The Best Things To Do On The Sunshine Coast

Beaches, food scene and plenty of cultural activities are located around the Sunshine Coast, which makes it an ideal spot to visit whether you’re travelling as a couple or as a family. Along the expansive stretch of coastline, the Sunshine Coast is dotted with many quaint villages and famous surf spots – perfect for a holiday year-round! One of the most popular spots in the Sunshine Coast is Noosa, which is centrally located along the Coast and features a number of shopping boutiques, restaurants, cafes and points of interest. For those who love to get out and relax, golfing and a variety of other outdoor recreational activities are easy to find throughout the cute village towns.

When you’re in the Sunshine Coast, you can easily find day-trip itineraries to fill out your stay. Hop on a car ferry and travel to the Great Sandy National Park or even famous Fraser Island, which is listed as a World Heritage site. One of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in the Sunshine Coast is Noosa, which is packed with countless bars, boutiques and cafes. Check out Hastings Street, which has casual eateries as well as establishments hosted by world-famous chefs! Waterfront dining is an exceptional option from restaurants like Wasabi – if you’re looking for a romantic beachside dining spot, head to the Netanya Noosa.

While on holiday, it’s always a good idea to do something you don’t have the opportunity to do back home. One highlight from a trip to the Sunshine Coast is to swim with whales in Mooloolaba! During a whale watching excursion, you’ll have the opportunity to head into the water with snorkels and view the migration from underwater. This works best for visitors who are at the Sunshine Coast between the months of July and October, during the natural whale migration.

After you’ve spent some time outdoors, be sure to check out any number of the markets that are open along the Sunshine Coast. Whether you want to browse the Noosa Farmers Market for fresh, local produce or you want to pick up some artisanal crafts to take back home from Eumundi Markets, the Sunshine Coast has something for any interest.

HERE ARE OUR PICKS FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO ON THE SUNSHINE COAST…

Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo is iconic, and famous for its unique management by the Irwin family. It’s a must-see part of any trip to Queensland. Boasting a wide range of international and native animals, you can tailor your day to make it special. There’s Bindi’s Bootcamp for the young, and a wide range of “up close and personal” experiences available. Make it a big day, you won’t regret it!

Eumundi Markets

Every Wednesday and Saturday, locals and visitors flock to the Eumundi Markets to search for hidden treasure, or a keepsake amongst the myriad of stalls that line the laneways of this market. From food to sculptures, jewellery, wood work and clothes, this market has it all. When you’ve exhausted yourself exploring the stalls, take a walk along the main street of Eumundi, its right next door to the markets.

Noosa

Picture untouched rainforests and lush national parks, scattered along pristine white-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters; all with the comfort of luxury hotels, high-end shopping and 5-star dining – that’s Noosa. This picturesque, family-friendly paradise is world-renowned; and so it should be!

Noosa National Park

When it’s time to take a break from the “highlife” of Hastings Street, a wander down to the Noosa National Park provides some quiet time. Just walk along the boardwalk from the beach and suddenly, you’ve escaped the crowds. Keep an eye out over the ocean, as there’s a chance to catch sight of whales or a glimpse of a turtle. This pristine natural wonderland is a must-see!

Noosa Main Beach

Trendy, safe and fun – that sums up Noosa Main Beach. It’s considered one of the best beaches in Queensland and the locals and visitors endorse it each year by flocking to its shoreline. The beach is lined by a Boardwalk that can take you one way to local National Parks, and the other way to the famous “Hasting Street”, where bars and restaurants abound.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is both the largest sand island in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sitting off of the Sunshine Coast, it stretches over 123km and every inch is a haven of sandy beaches and stunning cliff faces. The crystalline blue waters and shimming white sands make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia.

Rainbow Beach

Rainbow beach is a small coastal town on the Sunshine Coast – hidden away from the hustle-and-bustle of mainstream society. Home to the magnificent the multi-coloured sand cliffs, backed by untouched coastal forests; Rainbow beach is one of the most picturesque places on earth.

Mooloolaba

Mooloolaba is a pristine beach town on the Sunshine Coast of Australia. This family-friendly destination is sure to put you “in the mood” as its golden sands and glistening waters caress the coast. Perfect for relaxation, shopping and a touch of adventure; Mooloolaba is the perfect getaway spot!

Coolum Beach

Coolum Beach has come a long way over the years – from what was once a quiet one-street town, to today, being one of the most popular destinations on the Sunshine Coast. With numerous boutique shops to explore, and several trendy cafes and restaurants to dine in, Coolum Beach has plenty to offer those who want to get away from the mainstream tourist trail for a while. The lifesaver-patrolled beach is a great place for swimming and surfing, or just a leisurely stroll at the end of a relaxing day, and if you’re looking for something a bit more active, you can always try conquering the towering Mount Coolum!

Sunshine Beach

Located in the iconic Noosa region of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Beach offers a beautiful patrolled beach in a very trendy area, and is the perfect place for a swim, or to spend a day relaxing on the golden sand. There are plenty of boutique shops nearby, and there’s a host of fantastic places to sit back with a drink and a meal, so it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!

Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Come for the day – or for the entire weekend – to the breathtaking region of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland! The beautiful villages of Maleny and Montville are full of eclectic boutique arts and crafts stores, and the surrounding countryside is filled with crisp-clean air and beautiful natural terrain, as far as the eye can see. The area is fantastic for hikers, with countless trails through the never-ending scenic ranges, and for those looking for something a little more relaxing, you can always unwind for an afternoon in one of the many wineries on offer!

Maroochydore

Just north of Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast – Maroochydore is a family-friendly coastal town with golden beaches and endless summer weather. Great for surfing, and littered with cafes, restaurants and boutique shopping, Maroochydore is a great alternative to other, more “touristy” options.