Around 20km inland from the Noosa coastline, you’ll come across the tranquil towns of Eumundi, Doonan, and Yandina. Among some of the oldest towns on the Sunshine Coast, this area is full of history, bustling markets and galleries, and stunning landscapes.
There’s always something to do, from hinterland hikes and historic houses to nature sanctuaries and good food. Close to the beach yet still feeling a world away, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
What to do in and around Eumundi
If you’re visiting Eumundi, make sure it’s on a Wednesday or a Saturday, when the famous Eumundi Markets are on! These markets are a collection of spaces and stalls, including the original Eumundi Markets, Eumundi Square, Parkside Markets, Terraces, and Eumundi Pavilion.
Here, you’ll find handcrafted goods, artisanal foods, and locally produced wares. Soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy the live music and street performances.
Step back in time at Yandina Historic House – a house built in the late 1800s that offers a glimpse into the Sunshine Coast’s past. Explore the craft room, the art gallery, and the museum, or sit down for a classic Devonshire tea.
You could spend days hiking all the different trails that the Sunshine Coast Hinterland has to offer. Here are our top picks:
- Mount Ninderry: This family-friendly hike is 1.7km to the top (with some maintained paths on the way), and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
- Point Glorious Lookout: For close-up views of Mt Eewah, head up to the Point Glorious lookout. It’ll take around 45 minutes to reach the top (it’s a 3km walk), with the option to drive right up to the lookout.
- Mount Cooroora Hiking Trail: Short but very steep, this 3km hike climbs the highest volcanic peak on the northern end of the Sunshine Coast and offers sweeping views of the Noosa Hinterland and beyond.
- Sunshine Coast Great Walk: This is a 58km walk that crosses the Maleny/Mapleton Plateau and the Blackall Range. If multi-day hikes aren’t for you, you can break the walk into shorter walks that range from 1-7 hours each.
Activities for kids in Eumundi, Doonan, and Yandina
For those with little stargazing enthusiasts in the family, the Wappa Falls Astronomical Observatory offers guided tours and night sky viewing sessions through their 16 telescopes. Learn all about planets, constellations, and more from the team of knowledgeable guides.
The Ginger Factory is your answer to a fun and free family day out. Located in Yandina amongst beautifully landscaped gardens, The Ginger Factory offers guided tours and rides on the Ginger Train, a cafe with ginger-inspired treats, and a gift shop full of local products.
Explore the region’s coastal ecosystems at the Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary, a peaceful escape accessible via a scenic boardwalk (it’s wide, so it’s suitable for wheelchairs and prams). Grab a free self-guided walking brochure from the Environmental Visitor Centre and keep your eyes peeled by kingfishers, herons, crabs, fish, and sometimes even wallabies!
Perfect for nature lovers, Butterfly Hill is a hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast. Vibrant flowers and native plants attract an array of butterflies, while staff members educate about the different species and their life cycles.
Where to eat in the Eumundi area
Eumundi’s best restaurants
Modern Mediterranean-style food meets relaxed garden oasis vibes at Alfresco’s Garden Cafe. This hidden gem is known for great coffees, extensive breakfast and lunch menu, live music on Friday and Sunday nights, and well-priced lunch specials.
If you’re looking for an intimate and elegant restaurant, Popina Eumundi fits the bill. Utilising the seasonal produce of the region, Popina serves up Italian fare and is inspired by the hinterland and coastal produce.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland restaurants for lunch
Nestled in the Noosa Hinterland, The Doonan is set on two hectares of beautiful gardens. The menu includes countless pizza options, share plates, and Sunshine Coast classics like Mooloolaba prawn linguini and pan seared salmon. There’s even something for the kids, with a playground complete with a Springfree trampoline!
Dining on the Deck, located in Secrets on the Lake, offers beautiful views of Lake Baroon amongst the trees. Open for breakfast and lunch, the menu is full of seasonal delights for you to enjoy. There’s also high tea for something a little fancier!
Travel to Asia without hopping on a plane at Spirit House Restaurant. With its tropical gardens and tranquil lagoon, Spirit House gives you a choice between its ‘prix fixe’ menu and its banquets menu. This fine dining restaurant is spearheaded by Head Chef and 2023 Australian Chef of the Year, Tom Hitchcock. Love the vibes? Spirit House also offers a cooking school!
Bar Deco leans into European traditions while celebrating the Sunshine Coast region's produce. Warm and intimate inside with share plates and seasonal dishes, Bar Deco is the perfect place to catch up with friends or have a romantic evening out.
Looking for a change in scenery?
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