A more laid-back alternative to the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast offers excellent weather all year-round on Queensland’s stunning shoreline. Located an hour’s drive north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast contains four separate areas, each with their own distinct charms. Long stretches of gorgeous golden sands can be found all over the Sunshine Coast, offering a combination of quiet swimming beaches and wild surfing waves. Indulge in some retail therapy by browsing the unique artwork, jewellery and fashion at the Eumundi Markets, whilst fresh local produce can be sampled at the Noosa Farmers Market. With the Cotton Tree Market, the Peregian Beach Market and Caloundra’s Markets on Bulcock, the Sunshine Coast offers a shopper’s paradise set amongst an outstanding beachlife.
What you’ll love most about Australia’s Sunshine Coast
- Bask in the sunshine on the Sunshine Coast’s pristine beaches, including popular spots like Noosa Main Beach, Mooloolaba Beach, and Coolum Beach, offering golden sands, turquoise waters, and ideal conditions for swimming, surfing, and beachside picnics
- Discover the natural beauty of Noosa National Park, where coastal trails wind through lush rainforest, past secluded coves, and along stunning ocean cliffs, providing opportunities for bushwalking, wildlife spotting, and panoramic coastal views
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Eumundi Markets, held every Wednesday and Saturday in the charming hinterland town of Eumundi, where you can browse stalls selling local arts, crafts, fashion, and gourmet food products, as well as enjoy live music and street performances
- Dine at award-winning restaurants and cafes along the Sunshine Coast, where fresh local produce, seafood, and artisanal ingredients are showcased in innovative dishes, offering a culinary journey through the region’s diverse flavours and gastronomic delights
- Venture into the Sunshine Coast hinterland, where picturesque villages, rolling hills, and lush rainforest await exploration, with highlights including the scenic drives of the Blackall Range, the charming town of Montville, and the spectacular views from Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
- Get up close and personal with native wildlife at attractions such as Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin’s legacy, and SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, where you can learn about marine life through interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and educational presentations