Welcome to the Sunshine Coast
Sun-drenched, wide-open beaches, laid-back villages and lush hinterland – the Sunshine Coast, just north of Brisbane, is South East Queensland’s relaxed beachside escape. From the sophisticated resort village of Noosa to the dramatic mountain peaks of the hinterland, this holiday hub is dotted with relaxed urban surf towns. A place to truly let your shoulders drop, choose your village bliss, wander the shoreline, listen to the local birdsong and prepare for nature’s relaxation haven.
Your Kind of Play
Home to excellent surfing conditions, beautiful beaches, and the iconic Hastings Street, spend your days relaxing in the sunshine on the Sunshine Coast. Water sports, delicious dining, wholesome attractions, and friendly locals make the Sunshine Coast your perfect next Queensland escape. Great for water sports on the Noosa River, nature walks in National Parks and kicking back in thriving local haunts, the many villages of the Sunshine Coast offer plenty of holiday activities.
Wander the Caloundra Coastal Walk, stretching 25-kilometres from Golden Beach to Mooloolaba. With stunning views from Point Cartwright’s heritage-listed lighthouse, this one is a must – particularly from July to late October during whale watching season.
Iconic attractions will bring fun for the whole tribe like Australia Zoo, Aussie World, The Big Pineapple, Sea Life Aquarium, The Ginger Factory, and the giant Bellingham Hedge Maze in Tanawha. Enjoy decadent dining hubs and festivals dedicated to all things fresh and delicious with the Noosa Eat and Drink Festival and the Craft Beer Festival in June.
Coastal Villages
From Noosa Heads down to Golden Beach the Sunshine Coast is lined with wide, pristine beaches and backed by National Parks and mountain peaks.
Stay in Noosa for luxurious resorts, beach and river options, plus the famous Hastings Street full of decadent places to dine and enjoy sunset drinks. Seaside Peregian Beach, Coolum, Marcoola and Mudjimba offer sought-after, calm beachside retreats, while further south you’ll find plenty of pumping surf spots.
Great for experienced surfers, Maroochydore, Cotton Tree and Alexandra Headland offer rolling waves and vibrant urban hubs. Locals also love the surf beaches at Mooloolaba, home to a lively esplanade with great shopping and dining. Indulge at the Wharf Precinct with excellent seafood straight from the trawlers.
At the tip of Pumicestone Passage, Caloundra’s waters are perfect for jet skiing, paddle boarding and boating. Explore the Shelly Beach rockpools, relax at Moffat and Dicky Beach and take a dip at Kings Beach Ocean Pool. With alfresco cafes, street art and music festivals, there’s something for all ages at Caloundra.
Hinterland Haven
The Sunshine Coast’s Glass House Mountains are perfect for hikers, and those ready to breathe the crisp mountain air. Steeped in indigenous history, the ‘parent’ mountains of Tibrogargan and Beerwah are joined by their many mountainous ‘children’. The molten lava volcanic peaks offer a mix of hiking and walking tracks with incredible views that will rejuvenate the soul.
Take a trip up to the hinterland and dip in the cool swimming holes and waterfalls of Kondalilla National Park. Pick up some delicious cheese at Maleny and wash it down at the Brouhaha Brewery. Trawl the markets for unusual finds at Eumundi and wander the quaint town of Montville. With so many wineries and hidden gems along the way like Spicers Clovelly’s hatted restaurant, you’ll need more than a few days to experience the lot.