Located on the Pacific Ocean coastline, Sunshine Coast stretches from the aquatic paradise of Caloundra, near Brisbane, north to the Cooloola section of the Great Sandy National Park. The Sunshine Coast is surrounded by various beach resorts and acclaimed surf spots. It is not, however, limited to its attractions as a beach getaway alone. The Sunshine Coast offers a myriad of things to do and see; rappel from the top of the Glass House Mountains, journey through the rainforests of Buderim Rainforest Park, get cozy with koalas and watch kangaroos hop at the Australia Zoo, interact with locals at Eumundi Market, and much more! These are only a few of the handful of the things to do in the Sunshine Coast, Australia. Read below to find out more.
1. Experience amazing views on a seaplane
Experience the views of Cotton Tree, Maroochy River, Mooloolaba Beach, and Point Cartwright by seaplane. The seaplane ride will only take 10 minutes but it will definitely leave a mark on your vacation memories. You will be accompanied by a pilot who will explain the necessary equipment, safety precautions, and what to expect during the ride. Do not forget to bring your camera to take pictures during and after your seaplane adventure.
Paradise Seaplanes
Address: 142 Bradman Ave, Maroochydore QLD 4558, Australia
Website: Paradise Seaplanes
Opening hours: Thursday - Monday 9am - 3pm , Sunday - 10am - 4pm (Closed on Tuesday & Wednesday)
Price: 225 USD
2. Go on a hike to Kondalilla Falls
Located behind the Sunshine Coast is the Kondalilla National Park which is a beautiful mountain retreat. It is named after the amazing Kondalilla Falls which is an Aboriginal word that means ‘rushing waters’. It perfectly describes the waterfall during the summer season. Above the falls, you will see an open eucalyptus forest, a variety of rain forest species, and a dry forest. You can either choose to have a picnic, camp, walk, or simply view the beautiful scenery. Some essentials to bring include insect repellent, drinking water, sturdy shoes, protective clothing, and rubbish bags.
Kondalilla Falls
Address: Kondalilla Falls Rd, Montville, Queensland 4560, Australia
Website: Kondalilla Falls
3. Hike at Noosa National Park Trails
Noosa National Park is a vast park which includes sections of Lake Weyba, Peregian, and Coolum. It is important for nature conservation and serves as a habitat for different species. The most popular trail is the Coastal Track which runs along the coast. You will experience a mix of landscapes and peaceful terrains. There are several signs for directions along the trails. It is best to explore with a buddy to avoid getting lost in this huge park. There are key lookout points including the Boiling Pot, Dolphin Point, and Granite Bay. During weekends, there are several hikers who come to experience the charms of Noosa National Park.
Noosa National Park
Address: Palm Grove Circuit, Noosa Heads QLD 4567, Australia
Website: Noosa National Park
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4. Discover the magnificent gardens of Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
Posted by Maleny Botanic Gardens on Tuesday, 5 June 2018
The location of Maleny Botanic Gardens is surrounded by rain forests and layered with gardens. You will see a panorama of waterfalls and lakes with the Glasshouse Mountain as the perfect backdrop. It is definitely the most exquisite garden you will ever see. You will also get to see several species of parrots that spot different colors. Enjoy picture taking with the unique parrots and magnificent gardens. Visit the garden and simply cherish the peaceful ambiance of their gardens for the perfect day out.
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
Address: 233 Maleny Stanley River Road Maleny, Queensland
Website: Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
Opening hours: 9am - 4:30pm (daily)
5. Admire the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast (from USD 851.3)
This eight-hour tour on a four-wheel-drive vehicle will take you to see the beauty of the Sunshine Coast. You will get to see the lighthouse at Double Island Point and Fraser Island, where you can interact with nature. Aside from site-seeing, you can also learn how the Aborigines used sand for painting and decorating the famous boomerangs. The package includes free pick-up and drop-off, lunch, water, and park fees. Do not forget to pack additional drinks and snacks for your exciting day of exploration.
Noosa to Rainbow Beach: 4-Wheel Drive Tour in Great Sandy NP
Duration: 8.0 hour
6. Enjoy swimming at Noosa Beach
Noosa Beach is the best option for tourists who are not very confident in the water. It is located in Australia’s coastline which faces the north. The beach has gentle waves all year round and it is patrolled by lifeguards. You can also spend your afternoons walking on the golden sands of Noosa Beach while waiting for the sunset. It is also perfect for beginners who want to learn surfing. Its location is best for the ultimate experience since Hastings Street is nearby for shopping, accommodation, and restaurants.
Noosa Main Beach
Address: 26 Hastings St, Noosa Heads, Queensland
Website: Noosa Main Beach (swimming)
7. Explore Australian aviation history at Queensland Air Museum
Queensland Air Museum is the best attraction for both aviation enthusiasts and families. It is definitely a museum open to anyone who is interested in aviation. It features restored airplanes under the categories of fighters, recon, sports, transport, bombers, and many more! You can avail of an educational tour to learn about the Australian aviation history through interactive displays and exhibits. The displays are always being improved by their conservation teams.
Queensland Air Museum
Address: 7 Pathfinder Drive, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Website: Queensland Air Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
8. Learn how to surf at Coolum Beach
Coolum beach features a laid-back, holiday vibe which makes it different from the busy neighboring beach towns. The consistent waves and clear waters make it a favorable spot for surfers. It has a proud surf club culture and lifesavers that started way back in 1919. There are available local surf lessons for both visitors and locals who are interested in learning how to surf in one of the best surf locations in Australia. Complete your vacation and learn how to surf in Coolum Beach.
Coolum Beach
Address: Queensland 4573, Australia
Website: Coolum Beach
9. Bring the kids to Australia's favorite theme park, Aussie World
Join us this weekend for a Teddy Bears Picnic in the park! ? Activities in Party Central from 10am til 2:30pm! Don't worry if you forget your teddy! We have plenty available in the Fun Shop from $14.99 ?
Posted by Aussie World on Wednesday, 22 May 2019
There are several thrilling rides and attractions at Aussie World. It is the perfect place for a fun day out with the entire family. The rides include those that will get you soaked and dizzy as well as rides that have slides, bumps, and coasters! Check out the available restaurants and cafes for snacks and meals. Do not forget to buy a souvenir from the Fun Shop to cherish your memories at Aussie World. You can also rent venues for birthdays, weddings, and special events to create a memorable event. Aussie World will definitely complete your vacation experience.
Aussie World
Address: 73 Frizzo Road, Palmview, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Website: Aussie World
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 3pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm
10. Find your way through Bellingham Maze
❤❤ Valentine Maze ❤❤ How aMAZEing does this maze look...❣??
Posted by Bellingham Maze on Thursday, 8 February 2018
Bellingham Maze is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Sunshine Coast for both locals and tourists alike. It has an incredible living hedge, timber, rope, and a tire maze. The mazes are perfectly constructed and well taken care of. Aside from the maze, you can also enjoy playing mini-golf. It is the perfect destination for those who enjoy challenging activities. You can also enjoy wandering through the gardens. For great coffee and excellent food, you can also stop by the Maze Cafe.
Bellingham Maze
Address: 274 Tanawha Tourist Drive, Tanawha, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Website: Bellingham Maze
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
11. Discover a variety of marine creatures at Underwater World SEA LIFE Mooloolaba (from USD 23.85)
Do not forget to visit Australia’s premier aquarium! It is located in Mooloolaba Wharf. It is home to a variety of marine creatures including sharks, seals, turtles, otters, and many more. You will get full-day access to Sea Life exhibits, play areas, and animal shows included. Take your kids out for a day of discovery at the exhibit where they will be able to listen to educational talks as well. Walk through the glass viewing tunnel for the best underwater experience.
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Admission Ticket
12. Relax at the beautiful Bulcock Beach
Bulcock Beach is located in Queensland, Australia. It is a great place to have a picnic with the whole family. Your children can enjoy playing on the sand or in the playground near the beach. You can simply stroll along the beach as a couple. It is also safe to swim since there is a patrolled area in front of the Lifeguards Club. There are also plenty of good restaurants and picnic areas around the beach. Enjoy the view of the sunset, beach front, and calm waters.
Bulcock Beach
Address: Esplanade, Caloundra, Queensland, Australia
Website: Bulcock Beach
13. Explore Buderim Rainforest Park's waterfalls
One of the prettiest waterfalls on the Visit Sunshine Coast ? Serenity falls (also known as Buderim Falls) is a short...
Posted by Visit Queensland, Australia on Wednesday, 28 September 2016
Buderim Rainforest Park is a small rain forest reserve. It is the perfect destination to enjoy a picnic or hike. There are facilities like grills, picnic tables, toilets, and parking areas. The park is famous for its Buderim Falls or also known as Serenity Falls. You can access the falls via two paths, Lindsey Road or Quorn Close. The hike will definitely be worth it once you reach the falls; it is a picturesque area where you can relax and enjoy its beauty.
14. Surf, swim, and relax at Dicky Beach
Explore the coastline around Caloundra and locate Dicky Beach. It is a great place for swimming, surfing, and relaxing. The waves are calm, making it safe to explore the waters for a swim. There are also lifeguards for your safety. While taking a break, you can also enjoy a picnic beside the beach. There are facilities including barbecue grills and picnic tables nearby. You can also bring your dogs to the off-leash areas.
Dicky Beach
Address: Caloundra, Queensland 4551, Australia
Website: Dicky Beach
15. Try stand-up paddle boarding on the Sunshine Coast (from USD 19.0)
Located south of the Sunshine Coast is Bribie Island National Park. Explore the beaches and lagoons around Bribie on this short paddleboard hire. While exploring, you will see native wildlife including kangaroos, birds, and stingrays. You can ask for help from a coach if you are still adjusting to paddleboarding. All safety equipment and instructions are provided. Enjoy your one-hour hire and make sure you make the best of this paddleboarding opportunity on the Sunshine Coast.
Golden Beach 1-Hour Stand-Up Paddleboard Hire on the Sunshine Coast
Duration: 1 hour
16. Attempt the Tree Top Challenge zip-line course at The Big Pineapple
The Big Pineapple is an all-around tourist destination in Queensland. There are several activities to enjoy including visiting the zoo which is home to over 200 animal species. There are also events like the Craft Beer and Cider Expo, which brings the taste of beers paired with locally sourced produce, where you are guaranteed to find your new favorite brew. Another event is the Big Pineapple Music Festival which takes place at the Big Pineapple Fields. It features Australian music talents every year. One of the highlights of this destination is the Tree Top Challenge. It is an exciting zip line course that will give you the best ecotourism experience.
The Big Pineapple
Address: 76 Nambour Connection Road, Woombye, Queensland
Website: The Big Pineapple
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4pm (daily)
17. Visit Blast Aqua Park for some fun in the water
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
No better way to beat the heat this Friday! @blastaquaparkcoolum OPEN 10am - 4pm EVERYDAY for the rest of the school holidays Sessions only $20pp, what are you waiting for?!?
Posted by Aqua Park Coolum on Thursday, January 14, 2021
Blast Aqua Park is located on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. The park covers a wide area and it has a variety of inflatable fun items that are enjoyable for all ages. The course includes slides, blast bags, trampolines, swings, and wobble pads. If you want to take a break from all the jumping and sliding at the course, there is a chill-out area designed for guests to rest. Onshore facilities include shade structures, barbecue areas, changing rooms, and picnic tables. If you did not pack your own food, there are cafes and kiosks provided nearby.
Blast Aqua Park
Address: 60 Junction Dr., Coolum, Queensland, Australia
Website: Blast Aqua Park
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
18. Take a relaxing stroll on Kings Beach boardwalk
Kings Beach is known to be the top and safest beach in Queensland. The gentle beach break and protected areas make it the safest. If you are looking for a relaxing experience near Kings Beach, the boardwalk is the best spot to go to. The boardwalk is the best spot to watch the sun dip slowly between the Glass House Mountains. It will offer the best view most especially during sunset where you can take the perfect photos.
Kings Beach
Address: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
Website: Kings Beach
19. Marvel at the sight of Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Point Cartwright Lighthouse is the third light guide that guides ships into Moreton Bay. It was first established in 1896 and is the typical tower with a timber frame and metal cladding. You can get the best view of the lighthouse if you take a walk from La Balsa along the river and right along the beach. From the point of the lighthouse, you can get good views of Mooloolaba. The tracks going there are constructed well.
Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Address: LOT 577 Pacific Blvd, Buddina QLD 4575, Australia
Website: Point Cartwright Light
20. Go shopping along Hastings Street
Discover the streets of Noosa Heads which is one of the most famous towns of the Sunshine Coast. You can browse through the shops of Hastings Street, stroll along Noosa Beach, and go on a cruise along Noosa River. There are several stores in Hastings Street where you can buy clothes, souvenirs, and many more! Try their cosmopolitan restaurants as well. This tour also has several highlights which include visiting the crafts village of Montville, Mary Cairncross Park, and the Glass House Mountains.
Hastings St
Address: Noosa Heads QLD 4567, Australia
Website: Hastings St
21. Enjoy calm boating on Lake Weyba
Lake Weyba is a shallow lake which remains undisturbed by large boats. It is a peaceful and serene lake where you can boat and relax. Here, you can enjoy calm boating while enjoying the beautiful scenery. You can also go fishing where you can catch flathead fishes and tuna. You can also bring your dog with you and play in the shallow waters.
Lake Weyba
Address: Noosaville, Noosa, Queensland, Australia
Website: Lake Weyba
22. Have fun go-karting at Big Kart Track
Big Kart Track is an easy drive from Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast Beaches. Pit your wits against big sweeping bends, chicanes, and hairpins. There are nine different terrains on this track, where you can experience a range of difficulties, elevations, and turns. Enjoy safe racing at Big Kart Track, since they make sure that they always maintain both the karts and tracks, they conduct pre-race briefings and provide protective helmets. A fully trained crew will also guide you during your race.
Big Kart Track
Address: 2310 Steve Irwin Way, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Website: Big Kart Track
Opening hours: Sun - Thu & Sat: 9am - 5pm; Fri & Sat: 9am - 10pm
23. Kayak on Pumicestone Passage (from USD 17.0)
Enjoy a one-hour single or double kayak hire on Golden Beach. Explore the waters of Pumicestone Passage where you will see several beaches, lagoons, and wildlife. You will be able to spot stingrays, sea birds, and kangaroos. You will also get to save a lot of money since it is much cheaper than having a guided tour. The necessary equipment including kayak, paddles, and life jackets are provided along with a safety briefing and instructions. Make sure to pack your food and drinks. Regarding departure point, you must be at the corner of Esplanade and Gregory Street, Golden Beach by 7am to 4pm only. This experience requires good weather; it will be cancelled if the weather is gloomy.
1-Hour Single or Double Kayak Hire @ Golden Beach
Duration: 1 hour
24. Have a picnic in Buderim Forest Park
Buderim Forest Park offers a picturesque waterfall and views. It is the perfect location to enjoy a picnic with the whole family. Facilities for picnics like barbecue grills and picnic tables are available at both Lindsey Road or Quorn Close. There are also restrooms and parking spaces nearby. If you wander through the bush pathways, it will lead you to Buderim Falls.
Buderim Forest Park
Address: Quorn Cl, Buderim QLD 4556, Australia
Website: Buderim Forest Park
25. Watch the sunset from Laguna Lookout
Watching the sunset from Laguna Lookout is the perfect way to spend an evening don't you think?! Where's your favourite spot to watch the sun go down over Noosa? Image: Frysteen Photography.
Posted by Visit Noosa on Tuesday, 2 February 2016
There are not many places where you can access such an amazing view near town. It will only take you five minutes from the center of town to reach this viewpoint. There is a walking track if you want to walk from town. Spend your evening watching the sunset at Laguna Lookout. It is also the best spot to look down over Noosa. Enjoy the views of Noosa and Noosa River from this viewpoint. You can also see the Glasshouse Mountains in a distance. The Laguna Lookout is built on a large concrete circle where there are no chairs or tables, but you can have a picnic on the grassy slope nearby.
Laguna Lookout
Address: 5 Viewland Dr, Noosa Heads QLD 4567, Australia
26. Experience the majesty of nature at Great Sandy National Park
Great Sandy National Park is perfect for nature lovers who want to take a break from city life. It is a tropical paradise lain with rain forests and beaches. You can avail of a full experience during a two-day camping tour from Rainbow Beach to Cooloola Recreation Area and Cooloola Sand Patch. You will enjoy this break from the busy city. During the trip, main meals, camping and entrance fees, and transportation are already included in the package. Do not forget to pack snacks and extra clothes for the trip. This trip can be tiring depending on your chosen activities. Good weather is also needed for the tour to take place.
27. Go rappelling at the Glass House Mountains (from USD 117.0)
During this tour, you will experience abseiling while marveling at the beautiful scenery of Mount Ngungun National Park as well as the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. You will be accompanied by a professional guide to ensure your safety throughout the six-hour abseiling or rappelling tour. Equipment needed for rappelling will be provided. You must bring your own food and drinks for the tour. There is no hotel pick-up and drop-off so you have to be prepared to leave early and arrive at the departure point, Ngungun, by 7:45 am.
Glass House Mountains Abseiling Experience
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
28. Visit the fascinating wildlife at the Australia Zoo (from USD 331.0)
This is an affordable private tour that will organize for you to be picked up from your hotel and bring you to the Australia Zoo. You will get to enjoy four hours of interaction with Australia’s wildlife which include crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos, and dingoes. Do not forget to watch the famous Crocodile show. After the zoo, you will go to the Sunshine Coast, where you can enjoy scenic views of the Glasshouse Mountains. Finally, enjoy complimentary afternoon tea or coffee after the tour.
Australia Zoo and Sunshine Coast Rainforest Hinterland Private Tour
Duration: 8 hours
29. Have some fun at Sunshine Coast Ginger Factory (from USD 28.0)
Enjoy a fun family day experience at the Ginger Factory at Sunshine Coast. Here, you can enjoy a ride on the Ginger Train, a boat ride with the Gingerbread Man, and taste and learn during the factory tour. They will teach you how ginger is grown, harvested, and processed. You will get to taste a variety of Buderim Ginger products which include sauce, candy, and drinks. It is an all-around trip where you can learn and have fun at the same time!
Sunshine Coast Ginger Factory ‘Play, Taste and Discover’
Duration: 3 to 6 hours
30. Explore Eumundi Market on a day trip (from USD 90.0)
This day trip from Brisbane is perfect for tourists. You will be accompanied by a local guide and an air-conditioned vehicle will be the means of transportation. Expect a full-day tour with two hours to three hours to spend at the Eumundi Markets, where you can see 600 vendors with handcrafted toys, household items, jewelry, clothes, and many more. There is also a wide variety of food along the way that you should try. The tour starts at 7:45 in the morning and ends at approximately 5 pm.
Eumundi Markets and Sunshine Coast Day Trip from Brisbane
Duration: 9 hours
Experience the Sunshine Coast
Do not forget to check out these attractions once you visit Sunshine Coast, Australia. You can hike, relax, swim, eat, and shop all in one town! There are several hidden gems that this place offers. Come and enjoy your vacation in the Sunshine Coast.
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