The Sunshine Coast is the Gold Coast’s quieter cousin, located 100km north of Brisbane. Live your best beach life in Noosa and Caloundra or head into the hinterland and check out Doonan, Eumundi and Buderim.
Full of white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and plenty of good food, the Sunny Coast is easily accessible, with the international and domestic Sunshine Coast Airport located in Marcoola.
Best beaches on the Sunshine Coast
It feels like there are endless beach options on the Sunny Coast, so we don’t blame you if you’re having trouble deciding where to go! Here are our top picks.
Surf beaches
Alexandra Headland, “Alex” to the locals, is perfect for both beginner and experienced surfers alike. If you’re new to the sport, you can rent a board and even sign up for surfing lessons. Coolum Beach is another great surfing beach, with consistent waves and clear water.
Beaches for kids
Kings Beach in Caloundra is a great place for kids, with calm waters, rock pools, and a waterfront saltwater pool. Nearby Bulcock Beach is another family-friendly beach — for much calmer waters, head around the entrance of Pumicestone Passage.
Quiet beaches
Shady trees and a great stretch of sand make Marcoola Beach the perfect escape from the summer crowds. Moffat Beach is another local fave, with gentle waters and picnic spots lining the shore — ideal for a quiet day out.
Things to do on the Sunshine Coast with kids
From animal encounters and conservation shows to a sneak peek of their wildlife hospital, Australia Zoo is packed full of things to see and do.
Visiting the Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World is a great day out for the whole family, with 600 native and exotic birds to hang around with.
For an incredible range of locally made food and crafty items, spend a day at the Eumundi Markets. These markets have been running for over 40 years and are now open every Wednesday and Saturday — rain, hail, or shine!
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast allows you and the kids to check out over 10,000 creatures, big and small. From one of the largest jellyfish collections in Australia to entertaining seals, this all-weather activity is sure to impress.
Free Sunshine Coast activities
Tucked away in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, you'll find Kondalilla National Park. The Kondalilla Falls Circuit takes you around the falls and is a walk the whole family can enjoy.
For a swim without the hike, Gardners Falls is the place to be. The pool under the falls is a great place to swim, or you can also head upstream for smaller and shallower rock pools for the little ones.
If you’ve got an art-lover in the family, the Caloundra Regional Gallery offers free admission (except for some major exhibitions and public events), with a rotation of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Did you know that The Ginger Factory in Yandina is the world’s largest ginger operating factory? With free entry seven days a week, kids can learn all about ginger and the honeybee’s lifecycle.
Where to eat on the Sunshine Coast
Restaurants with a view
Bistro C is as waterfront as you can get, overlooking Noosa’s Laguna Bay. This diverse menu pays homage to the changing seasons, with signature dishes such as their caramelised pork belly and coconut chicken salad.
Caloundra’s Tides Waterfront Dining has 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and has a fresh and seasonal seafood menu to match. Bonus points if you manage to snag the two-course lunch special!
Sunshine Coast restaurants for lunch
Dee Den Restaurant is nestled in an old Queenslander in Buderim and stands out with their unique Thai fare.
Psari Seafood Bar and Grill is the place to be if you’re seeking out fresh and quality seafood. Their Greek-inspired menu caters for most dietary requirements and even has a lunch special available between Tuesday and Friday.
Fine dining on the Sunshine Coast
Locale, on Noosa’s famed Hastings Street, draws heavily on Italian tradition. Their seasonal menu features local produce to serve up handmade pasta and antipasti.
Orleans Restaurant and Bar brings the flavours of New Orleans to Maroochydore, with a menu to please any traveller or foodie out there. This southern-inspired menu includes classics like spiced jambalaya and vanilla beignets.
Sunshine Coast weather
For endless sunny days, you’ve come to the right place.
While the Sunny Coast has strong summer vibes, winter on the Sunshine Coast is truly something else. Imagine cosy hinterland escapes, whale-watching, and winter sunrises.
Temperatures range from 20–29°C in the summer, with water temperatures a comfortable 24–28°C.
Winter is a little chillier, though still comfortable, with the mercury dropping between 9–22°C.
Looking for a change in scenery?
