The Sunshine Coast stretches over 100 kilometres along the Queensland coastline, from the sheltered bays of Caloundra in the south to the rainforest-fringed headlands of Noosa in the north. Behind the beaches, a lush hinterland of volcanic peaks, waterfall-laced national parks and charming mountain villages rises just 30 minutes inland. Each pocket of the coast has its own personality, and choosing the right base can make or break your holiday.
This guide breaks down the four main areas — Noosa, Mooloolaba/Maroochydore, Caloundra and the Hinterland — covering what each one offers, who it suits best, what to expect to pay, and our picks for the standout places to stay in 2026. Whether you're after a luxury beachfront resort, a self-contained apartment for the family, a budget-friendly holiday park, or a romantic cottage among the rainforest, we've got you covered.
Noosa Heads — Luxury Resorts, Boutique Hotels & Beachfront Apartments
The Sunshine Coast's most prestigious address — where golden beaches meet Hastings Street's world-class dining.
Why Stay in Noosa?
Noosa is the Sunshine Coast's headline act. Famed for its north-facing Main Beach (one of Australia's gentlest), the chic café-and-boutique strip of Hastings Street, and direct walking access to the stunning Noosa National Park, it's the go-to for couples, foodies and anyone willing to pay a premium for an exceptional setting. Noosa was recently named one of the world's Top 10 Most Welcoming Towns.
Accommodation ranges from five-star resorts right on the beach (Sofitel Noosa Pacific, Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas) to stylish self-contained apartments overlooking the river at Noosaville and boutique Airbnb stays within a stroll of Little Cove. The RACV Noosa Resort is a standout for families, with heated pools, waterslides, a kids' club and a free shuttle to Hastings Street. Noosa Springs Golf Resort & Spa offers a quieter retreat set among golf fairways and day spa treatments.
If you prefer a slightly more relaxed (and more affordable) vibe, Noosaville on the river is an excellent alternative — quieter streets, waterfront dining, kayak hire and easy bus access to Main Beach. Sunshine Beach, just south of the National Park, has a villagey feel with its own surf club and café precinct.
Mooloolaba & Maroochydore — The Heart of the Sunshine Coast
Golden-sand beaches, a buzzing esplanade, mid-range prices and easy access to everything.
Why Stay in Mooloolaba or Maroochydore?
Sitting right in the middle of the Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba offers the best balance of beach, dining, attractions and value. Its beach is consistently ranked among Australia's safest — perfect for families — and the Esplanade is lined with restaurants, juice bars, boutique shops and the recently revitalised Wharf precinct (home to SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast aquarium and waterfront dining).
Accommodation is dominated by self-contained apartments, many with ocean views, fully equipped kitchens and pools. Standouts include Oceans Mooloolaba (5-star luxury apartments directly opposite the beach), Nautilus Mooloolaba (excellent mid-range option steps from the Wharf) and Mantra Mooloolaba Beach. Just south, Alexandra Headland ("Alex") has a quieter beach with a consistent surf break and a handful of good-value apartment complexes.
Nearby Maroochydore is the commercial hub of the Sunshine Coast with the major shopping centre (Sunshine Plaza), Cotton Tree beach park for picnics and a growing dining scene. It's also the closest major town to Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY), making it convenient for fly-in visitors.
Caloundra — Holiday Parks, Affordable Apartments & Calm Beaches
The Sunshine Coast's most affordable coastal base — laid-back, family-friendly and quietly beautiful.
Why Stay in Caloundra?
Caloundra, at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast, is a genuine local favourite that offers excellent value for money. It's quieter than Noosa or Mooloolaba but has no shortage of stunning beaches — Kings Beach has a free saltwater ocean pool, splash fountain, playgrounds and rock pools, while Bulcock Beach offers calm, sheltered water overlooking Bribie Island. The scenic 25 km Caloundra Coastal Walk connects them all.
Accommodation is the most affordable on the coast. BIG4 Caloundra is a top-rated holiday park perched on Pumicestone Passage with waterslides, pedal karts and a range of cabins and camping sites. The area also has a good selection of budget-to-mid-range motels, self-contained apartments with ocean views, and family-oriented caravan parks. The Rumba Beach Resort and Waterview Resort are popular picks for families wanting apartment-style comfort without the premium price tag.
Caloundra is also the closest Sunshine Coast town to the Glass House Mountains and makes an excellent base for day trips to Australia Zoo (about 25 minutes' drive) and the hinterland.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland — Rainforest Cottages, B&Bs & Country Retreats
Escape to the mountains for log fires, spa baths, rainforest views and some of Queensland's best food.
Why Stay in the Hinterland?
Just 30 minutes from the coast, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland feels like a different world. Charming mountain villages perched along the Blackall Range — Montville, Maleny, Mapleton and Flaxton — offer art galleries, gourmet cafés, waterfall walks and panoramic views across to the Glass House Mountains and the coast.
Accommodation here is all about atmosphere. Romantic couples' cottages with log fireplaces, deep spa baths and rainforest views are the signature. Secrets on the Lake offers award-winning treehouse cabins suspended in the canopy above Lake Baroon — widely considered one of Australia's most romantic stays. Spicers Clovelly Estate brings French-inspired luxury with its acclaimed Long Apron restaurant. The Falls Montville consistently ranks as TripAdvisor's top pick for secluded rainforest cottages and a manor house.
Budget travellers aren't left out — the Maleny Lodge Motel offers affordable, family-friendly self-contained units, while Montville Holiday Apartments provide comfortable rooms at hinterland prices. The region is also a popular destination for weddings, with several iconic venues nearby.
Sunshine Coast Accommodation — Price Guide (2026)
Budget
Holiday parks and caravan cabins (BIG4 Caloundra, Dicky Beach), backpacker hostels, budget motels in Caloundra and Maroochydore, and basic self-contained units. Great for road-trippers, backpackers and families watching the budget. School holiday rates may be higher — book early.
Mid-Range
Self-contained apartments in Mooloolaba and Maroochydore, 3–4 star hotels, boutique Noosaville stays, and hinterland B&Bs. The sweet spot for families and couples wanting comfort, a kitchen for self-catering, and a central location without the luxury price tag.
Luxury
Five-star beachfront resorts in Noosa (Sofitel, Peppers, Netanya), premium ocean-view apartments, hinterland luxury retreats (Secrets on the Lake, Spicers Clovelly). Peak-season Noosa can exceed A$600/night — shoulder seasons offer the best value for luxury stays.
Booking Tips & Insider Advice
Book Early for Peak Periods
The Sunshine Coast fills up fast during mid-December to late January and Queensland school holidays. Book at least 2–3 months ahead for the best choice and rates. Christmas/New Year in Noosa can sell out 6 months in advance.
Target the Shoulder Seasons
March to May and September to November deliver the best combination of weather, value and fewer crowds. Expect rates 20–40% lower than peak season, pleasant daytime temperatures (22–26°C) and warm ocean water.
Self-Contained Apartments Save Money
A kitchen and laundry make a huge difference on family holidays. Cooking breakfast and packing lunches can save A$50–80/day per family, and many apartment complexes have pools, barbecues and games rooms included.
Split Your Stay Between Coast & Hinterland
Consider spending two or three nights at the beach and one or two in the hinterland. The contrast between sun-soaked sand and cool mountain rainforest makes for a much richer trip — and you'll discover a side of the Sunshine Coast most visitors miss.
Parking Matters
In Noosa and Mooloolaba, parking can be a genuine headache — especially on weekends and holidays. Choose accommodation with on-site parking or consider staying in Noosaville/Sunshine Beach and catching the bus or walking into Hastings Street.
Check Cancellation Policies
Flexible booking rates are often worth the small premium, especially for advance bookings. If your plans change, you'll appreciate the ability to cancel without penalty. Compare direct booking with hotel websites for the best conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay on the Sunshine Coast?
It depends on your priorities. Noosa Heads is best for luxury, dining and proximity to Noosa National Park. Mooloolaba and Maroochydore offer a central location with family-friendly beaches and mid-range prices. Caloundra is ideal for budget travellers and families with young children. The hinterland (Montville, Maleny) suits couples seeking romantic retreats among rainforest and waterfalls.
How much does Sunshine Coast accommodation cost per night?
Budget options (holiday parks, motels) start from around A$80–150/night. Mid-range apartments and 3–4 star hotels range from A$150–300. Luxury resorts in Noosa start from A$300 and can exceed A$600 in peak season. Hinterland cottages range from A$180–400.
When is the cheapest time to visit?
The shoulder seasons of March–May and September–November offer the best value with 20–40% lower rates, fewer crowds and pleasant weather (22–26°C). Peak season (mid-December to late January and school holidays) brings the highest prices and limited availability. Winter (June–August) is also popular, with mild daytime temperatures and still-swimmable water.
Do I need a car on the Sunshine Coast?
A car is helpful for exploring the full coast and essential for the hinterland. However, Noosa, Mooloolaba and Caloundra are all walkable towns with beaches, restaurants and shops close to accommodation. The Sunshine Coast has a public bus network (Translink) connecting major towns at Queensland's 50-cent fare. Taxis, rideshare and local tour operators also provide transport.
How do I get to the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane?
About 100 km north of Brisbane — roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by car via the Bruce Highway (M1). Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) at Marcoola has direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Auckland. You can also catch a train from Brisbane to Nambour or Landsborough and connect via local bus.
Are there accessible accommodation options?
Yes. Many hotels and resorts offer accessible rooms, ground-floor units and pool hoists. Major resorts like RACV Noosa, Mantra Mooloolaba Beach and Rumba Beach Resort Caloundra have accessible facilities. Holiday parks like BIG4 Caloundra offer accessible cabins. Always confirm specific requirements directly with the property when booking.
Need Help Choosing Where to Stay?
Our team knows the Sunshine Coast inside out. Contact us for personalised accommodation recommendations or to book a guided day tour from your base.
Get in Touch