Welcome to the Sunshine Coast, a coastal paradise that’s more than just a surfer’s dream.
With its pristine beaches, lush hinterland, and vibrant markets, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and uncover the top attractions that make the Sunshine Coast a must-visit spot on any Australian itinerary.
Top 6 Visitor Attractions on the Sunshine Coast
1. Sublime Beaches
The Sunshine Coast is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, each offering a unique charm and beauty. The coastline stretches over 60 kilometres, presenting a diverse range of seaside experiences for every type of beachgoer.
Let’s start with Noosa Main Beach, one of the few beaches in Australia that faces north. This makes it particularly popular among families and those learning to surf, as the gentle waves and warm waters, create the perfect environment for a relaxing day at the beach. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards year-round, ensuring a safe swimming environment for all. Adjacent to the bustling Hastings Street, you’ll find a plethora of dining and shopping options to explore once you’ve had your fill of sun and sand.
Further south, Mooloolaba Beach offers a more vibrant atmosphere. This beach is known for its clean, white sand and clear, blue waters. It’s a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike, offering excellent conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The Mooloolaba Esplanade, located just steps from the beach, is a bustling hub of activity. Here, you’ll find a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. After a day at the beach, you can enjoy a delicious meal while watching the sunset over the ocean.
For those seeking a more secluded beach experience, the hidden coves of Sunshine Beach are a must-visit. Nestled at the southern end of Noosa National Park, these beaches offer a tranquil escape from the more crowded areas. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful day of sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the park.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking for the perfect wave, a family seeking a safe swimming spot, or a couple in search of a romantic seaside getaway, the beaches of the Sunshine Coast have something to offer everyone. Each beach presents its own unique charm, ensuring an unforgettable coastal experience no matter where you choose to lay your towel.
2. Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo, often referred to as the “Home of the Crocodile Hunter,” is an iconic attraction on the Sunshine Coast. Founded by the parents of the late Steve Irwin, the zoo continues to embody his passionate spirit for wildlife conservation.
Spanning over 100 acres, Australia Zoo is home to a wide array of animals from Australia and around the world. From cuddly koalas and waddling wombats to majestic tigers and, of course, the infamous saltwater crocodiles, the zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience. The zoo’s open and interactive enclosures are designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe these creatures up close.
One of the highlights of a visit to Australia Zoo is the Crocoseum, a 5000-seat stadium where you can witness the power and agility of crocodiles during live feeding shows. These thrilling performances, combined with informative talks, provide insight into the behaviour and conservation of these incredible reptiles.
The zoo also offers various animal encounters, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with some of their favourite creatures. Whether you’re hand-feeding kangaroos, cuddling a koala, or even walking a wombat, these experiences are sure to create lasting memories.
Australia Zoo is not just about observing animals, though. It’s about education and conservation. The zoo is heavily involved in wildlife conservation efforts both locally and globally, including the protection of habitats, breeding programs for endangered species, and wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. By visiting the zoo, you’re contributing to these efforts, making your trip not just fun, but meaningful as well.
In essence, Australia Zoo offers a wildlife experience like no other, combining education, conservation, and plenty of fun. It’s a must-visit for any animal lover or anyone looking to add a bit of adventure to their Sunshine Coast visit.
3. Noosa National Park
Noosa National Park is a gem of the Sunshine Coast, offering a unique blend of picturesque coastlines, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Covering over 4,000 hectares, it’s one of Australia’s most visited national parks, and for good reason.
The park is known for its stunning coastal tracks that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The Coastal Track, one of the most popular trails, takes you along the park’s dramatic coastline, past secluded beaches and scenic lookouts. Don’t forget to stop by Hell’s Gates, a cliff-top spot that offers panoramic views of Alexandria Bay and beyond. It’s the perfect place for whale watching between July and November.
But the park isn’t just about the coast. Venture inland, and you’ll find yourself amidst lush rainforests and eucalypt woodlands. The Tanglewood Track is a great option if you’re looking to explore the park’s diverse vegetation. This winding trail takes you deep into the forest, offering a peaceful escape from the coastal crowds.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Noosa National Park is home to a variety of animals. It’s not uncommon to spot a koala napping in the trees or a goanna basking in the sun. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 species of birds recorded.
For those looking to relax, the park’s beaches are a great choice. Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay are popular spots for a swim or a picnic. Just remember to take your rubbish with you to keep these places pristine.
Noosa National Park is more than just a natural attraction; it’s a place of conservation. The park plays a crucial role in protecting various habitats and species, some of which are rare or threatened. By visiting the park, you’re not only experiencing the best of Australia’s nature but also supporting its conservation.
Noosa National Park is a must-visit for any nature lover. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and conservation efforts, it truly embodies the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast.
4. Eumundi Markets
A visit to the Sunshine Coast isn’t complete without experiencing the vibrant and eclectic Eumundi Markets. Known as one of the best art and craft markets in Australia, Eumundi Markets is a place where local artisans, growers, and producers come together to showcase their products.
Held every Wednesday and Saturday, the markets are set amongst the charming heritage-listed buildings of Eumundi, a small town with a big heart. As you stroll through the markets, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of stalls selling everything from original artworks and handmade toys to organic skincare products and fashion pieces.
One of the highlights of the Eumundi Markets is undoubtedly the food. With a vast array of food stalls offering a world of flavors, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re craving a gourmet sausage, a vegan treat, or a refreshing tropical smoothie, there’s something to satisfy every palate. And of course, don’t miss out on the fresh local produce. The vibrant fruits, vegetables, and locally made cheeses are a testament to the region’s rich agricultural offerings.
But the Eumundi Markets are more than just a shopping experience. It’s a place of community and entertainment. As you explore the markets, you’ll be serenaded by local musicians playing everything from folk and blues to world music. There are also street performers and face painters, adding a touch of whimsy to your visit.
For those interested in the local culture, the markets offer various workshops where you can learn new skills, such as painting, jewelry making, or even yoga. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local community and perhaps pick up a new hobby.
5. Glass House Mountains
The Glass House Mountains are one of the Sunshine Coast’s most distinctive natural landmarks. This group of thirteen ancient volcanic peaks stands out against the flat landscape of the coastal plains, creating a dramatic and picturesque backdrop that’s visible from many parts of the region.
Named by Captain James Cook during his voyage in 1770, the mountains’ unique shapes were said to remind him of the glass furnaces in his native Yorkshire. Today, these mountains are not just a stunning sight to behold, but also a place of significant cultural and spiritual importance to the local Gubbi Gubbi people.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Glass House Mountains offer a variety of recreational activities. Hiking is a popular choice, with several trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The Mount Ngungun and Mount Tibrogargan trails are among the most popular, offering hikers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from their summits. It’s important to note that some trails are quite steep and require a good level of fitness, so always choose a trail that suits your abilities.
Rock climbing and abseiling are also popular activities in the area, with Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Ngungun being the main destinations for these sports. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Glass House Mountains Lookout is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the mountains and surrounding countryside without the need for a strenuous hike.
Apart from the outdoor activities, the Glass House Mountains area is also home to several charming towns and attractions. You can visit the Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre to learn more about the area’s geology and Aboriginal heritage or explore local art galleries, cafes, and boutiques in the nearby towns.
The Glass House Mountains offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a rock-climbing enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, these mountains are a must-visit on any Sunshine Coast itinerary.
6. Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
Nestled in the verdant Sunshine Coast Hinterland, the Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World offers a tranquil escape from the bustling coastal areas. This unique attraction combines the beauty of nature with the thrill of wildlife encounters, making it a must-visit for all ages.
The Maleny Botanic Gardens span over 14 acres and are home to a diverse range of flora. As you wander through the beautifully manicured gardens, you’ll encounter a myriad of plant species, from vibrant flower beds to exotic trees. The gardens are designed to provide colour and interest all year round, ensuring a stunning display no matter when you visit.
One of the highlights of the gardens is the panoramic view of the Glass House Mountains. The gardens are perched high on the escarpment, offering breathtaking views of the iconic mountain range and surrounding countryside. There are several viewing points and picnic areas where you can sit back, relax, and soak in the scenery.
But the gardens are just the beginning. Maleny Botanic Gardens is also home to Bird World, an aviary that houses over 700 native and exotic birds. Here, you can get up close and personal with colourful parrots, cheeky cockatoos, and exotic macaws. The aviary offers guided tours, during which you can learn about the different bird species and even have the chance to feed and interact with some of them.
In addition to the birds, the aviary is also home to a variety of other animals, including miniature pigs, alpacas, and a friendly deer named Daisy. This makes the aviary not just a bird lover’s paradise, but a fun and educational experience for all animal enthusiasts.
The Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a keen gardener, a bird enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful day out, this attraction is sure to delight you. So, make sure to add it to your Sunshine Coast itinerary – you won’t be disappointed!
The Best Time to Visit the Sunshine Coast
While the Sunshine Coast is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is between May and October. During these months, you’ll enjoy mild temperatures, less rainfall, and plenty of sunshine. It’s also a great time to catch local events like the Noosa Food & Wine Festival or the Caloundra Music Festival.
Come to Coolum for a budget holiday, and see the Sunshine Coast!
From its sun-kissed beaches to its vibrant markets, the Sunshine Coast offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a beach lover, you’ll find something to love about this coastal paradise. So, why wait? Start planning your Sunshine Coast adventure today!
