The Sunshine Coast in 2026
Queensland's natural playground stretches for over 100 kilometres north of Brisbane, from Caloundra's calm rock pools to Noosa's surf-fringed headlands, with the dramatic volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains and the lush Blackall Range hinterland rising behind. The Sunshine Coast is a UNESCO Biosphere region — a place where pristine beaches, ancient rainforest, and vibrant local communities exist in remarkable balance. This is nothing like the Gold Coast's high-rise tourism. Think uncrowded beaches, charming village main streets, and the kind of experiences that feel genuinely Australian.
From the Noosa Everglades (one of only two everglades systems on Earth) to the craft brewery trail (24+ breweries — more per capita than anywhere in Australia), from Eumundi's legendary Wednesday and Saturday markets to the Glass House Mountains that Captain Cook named in 1770, the diversity is extraordinary. Add world-class wildlife at Australia Zoo, hinterland waterfalls, nationally acclaimed restaurants like Spirit House in Yandina, and you begin to understand why the Sunshine Coast consistently ranks among Australia's most loved destinations.
🌟 Local Tip: The Sunshine Coast rewards slow exploration. Spend a morning at Eumundi Markets, an afternoon kayaking the Everglades, and an evening at a Maleny cellar door. Spring (Sep–Nov) brings perfect weather and wildflowers; winter (Jun–Aug) delivers clear skies, cosy log fires, and the Glass House Mountains at their most photogenic.
Sunshine Coast Beaches
100km of stunning coastline — patrolled family beaches, uncrowded surf breaks, calm rock pools, and golden sand stretching to the horizon
Noosa Main Beach
North-facing, calm, family favourite
Mooloolaba Beach
Sheltered beach, SEA LIFE, dining
Coolum Beach
Consistent surf, Mount Coolum views
Sunshine Beach
Trendy village, great surf break
Kings Beach
Rock pool, calm Caloundra favourite
Alexandra Headland
Surf break, beachfront dining
Nature & National Parks
Volcanic peaks, coastal rainforest, waterfalls, the Everglades, and ancient subtropical rainforest
ICONICGlass House Mountains
13 ancient volcanic summits with challenging hikes and panoramic views. Named by Captain Cook in 1770. Sacred to the Jinibara people.
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MUST-VISITNoosa National Park
Coastal rainforest, secluded cove beaches, koalas in the wild, and the legendary Coastal Track. Most visited park on the Sunshine Coast.
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1 OF 2 ON EARTHNoosa Everglades
One of only two everglades on Earth. Eco cruises, guided kayak and SUP tours, the River of Mirrors — 44% of Australia's bird species.
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Mount Coolum
Challenging volcanic dome hike rewarded with 360° views from coast to hinterland. 1.6km return, 208m elevation gain.
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GARDENSHinterland Nature & Gardens
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World, Mary Cairncross Rainforest, Kondalilla Falls, four botanic gardens, and rare wildlife.
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Cooloola Great Walk
102km multi-day trail through the Great Sandy National Park — subtropical rainforest, coloured sand cliffs, and pristine coastal wilderness.
Full guide →Family Attractions
World-class wildlife, theme parks, heritage railways, and interactive experiences for all ages
WORLD FAMOUSAustralia Zoo
The Irwin family's world-famous wildlife park — 1,200+ animals, the Crocoseum live show, and tiger, cheetah, and elephant encounters.
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AQUARIUMSEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
80m ocean tunnel, jellyfish kingdom, seal shows, and touch pools. Interactive encounters with sharks, rays, and seals at Mooloolaba.
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FREE ENTRYThe Ginger Factory
Free entry to Australia's largest ginger farm. Overland train, bee show, tastings, ice creamery, and subtropical gardens in Yandina.
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The Big Pineapple
Iconic 16m pineapple reborn as an adventure hub — zip lines, TreeTop Challenge, Wildlife HQ Zoo, and Sunshine & Sons distillery.
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Aussie World
30+ rides and attractions, the Pub with No Beer, and affordable family fun. All ages from toddler rides to thrill coasters.
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HERITAGEMary Valley Rattler
Historic steam train through the stunning Mary Valley — 22km return from Gympie to Amamoor. Heritage carriages and countryside views.
Full guide →Food, Wine & Markets
Australia's craft beer capital, boutique cellar doors, artisan cheese, legendary markets, and farm-to-table dining
24+ BREWERIESHinterland Food & Wine
Boutique wineries (Flame Hill, Maleny Mountain), 24+ craft breweries, distilleries, artisan cheese, Spirit House dining. Guided tours available.
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LEGENDARYEumundi Markets
Australia's premier artisan markets — 600+ stalls under heritage fig trees. Wednesday & Saturday. Local art, food, music, and handmade crafts.
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Brewery & Food Tours
Guided brewery crawls, distillery visits, and foodie trails — Brouhaha, Moffat Beach Brewing, Copperhead, Your Mates, and more. No DD needed.
Full guide →Adventure & Water Sports
Whale watching, surfing, kayaking, zip-lining, and treetop rope courses across coast and hinterland
ON THE WATERWater Activities
Surfing, kayaking, SUP, jet ski, diving, snorkelling, and river cruises. Calm sheltered waters to open ocean swells for every level.
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JUN–NOVWhale Watching
Humpback whale season Jun–Nov. Boat tours from Mooloolaba with up-close encounters — calves, breaches, and pods migrating north.
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TreeTop Challenge
Australia's largest adventure park — 100+ challenges including zip lines, high rope courses, and Bungy at the Big Pineapple precinct.
Full guide →Ready to Explore the Sunshine Coast?
Book guided tours and experiences with local experts — from Everglades eco cruises and hinterland wine tours to whale watching and Australia Zoo day trips.