The lovely Sunshine Coast in Queensland is home to Australia’s best beaches, renowned surfing spots, and stunning rural hinterland. Famous for being a perfect holiday destination, there are a lot of things to do in Sunshine Coast, such as visiting Australia Zoo, walking the trails of the national parks, or heading north to the beaches of Noosa. No matter the activity, travelers would definitely enjoy exploring around this engaging seaside town.
Owned by the famed “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin’s family, this 404-hectare zoo in Sunshine Coast is a popular attraction in the city. Home to a wide range of animals of different species, it is perhaps one of the best zoos in the country to date. In addition to the zoo’s active participation in animal rescue and rehabilitation, visitors can enjoy watching live animal shows, crocodile feedings, as well walking through different exhibits.
South East Queensland’s most picturesque coastline, the Noosa National Park is Australia’s favorite national park, with records of a million visitors annually. Get to appreciate the different but equally scenic views at the Noosa Heads section, high dunes around Lake Weyba, Emu Mountain, and of course the coastal lowlands along Coolum Beach. Take a stroll along the coastal walk, laze around, watch surfers, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a pod of dolphins.
If you’re wondering what else to do in Sunshine Coast, one simple yet exciting activity is to visit the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium in Mooloolaba. Take a closer look and learn more about Australia’s thriving underwater world when you visit this oceanarium and wildlife sanctuary. The Aquarium is home to many species of marine animals some of which are rescued. Enjoy entertaining seal shows, walk through the glass tunnel and many other fun activities!
Take a day of relaxation at the Noosa Heads Main Beach, one of the top sights in Sunshine Coast that tourists and locals love to visit. Enjoy the national park’s fine white sands, turquoise waters, and chill atmosphere as you laze by the beach or at the many cafes and restaurants along the coast. There are also a lot of activities to be done, such as body surfing, swimming, or perhaps take a stroll along the boardwalk.
Located at Nambour Connection road is the Big Pineapple, a heritage-listed site and considered as one of the favorite attractions in Sunshine Coast. The pineapple structure is 16 meters high and is found within the 165 hectare Sunshine Plantation. Get a photo op with the giant pineapple as your backdrop, and take a ride on the pineapple train for an informative ride through the plantation. Visit the zoo nearby to have a close encounter with some cute koala bears, monkeys, wallabies, and more!
Sunshine Coast boasts many natural attractions, one of which is the beautiful Glass House Mountains National Park. With craggy peaks towering the pine plantation landscape, the national park is a favorite playground for many nature-loving visitors. With a number of walking trails and breathtaking views, you can take an afternoon adventure to nature for some recreational activities, such as biking along the trails, or taking a hike up the summits.
Spend a fun day out with the kids and experience one of Sunshine Coast’s favorite theme parks, Aussie World. The park offers a lot of exciting rides and attractions such as the thrilling log ride, the Mayhem maze, or a more relaxing activity, perhaps taking a shot at the mini golf course. Whatever the activity, there’s always something fun for all ages. Make sure to stop over at the pub next door for some delicious lunch and snacks.
Experience the fascinating world of the Ginger Factory, one of Sunshine Coast’s popular attractions. A number of fun activities await visitors. Go on an exciting factory tour and hop on a scenic garden ride on Moreton, a 114 year old Ginger Train, an educational boat ride on the Overboard, or connect with nature as you stroll through the factory’s rainforest. Don’t forget to stop over at the cafe for some ginger beer and ice cream!
Right in the heart of the Noosa Heads Main Beach is the bustling Hastings Street. Lined with cafes, restaurants, shops and boutiques, you’ll find yourself along the avenue and having a blast at window-shopping. Visitors come here for the street’s wonderful balance of beachside luxury with its high-end hotels and mouthwatering restaurants, as well as the laidback holiday atmosphere it gives out. From a day out at the beach, treat yourself to some delicious ice cream or perhaps a relaxing massage at the many day spas in Hastings Street.
Powdery white sandy beaches, turquoise ocean, and beautiful beachfront esplanade – there's so much more to love about Mooloolaba Beach, Sunshine Coast's main beach. Known as one of Australia's cleanest and safest surfing beaches, families flock here for a relaxing day at the beach. Make sure you head to the many cafes and restaurants lined up on the esplanade for some seafood or barbecue lunch.
This seaside holiday town is known for its beautiful rural hinterland, unspoiled national parks, well-preserved natural attractions, and of course, being home to one of Australia’s pristine beaches and surf spots.
Sunshine Coast has subtropical conditions, so you’ll mostly experience warm days throughout the year. However, cooler weather happens between April to September. Peak travel usually happens during summer holidays in December to January and also in October to November when a few festivals take place.
Being surrounded by beautiful scenery, you have a number of areas to choose from depending on your preferences. Noosa and Caloundra is a perfect place if you want to be near the beautiful beaches. You can also choose to stay at the bustling CBD area of downtown Sunshine Coast or Mooloolaba to be close to most of the town’s attractions.