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!
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
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
Cost of entry:
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
Cost of entry:
$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
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm
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
Cost of entry:
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
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/
Location: Maleny, QLD – Google Maps
Opening hours: 9:30am to 3:30pm
10. Noosa National Park
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
Opening hours: 24/7
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). 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
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 getawayromantic getaway near the Sunshine Coast or a weekend with the kids disconnected from the city.
4. Road trip to Montville
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
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
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
Opening hours: 24/7
7. Cruise along the Noosa River at sunset
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
Location: Maleny, QLD – Google Maps
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
Eumundi Markets
Location: Eumundi, QLD – Google Maps
Opening hours: Wednesday 8am to 2pm, Saturday 7am to 2pm
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
Things to do in Sunshine Coast for families
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
Things to do in Sunshine Coast for couples
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
- Cruise along the Noosa River at sunset
- Shop at Eumundi Markets
- Glamp for a weekend in the hinterland
Things to do in Sunshine Coast for free
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
Things to do in Sunshine Coast at night
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