking spaces are available at the park entrance, although it can be tough to nab one at peak times. If you're feeling energetic, you can also hike to the park entrance from Noosa Main Beach . However you get here, exploring this ocean-view national park is one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast for free.

Official site: http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/noosa/index.html

About 22 kilometers west of Caloundra, Australia Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Queensland . Steve Irwin, the late croc-loving Aussie conservationist, and his wife Terri helped the park grow into a world-class attraction, with a strong emphasis on conservation and education.

The zoo provides plenty of fun encounters with Aussie animals, including kangaroos, koalas, snakes, and lizards. You'll also see a striking lineup of exotic species, such as elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, and the crowd favorite: Sumatran tigers.

While you're here, try to attend one of the popular live animal shows in the Crocoseum. Depending on the schedule, you can see everything from croc-feeding demonstrations and birds of prey to otters and koalas.

Kids will love hand-feeding kangaroos and giraffes, petting koalas, and riding camels. For an additional fee, you can also visit the animal hospital and support their healing work.

A visit to Australia Zoo is usually a full-day adventure. Wear your walking shoes, and be sure to bring sun protection, a refillable water bottle, and a rain jacket — sudden downpours can strike at any time.

Address: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Queensland

Official site: http://www.australiazoo.com.au/

Squeaky-clean sands and glistening surf breaks make Noosa Main Beach a tourist magnet. Families and beginner surfers in particular love the gentle surf at this glorious stretch of north-facing beach, and it's a lovely spot for a swim. While you're paddling in the clear water, you can see beautiful views of Noosa National Park cloaking the headland at the eastern end of the beach. It's also a relatively safe beach; lifeguards patrol here every day of the year.

In the summer and peak periods, throngs of tourists flock here, and a sea of colorful cabanas pops up along the shore. If you want to escape the crowds, wander around the headland to Little Cove .

Need a break from the scorching Aussie sun? Hastings Street, Noosa's main drag, is only a short stroll away, with chic designer shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafés. Order a cool drink and a snack, sit back, relax, and dine alfresco watching the parade of people passing by, or stroll along the street with a gelato in hand and see what takes your fancy. Hastings Street is also home to some of the Sunshine Coast's best resorts.

Mooloolaba Beach hums with life at any time of day. Backed by high-rise apartments, this sun-drenched north-facing stretch of sand and sea is more developed than other Sunshine Coast beaches, but that's a big part of its appeal.

There's something for everyone here. Surf squads practice their drills in the clear waters, fitness enthusiasts jog along the beachfront path, beginner surfers brave the swells with their boards, families picnic on the grassy knoll overlooking the shore, and volleyballers spike and set on the sand.

Looking for a place to stay near here on a budget? You can pitch your tent or park your caravan steps from the sand at one of the best campgrounds in the Mooloolaba area .

When hunger pangs strike, hop across the road and grab a snack from one of the sea-view cafés. You can even squeeze in a little shopping along the Esplanade here.

Wondering about other things to do in Mooloolaba ? If you're feeling energetic take a stroll to Mooloolaba Spit, about a 40-minute hike along the waterfront. Here, calmer waters lap the shores, and fishing boats bring in their catches. You can even dive one of Australia's best wrecks, the HMAS Brisbane , off the coast. Steps from Mooloolaba Beach is SEA Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium , one of the top things to do on the Sunshine Coast with a family.

Just north of Mooloolaba is Alexandra Headland , with a patrolled beach, great point break, and popular skatepark.

About 20 kilometers southwest of Noosa, the Original Eumundi Markets are the perfect place to soak up some local color. The markets are held every Wednesday morning and Saturday in the cute hinterland town of Eumundi .

"Make it. Bake it. Sew It. Grow it." is the slogan for these vibrant markets, so you know you'll find something unique here. Artisan foods, organic produce, designer clothes, home goods, plants, jewelry, skincare, natural therapies, and toys are just some of the items on offer. This is a fantastic place to buy Sunshine Coast souvenirs or enjoy lunch from one of the food stalls — you can taste everything from Thai food and Tibetan momos to Turkish kebabs.

Fun kids' activities, such as camel rides, complement the fabulous shopping. Roving performers keep everyone entertained, and the kids can burn off steam at the playground adjacent to the market.

Address: 80 Memorial Drive, Eumundi, Queensland

Official site: http://www.eumundimarkets.com.au/

For a change in scenery from the coast's sun-splashed beaches, take a scenic drive to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Climb the Blackall Range , through the picturesque hinterland, and you'll reach the cute mountain villages of Montville and Maleny. The drive is part of the Blackall Range Tourist Drive, with spectacular views of the plunging valleys below.

Montville and Maleny lie a little more than 10 minutes' drive away from each other, but most tourists visit them both on a day trip from the coast. Temperatures are sometimes a little cooler here, thanks to the higher elevations.

In Montville , art galleries, gift shops, boutiques, and cozy cafés huddle along the tree-lined streets. You'll also notice some European-inspired architecture.

Maleny is also an artsy town, with many galleries, studios, and workshops. Top things to do in Maleny include touring Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World, with a miniature animal enclosure, aviary, and Devonshire tea; and visiting Maleny Dairies , where you can milk a cow, pet farm animals, and taste some creamy yogurts and cheeses after the tour.

You can also get back to nature in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Hike to beautiful Kondalilla Falls near Montville, enjoy a picnic at Baroon Pocket Dam, or look for pademelons on the rainforest trails in the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve — you can also see gorgeous views of the Glass House Mountains from here.

Nothing says freedom like driving along a salty stretch of seemingly endless beach with the wind in your hair. You can do this at Noosa North Shore. Located just across the river from Noosa Heads and Noosaville, this 80-kilometer stretch of golden sand and gently rolling dunes is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed splendor of K'Gari (Fraser Island) . It's especially popular with 4WD enthusiasts, anglers, and beachfront campers, who come here for the stunning sea vistas and typically uncrowded stretches of sand.

Wildlife is prolific around the camping areas. Kangaroos and goannas are frequent visitors, and you can also see a diversity of birds.

When the tides are low along Noosa North Shore, you can drive all the way along the beach, past Teewah and the Colored Sands (ochre-hued cliffs), until you reach Rainbow Beach and Double Island Point , where the car ferry departs for K'Gari (Fraser Island).

You can access Noosa North Shore on the daily car ferry from the end of Moorindil Street in Tewantin. Note that vehicle permits are required to drive along the beach and on some of the inland tracks.

Coolum Beach is a popular base for Sunshine Coast tourists thanks, in large part, to its namesake attraction. This long and lovely stretch of hard-packed sand and blue-green sea is a surfing hot spot. In fact, it's one of the best places on the Sunshine Coast to learn how to surf.

Feel like a snack? Across the street from the beach, you can grab a bite at one of the laid-back little cafés, or pick up some fresh-cooked fish and chips. You can also book surf lessons here, or rent a board.

Planning to stay awhile? You'll find plenty of high-rise holiday apartments in the area, and if you're on a budget, one of the Sunshine Coast's top campgrounds and caravan parks sits just behind the dunes at Coolum Beach.

Wander south along the Point Arkwright Trail from here, and you're in for a treat. Bush tracks lead down to pretty pandanus-fringed bays: First Bay, Second Bay, Third Bay, and Arkwright Beach. As you head south, the bays become less crowded, and on a weekday, you might even have one all to yourself. These hidden gems of the Sunshine Coast are the perfect place to enjoy a romantic picnic, potter in the rock pools, frolic with your four-legged friend, or cast a fishing line.

Fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and picnicking — you can do all this and more along the beautiful Noosa River.

If you're looking for Sunshine Coast things to do for families, this is the perfect place to visit. Kids love paddling in the calm waters, casting a fishing line, clambering all over the children's playground, and posing for a photo in front of the giant pelican statue.

Gympie Terrace in Noosaville is one of the best places to access the Noosa River. This palm-lined riverfront precinct buzzes with tourists in peak season, who come here to feast at the cafés and restaurants, enjoy a picnic under the shady trees on the riverfront, and stroll along the palm-lined paths.

Want to zip along the glittering waters on a boat? You can rent pontoon boats and dinghies at boat rental outlets along the river, and if you feel the need for speed, sign up for a jet boat or Jet Ski ride. Another great way to explore the river is aboard the Noosa Ferry . Hop aboard and pick your stop — you can catch a ride to Hastings Street from here.

Planning to stay awhile? You'll also find one of Noosa's top campgrounds and caravan parks right on the river.

Caloundra is crammed with beautiful beaches, but Kings Beach really is king. This lovely slice of powdery shoreline has something to keep every member of the family happy.

Kids can paddle in the gentle beach break, craft the perfect sandcastle, peer into the rock pools, and run wild in the water park. Parents will be happy here, too. They can enjoy a picnic, take a cool dip, clock some laps in the oceanfront pool, or bask in the sun. Lifesavers patrol the beach and pool area.

Is surfing your chosen sport? This is a great spot to ride the waves . Book a lesson if you're a beginner. And when you need a break from all your activities, an array of excellent restaurants and cafés await just steps from the sand.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Caloundra

Mount Coolum is one of the most distinctive landmarks on the Sunshine Coast. This dome-shaped volcanic rock rises 208 meters above the coastal plains of Coolum Beach and makes a picturesque backdrop to Coolum's golden beaches.

Hiking to the summit of this 25-million-year-old volcanic dome is one of the top things to do in Coolum Beach . The 800-meter track to the peak takes about 90 minutes return, depending on your fitness level, and involves climbing up hundreds of stone steps.

What's your reward? Apart from a workout for your thighs and calf muscles, you can enjoy 360-degree views from Double Island Point to Caloundra, on a clear day. Also keep an eye out for wildlife — peregrine falcons, echidnas, grey-headed flying foxes, and northern brown bandicoots are some of the critters you might spot on your hike.

Insider's Tip: The hike is best tackled in dry weather, as the steep rocks at the top become slippery after rain. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to try this hike — especially on hot summer days. Weekdays are the least crowded.

The trailhead is at Tanah Street West (off David Low Way) about 3.5 kilometers south of Coolum Beach.

The Caloundra Coastal Walk is one of the best ways to sightsee on the Sunshine Coast. Who doesn't love strolling in the sunshine, past countless beautiful Caloundra beaches, with a gelato in hand? Stop for a cool dip if you work up a sweat, or pop into one of the buzzy little cafés for a coffee break along the way.

You can walk for miles along here. The trail stretches for 25 kilometers , all the way from Golden Beach in the south to Mooloolaba in the north. Along the way, must-see Caloundra attractions include action-packed Kings Beach , with a water park and oceanfront pool; the cafés and calm waters of Bulcock Beach ; and Caloundra Headland Memorial Walkway , which honors those who lost their lives during World War II.

Prefer to bike the track? You can do that, too, and sculpt your calves pedaling up and down the hills.

Popular with nature lovers and hikers, the distinctive peaks of Glass House Mountains National Park are listed on the Queensland and National Heritage Register. The area is also one of the spiritual places on the Sunshine Coast for the Gubbi Gubbi people, who used this site for sacred ceremonies, as well as trading.

According to Aboriginal legend, Mount Beerwah , the highest peak, is the mother that gave birth to the smaller surrounding peaks, and Mount Tibrogargan is the father peak. Rising like giant witch's hats and rounded anthills, the peaks are volcanic plugs, the center of extinct volcanoes.

Mount Ngungun and Mount Tibrogargan are the only two peaks open to the public for hiking. They offer trails catering to all abilities, from easy base trails to more challenging summit hikes with spectacular coastal views.

Abseiling, mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing are other popular things to do in Glass House Mountains National Park, and the park is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including koalas, echidnas, and grey kangaroos.

Before exploring the area, stop by the Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretative Centre . The popular Lookout Cafe , near the Glass House Mountains lookout, is a lovely spot to start or end a gentle hike with Devonshire tea and delightful views. Keep an eye out for kangaroos under the mango trees here.

Address: Glass House Interpretative Centre, Settler's Rotary Park, Reed Street, Glass House Mountains

Official site: http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/glass-house-mountains/

SEA Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse at life under the sea and in Australian freshwater habitats. It's organized around themed zones with related exhibits, which include a tidal touchpool, where little ones can feel the bumpy skin of sea stars and learn about stingrays; a jellyfish kingdom; freshwater streams; billabongs; a seahorse sanctuary; and an ocean tunnel, where the rays and sharks glide all around you.

Shark dives, educational presentations, children's play areas, and live shows add to all the fun; the seal show is a particular favorite.

This is a great rainy day attraction, although the exhibits will wow pint-sized animal lovers at any time. After a fun morning touring the exhibits, you can take the kids to nearby Mooloolaba Beach for a picnic.

Address: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, Queensland

Official site: https://www.underwaterworld.com.au/

Shopping at Sunshine Plaza feels like shopping at a resort. Potted palms and lush plants line the walkways, and bridges cross a sparkling waterway that runs through its heart. Set around a natural creek, this sun-splashed indoor/outdoor mall is the largest shopping center on the Sunshine Coast. This is definitely the place to find a bargain, or splurge on a new outfit.

You'll find more than 320 specialty stores here, as well as big-name stores like David Jones, Myer, Kmart, Target, and Big W. Craving a sweet treat? Pick up a snack at Noosa Chocolate. Need a new look? Head into Calvin Klein or Country Road.

Food is another highlight. You can grab a bite to eat from the food hall and dine overlooking the water, or relax at one of the cafés or restaurants serving everything from burgers to noodles.

Need a break from shopping? Rent a paddleboat with the kids or head to the 12-screen cinema and enjoy a movie. Whether you're shopping, watching a movie, or dining at one of the restaurants here, a visit to Sunshine Plaza is one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast when it's raining.

Address: 154/164 Horton Parade, Maroochydore, Queensland

Official site: https://www.sunshineplaza.com/

If you're looking for a few hours of fun with the children, the Ginger Factory in Yandina fits the bill. Young kids will love riding the little train through the tropical gardens, and they can learn all about bees at a special beekeeper presentation, topped off with a honey tasting.

But where's the gingerbread man? It's the burning question on a cute indoor boat trip. Hop aboard, travel around the world, and see if you can spot him among the interactive puppets — it's one of the more unusual things to do on the Sunshine Coast with kids.

Most of the attractions are geared towards younger kids, but parents will enjoy the ginger factory tour and tastings and a stroll through the beautiful gardens, which brim with ginger plants, orchids, and bromeliads.

Is all that ginger making you hungry? A café and ice-creamery are on hand for hungry visitors, and the large gift shop sells all sorts of ginger-related items, as well as local treats and souvenirs,

Address: 50 Pioneer Road, Yandina, Queensland

Official site: http://www.gingerfactory.com.au/

For a taste of Thailand in the Queensland tropics, you can't beat Spirit House Restaurant and Cooking School. Step onto the lush grounds, and you'll feel as though you're at a temple deep in a Thai rain forest. Fragrant incense wafts around you, frogs sing in the palm-lined pond, and wind chimes jangle in the breeze.

Sign up for a cooking class here, and you can learn how to prepare an authentic Thai meal , then sit down with your new cooking buddies and feast on your creation. If you'd rather skip the cooking lesson and dine here instead, this is one of the most romantic places to dine on the Sunshine Coast.

Address: 20 Ninderry Road, Yandina, Queensland

Official site: https://www.spirithouse.com.au/

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring S outh East Queensland : Sunshine Coast destinations make ideal places to visit for a sun-and-sea vacation. For more things to do on the coast of South East Queensland, read our article on the top attractions in Noosa Heads , from hiking in Noosa National Park to basking on Main Beach. If islands are more your style, K'Gari (Fraser Island) offers a unique 4WD experience just off the coast of Hervey Bay. You can also hike rain forest trails and swim in crystal-clear lakes. Seeking a livelier beach destination? Head south from the Sunshine Coast to the glitzy Gold Coast for high-end shopping and a buzzing nightlife.

Brisbane & Beyond: For a city fix, the state capital of Brisbane is about a 90-minute drive from the Sunshine Coast Airport. Browsing the excellent art galleries and museums, strolling around botanic gardens, and scenic river cruises are some of the top things to do in Brisbane . And if you have more time on your travel itinerary, check out our article on the top-rated day trips from Brisbane for other adventures in the region. Traveling with the kids? You'll find plenty of family-friendly attractions in our article: Brisbane with Kids: Top Things to Do , from playgrounds and parks to a planetarium and wildlife park.

More on Australia

Australia Recommends 2024

Travel Inspiration

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

COVID-19 travel and entry advice

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

Sunshine Coast, Queensland © Tourism Australia

Guide to the Sunshine Coast

• Share Share on Facebook Share on Messenger Share on Twitter Share on WhatsApp Copy Link
• Getting to the Sunshine Coast
• When to visit

Whether you’re seeking action-packed, nature-filled adventures or a relaxing beachside escape, the Sunshine Coast delivers the best of both worlds.

Stretching for more than 60km (40mi) along the Queensland coast, the Sunshine Coast is as vast as it is varied. White sand beaches and pristine waterways sit alongside lush rainforests and Heritage-listed national parks, with charming historic villages sprinkled throughout. You’ll be spoiled for choice with fresh local seafood, unique dining experiences and many wonderful wineries and breweries. Top it off with a subtropical climate and exceptional nature experiences and you’ve found an ideal year-round destination.

The Sunshine Coast is serviced by two airports: Brisbane Airport and Sunshine Coast Airport. Both airports will allow you to reach the Sunshine Coast’s many popular destinations, like Noosa and Mooloolaba.

• Brisbane Airport (BNE) is located between a one and two-hour drive from the Sunshine Coast, depending on your destination and services both domestic and international arrivals
• Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) is located about a 30-minute drive from most towns, with direct flights from Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland

Car hire is available from either airport, and driving is a convenient way to visit different destinations within the region.

Due to its subtropical climate, the Sunshine Coast enjoys pleasant weather all year long. Visiting in spring between October and November offers comfortable temperatures, low rainfall and fewer crowds.

• High season: Summer (December to February) and during school holiday periods
• Low season: After Easter holidays (April) until mid-September

Top things to do on the Sunshine Coast

Trips and itineraries.

Sunshine Coast: 8-day family road trip holiday

3 days on the Great Sunshine Way

The Pacific Coast Way: a must-do Gold Coast to Cairns road trip

4-day road trip through Queensland’s Scenic Rim

Destinations near the sunshine coast.

Travellers' stories

Planning your trip to Australia?

Get expert help from an aussie specialist who has the knowledge and experience to help you plan and book every detail of your trip., featured articles.

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.  Find out more . By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies.

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

• New Zealand (English)
• United States (English)
• Canada (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• India (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Singapore (English)
• Indonesia (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Deutschland (Deutsch)
• France (Français)
• Italia (Italiano)
• 中国大陆 (简体中文)

*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

Best things to do on the Sunshine Coast

Are you planning to visit the Sunshine Coast?  This article covers the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast, including tourist attractions, activities and places to visit.

The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Kabi Kabi people and the Jinibara people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Sunshine Coast is situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country.  Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

There are plenty of Sunshine Coast things to do!  Known, of course, for being home to stunning beaches, sought-after surf breaks and the type of laid-back lifestyle Australia is known and loved for.   It’s easy to see why the Sunshine Coast has been crowned the Most Loved Destination in the World!

Among the top Sunshine Coast attractions include some of Queensland’s very best beaches, Steve Irwin’s world famous Australia Zoo, the beautiful hinterland with quaint small towns, numerous beer and gin distilleries, fabulous markets where you can buy souvenirs galore, plenty of restaurants where you can feast on freshly caught seafood and much much more!

Whether you’re a foodie, a sun-seeker or someone with a thirst for the great outdoors, the Sunshine Coast has something for everyone. So whether you’re after things to do on the Sunshine Coast with kids, a loved one or on your own, it’s the ideal place to spend a few days or even a few weeks.

This must-do Sunshine Coast guide will help you decide what to add to your itinerary. It covers a broad range of Sunshine Coast activities, including all the popular attractions, the best places to visit, and essential information such as locations, opening hours, and ticket prices.

In addition, this visit Sunshine Coast guide includes tips on the best day tours and where to stay.

So let’s get into it and check out the top attractions and activities on the Sunshine Coast!

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.

SUNSHINE COAST THINGS TO DO MAP

1 go to the beach, 2 australia zoo, 3 take a surf lesson, 4 maleny botanic gardens and birdworld, 5 the ginger factory, 6 enjoy a canal cruise, 7 stand up paddle boarding, 8 maleny dairies, 9 eumundi markets, 10 go strawberry picking, 11 find a scenic viewpoint, 12 sea life sunshine coast, 13 go for a coastal hike, 14 big pineapple and wildlife hq, 15 climb mount coolum, 16 sunshine castle, 17 go fishing, 18 aussie world, 19 shopping on hastings street, noosa, 20 rainforest walk at mary cairncross reserve, 21 go skydiving, 22 jet boat ride, 23 qcamel dairy farm, 24 bathe in the noosa fairy pools, 25 noosa everglades, 26 mary valley rattler train, 27 visit a waterfall.

• 28 DownUnder Submarines
• 29 Maleny Cheese Factory
• 30 Explore a national park
• 31 Swim with whales
• 32 Visit a distillery, brewery or winery

Brisbane 

K’gari (fraser island), rainbow beach, best luxury hotel: sofitel noosa pacific resort, best family hotel: oaks sunshine coast oasis resort, best mid range hotel: breakfree alexandra beach, best budget hotel: noosa flashpackers, enjoy the sunshine coast.

Before we get started on all the great Sunshine Coast tourist attractions to help you plan your itinerary, check out the map below.  This map shows the location of all the top Sunshine Coast tourist spots covered in this guide.

I recommend you make a short list of all the attractions you want to see and then use this map to plan your day to day Sunshine Coast sightseeing itinerary, so you’re not travelling back and forth all over town.

BEST THINGS TO DO ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

Below we cover the Sunshine Coast top things to do and see.

The top of your Sunshine Coast must dos list has to be a day at the beach! Some of Australia’s best beaches are located on the Sunshine Coast, making it the ideal holiday destination if you’re looking for free things to do on the Sunshine Coast. 

Sunshine Coast’s top beaches include the dazzling sand of Marcoola Beach, which offers great surf breaks; Noosa’s iconic Main Beach, which runs parallel to the classy Hastings Street, Moffat Beach, which is quieter with beautiful scenery, and Dicky Beach, which offers unspoilt sand and great opportunities for families.  

There are beaches for every occasion! You’ll find sheltered waters that are perfect if you’re looking for things to do with the kids on the Sunshine Coast – Currimundi Lake is an idyllic spot with shallow water for wading and paddling. 

There are dog-friendly beaches if you want to take your best friend for a swim, as many beaches offer off-lead sections (sometimes this is during restricted times of the day). In addition, beaches such as Coolum, Buddina, Wurtulla and Marcus Beach have sections where dogs are welcome.

Plus, there are secret gems if you’re looking for peace and solitude. Don’t miss the secluded Point Cartwright Beach, as it’s the perfect place to sit under a tree and watch the waves lapping the shore. Spending a day at the beach is one of the best cheap things to do on the Sunshine Coast. Parking is free, so just pack yourself a picnic and you can start exploring. Don’t forget your beach shade, sunscreen and hat. 

Australia Zoo is one of the best day trips! Sunshine Coast is home to the iconic attraction made famous by the late Steve Irwin, also known as the Crocodile Hunter. 

It’s a big day out where you’ll be treated to live shows (the daily Wildlife Warriors show is not to be missed) and presentations throughout the day. The crocodile show and tiger show are very popular, so ensure you get in early for a good seat. Come along and see koalas, crocodiles, red pandas, giraffes, tigers, dingoes, snakes, birds, lizards and so much more. 

Australia Zoo also has a waterpark perfect for giving the kids some downtime between seeing the animals (don’t forget to pack swimmers and a towel!) You can easily spend a full day exploring Australia Zoo and not see everything, so wear comfortable walking shoes. If you’ve got little ones, it’s a good idea to bring a pram with you, but you can hire one or even a pull along wagon (which is handy if you’re bringing a picnic) when you arrive. 

While you’re there, why not make a night of it and stay at the brand new Crocodile Hunter Lodge? This luxury accommodation is surrounded by wilderness and native fauna. The family-friendly rustic cabins, with private decks, overlook the bushland and wildlife.

Guests staying at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge receive complimentary breakfast and unlimited entry to Australia Zoo.

Location : 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah

Hours : Daily 9 am to 5 pm 

Cost : With hospital sneak peek: $72 Adults | $46.99 Kids (3 – 14) | $218 Family (2A+2C) | $250 Family (2A+3C) – Click here to book tickets online

Given how fabulous the coastline is, it’s no wonder Sunshine Coast water activities are a popular holiday attraction. 

Surfing is definitely one of the cool things to do on the Sunshine Coast. Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced surfer, it is up there in the top ten things to do on the Sunshine Coast. 

Beginners (8 years old and over) can take a surf lesson to build their confidence in the ocean and learn the basics of surfing. Everything you need is usually provided; you just need to bring your enthusiasm. You will quickly find that surfing is one of the most exciting things to do on the Sunshine Coast. By the end of your surf lesson, you’ll be able to stand up and you’ll be hooked! Intermediate and advanced lessons are also available for more experienced surfers. 

A range of operators offer surf lessons – Click here to see what’s available.

Image Credit – Tourism and Events Queensland

The Maleny Botanic Gardens and Birdworld is a fantastic day out if you’re looking for fun things to do on the Sunshine Coast! It’s two attractions in one. So dedicate a morning or afternoon to enjoy one of our favourite Sunshine Coast hinterland attractions.

These privately owned gardens cover an area of 18 acres and are surrounded by lush rainforests with fantastic views across the Glass House Mountains. Enjoy meandering along the walking trails as you take in the stunning plant life, lakes, waterfalls, and colourful flowers. You can also hire a golf cart, which is the perfect solution if you aren’t as mobile or have kids with tired legs. After enjoying the spectacular hinterland views and tropical gardens, you can explore the adjoining attraction: Birdworld. Walk through the aviaries that are home to hundreds of native and exotic birds from all around the world and laugh as the birds peck at your shoelaces (don’t forget to remove jewellery as some of the birds are partial to shiny things!) 

The guided tour teaches you all about the birds in a truly immersive experience, and there are plenty of photo opportunities so you can capture these precious memories. 

This is one of the Sunshine Coast hinterland tourist attractions not to be missed!

Location : 233 Maleny-Stanley River Road, Maleny

Hours : 9 am to 4.30 pm daily 

Cost : $42 Adults | $27 Kids (3 – 14) | $111 Family (2A+2C) – Click here to book tickets online

One of the best things to do with toddlers Sunshine Coast offers is to visit The Ginger Factory! Here you’ll find a variety of things to explore, depending on the ages of your family. 

You can also just pop into the shop, playground and restaurant to enjoy lunch or ice cream without booking in for one of the tours or experiences, making it a great option if you’re looking for free things to do on the Sunshine Coast to fill a bit of time. To get the best out of The Ginger Factory, it’s worth booking some of the tours. You can enjoy the 116-year-old historic sugar cane train that chugs through 9 hectares of lush tropical gardens, the Live Bee Show and honey tasting, and the Overboard Boat ride, where you board a boat and follow the gingerbread man on an adventure. 

The Ginger Factory is one of those great kid-friendly things to do on the Sunshine Coast. 

If you’re travelling without kids in tow, the bee tour and factory tours are still worth a look and the cafe offers some delicious options that showcase the best of the Sunshine Coast’s regional produce – plus, you can buy plenty of treats to take home. Location : 50 Pioneer Road, Yandina

Hours : Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

Cost : Entry is free | Tour prices vary depending on the bundle – Click here to book tickets online

After a day of exploring must see Sunshine Coast attractions, it’s time to unwind, grab yourself a sundowner cocktail and set sail to enjoy a sunset cruise along the Mooloolaba River. This is one of those special things to do on the Sunshine Coast at night that will create a memorable end to your day. 

Treat yourself to a delicious food platter and enjoy the expert commentary as you sail the canals and enjoy the sights of Millionaire’s Row. Maybe you’ll spot your dream home! You can also take a morning or afternoon cruise (some tours even include a lunch option).

It’s a relaxing experience where you can soak in the views and enjoy the serenity of exploring at a gentle pace from the water. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and see how many pelicans you can count!  

There is a range of tour options available – Click here to find out more

If you love outdoor activities, Sunshine Coast canals, lakes and the ocean offer a great opportunity to get out on the water for fresh air and exercise. Paddle boarding is the perfect way to escape the crowds and enjoy the calm and serenity of the Sunshine Coast. Suitable for a wide range of ages, whether you’re looking for things to do for couples on the Sunshine Coast or family things to do on the Sunshine Coast, you’ll have an incredible time learning to balance and paddle while you take in the spectacular Sunshine Coast scenery. There are opportunities to hire a paddle board at various locations. Alternatively, join a paddle boarding lesson like this one at Noosa.  

Maleny Dairies is among the best things to do in the Sunshine Coast hinterland for all ages. Join a guided 1.5-hour tour where you’ll see how the farm operates and meet some of the animals. You can even try your hand at milking a cow! 

During the tour, you’ll find out how the milk is bottled and processed, see some of their fascinating machinery and you might be lucky to see the line of cows being brought in for milking. At the end of the tour, you can sample lots of their milk-based produce. Delicious. Don’t forget to pack a cool bag and ice blocks, as you’re sure to want to stock up on some of the products in the shop. 

Location : 70 McCarthy Rd, Maleny 

Hours : Tours usually take place regularly but they’re currently on hold while the experience is redeveloped. In the meantime, you can still purchase their delicious dairy products from the office Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm

Cost : $18 Adults | $15 Kids (3 – 14) | $65 Family (2A+3C) 

If you love food, art and a vibrant atmosphere, you must add Eumundi Markets to your list of Sunshine Coast things to do and see.

With over 600 stalls, Eumundi is said to be one of Australia’s biggest art and craft markets. It’s a great place to find local makers selling everything from jewellery and toys to prints, metalwork and clothes. The best part is (in our opinion) the huge selection of fragrant food stalls selling everything from skewers of satay chicken and fresh, organic salads to freshly pressed fruit juice and gourmet coffee. So add this to your list of Sunshine Coast day trips list, and make sure you go along hungry. 

Location : 80 Memorial Drive, Eumundi 

Hours : Saturdays 7 am to 2 pm | Wednesdays 8 am to 2 pm

Cost : Entry to the market is free | Parking fee applies in the main car park 

A range of operators offer transfers or tours to Eumundi Markets – Click here to see what’s available

If you’re exhausted from doing all of the Sunshine Coast tourist activities, there is no better way to chill out than to go strawberry picking. Strawberry picking gets you out in the fresh air to enjoy some peace and quiet in nature. 

You can often treat yourself to delicious treats like strawberry ice cream, strawberry jam, cakes and scones too (in addition to the crate of strawberries you get to take home at the end of it). Strawberry picking is one of those things to do on the Sunshine Coast for kids AND adults – everybody will love it. 

Location : Multiple locations available

Hours : Check with the farm for seasons and opening times

Cost : Depends on how many you pick!

Not all activities have to be expensive; free things to do on the Sunshine Coast are often the best and the most memorable. The scenery around the Sunshine Coast is absolutely breathtaking and there are so many scenic viewpoints offering you panoramic views of the mountains, rolling countryside and sparkling coastline. 

Go for a sunrise hike and enjoy your breakfast with a view, or take some nibbles to watch the sunset. Exploring the scenic lookouts is one of those great things to do in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. 

Looking for Sunshine Coast rainy day activities? When you’re on holiday on the Sunshine Coast, wet weather activities don’t need to spoil your fun – SEA Life Sunshine Coast is the perfect attraction. It’s also great if you’re looking for indoor activities. Sunshine Coast weather can get HOT in summer, so enjoy being inside with the air conditioning. 

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast allows you to get up close with marine life. Kids will love dunking their hands in the touch pools, and everyone will enjoy the fun seal show. 

There are lots of displays where you can learn all about sea creatures. The main feature is the Ocean Tunnel, where you can walk through a series of glass tunnels with sharks and rays swimming over your head! For a little interlude, there is also an indoor play area so parents can rest their feet for a few minutes while the kids play. 

Check out their school holiday activities – you can even enjoy a sleepover with the sharks!

Location : Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba

Hours : Daily from 9 am to 4 pm, last entry at 3 pm

Cost : $48 Adults | $33 Kids – Click here to book online

If you’re looking for things to do on the Sunshine Coast for free, why not take a walk? 

The Coastal Pathway stretches 73 km from Bells Creek in the south to Coolum in the north. It’s the best way to enjoy the coastal views, and walking it with your partner is one of those perfectly romantic things to do. 

Sunshine Coast beach walks are a great place to take photos and create memories with your partner, your kids, or alone so you can really enjoy the serenity of the experience.  

Location : Tackle as much or as little of the Coastal Pathway as you like!

Hours : Always

Cost : Free – Plan your route here

Did you know that Australia is full of ‘big things’? For example, the Sunshine Coast is home to the Big Pineapple – a national tourist attraction that features a 16m tall fibreglass pineapple structure. 

If you’re looking for free activities on the Sunshine Coast to fill a little time, The Big Pineapple is fun and free to enter. There is a train you can ride for $10 per person, which takes you around the property, exploring the rainforest, orchids, and bamboo forest and even passes by the zoo.

If you have more time to spare, Wildlife HQ is located on the same site as the Big Pineapple and is part of the attraction. It’s worth a visit if you’re looking for things to do on the Sunshine Coast for families. 

Go along to see native wildlife and exotic animals from around the world, including koalas, dingoes, snakes, crocodiles, red pandas and meerkats. It’s a very different experience to Australia Zoo – much more compact and intimate, so it’s great for little ones.  

The Big Pineapple also has a cafe on-site as well as a store where you can buy various souvenirs.

Location : 76 Nambour Connection Rd, Woombye

Hours : Big Pineapple daily 8.30 am to 4 pm | Wildlife HQ daily from 9 am to 4 pm. 

Cost : Free to enter the Big Pineapple | Wildlife HQ entry fees: $42 Adults | $28 Kids (3 – 15)  | $119 Family (2A+2C) 

One of the best Sunshine Coast free activities is climbing Mount Coolum. It’s definitely one for your bucket list. This incredible volcanic dome dominates the Sunshine Coast landscape and the views from the 208m high summit are spectacular. 

You’ll need to be reasonably fit to tackle the 1.5-hour return climb as some parts are rocky and steep, but the views across to Double Island Point down to Caloundra make it all worth it. Don’t forget your hat, water, snacks and your camera. 

Location : Begin at Mount Coolum Car Park, Tanah Street West 

Hours: Only attempt during daylight hours Cost : Free

The Sunshine Castle is one of those slightly quirky but fun family activities. Sunshine Coast Castle is a Norman castle complete with a moat and drawbridge built in 1972 by a Scottish couple and it has since been turned into a medieval museum. 

Unfortunately, some parts of the castle are no longer open to the public, but there is still much to see. Kids love the self-guided treasure hunt through the castle courtyard. There is also a doll museum and toy shop to explore.   

Location: 292-296 David Low Way, Bli Bli 

Hours : Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm | Sundays, 10 am to 3 pm

Cost : $10 per person

The Sunshine Coast offers diverse fishing experiences for all ages and abilities. So whether you’re looking for things for kids to do on the Sunshine Coast, you’re looking to throw a line in from the beach, or you’re looking to get out on a boat to enjoy some ocean fishing, there are all kinds of fishing opportunities waiting for you. If you’ve got your own fishing gear, you can grab some bait and set up wherever the mood takes you. However, if you haven’t brought your gear or are a new hand at fishing, you can book a fishing trip where everything you need is provided. 

A range of operators offer fishing trips – Click here to see what’s available

Aussie World is one of those great things to do on the Sunshine Coast for kids. Aussie World is more compact than the Gold Coast theme parks, the lines are shorter and the ticket prices are much cheaper, making it an ideal Sunshine Coast attraction for families. 

There are over 18 Aussie World rides and attractions spread out over 15 acres, so there is plenty to entertain you all day long. Rides include a water flume, Ferris wheel, carousel and teacup rides, but there are also some thrill rides for those daredevils amongst you! 

Because of the wide range of rides, it’s perfect for toddlers, teens, parents and grandparents alike. 

Location: 1 Downunder Drive, Palmview

Hours : Wednesday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm – although these times do vary so it’s recommended you double check in advance

Cost : $55.50 per person | Kids under 3 are free

You can’t visit the Sunshine Coast without enjoying a shopping trip along Noosa’s Hastings Street. It’s one of those iconic activities. Sunshine Coast shopping streets don’t come any more cosmopolitan or stylish than this. 

If you’ve got little ones in tow and you’re looking for things to do on Sunshine Coast with kids, there are lots of opportunities to buy ice cream along Hastings Street that will keep them entertained while you enjoy some window shopping for beachwear, coastal decor and chic day wear.  

Visiting Hastings Street is also one of the best things to do at night on the Sunshine Coast, as all the trees that line the main street are lit with twinkling fairy lights. Stop off for dinner at one of the cafes or restaurants that line the street and enjoy the sights and sounds of this vibrant beach town. 

Location: In the heart of Noosa

Mary Cairncross scenic reserve is close to Maleny and offers a range of walks through the lush rainforest. The reserve encompasses 55 hectares of subtropical rainforest overlooking the Glass House Mountains. The region is teeming with plant and animal life. 

If you’re looking for Sunshine Coast things to do for families, there is a comprehensive (and free) discovery centre with lots of hands-on educational activities for the kids. 

Plus, outside is a fantastic wooden playground that will entertain little ones for hours, along with BBQ facilities so you can cook up a treat and make a day of it (there is a cafe if you prefer to buy your lunch). 

The rainforest walks vary from 1.3km to 1.7km, and if you prefer, you can book a guided walk conducted by volunteers with extensive knowledge of the landscape and forest.

It’s another example of the fun things to do on the Sunshine Coast for free.

Location: 148 Mountain View Road, Maleny

Hours : Rainforest Discovery Centre daily from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm | Rainforest walks daily from 7 am to 6 pm

Cost : Free

Looking for fun activities on the Sunshine Coast? Enjoy the ultimate rush by jumping free-fall at 15,000 feet eight over the stunning Noosa coastline on a tandem skydive. Plunge at 220 mph over one of the most beautiful parts of Queensland, and what a rush it will be! 

A range of operators offer skydives on the Sunshine Coast, such as Skydive Australia – Click here for more information

When it comes to Sunshine Coast must see and do activities, it’s always about the epic coastline. One of the fun activities on the Sunshine Coast is exploring on a jet boat for some adrenaline-fuelled entertainment.  

You’ll enjoy this dramatic adventure that takes you out into the ocean, where you can enjoy the thrills of the ocean swell with salt spray in your hair. Some boat rides stop to give you time to enjoy the views and look for wildlife, so it’s not all fast-paced fun. 

It’s an activity where you’re guaranteed to get wet, so this can also be a good activity to book when you’re looking for things to do on the Sunshine Coast in the rain. 

A range of operators offer jet boating on the Sunshine Coast – Click here to see what’s available

One of those unique attractions near Sunshine Coast is QCamels Dairy. This working dairy farm is a premium supplier of certified organic camel milk and milk products. Known for its nutritional and medicinal properties, camel milk is a delicious alternative to cow or goat milk. 

It’s fascinating learning more about these gentle giants and on your farm tour, you get to experience some camel cuddles and get a behind the scenes tour of how the farm operates. It’s educational and fun!  

Location : Address is confirmed when you book a farm tour ticket 

Hours : Tours operate every Saturday plus more dates during school holidays

Cost : Camel Cuddles Tour $36.91 Adults | $21.50 Kids (under 3 are free | $116 Family Pass (2A+2C)

If you love discovering hidden gems, you’ll love Noosa’s Fairy Pools! Visiting them is definitely one of the Sunshine Coast best things to do. 

Noosa’s Fairy Pools are accessible on foot from town by following a track at the end of Main Beach. It’s best to tackle the hike early in the morning before it gets too hot. The walk to the Fairy Pools will take you at least an hour each way, as you’ll want to stop and marvel at the view as you go. When you get to Picnic Cove, you’ll see a bench and the pathway bends. It’s here that you need to head down over the rocks. At the bottom of the slope, there are some larger rocks to climb over to the Fairy Pools, which are pretty rock pools that fill with seawater. 

Wear closed shoes for the hike and don’t forget your sunscreen, hat and water bottle. A travel towel is also handy, so you can dry off before walking back. 

Location : The pathway begins at the end of Main Beach

Hours : This hike is best tackled in daylight

For a true wilderness experience on the Sunshine Coast, visit the Noosa Everglades – one of only two everglade systems on the planet. 

You can explore this breathtakingly beautiful landscape in a specially designed eco-boat and some of the tours include a paddle in a canoe through the famous River of Mirrors. You’ve never known tranquillity like it – it’s one of the most calming water activities. 

The Sunshine Coast Everglades in Noosa are the only everglades where you can safely swim too (you’ll find alligators lurking in the other!) This activity should be on your Sunshine Coast top 10 things to do, as it’s a privilege to be able to explore such a rare ecosystem. 

A range of tour options are available for the Noosa Everglades – Click here to see what is available

Jump on board the Mary Rattler Train – one of those historic, fun family activities. Sunshine Coast journeys don’t come more nostalgic than this!

This scenic railway chugs its way through the picturesque Mary Valley from Gympie to Amamoor, where the train turns via a turntable and makes its return journey. 

This is a must-do for any train lovers in your family. 

Location : Gympie Train Station

Hours : Departs Gympie 10 am Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays

Cost : $65 Adults | $35 Child (2-12) | Family Pass $175 (2A+2C) – Click here to book tickets online

When you visit the Sunshine Coast, don’t spend all your time at the beach- there is so much to explore inland too. One of the best Sunshine Coast hinterland things to do is to visit some of the Sunshine Coast’s waterfalls. 

You won’t be short of beautiful waterfalls either, as there are plenty to fill your trip. The most famous are Kondalilla Falls, Buderim Falls and Gardiner Falls. 

Pack your swimmers and a picnic and discover some of the best natural tourist attractions in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. 

28 Maleny Cheese Factory

Cheese fans will love visiting Maleny Cheese Factory! You can sample a wide range of delicious cheeses and creamy yoghurts and take a peek at the working dairy factory. 

Order yourself a shared cheese board and sit outside to enjoy the rolling views of the Sunshine Coast hinterland as the afternoon slips by. If you’ve been so busy looking for things to do around the Sunshine Coast constantly during your holiday, this is your chance to stop and enjoy being in the moment with some fabulous local produce and great views. 

Location : 1 Clifford St, Balmoral Ridge

Hours : Daily from 10 am to 3 pm

Cost : It depends how much cheese you buy!

29 Explore a national park

There may be many Sunshine Coast tours and attractions, but it’s the national parks and forests where you can really experience the best of what the region offers. 

The lush forests, trickling rivers and epic waterfalls need to be in your top 10 things to do on the Sunshine Coast, as the landscape is really at the heart of what makes this region so special. Sunshine Coast’s national parks are culturally significant and are the best opportunity to reconnect with nature as you venture deep into the lush forests. There are walking trails to suit all ages and abilities, including boardwalks and paved pathways, if you are looking for an accessible way to explore. 

30 Swim with whales

If you’re lucky to be visiting the Sunshine Coast between July and October, you can join this small group Eco Tourism Certified tour to see majestic humpback whales in their natural environment. This tour takes whale watching to a whole new level! 

On tour, you’ll head out into the ocean to find the whales, and then, when a pod is spotted, you’ll be able to enter the water with a qualified PADI Divemaster and Instructors for the most incredible experience. This is one of those epic things to do up the Sunshine Coast – it’s a once in a lifetime experience you’ll never forget. The small group swim with whales tours from Sunreef Mooloolaba are limited to groups of 15 and under – Click here to see what options are available .

31 Visit a distillery, brewery or winery

There are so many Sunshine Coast fun things to do that involve food and drink, so this region is perfect for you if you’re a foodie. In fact, the Sunshine Coast considers itself Australia’s craft beer capital.

A tour is the best way to explore the region’s distilleries, breweries and wineries so you get to enjoy a curated journey while being driven around so you can sample the best the region has to offer from the comfort of an air-conditioned minibus. 

You’ll also get to enjoy a grazing platter as you sip. Be prepared to bring some bags home with you! 

A range of operators offer tasting tours – Click here to see what’s available .

SUNSHINE COAST DAY TRIPS

While there are so many things to see and do on the Sunshine Coast – if you’re keen, there are a few nearby places that make great day trips. It is recommended you stay at least a few days in each of these areas, but if you only have a day, then a day trip is possible.

Laid back, clean and vibrant, Brisbane makes a great day trip from the Sunshine Coast. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and it boasts everything from lush parklands and gardens to modern galleries and cosmopolitan waterfront dining. 

There are so many attractions to choose from in Brisbane. For culture seekers, there is the Queensland Museum, QAGOMA (The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art) and the National Maritime Museum. 

For wildlife lovers, there is Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary . For lovers of gardens, there is Roma Street Parkland and the tranquil Southbank Parkland. For thrill seekers, there is the bridge climb , rock climbing and kayaking . 

You can’t beat a simple stroll along the river or a swim at the iconic Streets Beach. 

Thanks to its year-round sunshine, Brisbane is the perfect destination at any time of the year and it’s a great opportunity to combine your Sunshine Coast stay with a city break.  

Click here for our full guide on things to do in Brisbane.

Queensland’s Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast offer such different experiences (the Sunshine Coast is laid back and leafy, and the Gold Coast is known as being more lively and glamorous). So if you get the opportunity, it’s a great idea to take a day trip to the Gold Coast. 

Both regions are beautiful beachside havens packed with fun things for tourists to enjoy, and there is also a beautiful hinterland to explore. 

The Gold Coast is the place to go if you’re looking for fast-paced theme parks like Wet ‘n’ Wild, Warner Bros. Movie World, WhiteWater World, Dreamworld and Sea World, so it makes a great day trip from the Sunshine Coast. 

There’s also surfing , hot air ballooning , kayaking and plenty more to keep you entertained. If you can only spare one day for a Gold Coast day trip, you’ll have difficulty deciding how to spend it as there is so much to see and do! 

Click here for our full guide on things to do on the Gold Coast.

North of the Sunshine Coast is K’gari, the largest sand island in the world – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.  While it’s a big day, a day trip from the Sunshine Coast is possible. 

While you won’t see all of the awesome attractions on K’gari during a day trip – you will see some of the island’s highlights.  You can swim in the crystal clear waters of Lake Mackenzie and Eli Creek and spot the island’s iconic dingos as you cruise up Seventy-Five Mile Beach.  You’ll also have time to explore the ancient rainforest of Central Station.

Click here to find out about K’gari tours from the Sunshine Coast .

Click here for our full guide on things to do on K’gari.

Rainbow Beach is a pretty, sub-tropical coastal town named after its iconic rainbow-coloured sands. 

While you can do some walks in the area to appreciate the stunning scenery, you really need to experience the incredible coloured cliff faces and sand dunes on a 4WD beach drive. A tour is a great way to do this as you’ll also learn about the region’s history and the Aboriginal legend about how the coloured sand was formed. 

Make sure you visit Carlo Sandblow while you’re there. A walkway from the car park leads you through the rainforest to an impressive sand dune where you can look out across the water to K’gari (Fraser Island). 

Private tours to Rainbow Beach depart from the Noosa region, or if you have a vehicle, you can drive to Rainbow Beach and pick up a tour there.

Click here to find out what’s available .

BEST HOTELS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

Looking for somewhere to stay on the Sunny Coast?  We recommend booking through Booking.com as they offer a wide range of hotels, most with free cancellation, which is ideal for last minute changes.

However, if you want our hotel recommendation, we’ve listed our top pick for a luxury hotel, family hotel, mid range and budget hotel.

Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort is perfectly located on Hastings Street in the heart of Noosa. The greatest benefit of this hotel is that you can leave your car at the resort, as everything you need is just a walk away. This 5-star luxury hotel has exceptional facilities, including an on-site restaurant, a day spa and a heated outdoor pool. 

A range of air conditioned accommodation options include apartments, suites, villas and rooms. All studios offer contemporary furnishings and have a private balcony (choose between village, pool, ocean or river views) and a kitchenette with fridge and tea/coffee making facilities, along with a flat-screen TV offering cable channels. Indulge your senses in the Aqua Day Spa (the most perfect of rainy day activities Sunshine Coast!), laze under an umbrella beside the sprawling pool and then savour the seasonal menu and enjoy some of the best seafood in Noosa at their Noosa Beach House restaurant. Afterwards, stroll along Hastings Street to enjoy the sights and sounds of this iconic coastal town.    Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort combines convenience with sheer luxury for the perfect Noosa stay. Click here for more information or to book

Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis offers family-friend accommodation close to the beach in Caloundra and features everything you need to entertain the kids. You might even find it difficult to pull your little ones away from the resort to try some of the fun things to do with kids on the Sunshine Coast, as there is so much on offer here!

With air-conditioned accommodation ranging from rooms and studios to family-sized apartments and villas, there are plenty of options no matter how large your family group. Rooms include a bath or shower, refrigerator, tea/coffee maker and a TV with cable channels. Larger rooms have a kitchenette and balconies. Free Wi-Fi is included across room types. Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort is set in tropical gardens with an incredible water park, resort-style pool, putt putt golf course, sandpit, climbing frame and giant jumping pillow. There is an on-site restaurant and a bar with poolside access.  This is a great hotel for families looking for a comfortable resort with plenty of entertainment on site for the kids. 

Click here for more information or to book

BreakFree Alexandra Beach is in Alexandra Headland, opposite the beautiful, patrolled Alexandra Beach. 

Air-conditioned apartments come in various sizes, which suit singles and couples through to large families. Apartments include laundry facilities with kitchenettes (some have full-sized kitchens), dishwashers, Foxtel TV and internet (fee applies). 

The highlight of this resort is the sprawling lagoon-style pool that stretches the length of the resort. Two small waterslides and two spas are at either end of the pool. There are BBQ facilities set within the gardens and a playground making it another great option for families. This resort is a comfortable, great value base for your Sunshine Coast stay.

Noosa Flashpackers is a large, stylish and affordable backpackers resort welcomes all travellers. Accommodation options include air-conditioned double rooms with shared en-suites, deluxe rooms with private en-suites and dormitory-style accommodation. You can even get a queen room with a private en-suite and its own courtyard if you want private outside space. Noosa Flashpackers has an outdoor pool, multiple chill-out spaces and an outdoor BBQ. Free breakfast is included, along with free surfboard hire, free Wi-Fi, free boogie boards and free use of the computers. Noosa Flashpackers is a highly rated backpackers resort suitable for all travellers on a budget looking for a sociable place to stay.

Hopefully, this guide has given you lots of inspiration on things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

If you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast, I highly recommend you check out our guide to the Sunshine Coast, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.

I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community , where you can ask all your questions and find even more great trip suggestions.

If you’re heading to the Sunshine Coast, you might also be interested in the following nearby destinations:

• Fraser Coast

And if you’re on Pinterest, save one of the images below for later.

The Best Things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC

By: Author Taryn Eyton

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2022

British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast is only 40 minutes by ferry from Vancouver, but it feels worlds apart. The quiet coastline is dotted with cute towns, beautiful beaches, gorgeous hiking trails, and lots of great boutiques and cafes. In this post, I’ve got a big list of all the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC.

Over the years, I’ve made numerous trips to the Sunshine Coast to go hiking, camping, and snowshoeing. And I actually lived in Gibsons for five months in 2020/21. So I’ve got lots of locals insider info including where to stay, what to eat, and what to see on the Sunshine Coast.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Table of Contents

Sunshine Coast Basics

Where is the sunshine coast.

British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast is a short ferry ride from Vancouver. Although you have to take a boat to get there, it’s not on an island (and locals will get a bit cranky if you suggest it is.) The Sunshine Coast is on the mainland, but it doesn’t have a road connection to the highway system since there are several huge fjords in the way.

The Sunshine Coast region stretches along the side of the Strait of Georgia and is bounded by Howe Sound in the south and Desolation Sound in the north. Jervis Inlet splits the coast in the middle – there’s a small ferry to make the connection between the two parts of the coast.

The towns of Sechelt and Gibsons are on the South Sunshine Coast, along with the villages of Roberts Creek, Halfmoon Bay, and Pender Harbour. You’ll find the town of Powell River on the North Sunshine Coast along with several small hamlets.

Pro tip: There is also a very famous region called the Sunshine Coast in the Australian state of Queensland. Be careful when googling things about the Sunshine Coast, BC to make sure you aren’t getting results for Australia!

Sunshine Coast, BC Map

I made a custom google map for you that includes everything I mention in this post. Enjoy! This map of the Sunshine Coast is all you’ll need for your trip.

How to Get to the Sunshine Coast

There are two main ways to get to the Sunshine Coast: ferry or fly. Several companies offer scheduled floatplane service to Sechelt and Powell River from Vancouver and Victoria.

But the most common way to get to the Sunshine Coast is to take a ferry. From Vancouver, it’s a quick 45-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal to Langdale on the South Sunshine Coast. From Vancouver Island, the ferry from Comox to Powell River takes 1.5 hours.

You can walk on to the ferry as a foot passenger or take your car. If you’re going by car, I recommend making a reservation with BC Ferries as it can get booked up, especially on summer weekends.

How to get around on the Sunshine Coast

Highway 101 stretches from the south end of the Sunshine Coast at the Langdale Ferry terminal all the way to Lund past Powell River. It’s the main thoroughfare for the region.

Getting Around By Car

The easiest way to get around the Sunshine Coast is with a car. That will give you the freedom to set your own schedule and travel a bit off the beaten path.

Getting Around By Bus

A car-free trip to the Sunshine Coast is fairly easy, but will take some planning. You can take public transit to the ferry terminals in Comox or Horseshoe Bay, then walk on to the ferry. Once you are on the Sunshine Coast, BC Transit has bus service from Langdale to Halfmoon Bay and in the Powell River area.

To get between the south and north sections of the Sunshine Coast including to and from the Earl’s Cove and Saltery Bay ferry terminals, you can take the Sunshine Coast Connector Bus . It runs in the summer only.

Getting Around by Bike

Bike touring on the Sunshine Coast is very popular. I have several friends who have done bike tours in the area, either as an out-and-back trip from Vancouver or on a loop route that includes both the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island.

If you choose to see the Sunshine Coast by bike, be prepared for rolling hills and narrow shoulders. There are bike shops in Gibsons, Roberts Creek, Sechelt, and Powell River if you need a mechanic.

Sunshine Coast Weather

The Sunshine Coast has a similar climate to Vancouver with average summer temperatures between 11 and 24C. May through August are the driest months. Although it is often gorgeously sunny here, it also rains frequently, especially in the spring, fall, and winter. Pack a rain jacket just in case.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Indigenous context

The area around Gibsons and Roberts Creek is the traditional territory of the Squamish Nation. Shishalh Nation territory stretches from Roberts Creek to Saltery Bay. The North Sunshine Coast is the traditional territory of the Tla’amin Nation.

Indigenous people have lived on the Sunshine Coast since time immemorial and continue to live here today. Visit the tems swiya Museum in Sechelt to learn about indigenous history and culture. Be respectful of indigenous land as you travel through their territory.

Things to do in Gibsons

Gibsons is a cute town just a few minutes from the Langdale Ferry terminal. It’s one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures . The town is split into two parts: Upper Gibsons is along the highway. Lower Gibsons, also known as Gibsons Landing, is down the hill on the ocean. Here are the best things to do in Gibsons.

Explore Gibsons Landing

Gibson’s Landing is tucked against the shoreline down the hill from the highway. Take a walk along the long pier to enjoy views of nearby Keats Island and the mountains of Howe Sound. Or stroll along the waterfront walkway to Armours Beach in the north or the Gibsons Marina in the south.

Wander along Marine Drive, Molly’s Lane, and Gower Point Road to discover lots of cute shops. Try the olive oil at Sunshine Coast Olive Oil or browse the racks at Starlet Vintage. Don’t miss the Gibsons Public Market a few blocks south. Vendors there sell amazing cheese, meat, bread, chocolate, veggies, and more.

Of all the small towns in the region, I think Gibsons is the cutest (and not just because I used to live there!) Exploring Gibsons Landing is one of my top picks for things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Enjoy Beachcomber’s Nostalgia

The Beachcombers was a Canadian TV show about life in a gritty but quaint coastal town near Vancouver that ran for 18 years on CBC Television. (You can find some old episodes on Youtube .) It was set and filmed in Gibsons, so the residents are pretty proud of it. See how many Beachcomber’s legacy sights you can see around Gibsons.

Grab a meal at Molly’s Reach, the famous cafe from the show. Take a photo with the Persephone, the boat that the lead character Nick drives. It’s parked on Gower Point Road. (Persephone Brewery is named after the boat!) Grab a coffee at Beachcomber Coffee Company – it’s named after the show.

Or take a stroll around town to spot some Beachcombers-themed street names: Relic’s Lane, Adonidas Lane, Beachcomber Lane, Jesse’s Lane, Molly’s Lane, Gerussi Lane, and Persephone Lane.

Drink Craft Beer, Cider and Spirits

The craft beer and cider scene is thriving in Gibsons.

Visit Persephone Brewing near the ferry terminal to experience their farm to keg brewery – they grow their own barley as well as lots of fruits and veggies too.

I love Gibsons Tapworks in Lower Gibsons for their incredible patio, but my husband thinks they have the best beer in town. He likes the One Sailing Wait IPA best.

In Upper Gibsons, The 101 Brewhouse + Distillery has craft beers and a small restaurant. They are also the Sunshine Coast’s first craft distillery, making small-batch gin and vodka.

If beer isn’t your thing, Sunday Cider can help you out. They make small batch craft cider at their cider house in the forest just north of town. Their classic Sunday Sesh Cider is great.

And if you’re craving spirits, head to Bruinwood Estate Distillery . They’re a little bit north of town on the way to Roberts Creek. Visit their tasting room to sample their more adventurous spirits including Earl Grey Gin, Creme de Cassis, Spirited Horchata, and Akvavit.

Visit an Art Gallery or Studio

Gibsons (and the Sunshine Coast in general) is a haven for artists. A great place to start is the Gibsons Public Art Gallery in Lower Gibsons. They have new exhibitions monthly and a great gift shop.

The Kube in Upper Gibsons is also worth a visit. It’s a combination gallery/boutique that features work from Sunshine Coast artists as well as from other parts of Canada.

You can find listings for tons more artists in Gibsons and throughout the Sunshine Coast through the Purple Banner Art Map . (Note: Many artist studios require appointments.)

Best Beaches in Gibsons

Tiny Armours Beach in Lower Gibsons is a great place for a swim. There’s a cordoned-off swimming area for safety, grassy areas, and picnic tables up the banks.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of town, head to Georgia Beach. It’s in a residential neighbourhood on the bluff in Lower Gibsons. It has a small pebble beach and a bit of grass. Be careful of the current here.

I think Bonniebrook Beach north of town is the best beach in Gibsons. It has sections of sand and sections of pebbles, but it’s over 2km long so there is lots of space to spread out. It’s also a great place to go for a walk. However, parking is limited so arrive early and respect private property. (Tip: the best sand is near the end of Ocean Beach Esplanade.)

Best Hiking Trails in Gibsons

After living in Gibsons for five months, I’ve hiked most of the trails nearby. Langdale Falls is a nice hike through the forest to a waterfall. But my favourite is Soames Hill for its incredible views. I think it’s the best outdoorsy thing to do in Gibsons.

For more nearby trails, see my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast .

Where to Eat in Gibsons

If you want something light, coffee and a doughnut at Beachcomber Coffee Company is my go-to. For quick sandwiches, Black Bean Cafe is great. For a sit-down meal, I recommend Molly’s Reach, Lunitas Mexican Eatery, Smitty’s Oyster House, and Sushi Bar Nagomi.

Where to Stay in Gibsons

Bonniebrook Lodge: A historic lodge right near the beach. The fabulous Chaster’s restaurant is on-site. Check prices .

Gibsons Harbour Retreat Apartment: Fully equipped 2 bedroom apartment with a hot tub and patio in the heart of Gibsons Landing. Check prices .

Things to do in Roberts Creek

Roberts Creek is a little hamlet alongside a creek near the ocean. It’s a tiny place but has a relaxed, hippy atmosphere. Read on for my picks for the best things to do in Roberts Creek.

Visit the Pier and Mandala

The heart of Roberts Creek is the old pier. Before the ferry and roads were built, this pier was the only link to the outside world. Today’s it is no longer used for boats and makes a great place to walk.

Don’t miss the Roberts Creek Mandala next to the pier parking lot. Each July the community comes together to create a massive art project by painting a new mandala. Local artist Robert Marion dreams up a new design and creates the outline, then anyone who stops by can fill in a section. The mandala is one of the most unique things to see on the Sunshine Coast.

Explore the Shops

Roberts Creek may be tiny, but it has a cluster of adorable boutiques. Exploring the shops is my pick for the best thing to do in Roberts Creek. There’s a well-stocked health food store, a cute garden boutique, a yoga studio, and a bike store. For a real feel of what Roberts Creek is really about, head to Eco-Freako for eco-friendly products and local art.

Hit the Farmers’ Markets

Roberts Creek hosts two farmers’ markets every Wednesday afternoon, year-round. The food-only Farm Gate Market in the Masonic Hall near the highway is “beyond organic” – they are local, ethical, and free from GMOs, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, and synthetic fertilizers. Next door you’ll find the Roberts Creek Community Farm Market at the Roberts Creek Community Hall. They have lots of food as well as crafts.

See the Waterfalls in Cliff Gilker Park

This small forested park near the highway is home to a network of trails and was one of my regular haunts when I lived on the Sunshine Coast. Two creeks wind through the trees, creating lots of cascades and waterfalls. Use my Cliff Gilker Park hiking guide to take an easy 1-hour walk through the park.

Where to Eat in Roberts Creek

The Gumboot Cafe is an iconic part of Roberts Creek. They’ve been dishing up healthy soups, pizzas, and salads for over 20 years. They have beer and coffee too.

For a less casual (but still authentically Roberts Creek) experience, head next door to the Gumboot Restaurant. They have an amazing patio and a varied menu that includes burgers, salads, Buddha bowls, and Roberts Creek originals like Curried Perogies.

Where to Stay in Roberts Creek

Shades of Jade Inn & Spa: A serene forest retreat with a spa on-site. It’s a short walk to the beach too. Check prices .

Up the Creek Backpacker’s Lodge: Located right in Robert’s Creek, this funky hostel has dorms, private rooms, and a shared kitchen. Check prices .

Roberts Creek Provincial Park Campground: This 21-site campground is centrally located and is a 15 minute walk to the beach. No reservations. More info .

Things to do in Sechelt

Sechelt is the biggest city on the Sunshine Coast, but it’s still a pretty laid-back place. The town sits on a narrow strip of land that separates Sechelt Inlet from the Strait of Georgia. The name Sechelt comes from s hishalh , the name of the local Indigeneous people.

Explore Downtown Sechelt

Sechelt has a small downtown along Cowrie Street, just one block from the Sunshine Coast Highway. There are lots of cute little shops. Get coffee and a snack at The Basted Baker, then go for a stroll. Don’t miss Fresh from the Coast on Trail Ave – they have great local art and gifts. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, be sure to check out the Farmers Market.

Stroll Along the Sechelt Waterfront

There’s a lovely oceanfront pathway in Sechelt. It starts at Friendship Park off Wharf Avenue and finishes less than a kilometre later at Snickett Park. Stop to enjoy the view from a bench or walk out to the end of the pier. It’s one of the prettiest walks on the Sunshine Coast and my choice for the best thing to do in Sechelt.

Go Paddling

The calm waters of Sechelt Inlet are a great place to go for a paddle. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from Halfmoon Kayaks on Anchor Road. You’ll launch directly into Porpoise Bay and can paddle along the quiet coastline.

Hit the Beach at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park

One of the best beaches on the Sunshine Coast is at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park just north of Sechelt. It faces Sechelt Inlet, which has very calm water and has a sandy bottom – much nicer than the pebble beaches found elsewhere. The park has lots of picnic areas, a playground, and a popular campground. A swim at Porpoise Bay is a must-do on my list of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Drink Craft Beer and Cider

Bricker Cider Company has a cute tasting room next to their orchard up the hill in West Sechelt. Their Brickers Original cider is dry and delicious, but don’t forget to try some of their unique flavours like Earl Grey or root beer!

I didn’t have time to visit Batch 44 Brewery and Kitchen in downtown Sechelt, but they are the first craft brewery in town and I’ve heard their beers are great.

Walk Along Davis Bay Beach

This stretch of coastline is one of my favourite places to walk on the Sunshine Coast. There’s a one-kilometre-long pathway beside the ocean and a pier that’s a great place to fish for crabs or watch the sunset. Head across the street to soak up the sun on the patio at the Wobbly Canoe or Gourmet Girl.

Learn about Indigenous Culture

Visit the shíshálh Nation’s tems swiya Museum to learn about local Indigenous culture. Unfortunately, the museum was closed due to the pandemic when I lived on the Sunshine Coast, so I haven’t been yet. But I’m eager to visit as it has lots of historical artefacts including 3500-year-old mortuary stones.

Go Skiing or Snowshoeing

If you’re visiting Sechelt in the winter, you can’t miss cross country skiing or snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge. It’s a community-run ski hill and snowshoe trail network in the mountains above town. I had a season pass when I lived on the Sunshine Coast and went up nearly every weekend.

Read my guide to skiing and snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge to learn more.

Best Hikes in Sechelt

There are several fun short hikes near Sechelt. My favourites are the easy walk to Burnett Falls or a meander through the old-growth trees at Hidden Groves.

Where to Eat in Sechelt

For baked goods, my go-to is The Bakery on Wharf Ave downtown. Strait Coffee in Wilson Creek (near Canadian Tire) has coffee, fabulous sandwiches, and the best cheesecake on the Sunshine Coast. For burgers and comfort food The Wobbly Canoe in Davis Bay is good. If you’re looking for something more upscale, eat at Shift Kitchen and Bar.

Where to Stay in Sechelt

Tranquility Bay Waterfront Inn: Located on quiet Sechelt Inlet north of town, this gorgeous resort has a spa, a hot tub, BBQs, and a private beach. Check prices .

Davis Bay Bed & Breakfast: This charming B&B is right across from the beach in Davis Bay. Reviewers say the breakfast is great. Check prices .

Porpoise Bay Provincial Park Campground: With over 80 campsites steps from a sandy beach, this is the best place to camp on the Sunshine Cost. Make advance reservations .

Things to do in Halfmoon Bay

Halfmoon Bay is a small seaside residential area just north of Sechelt. It’s a great place to hike, relax by the ocean, or just chill out at a cute cabin. Secret Cove a few minutes north is another picturesque spot. Here are the best things to do in Halfmoon Bay.

Best Beaches in Halfmoon Bay

Sargeant Bay Provincial Park has a great gravel beach in a sheltered bay. The lagoon behind the beach is a great place to watch for wildlife, especially birds.

Cooper’s Green Park is a beautiful oceanfront park with a grassy lawn and a pebble beach. It’s a great place for a swim on a hot day. If you rented a kayak in Sechelt, the boat ramp here makes a good launching point.

Best Hikes in Halfmoon Bay

Halfmoon Bay is my go-to spot for hiking on the Sunshine Coast. The huge trail system in Sargeant Bay Provincial Park and Welcome Woods in between Highway 101 and Redroofs Road has seemingly limitless loop hike possibilities. A good destination to get you started is Triangle Lake .

The hike to Smuggler’s Cove is one of the most popular hikes on the Sunshine Coast, and I’d argue it is one of the most scenic too. It’s a short walk to several beautiful coastal viewpoints. A visit to Smuggler’s Cove is definitely the best thing to do in Halfmoon Bay.

For more hikes in Halfmoon Bay, see my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast .

Where to Eat in Halfmoon Bay

Food options are pretty limited in Halfmoon Bay. The Halfmoon Bay General Store is currently working on a cafe to open in late 2022. Welcome Woods Market also has a little deli. There are also two food options in nearby Secret Cove: Upper Deck Cafe at the Secret Cove Marina and the in-house restaurant at the Rockwater Secret Cove Resort.

Where to Stay in Halfmoon Bay

Nestledown B&B: This cute bed and breakfast is a short walk from Sargeant Bay Provincial Park. It has a kitchenette and a hot tub too. Check prices .

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: I actually got engaged at this dreamy waterfront resort. Splurge on the tent cabins – they’re worth it. Check prices .

Things to do in Pender Harbour and Egmont

Pender Harbour is a loose collection of small communities (including Garden Bay and Madeira Park) spread around small bays and peninsulas. The village of Egmont is a few minutes north on the shores of Sechelt Inlet. It’s a sleepy area, perfect for chilling out and spending time in nature. These are my picks for the best things to do in Pender Harbour and Egmont.

Skookumchuck Narrows

The hike to the tidal rapids and whirlpools at Skookumchuck Narrows in Egmont is one of the most popular things to do on the Sunshine Coast. Be sure to time your visit to coincide with the tide change. Use my hiking guide to Skookumchuck Narrows to plan your trip.

Explore the Lakes

The area around Pender Harbour is home to lots of gorgeous lakes where you can go for a swim. Garden Bay Lake, Mixal Lake, and Hotel Lake are all located on the north side of Pender Harbour. You’ll find little Katherine Lake here too. Don’t miss it as it has the warmest water around.

Head a little further north along Highway 101 to Sakinaw Lake and Ruby Lake. They are both great places to launch a boat. (Ruby Lake has kayak and SUP rentals.) You can also go for a swim at the sandy beach at Dan Bosch Park on Ruby Lake.

The quiet waters of Pender Harbour are perfect for kayaking. There are so many islands and little coves to explore. Rent kayaks at Alpha Adventures. (Many resorts have kayak rentals too.)

Best Hikes in Pender Harbour and Egmont

The hikes in Pender Harbour and Egmont have some of the best views on the Sunshine Coast. Of course Skookumchuck Narrows is a classic, but there are lots more to choose from. Pender Hill has my favourite viewpoint, but nearby Mount Daniel is great too. I also love the oceanfront walk at Francis Point Provincial Park. Get details on all of these hikes in my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast .

Where to Eat In Pender Harbour and Egmont

Pender Harbour has a few good food options. If you want something a bit more luxe, head to the Lagoon Restaurant at the Painted Boat Resort. For more casual fare, check out Harbour Pizza or Badabing Burgers. In Egmont check out the Skookumchuck Bakery Cafe and the Backeddy Pub.

Where to Stay in Pender Harbour and Egmont

Painted Boat Resort: This beautiful waterfront resort in Pender Harbour has great views, plus an outdoor pool and a spa. Check prices .

Backeddy Resort: Stay in a cute and cozy A-frame cabin or a futurists geodesic dome overlooking Sechelt Inlet in Egmont. Check prices .

Things do in Powell River

Powell River is the main city on the northern Sunshine Coast, but there are also small communities in Saltery Bay, Lang Bay, and Lund. The area is a bit quieter than the southern Sunshine Coast. Read on for the best things to do in Powell River.

Explore the Historic Townsite District

Powell River is split into two parts: the main part of town along Marine Avenue near the ferry terminal and the historic Townsite district a few minutes north. Pick up a map at the visitor centre to take a self-guided tour of the old buildings. Don’t miss the spectacular Patricia Theatre, dating back to 1913 and Townsite Brewing inside the old post office. A visit to the Townsite District is my pick for the best thing to do in Powell River.

The tiny village of Lund at the end of Highway 101 is the northernmost settlement on the Sunshine Coast. Lund is the jumping-off point for kayaking in Desolation Sound or the Copeland Islands, hiking the Sunshine Coast Trail, or trips to nearby Savary Island. But the scenic waterfront is a worthy destination in itself. Don’t miss the legendary bakery.

The Powell River area is a prime destination for paddlers. Nearby Desolation Sound and the Copeland Islands are popular for kayaking. It’s also the starting point for the multi-day Powell Forest Canoe Route that loops through several large lakes behind the town.

Experience Savary Island

Located near Lund, the white sands and warm waters of Savary Island feel more like the Caribbean than coastal BC. The entire island is off-the-grid and has no cars so you’ll need to get around on foot or by bike. Book accommodation well in advance if you plan to stay the night. Get there via water taxi from Lund.

Best Beaches Near Powell River

Willingdon Beach is located right next to downtown Powell River. It’s got a big grassy area and lots of sand, so it’s pretty popular. If you’re looking for a quieter beach, Gibsons Beach north of town or Saltery Bay Provincial Park near the ferry terminal are good options. If you’re rather swim in freshwater, head to Mowat Bay Beach on Powell Lake.

Hike the Sunshine Coast Trail

The most famous hike in the area is the Sunshine Coast Trail. It is 175km long and runs from the ferry terminal in the south, through Powell River, and ends north of Lund. It crosses lots of roads so you can access many different sections.

My book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia has info on how to do day hikes or short backpacking trips on the best parts of the trail. If you’re a hiker, hiking the Sunshine Coast Trail is one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Parts of the trail are snow-free year-round, which is why they made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia .

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Where to Eat in Powell River

Powell River has lots of great restaurants. It has a great Belgian-style craft brewery in the heritage part of town called Townsite Brewing. We loved the Mexican food at Costa del Sol. Hikers love the Shingle Mill Pub since the Sunshine Coast Trail goes right past the front door. In Lund, be sure to get a cinnamon bun at Nancy’s Bakery.

Where to Stay in Powell River

The Magical Dome: This amazing dome-shaped house near Lund has a quirky interior with a cute loft bedroom. Check prices . (It’s also on my list of the coziest cabins near Vancouver .)

Higgin’s Inn: This quiet inn near Lang Bay has apartment-style suites. It’s a short walk to the beach or an easy drive to Powell River. Check prices .

Saltery Bay Provincial Park Campground: Locate near the ferry terminal, this forested campground has 42 sites and a nearby beach. No reservations. More info .

Now you have all the info you need to head to the Sunshine Coast. What is your favourite thing to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC? Tell me in the comments. And as always, send me your questions as I’m happy to help answer them.

More Sunshine Coast info:

• 21 Best Hikes on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Skookumchuck Narrows Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• How to Snowshoe and Ski at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Cliff Gilker Park Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Soames Hill Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Langdale Falls Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Latest Posts

• 10 Things To Do in Twillingate, Newfoundland - August 1, 2024
• 12 Things To Do in Trinity, Newfoundland - July 29, 2024
• How to Paddle the River of Golden Dreams in Whistler, BC - July 26, 2024

Lois Angell

Monday 19th of September 2022

Last night at 10:00 we saw a string of lights reaching up into the sky in a formation before they appeared to burn out. Anyone else see this phenomenon

Taryn Eyton

Tuesday 20th of September 2022

It was likely a train of satellites being launched by Space X.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

• Privacy Policy

#sunishinecoastbc

Things To Do

Discover things to do on BC's Sunshine Coast and create the perfect itinerary for your next visit.

While many people visit for the plethora of things to see and do, others visit to simply enjoy the laid-back vibe and soak in a legendary west coast sunset or two. Either way, you’ll want to check out our top suggestions for the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.  

Hidden Gems

Think of our hidden gems as our ‘Top 10’ list for those iconic places and experiences on the Sunshine Coast that you just can’t miss. View one of the largest saltwater rapids in the world, hike Canada’s longest hut-to-hut trail, visit a national historic district and catch a movie in Canada's oldest movie theatre, or bike our world-renowned gravity park.  

Activities, Attractions, and Culture

If you’re a fan of outdoor activities , this is the place for you. Fill your days with hiking , mountain biking , cycling , paddling , boating , fishing , scuba diving , rock climbing , golfing , snowshoeing , and more. You can set out on your own or book a tour with experienced guides. There are also museums and attractions to visit throughout the Sunshine Coast, along with art galleries and studios to tour, shops to browse, and spa and wellness experiences  to enjoy. And you can participate in Indigenous cultural experiences to broaden your worldview and see the Sunshine Coast from a different perspective.  

Planning to visit a specific community, or during a certain time of year? You can search for things to do by location or check out our seasonal activities page for more inspiration. 

Hike the famed Sunshine Coast Trail, watch the natural spectacle of Skookumchuck Narrows, snowshoe through alpine forest at Dakota Ridge, and more.

Outdoor Activities

The Sunshine Coast is synonymous with adventure, and we’ve got it all, from hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing to fishing, paddling, and scuba diving.

Art & Music

With innovative style and welcoming hospitality, the Sunshine Coast rivals any area for top-notch art galleries, studios, museums, festivals, music events, and culture.

Local guides love to share the history and culture of the Sunshine Coast, and take visitors out to experience outdoor activities, sightseeing, and more. 

The shopping experience on the Sunshine Coast is different than you might expect, but second to none.

Indigenous Experiences

Immerse yourself in the living traditions of First Nations, and you may find a connection to something bigger than yourself through cultural exploration and learning. 

Spas & Wellness

Take some much needed time to relax and rejuvenate on the Sunshine Coast.

Museums & Attractions

The Sunshine Coast is home to unique museums and attractions of all kinds.

Seasonal Activities

Discover things to see and do on the Sunshine Coast in every season.

Learn more about the Sunshine Coast with our latest stories, blog, and news updates.

Upcoming Events

Summer live music at gorge harbour marina resort.

• Aug 26, 2024 - Sep 2, 2024
• Gorge Harbour Marina Resort

Trivia Night in Gibsons

• Aug 26, 2024
• Tapworks Brewing Company

Rock N' Roll Bingo Gibsons

• Aug 27, 2024
• Gibsons Legion Branch #109

Brickers Midweek Market

• Aug 28, 2024
• The Bricker Cider Company

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

• Accommodation
• Destinations
• Tourist Information
• Things to Do
• Living at the Sunshine Coast

• Alexandra Headland
• Bribie Island
• Golden Beach
• Kings Beach
• Maroochydore
• Noosa Heads
• Peregian Beach
• Sunshine Beach
• Backpackers & Hostels
• Eumundi & Yandina
• Glass House Mountains
• Hastings Street - Noosa
• Sunshine Coast Hinterland
• Getting to the Sunshine Coast
• Getting Around The Sunshine Coast
• Airport Transfers
• Communicating & Languages
• Australian Currency
• Sunshine Coast Beach Safety
• Sunshine Coast Maps
• Sunshine Coast Pictures
• Phones & Internet Cafes
• Travel Articles
• Sunshine Coast Weather
• Activities & Tours
• Australia Zoo
• Aussie World
• SeaLife Sunshine Coast
• Best Family Beaches
• Bushwalking
• Driving Adventures
• Flying Adventures
• Free Things to do
• Golf Courses
• National Parks
• Restaurants
• Scenic Drives
• Scuba Diving
• Sightseeing Guide
• Tourist Attractions
• Water Adventures
• Whale Watching Cruises
• Wildlife Attractions
• Churches & Religion
• General Overview
• Latest News
• Real Estate
• Schools & Education
• Suburb Profiles

Find Sunshine Coast Accommodation

Home » Things to Do

Things to Do on the Sunshine Coast

Experience Australia's Sunshine Coast through the colourful and varied tourist attractions on offer. Take a scenic drive down the Tanawah Tourist Drive then hop out and brave the elements with a bushwalking trail. Hit one of the Sunshine Coast's many fabulous beaches and bathe in sunshine and surf while you take in the view.

As well as many attractions, visitors can enjoy 4WD tours, fishing & boating, abseiling, diving, parasailing, golf and surfing to name but a few. The Sunshine Coast is also home to the famous Australia Zoo , Underwater World , a never ending assortment of weekend markets and a stack more. Here's some things to investigate to keep you well and truly occupied on your next visit...

Book Sunshine Coast Activities

Find great deals on tours and activities right here!

Show Me Deals

Activities & Tours

Aussie World & Ettamogah Pub

Australia Zoo Tickets

Bushwalking Treks & Trails

Cruises, Sailing & River Tours

Free Things to do on the Sunshine Coast

Pubs & Bars

Restaurants & Dining

Scuba Diving Tours

Sea Life Sunshine Coast

Shopping Precincts & Guide

Skydiving, Helicopter Tours & Flying Adventures

Sunshine Coast & Fraser Island Day Tours

Sunshine Coast Family Beaches

Sunshine Coast Markets - Weekend & Night Markets

Surfing Lessons

Tourist Attractions & Amusement Parks

Wineries & Wine Tours

Things To Do

Sunshine Coast Australia is Copyright © 2024 e-CBD and Intaanetto.com Social Media. Web Design + SEO by e-CBD . | About Us | Privacy | Disclaimer | Contact Us | Part of WotToDo.com.au

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

Follow on facebook:

Subscribe for news and deals:.

top stories:

14 Unique Things to Do on the Sunshine Coast, BC

Northwest of Vancouver, British Columbia’s coastline becomes almost impossibly rugged, characterised by glacier carved inlets that sometimes stretch for hundreds of kilometres. The two sections of coastline closest to Vancouver are known as the Sunshine Coast.

Offering breathtaking views of Vancouver Island and the Salish Sea, the Sunshine Coast shoreline is lined by vibrant coastal communities and backdropped by mossy temperate rainforest and the coastal mountain range. Quite frankly, it’s gorgeous. 

The Sunshine Coast is one of our favourite destinations in British Columbia, particularly for outdoor recreation.

In this post, I’ll share 14 of the most unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast, based on our own experiences.

We’ve visited half a dozen times over the few years, so you can be assured we have tried and tested plenty of activities in the area.

Last updated September 2023 . We were supported on our first trip to the Sunshine Coast in 2019 by Sunshine Coast Tourism and BC Ferries.

The Sunshine Coast: BC’s most well hidden gem?

Hiding almost in plain sight, the Sunshine Coast may well be BC’s most well hidden gem.

With a relaxed, friendly small-town vibe, the Sunshine Coast feels like a world apart from the busy cityscape of Vancouver, despite being just a short ferry away. It’s quiet too, being just off the main tourist route through BC. 

Even with the close proximity to Vancouver, I find many visitors and even resident British Columbians are not very familiar with the Sunshine Coast. To me, that is definitely a mistake as this area has SO much to offer in any season.

The Sunshine Coast is located on the traditional territory of traditional territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, shíshálh, Tla’amin, Klahoose, and Homalco Nations.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of these links, I may make a small percentage at no extra cost to you.

Unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC

As much as I’d prefer to keep this wonderful region all to myself, I believe it deserves far more attention than it receives.

To prove its underrated nature, read on to discover 14 unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC. These also happen to be my favourite activities in the area!

With that in mind, you can’t really go wrong by choosing two or three to do on your Sunshine Coast adventure. If you have the time, pick four or five and leave the others for a return trip!

With one exception, all of these suggestions can be done from spring to autumn. Indeed, many can even be done all year round! 

Visiting Princess Louisa Inlet

Remember those glacial carved inlets I mentioned earlier? Princess Louisa Inlet is a magnificent 6km long fjord located northwest of Egmont. It is also known as swiwelát by the shíshálh Nation.

Without a doubt, Princess Louisa Inlet is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen in Canada or anywhere in the world.

Incredibly steep carved walls of granite rise up to 2000m out of the calm water in this narrow fjord, providing breathtaking views as well as a sheltered anchorage.

The huge Chatterbox Falls, at the very end of the inlet, thunders with power while dozens of smaller waterfalls cascade down the adjacent sheer rock walls on rainy days. 

Princess Louisa Inlet is most easily accessed via a guided boat tour. Our five hour trip with Sunshine Coast Tours was on the rainiest day you could ever imagine, but it turned out to be the best weather we could have hoped for.

Rain, as it turns out, makes fjords look even better. We also had the chance to see humpback whales before we even stepped on the boat. 

Taking in the views at Soames Hill

For a rewarding hike, make the time to hike Soames Hill (also known as ‘Knob Hill’) near Gibsons. More of a stair climber than a true nature hike, the journey to the 240m high summit provides a bit of a workout.

It is absolutely worth it though, as you’ll earn stunning panoramas of Gibsons and surrounding islands (Keats, Bowen, Vancouver et al) at the top. 

Why do I consider this hike to be unique? To put it simply, it’s short, quick and has an awesome effort to reward ratio. While it is true that there are plenty of other uphill hiking opportunities on the Sunshine Coast, Soames Hill is particularly special for the ease of access and oustanding payoff.

There are a number of different access points to reach Soames Hill, but I’d recommend using the entry on Bridgeman Road (about 4km north of Gibsons).

From this trailhead, it’s about 45 minutes to the top. There are stairs (400+ of them!) and some steep sections. The trail is well marked and dogs are allowed on leash. 

Tasting locally made beer and cider

There’s a huge array of craft breweries and cideries in British Columbia and the Sunshine Coast is no exception to this rule.

What is a little different though is the emphasis on community supported, small batch production using farm fresh ingredients where possible. There’s nothing ordinary about the craft beer made in this part of the world. 

There are currently four breweries and one cidery on the Sunshine Coast. Each has something special to offer, but we loved Persephone’s sustainability ethos (they have an on-site farm!), relaxed beer garden and huge choice of beers (the cider is also fab).

Over at Tapworks , we were won over by the scenic elevated patio and experimental style. If you like stouts, you have to go here. It was their first beer and you can tell it’s been perfected! 

We were already big fans of the dry style offerings from the Bricker Cider Company but their seasonal releases just keep us coming back. The Brickers taproom, not far from Sechelt, has a lovely garden and rotating food trucks. 

Townsite Brewing in Powell River has a huge range of beers, thoughtfully crafted by Belgian born brew master Cédric.

Housed in the former Federal Building (circa 1939), the brewery itself is as distinguished as the beer. Check out the impressive architecture in the cosy taproom over a flight. Or two.

Hiking to Smugglers Cove

For an easy coastal hike with an unusual history, head to the Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park near Halfmoon Bay (lower Sunshine Coast). The trail begins in the forest but quickly reaches the coastline with views of pretty Smuggler Cove . 

With a round trip distance of around 4km, the Smuggler Cove hike takes around 1.5-2 hours to do. There are a number of other beautiful viewpoints, including one rocky outcrop with fantastic vistas of the Salish Sea.

Along the way, there are interpretive signs to explain the history of the area. Yep, smuggling did happen here, in a few different ways.

The cove was used as a launching point to smuggle Chinese labourers (who had worked on the Canadian Pacific Railway) into the USA. American alcohol smugglers also utilised the cove during Prohibition in the 1920’s. 

Watching the tidal rapids at Skookumchuck Narrows

Twice daily, the Sunshine Coast is witness to an incredible display of the ocean’s power.

As the tide changes in the Skookumchuck Narrows near Egmont, the water rushes through at 30km/h and creates huge waves and whirlpools. It’s an awesome sight, especially when kayakers come out to play in the rapids. 

The Skookumchuck (‘strong water’ in Chinook Jargon) tidal rapids are accessed via a straighforward 4km trail (8km return) through the temperate rainforest. The path is flat for the most part, with the occasional tree root and rock.

Close to the end of the trail, the path splits – Roland Point is best for the big waves seen during flood tides, and North Point for the whirlpools seen during ebb tides. 

Watching the Skookumchuck rapids is definitely one of the most unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC. But you must time it right!

The best viewing times change every day according to the tides and can be found here . There is a 20-30 minute window either side of the best viewing times to see the rapids at capacity. 

For a real one of a kind experience, take a scenic seaplane flight from Sechelt and see the rapids from above!

Taking in a one of a kind sunset 

Having travelled around much of British Columbia over the last seven or so years, the Sunshine Coast remains one of my favourite spots for watching sunsets.

Yes, it’s true, you can see sunsets in many places across BC but watching the sun disappear behind Vancouver Island and the Salish Sea offers a unique kind of magic. 

There are plenty of great places to take in a sunset on the Sunshine Coast. 

Some of my top choices include Bonniebrook beach (Gibsons), Roberts Creek Pier, Davis Bay, Roberts Creek Pier, Halfmoon Bay and Dinner Rock (near Lund).

Another wonderful sunset spot is Tin Hat Mountain on the Sunshine Coast Trail, as mentioned below. You can’t get a more ‘top of the world’ feeling than watching the sun go down from Tin Hat Mountain! 

Hiking the hut-to-hut Sunshine Coast Trail

The Sunshine Coast Trail is a 180km hiking route from Sarah Point to Saltery Bay (upper Sunshine Coast), taking in old growth temperate rainforest, mountain and lake vistas as well as coastal shore. 

There are 16 shelters located regularly along the route, making the Sunshine Coast Trail Canada’s longest hut-to-hut hike. If that wasn’t unique enough, the Sunshine Coast Trail is also completely free to hike! 

Not being located in a provincial or national park, the Sunshine Coast Trail is intersected with both local and working logging roads.

This offers the chance to hike individual sections without having to commit to the full 180km. There is a shuttle bus operation to help with one-way transport. 

We’ve hiked the entire Sunshine Coast Trail, with my favourite sections being Confederation Lake to Walt Hill via Tin Hat Mountain (mid section), Sarah Point to Rieveley Pond (first section) and Fairview Bay to Saltery Bay (very last section).

Driving to the end of Highway 101

It may be a surprising to learn that the tiny coastal community of Lund, north of Powell River, signifies the end (or start, for that matter) of one of the most iconic highways in the world.

Lund is ‘Mile 0’ of Highway 101 (also known as the Pacific Coastal Route), a road that stretches 15,202km to Quellon in Chile. 

As a destination, Lund may seem unassuming at first. But this ‘end of the road’ fishing village is wonderfully quaint and well worth a wander.

As well as having the Sunshine Coast’s first full service Indigenous resort, there’s a fantastic bakery, waterside restaurant, ice cream parlor and wool sweater shop. Lund is also the jumping off point for Savary Island and Desolation Sound. 

Staying overnight in a converted courthouse

For a more unusual stay on the Sunshine Coast, step back time at the Old Courthouse Inn in Townsite, Powell River. This 1939 Tudor style building once hosted Townsite’s court, jail and police station.

Each of the 7 en-suite B&B rooms has been lovingly renovated and individually themed. The halls display interesting antiques and photos of days gone by. 

If you can, combine a night or two at the Old Courthouse Inn with a couple of beers at Townsite Brewing and then a film at the Patricia Theatre (mentioned below). Both are only a two minute walk away! 

Breakfast is included with every overnight stay and is served at Edie Rae’s Cafe downstairs.

Named after the owner’s mother, vintage portraits of Edie adorn the walls of this cosy, inviting space. A boring hotel breakfast buffet this is not, with traditional cooked options as well as a choice of eggs benedicts. 

Paddling the Powell Forest Canoe Route

The Powell Forest Canoe Route provides an an exciting beyond the beaten path multi-day paddling adventure.

Including 63km of interconnected lakes and portages, the Powell Forest Canoe Route is definitely one of the most unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC. 

Despite being adjacent to many active logging roads, the Powell Forest Canoe Circuit offers a surprisingly remote and tranquil wilderness experience.

After setting out from Lois Lake, we didn’t see a soul for the next five days as we portaged and paddled ourselves around eight lakes. 

Whether the Powell Forest is truly wilderness or not, we found plenty of beauty while on the lake and traversing the portages.

Mountains peeking out of the clouds, bald eagles circling, huge frogs hopping along portage paths and more. And it is surrounded by amazingly lush temperate rainforest. 

Visiting beautiful Savary Island

One of the most unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast has to be a visit to Savary Island . This little piece of paradise is located just offshore from Lund is looks more Caribbean than British Columbian. The gleaming white sand beaches of this cute, crescent shaped island are lapped by warm, turquoise waters. 

Populated but not busy, Savary Island is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday on the BC coast. The island is only 7.5km by 1.5km so it is easy to check out a few different beaches by foot or bike. And, as you may have guessed, the sunsets are fabulous! 

There is no vehicle ferry to Savary Island, so park your car at Lund and embrace the break! There are regularly scheduled  water taxis making the 15 minute crossing to the island. 

Watching a film at a 100+ year old movie theatre

Watching a film may not be the most unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast but Patricia Theatre in Townsite, Powell River, is something a little special. For the Patricia is the oldest continuously operating theatre company in British Columbia. 

Built in 1913, a trip to the Patricia offers a heritage experience in addition to entertainment. It began in a tent before moving to its current structure in 1928. The walls are decorated with modest painted peacock murals that hint of a more refined era. 

As well as showing big blockbusters and independent films, the Patricia Theatre continues its role as a social hub by hosting performances and community events. ‘On the Verge,’ a climbing film showcasing the local crags was featured during our two week visit to the Powell River area. 

Kayaking Desolation Sound

Just beyond the northern tip of the Sunshine Coast, Desolation Sound is a paddler’s paradise with calm warm water, abundant wildlife, epic scenery and large choice in campsites.

In my opinion, Desolation Sound is the most accessible and approachable (and obviously beautiful!) multi-day kayaking area on the BC coast. 

The largest marine park in British Columbia, Desolation Sound features protected bays, towering rock bluffs and idyllic islands, backdropped by spectacular fjords and snow capped mountains.

If you’re short on time, consider a short trip to the Copeland Islands. Located a very short paddle north of Lund, these small islands have numerous campsites with incredible panoramas of Vancouver Island.

If the weather isn’t looking great or we are feeling a little lazy, the Copelands makes for a wonderful quick getaway. 

Not an experience kayaker? No problem. There are a number of local adventure tour operators offering guided day and multi-day trips to Desolation Sound.

Camp by the ocean or lake for low cost or even free!

The upper Sunshine Coast has an abundance of free or low cost campgrounds to enjoy. Needless to say, if you’re travelling on a budget, this is a great place to be!

Saltery Bay Provincial Park is a longtime favourite, with generous campsites only a short walk from the water. The beach is rocky, but the sunsets are fabulous. If you can’t secure a reservation, use BC Parks’ new notification feature to check for cancellations.

Lois Lake is one of the most easily accessible free Recreation Site campgrounds in the area. If you have a tent, head to the north side to discover a couple of secluded walk-in sites. The views of the lake are fantastic!

Inland Lake is a large provincial campground located just northwest of Powell River. Availability is consistently good. The highlight of this campground is the accessible, family friendly 13km loop route around the lake.

The Powell Forest Canoe Route (mentioned above) features a host of free paddle-in campgrounds for canoeists. The Sunshine Coast Trail offers the same for hikers, with both hut and campsite options. Desolation Sound has 50+ low cost ($10/night) spots spread across half a dozen areas for paddlers.

How to get to the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast extends 177km along the British Columbia coast from Howe Sound in the south to Desolation Sound in the north.

Though part of the mainland, the nature of the rugged coastline means that the Sunshine Coast is separated from Vancouver by a huge inlet. 

If you’re anything like me, you will agree that road trip involving a ferry ride automatically qualifies it for being more exciting. I have some good news – when visiting the Sunshine Coast, you’ll need to take at least one to get there! 

Taking the ferry to the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is separated into two distinct and characterful sections. 

The lower Sunshine Coast includes Gibsons, Sechelt and numerous other coastal communities. It is accessible via a 40 minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. The ferry arrival point is in Langdale, just a ten minute drive east of Gibsons. 

The upper Sunshine Coast is connected to the lower section by a 50 minute ferry from Earls Cove. From the arrival dock of Saltery Bay, it is a straightforward 30 minute drive along the coast to Powell River.

The Sunshine Coast can also be accessed from Vancouver Island, via a 90 minute ferry from Comox to Powell River.

Sunshine Coast ferry tips

Sailing on BC Ferries is a quintessential part of the Sunshine Coast experience. Crossing the inlets by boat offers spectacular views of the surrounding coastal mountains, a perspective that is difficult to see by car.

With the BC Ferries fare system, you need to pay for each individual passenger (including the driver) plus your vehicle. Return fares are charged from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale and Saltery Bay to Earls Cove so you only physically pay one direction. 

Planning to visit the Sunshine Coast as part of a longer trip through British Columbia? I’d highly recommend utilising the circular ferry route to make the most of your time.

This would include Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, Earls Cove to Saltery Bay, Powell River to Comox and then Nanaimo or Swartz Bay back to Vancouver (Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay). This way you can see the Sunshine Coast AND Vancouver Island.

Here are my tips to make the most of the BC Ferries experience. 

• While BC Ferries vessels on the Sunshine Coast are reasonably large and can load many cars, the space for oversize vehicles (large trucks, vans, RVs and the one we drive!) is more limited. For this reason, arrive as early as possible to secure a spot
• Reservations can be made for the Horseshoe Bay to Langdale and Comox to Powell River crossings. Having a booking guarantees a space on a specific sailing, as long as you arrive within 30-60 minutes of the scheduled departure. The cost of a reservation depends on how far you book in advance. I would highly recommend reserving a spot
• Take a walk! Ferry crossings offer a good opportunity to stretch your legs while on a road trip. Get up on deck and check out the views
• Try and spot some marine wildlife on the ferry. It is not uncommon to see dolphins and whales while on the ferry. The staff will sometimes make announcements if wildlife is spotted

Adventure in your inbox

Subscribe to our monthly email newsletter and receive a round-up of our latest outdoor adventures plus other exciting beyond the beaten path destinations 

We never share your information with third parties and will protect it in accordance with our  Privacy Policy

Check out these recently published posts:

Little Peters Lake and Big Peters Lake, BC: Hiking Guide

Clearwater Lake and Azure Lake, Wells Gray: Complete Canoe Trip Guide

Rafting the Nahatlatch River: Unmissable Whitewater Rafting in BC

One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

David Spence

Saturday 17th of February 2024

Hi Gemma I love your blogs etc, thanks a lot. Our son, age 20, is off to Alaska this summer, on a maiden trip, but firstly wants to spend 3 weeks on Vancouver Island and The Sunshine Coast. He is camping ( no car ) - can you recommend a couple of some campsites on The Sunshine Coast where it is quieter? David & Jacqui Dorset, England.

Sunday 18th of February 2024

You're welcome! The most northern Sunshine Coast (Powell River area) is the quietest section. Most campsites are located away from the highway, however, so without a vehicle, it would be difficult to reach them (unless he is planning to hike the Sunshine Coast Trail?) Inland Lake is one good example of a quieter campground in that area.

One of the most accessible Sunshine Coast Trail campsites is located at Fairview Bay. It's a 5km hike from the Saltery Bay Ferry Terminal.

Wednesday 29th of March 2023

we are going to Sechelt the beginning of April. I know it will be rainy. Wondering is there any cold water scuba diving shops you would recommend? How about restaurants and food shopping. We will have young children with us and adutls of various ages.

Although we both dive, we haven't tried cold water diving yet, so I don't have any dive shop recommendations sorry! It's something I would like to do though, so I hope you have a great time. We usually pick up groceries at the Sechelt Independent store. Check out Butcher Dave's Meat Market if you eat meat. For pub style food, we really like Batch 44 Brewery (families are welcome).

susan salyer

Thursday 1st of September 2022

We live in Bellingham, Wa and have a car trip planned next week after Labor Day in the states. We are spending almost a week resting and hiking on Salt Island and then have planned 3 day in Victoria. Our neighbor suggested going to the Sunshine Coast after Victoria. Do you recommend a hotel or a B&B in the area?

Love you write ups about different parts of Canada. We feel so lucky to have moved so close to such a beautiful country, although Washington is no slouch!

Friday 2nd of September 2022

Nice to hear from you. Great to hear that you're looking to visit the beautiful Sunshine Coast! From Victoria, I would drive north to Comox (3.5 hours), take the ferry to Powell River and then drive down the Sunshine Coast, returning to Bellingham via Horseshoe Bay. That makes the most sense to me. If you're looking to relax, book one of the many oceanfront cottages. We like the Courthouse Inn in Townsite (mentioned in the post) as well as the Lund Resort. Haven't been, but would love to stay at the Rock Water Secret Cove Resort. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Tuesday 30th of August 2022

Hello Gemma and Jean, I just wanna say thank you for sharing this. It's very helpful in so many ways. We are planning to go to Sunshine Coast and I'm glad I saw your page. Enjoy and safe travels,always.

Wednesday 31st of August 2022

Thanks so much Jessa! Have a great trip :)

Sunday 30th of January 2022

We have planned a trip to sunshine coast in March. 14-25.We know we will face some weather. Have you been this time of year? Any suggestions

Wednesday 2nd of February 2022

Hi Stephanie,

We've been in April a couple of times before, though not March. Expect and dress for rain. If there is sunshine, it's a bonus! Most hiking trails will be muddy. Some seasonal places won't be open yet.

20 Unforgettable Things to Do in Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Queensland

This page contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

As appealing as the Sunshine Coast’s beaches are, it’s well worth tearing yourself away for a day (or preferably longer) to explore the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

In the green interior, you can walk through lush rainforest and swim in waterfalls, drive past rolling hills with views down to the ocean, shop in cute villages for locally made products, and enjoy delicious food and drink.

The Hinterland is perfect for a romantic getaway (it’s popular for weddings) as there are many unique places to stay including cosy cottages (and treehouses!) with spa baths and fireplaces. But there’s plenty to do for families and friend groups too.

One weekend in the Hinterland turned into three during our extended stay on the Sunshine Coast—we absolutely love the area.

Here we share our top picks for the best things to do in Sunshine Coast Hinterland including our favourite places to stay and eat.

Near the end of the post, you’ll find a map with all the Sunshine Coast Hinterland attractions mentioned.

Where is Sunshine Coast Hinterland?

Best things to do in sunshine coast hinterland, map of sunshine coast hinterland, is sunshine coast hinterland worth visiting, more australia posts.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is the area inland from the Sunshine Coast, which stretches from Caloundra to Noosa in Southeast Queensland, Australia.

The Hinterland is one to two hours north of Brisbane and can be reached from the coastal towns in around 30-40 minutes.

The heart of the area is the Blackall Range including the towns of Maleny , Montville , and Mapleton .

It also includes the Glass House Mountains further south and towns like Eumundi and Yandina , which are closer to the coast.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is best explored with your own vehicle .

It’s perfect for a road trip from Brisbane (perhaps as a first stop on your way north) or a day trip from the Sunshine Coast beach towns.

If you’re staying in one of the coastal towns and don’t want to drive yourself, try this Sunshine Coast: Rainforest, Views, and Montville Day Tour which visits a lot of the places in this guide.

Back to Contents

1) Stay in a Treehouse at Secrets on the Lake

The luxury treehouses at Secrets on the Lake are one of the best places we’ve ever stayed.

We loved it so much that we booked our second stay as soon as got back from our first trip!

The treehouses are hidden in the rainforest overlooking Lake Baroon . It feels far away from it all, but it’s less than a 10-minute drive to Montville.

The cabins are elevated on stilts amongst the trees and are reached by wooden walkways, which adds to the magical feel of this unique place.

Most of the rooms are designed for couples with spa baths next to the windows, cosy fireplaces, and large terraces with double swing chairs.

They all make the most of the incredible forest and lake views.

The attention to detail is amazing and you can see the love the owners George and Aldy have poured into the place in the last 25 years.

From the beautiful stained glass windows and handcrafted wood carvings in each cabin to the cosy bathrobes, chocolates by the bed, and warm croissants left outside your door each morning.

Treehouses have BBQs and small (but well-equipped) kitchens so you can self-cater or order a meal from the cafe to heat up in the evening. They arranged a delicious cheese plate for us one night.

Secrets on the Lake is a truly special place and perfect for an ultra-relaxing, romantic getaway in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Check availability for Secrets on the Lake here . It’s very popular so book as far in advance as possible.

2) Follow the Blackall Range Tourist Drive

The 55km Blackall Range Tourist Drive (Route 23) runs from Landsborough to Nambour , but the best section connects Maleny to Montville and Mapleton, high up on the escarpment with stunning views of rolling hills and the distant ocean.

If you are short of time, this is the best route to follow to see the highlights of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The drive takes an hour non-stop, but there’s plenty to do along the way (as you’ll discover below).

You can also stop at viewpoints like Gerrard’s Lookout for sweeping views of the countryside and coast.

For a full day out, add on the Glass House Mountains —the main lookout is a 35-minute drive south of Maleny.

3) Eat and Shop in Maleny

Maleny is one of the best places to visit in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The small town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and pockets of ancient rainforest high in the Blackall Range, 425 metres above sea level.

It’s the ideal place to stop for lunch or to stock up on supplies for a self-catering stay in the area.

The town has an alternative vibe—we were surprised that a rural village had so many veggie options, but the community is artistic and eco-conscious.

We had a delicious lunch at Monica’s Cafe , a plant and art-filled space on two levels (grab a couch upstairs). The food, coffee, and hot chocolate were all delicious, and there was even a separate vegan menu.

My vegetable halloumi burger was messy but so good packed with grilled vegetables, halloumi, pesto and mayo with nice chunky chips.

We were also tempted by Maleny Lane , an alleyway full of gourmet world food (Thai, Korean, Indian and more), but it’s not open every day. There’s live music on Friday nights.

The takeaway pies at Maleny Pie Guy looked great too (with vegan options).

For self-catering and picnic ingredients, head to Maleny Food Co for cheese (see below), Maple Street Food Co-op for whole foods and bulk buy, and the Seasons IGA for anything else.

And don’t miss the chocolate at Maleny Chocolate Co !

Other shops in town sell clothes, art, antiques, books, and gifts. All these places are easily accessible on Maple Street .

There’s lots to do near Maleny. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is just outside town and we highly recommend it (see below).

Gardners Falls is also nearby and is one of the most accessible spots for swimming in the Hinterland—the natural pool is only 300 metres from the car park.

Brouhaha Brewery is a popular spot for craft beer fans.

4) Buy Fresh Pasta at Santini il Pastaio

Santini il Pastaio is a fresh pasta shop in Maleny that’s so good it deserves its own entry. We’ve spent a lot of time in Italy and this is the real deal!

If you are self-catering during your stay in the Hinterland, definitely stop here to pick up an easy dinner.

We bought melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi and a simple but perfect Napoletana sauce, and it only took a few minutes to heat up. We couldn’t stop raving about how good it was.

Even if you aren’t self-catering, you can choose your pasta and sauce and have it cooked for you in the shop to take away.

There’s a wide range of pasta and sauces including handmade ravioli and specials like vegetarian lasagne. They also have Italian desserts.

5) Spot Wildlife at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is a must do in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, especially for animal lovers.

This remnant of the subtropical rainforest that once covered the Blackall Range is home to many birds, animals, and some truly impressive trees.

The easy 1.7km rainforest loop takes you around the whole reserve with plenty to see along the way. It took us 45 minutes with lots of stops.

The highlight was the five adorable pademelons (small kangaroos) that we saw including a mother and joey very close to the boardwalk.

You can learn more about the flora and fauna in the Rainforest Discovery Centre . There’s also a cafe that looked appealing.

Head up to the viewing deck above the cafe for a wonderful view of the Glass House Mountains.

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is a 10-minute drive outside Maleny. Entrance is by gold coin donation (contactless is available if you don’t have cash).

6) Hike the Kondalilla Falls Circuit

One of the best Sunshine Coast Hinterland hikes is the Kondalilla Falls Circuit in Kondalilla National Park , just a five-minute drive from Montville.

This beautiful trail includes stunning rainforest, epic valley views, a 90-metre-tall waterfall, and rock pools for swimming.

The 4.8km loop took us 1 hour 20 minutes (two hours including a swimming break) with an elevation gain of 206 metres.

While there are a lot of steps, it wasn’t too difficult. It’s easier if you go anticlockwise (which is the way the signs will take you). This also leaves the rock pools to the end.

After parking at Kondalilla Falls Car Park, head down the steps to a picnic area (there are toilets and information signs here) and start on the Picnic Creek Circuit .

Go right at the junction and after about 20 minutes you’ll reach a lookout (slightly off-trail) with expansive views of the valley.

Then join the Kondalilla Falls Circuit (head right away from the rock pools) which will take you down steep steps through the forest far down into the valley.

There’s a lookout to see Kondalilla Falls on the way down—a tall but narrow trickle of water for us in winter.

At the bottom, you can take a detour (about 10 minutes return) to the bottom of the falls. You have to scramble over some rocks to get to the small pool (not very appealing for swimming on our visit—save that for later).

Now you have to make your way back up the other side of the valley, but the switchbacks make it easier than the stairs on the other side.

Your reward at the top is the rock pools at the very top of the waterfall, which are perfect for a swim. In winter, I had it to myself but it was chilly. Watch out for the eels!

From the rock pools, it took us 20 minutes to return to the car park, taking the other side of the Picnic Creek Loop.

While you could head straight to the rock pools if you have limited time or energy, I really loved the whole hike.

Kondalilla Falls is justifiably popular so it’s best visited on a weekday.

If you need lunch after your hike, the Kondalilla Restaurant in Kondalilla Eco Resort is next to the park.

There’s a lovely bush view from the terrace and the vegetarian and seafood menu is great if are looking for something lighter. Our Nourish bowl and Thai curry were both veggie-packed and delicious.

7) Visit Lake Baroon

Lake Baroon is a hidden gem in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The lake was created by Baroon Pocket Dam and is a peaceful spot for picnics, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

There are no water sports rentals, but if you stay at Secrets by the Lake (as we did), canoes are free for guests.

Even if you don’t stay at Secrets, I recommend visiting their cafe for coffee, lunch, or afternoon tea as the terrace has a fantastic view of the lake.

The northern end of the lake is also the start of the 58km Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk . You can do a shorter hike in Kondalilla National Park here through some lovely forest.

The 5.5km return hike to Narrows Lookout and Baroon Lookout takes you to a view of the lake.

You can also walk the 10km to Kondalilla Falls from here. If you are staying at Secrets, they can drop you off with a packed lunch so you can do a one-way hike back.

Unfortunately, you can’t swim in most of Lake Baroon as it provides drinking water to the area. There is one swimming area on the southern side (look for “Baroon Pocket Dam (North Maleny side)” on Google Maps).

8) Sample Local Cheeses

This rural area is heaven for cheese lovers with several local dairies.

We shopped for a cheese plate at Maleny Food Co , which has a walk-in Fromagerie with more than 250 Australian and international cheeses to choose from.

They have plenty of chutneys and pastes to go with the cheese. You can also eat in their cafe or they can arrange cheese and picnic boxes with 48 hours notice.

Kenilworth Dairy is known for its excellent cheese and you can visit their shop and cafe in Kenilworth.

Maleny Cheese is another popular option for cheese plates in their cafe that overlooks the factory floor.

Why not let someone else do the planning and try this Private Small Group Sunshine Coast Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tour which includes pick up and a two course lunch.

9) Indulge at the Chocolate Shops

Every Sunny Coast Hinterland town seems to have a chocolate shop and we’re not complaining.

Maleny Chocolate Co is down the stairs below Monica’s Cafe and has a wide range of treats (with free samples). We especially loved the peppermint bark and honeycomb bark (made using honey from their farm).

Chocolate Country Montville is another great spot. Their truffles are lovely and you can enjoy a hot chocolate in the cafe.

If you prefer fudge, Fudgyboombahs in Montville is popular.

10) Shop in Montville

Montville is a pretty mountain town 15 minutes from Maleny on Route 23. Spending an hour or so browsing the shops here is one of the best things to do in Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

While there is parking on Main St , it’s easier to go to the large free car park behind the Clock Shop . There’s a public toilet here and everything is an easy walk down Main Street.

Some Montville highlights include:

• Clock Shop – A quirky store selling cuckoo and grandfather clocks plus Christmas decorations and gifts.
• Tamborine Tea – A wonderful range of loose-leaf teas including black, green, and herbal. They have testers so you can smell them all.
• Montville Art Gallery – Paintings by local artists.
• Chocolate Country Montville – Delicious chocolates.

There are many other gift shops and galleries including woodworking and ceramics.

We had lunch at Edamame , a Japanese cafe on an upper floor overlooking Main Street. The small menu includes donburi (rice bowls), ramen, curry, and salads with a few vegan and gluten-free options.

11) Stop at Mapleton Falls Lookout

Mapleton Falls Lookout is a wheelchair-accessible viewpoint next to the car park in Mapleton Falls National Park .

At the lookout, you peer down from the top of the 120-metre waterfall, which was a trickle in winter (summer is the rainy season), but it’s still worth stopping for the expansive views of Obi Obi Valley and the rainforest canopy.

In August and September, look out for peregrine falcons, which roost on the cliff edges here.

The Great Walk passes through here, but if you just want to stretch your legs, the Wompoo Circuit is a lovely walk through rainforest and eucalypt forest.

Including the Peregrine Lookout side trip, it was 1.7km for us and took 25 minutes with 65 metres of elevation gain. It was fairly easy with a few gentle ascents, and it’s quieter than Kondalilla National Park.

12) Visit Kenilworth Bakery and Dairy

If you have time after visiting Maleny, Montville, and Mapleton, it’s worth driving to Kenilworth , another little country town.

It was a beautiful drive down from Mapleton on Obi Obi Rd , although we hadn’t expected it to be unsealed and so steep. No caravans are allowed. The road is sealed on the way back up.

Kenilworth is surrounded by farmland with cows grazing and feels far away from it all.

Kenilworth Bakery is renowned in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for its pies and donuts, which you can buy from side-by-side shops on Elizabeth Street . I recommend trying both.

We were pleased that they had good vegan options in both. We loved the roast vegetable and korma pastry roll and the southwest tofu pie (like a chile with spicy beans, vegetables, and tofu).

There’s a huge range of decadent donuts. We chose the relatively simple chocolate glaze and a vegan jam donut. Both were delicious, but we actually preferred the texture of the vegan one.

You can also get a coffee donut (a hollowed-out donut filled with coffee!) and a very intense-looking 1kg donut (pre-order needed).

Eat your treats at the picnic tables behind the shops and enjoy the murals by Daus Von Roe featuring music stars.

A few minutes walk from the bakery is Kenilworth Dairy . There’s an outdoor cafe and store where you can buy their large range of cheeses and other foodie products.

I’d heard their yoghurts and chocolate mousse were excellent, but unfortunately, they contain gelatine so are not vegetarian-friendly.

From Kenilworth, you could loop back to Maleny on Route 22 or head to the coast via Eumundi .

13) Admire the Huge Trees on the Fig Tree Walk

One of the easiest attractions to add to your Kenilworth visit is the Fig Tree Walk , a seven-minute drive out of town.

From the parking area, cross the bridge to get to the wheelchair-accessible paved and boardwalk loop.

The 1.1km flat trail took us 15 minutes and passed two immense 150-year-old Moreton Bay fig trees.

14) See the View at Glass House Mountains Lookout

The Glass House Mountains are at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The countryside is flatter than the Blackall Range, but the landscape is punctuated by unique plugs, which were formed by volcanic activity over 25 million years ago.

The easiest place to see the array of craggy peaks is the Glass House Mountains Lookout, which you can drive right up to.

It’s a great overview of the area with signs to identify each mountain and information on how they were formed.

Facilities here include toilets, picnic tables, and BBQs. There’s also a 800-metre bush walk but it doesn’t have views, so you could skip it if you are doing other walks in the area.

Just down the road is the Lookout Cafe , which has fantastic views of Mt Coonowrin from the terrace.

We had coffee here while staying at Glass on Glasshouse on-site, but the menu looked appealing.

15) Hike Mt Ngungun for an Even Better View

For an even better view of the Glass House Mountains, it’s worth heading up Mt Ngungun .

While the rocky steps up are quite steep, it’s not a difficult walk. The return trip was 2.5km and took us 45 minutes (plus a break at the top) with a 190-metre elevation gain.

Wear shoes with traction as the rocks at the summit are quite slippery.

We also walked the 4.4km / 1 hour Mount Tibrogargan Circuit . It’s easier than Mt Ngungun, but it’s through the bush around the base of the mountain, so you only get occasional views of the mountains.

16) Stay in a Stunning Cottage at Glass on Glasshouse

Our ideal Sunshine Coast Hinterland visit would include stays at both Secrets on the Lake in Montville and Glass on Glasshouse .

Glass on Glasshouse is an adults-only retreat with three private cottages with floor-to-ceiling windows to make the most of the stunning views of Mt Coonowrin.

The cottages are ultra-modern and stylish with a huge spa bath that fills from the ceiling, a patio with BBQ, and a fridge stocked with tasty breakfast ingredients.

You won’t want to leave, so bring food to self-cater or order a meal in advance from the cafe.

There’s a shared pool, which we had to ourselves and was perfect to cool off on a hot afternoon.

Look out for kangaroos on the lawns!

We absolutely loved our stay here and it’s perfect for a tranquil, romantic weekend away in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Check availability for Glass on Glasshouse here . Make sure to book well ahead.

17) Enjoy a Leisurely Lunch at Spirit House

Spirit House is one of the most beloved destination restaurants on the Sunshine Coast and was our favourite meal in the area.

It’s located in the small town of Yandina , between the coast and the Blackall Ranges. It’s close to the Ginger Factory and Eumundi Market , so consider combining all three (easily done as a day trip from Noosa too).

The setting is beautiful with colourful buildings amongst lush Asian gardens and swaying bamboo. The main dining room is open-air and surrounds a lovely pond.

Spirit House is ideal for a special occasion. The minimum cost is $100 per person for three courses or choose the premium banquet at $120 for four courses served sharing style. Allow at least two hours for a leisurely meal.

The food is Thai inspired and the flavours felt authentic to us, albeit with a new interpretation.

Our vegetarian premium banquet included Miang Kham (peanuts and ginger wrapped in a betel leaf—a little flavour implosion), tom yum soup, steamed pumpkin cake, and our favourite, the sweet and spicy Fried Plantain and Tuturuga Spice Paste.

Our mains were an excellent Yellow Curry with beetroot cooked in multiple ways and a Mushroom Pad See Ew.

Dessert varies each day and was a highlight for us. The Mango Sticky Rice “Eton Mess” combined mango sorbet, meringue, and crystallised pandan for a light, fruity, crunchy end to a wonderful meal.

The food, service, and setting are all exceptional at Spirit House and we highly recommend it.

Advance bookings are essential—likely at least a few weeks for lunch and longer for dinner.

Are you visiting Noosa too? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Noosa from casual eats to beachfront dining and the best things to do in Noosa.

18) Experience the Ginger Factory

Also in Yandina is the Ginger Factory . I initially dismissed it as a tourist trap, but we ended up enjoying our time there.

It’s one of the top Sunshine Coast Hinterland attractions for families, but if you like ginger, it’s worth visiting even without kids.

Buderim ginger is some of the best in the world. While they no longer grow ginger here, it’s processed on-site with ginger grown by local farmers.

At Ginger Factory you can learn the history of ginger production in the area, see how it’s grown, and shop for a wide range of ginger products (the ginger beer with spiced rum is our favourite).

The large complex is more of a ginger theme park. You can take a steam train around the grounds, look for gingerbread men on the indoor boat ride (think Disney’s It’s a Small World ), and stroll through a rainforest walk under vibrant umbrellas.

The grounds and play areas are free, but the train, boat ride, and various tours cost extra.

We enjoyed the seasonal Harvest Tour, where we learnt how ginger is grown and harvested and tried a few of their products.

The train and boat ride were cute but skippable for adults without kids.

Families could easily spend half a day here doing all the activities.

19) Buy Local Crafts at Eumundi Market

The famous Eumundi Market is one of the top Sunshine Coast Hinterland activities.

The huge market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday morning and features an array of stalls selling clothes, jewellery, art, gifts, games, home decor, ceramics and more.

There’s much less of a food focus than the farmers markets in the area (like the excellent one in Noosa on Sundays—see our Noosa restaurants guide for our fave stalls), so this isn’t the place to shop for fresh produce.

You can find nuts, honey, hot sauces, and chutneys, and we picked up a lovely Thai curry paste.

There are quite a few prepared food stalls for breakfast—we ate Tibetan momos and Dutch mini pancakes—but we didn’t find the options as appealing as at Noosa’s market.

Even though we’re not really into shopping, we spent 90 minutes here. Shopping lovers will be in heaven.

Parking is $9 (card only). The market is popular but we didn’t find it overwhelming on a Wednesday arriving early.

20) Celebrate Christmas in July

The weather is slightly cooler in the Hinterland than on the coast, so it’s the best spot to celebrate Christmas in July. Don’t expect snow (afternoons can still be 20ºC+), but you can appreciate a fire and warming meal on the cool nights.

Secrets on the Lake had their Christmas tree up on our July visit and a festive dinner was available for one night with lunches throughout the month.

Other places with Christmas in July celebrations are Montville Cafe Bar & Grill and The Long Apron . Bookings are essential.

When we originally planned our Sunshine Coast trip, the beaches were our focus, but the rolling green hills and rainforests of the interior stole our hearts.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is well worth visiting whether you are looking for a relaxing, romantic break, an adventure-filled weekend of hikes and waterfall swims, or a leisurely day trip of shopping and eating.

I hope this guide has given you some ideas of what to do in Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Leave a comment below if you have any other suggestions.

Sunshine Coast, Queensland

• 22 Unmissable Things to Do in Noosa
• 27 Best Restaurants in Noosa: Cheap Eats to Beachfront Dining
• 7 Beautiful Walks in Noosa National Park
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Caloundra

Elsewhere in Queensland

• 11 Incredible Things to Do in K’gari (Fraser Island)
• The Perfect Weekend in Brisbane Itinerary
• 19 Amazing Things to Do on North Stradbroke Island, Queensland
• 14 Best Day Trips from Melbourne
• The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary

If you enjoyed this post, pin for later!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Required fields are marked *. Your email address will not be published. By clicking the Submit button, you give consent for us to store your information for the purposes of displaying your comment and you accept the terms of our Privacy Policy .

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Sunshine Coast’s newest things to discover

You’ll find your ‘to-do’ list truly blossoming this spring.

From refurbished coastal stays to boutique hidden gems in the Hinterland, our eyes are fixed on the sparkling newbies that have hit the Sunshine Coast stage. Read on to discover how you can get up close to underwater creatures, take to the skies for a unique picnic experience, and toast our golden afternoons at a rolling brewery and distillery festival.  

Stay in style  

Embrace the country-chic vibe that’s been filling your social media feed recently with a stay at Montville Estate or book a couple of nights at Elsie’s Cottage , which has been nestled amongst the Hinterland hills for over 100 years. This cute spot only recently opened its doors for guests and boasts panoramic views over the Blackall Range to the coast. Keep the historic vibes flowing further northward at The Wimberley (c.1911) in the Gympie Region 's charming village of Goomeri, where a bustling hardware store has been transformed into cosy boutique stay. From here, you’ll be set to visit the area’s iconic rail trail and sample delicious local produce.  

Set amongst acres of natural beauty in Cooroy , Thirlestane Farm will have you skipping Noosa 's bustle while still only being a 20-minute drive from its sparkling beaches. This quintessential farm cottage has all the trimmings for an ideal family escape to the country – including a newly built barn and adorable highland cows. Meanwhile, minimalism is the name of the game at Tiny Aahana , a tiny home that sleeps up to six guests and boasts an enticing outdoor tub with sweeping views across the lush landscape beyond.  

Mirra Chana, Mooloolaba Sunshine Coast Getaways

If you’re heading to Mooloolaba , Mirra Chana ’s beach-level three-bedroom apartments have undergone impressive renos with contemporary furnishings, deluxe bathrooms, and fully-equipped kitchens. Here, you’ll be set to enjoy the ideal beachside escape, thanks to the direct access to Mooloolaba Beach and short walking distance from The Wharf Mooloolaba .  

If a touch of luxury is calling your name, Makepeace Island on the Noosa River has reopened to the public with a glossy makeover, including a new tennis court and barge. This iconic heart-shaped private island is happy to play host for up to 22 of your closest mates exclusively, with three two-bedroom villas and four private rooms in the Bali House. 

We’ll drink to that  

Glasshouse Plantation

If you’re looking for another reason to love Maroochydore , the opening of Buderim Distilling Co on Ocean Street should seal the deal. Here, expect to sip on craft spirits from the on-site distillery along with the best of local beers and a global wine selection. Tastings, share plates, and a wide selection of cocktails made from locally sourced ingredients are also on the agenda, so settle back for a good time with your mates.  

If a different kind of brew is calling your name, head inland to Glasshouse Plantation , which boasts a working coffee farm. Enjoy the full farm-to-cup coffee experience, including tastings, tours, and more, as you soak up the stunning Glass House Mountain views peeking through the treetops.  

Moments to remember 

Oceanview Hel

If you’re keen to impress your date, take romantic sparks to new heights thanks to the all-new ‘Picnic on a Peak’ experience offered by Oceanview Helicopters . Taking flight from September 2024, you’ll get to traverse some of our 100km of coastline before heading inland to collect produce from local suppliers. The journey then wraps up at a hidden gem perched on top of the Blackall Range for a scenic gourmet picnic.  

Underwater fun kicks off at Mooloolaba’s SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast , thanks to the launch of a new ‘Behind the Scenes’ Ultimate Animal Experience. The three-hour guided tour is hosted by one of SEA LIFE’s marine specialists, and you’ll get to swim and meet with the seals, feed the penguins, and get an exclusive look at the back of house areas. Alternatively, head up to Noosa and hop in a kayak for a spectacular whale-watching ocean kayak tour with Epic Ocean Adventures . This new tour is one of Australia’s most unique minimal impact experiences, and departs daily during the whale migration season (June-November).  

Get the party started  

Big Pineapple Festival

Festival season is upon us, and this spring we’ll be welcoming back one of Australia’s most-loved outdoor concerts: the Big Pineapple Festival . After a three-year hiatus, this juicy gem is BACK on 19 October 2024, featuring heavy metal guns The Amity Affliction, global sensation Tones and I, and hip-hop trio Bliss n Eco.  

A week later, swap tunes for brews at the Sunshine Coast Pop & Pour Festival on 26 October 2024. This one-day brewery and distillery adventure will have you jumping aboard a fleet of hop-on-hop-off buses and embarking on a journey through our vibrant beverage scene. Ten of our region’s top breweries and distilleries will be cracking open the drinks for tastings. Cheers!  

Experiences & Things To Do

Booloumba Creek

Experience a taste of the tropics in our backyard.

Caravanning and camping on the Sunshine Coast

It’s time to turn the wheels towards the Sunshine Coast.

Eat your way around the Sunshine Coast

Take a road trip from south to north and satisfy your cravings along the way.

A guide to the Sunshine Coast's walking trails

Discover our guide to local hiking spots: from short & sweet, to something more challenging.

Searys Creek

It’s official: we’ve found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow!

Where to eat in Maleny

You’re in good hands when it comes to the Maleny food scene, with cosy cafes, a boutique wine bar and cheese factory filling the menu.

Your guide to food and drink festivals on the Sunshine Coast

With close to 200+ events spanning our spectacular autumn and winter days, tuck into our feast of food and drink festivals running from May through to August.

Whale-watching on the Sunshine Coast

June marks the official start date of whale watching season in Queensland.