The Sunshine Coast offers far more than just a sleepy coastal town; it has some of the top tourist attractions in Queensland.
From pristine beaches to award-winning places to eat and the natural allure of the surrounding Sunshine Coast Hinterland, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
And as one of the premier holiday destinations for families, there are also many faster-paced Sunshine Coast attractions to keep you and your kids busy, such as theme parks, Australia Zoo, Noosa River, a big kart track, mini golf, hand-feeding kangaroos and much more.
So, without further ado, here are a few of our favourite suggestions, ready to fill up your bucket list across this Aussie hotspot.
- Climb the Glass House Mountains & Take a Hike Through Noosa National Park
Sunshine Coast visitors may not be aware of how it’s the perfect location for nature lovers. The Glass House Mountains are craggy peaks surrounding beautiful natural landscapes, listed on the National Heritage Register.
These national park walking tracks are awe-inspiring and rich in Indigenous history. The area has 11 hiking trails that lead to open forests and the Glass House Mountains Lookout, perfect for hiking with friends and family. If you’re looking for some adventure while you’re visiting the area, you can also engage in some abseiling and rock climbing.
You can then visit other local places for walks, overnight escapes, and adventures at:
- Blackall Range
- Tewantin National Park
- Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
- And surrounding Hinterland.
Cooloola National Park is another great destination for nature lovers, offering a cool and pleasant experience that complements the coastal areas.
Put on your best walking boots, pack some snacks and walk the trails when you next visit the Sunshine Coast.
2. Go Snorkelling at Beautiful Beaches
When it comes to things to do, you simply cannot go past exploring the natural beauty of sparkling blue waters and the exploration of SEA LIFE on the Sunshine Coast. Among some of the best locations are:
- Maroochydore Beach
- Fraser Island
- Noosa Main Beach
- Coolum Beach
- Bulcock Beach
- and the calm waters at Mooloolaba Beach.
After a day at the beach, head to Hastings Street, a vibrant area in Noosa Heads known for its abundance of restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and luxury accommodation, making it a central hub for dining and shopping.
Our national parks and other waterways are just some of the many breath-taking locations that have abundant, beautiful sea life that calls the surrounding warm waters home:
- Turtles
- Tropical fish
- Dolphins
- Manta rays
- Octopus
When you lather up with sunscreen and gather some snorkelling gear, the best time to go snorkelling is when it’s low tide, a slow sea swell, a beautifully sunny day, and minimal or no wind.
3. Experience the Noosa Everglades
Nestled within the Great Sandy National Park, the Noosa Everglades is a hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast that promises an unforgettable adventure. This pristine network of waterways, mangrove forests, and wetlands is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Imagine gliding through tranquil waters on a guided boat tour or paddling your way through in a kayak, surrounded by the serene beauty of this unique ecosystem.
The Noosa Everglades is teeming with diverse marine life, from vibrant bird species to elusive fish and even the occasional crocodile. As you navigate through the lush landscapes, you’ll be captivated by the rich biodiversity and the peaceful ambience.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply seeking a serene escape, the Noosa Everglades offers a truly immersive experience that showcases the natural splendour of the Sunshine Coast.
4. Visit Australia Zoo
A visit to the Sunshine Coast wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the world-renowned Australia Zoo. Founded by the legendary Steve Irwin and his wife, Terri, this wildlife park is a must-see for animal lovers and families. Home to over 1,200 animals from around the globe, Australia Zoo offers an up-close and personal experience with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.
From the iconic crocodiles and cuddly koalas to the playful kangaroos and slithering snakes, there’s something for everyone at Australia Zoo. Watch thrilling live shows and demonstrations, participate in animal encounters, and even get to feed some animals.
Beyond the fun, the zoo is deeply committed to conservation and education, with numerous programs aimed at promoting wildlife sustainability. A day at Australia Zoo is entertaining and enlightening, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the animal kingdom.
4. Rainbow Beach 4WD
If you’re looking for some adventure on the Sunshine Coast, you will find it at Rainbow Beach. It’s a striking location surrounded by ancient golden sand dunes, colourful beach cliffs and a stunning coastline.
4WD is one of the best off-road attractions in this South East Queensland location. You can join a tour or explore the coastal plain on your own by hiring a 4WD.
It’s the best way to explore Rainbow Beach on the Sunshine Coast, where you can experience one day of four-wheel drive hire for a day trip or experience several days and discover other delights such as:
- Whale watching
- Surfing
- Mudlo rocks
- Sailing
- Much more!
5. Visit SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
Dive into the wonders of the Pacific Ocean at the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium in Mooloolaba. This popular attraction features 16 themed zones and habitats, each offering a unique glimpse into the underwater world. Walk through the mesmerising shark tunnel, marvel at the vibrant coral reef display, and get hands-on with starfish and other friendly creatures in the touch pool.
The aquarium is home to diverse marine life, from majestic sharks and graceful rays to colourful tropical fish. Visitors can enjoy watching their favourite animals being fed and learn fascinating facts from the knowledgeable and friendly staff.
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families and marine life enthusiasts, providing a fun and educational experience that will leave you in awe of the ocean’s wonders.
6. Experience Adventurous Outdoor Activities
There are many adventures on the Sunshine Coast, which makes it a much-loved location for families to holiday. From sleeping outdoors for some stargazing, where you can see stunning nighttime events to experiencing the freedom of flying foxes and Skydiving.
Another Sunshine Coast outdoor adventure visitors and locals love is galloping through the waves, across the sand, or wilderness horseback riding near the Mooloolah River. You can enjoy the experience on a private beach ride or with a group of other horse lovers. All you need to do is make a booking and:
- Wear sensible shoes
- Get ready for some fun
- No riding experience is needed!
7. Visit Queensland Air Museum
Every family has at least one person who is fascinated with planes. After busy days spent at the Australia Zoo, Aussie World and visiting the delicious ginger factory, slow your day at the Queensland Air Museum (QAM).
Rich in history, discover the QAM after a scenic drive where you can go on group tours or wander around on your own as you immerse yourself in over 80 historic civilian and military aircraft. Visitors can get up close to aircraft, have scheduled aircraft experiences, and grab some souvenirs from the gift shops to remember their visit.
Run by volunteers, the QAM is open seven days a week between 10 am – 4 pm. During scheduled times of the year, visitors can enjoy open cockpit days and engine alive days.
Experience the Best Attractions on the Sunshine Coast
If you’re looking for an ultimate guide to things to do on the Sunshine Coast, you cannot go past any of the places we’ve outlined. If you like visiting breathtaking national parks, exploring beautiful tropical gardens, tasting local produce or visiting a popular beach such as Noosa Main Beach, you are at the perfect destination for exploration and discovery as soon as you depart from the Sunshine Coast airport.
Outside of the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast means you can ride the waves and visit the Great Sandy National Park on the same day without travelling far. If you think a Sunshine Coast Getaway is the perfect fit for you, your family and friends, book now and enjoy all the region has to offer.
