Things to do in the Sunshine Coast
By Sitchu
Summer vibes are kicking year-round on this sunny stretch of coastline, so Sitchu have rounded up the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.
In all its sun-kissed glory, Queensland’s very own Sunshine Coast is nothing short of paradise. From Noosa to Maroochydore to Mooloolaba, the string of beachside towns and lush hinterland is an outdoor lover’s dream, and it all caters well to the throngs of tourists that grace its shores year-round.
A water wonderland with crashing swells, swimming beaches, meandering waterways and inlets, the Sunshine Coast is a veritable playground for water-based activities – surfing, kayaking, sailing, and diving. And although its seaside location is the biggest drawcard, land-based adventures and activities are just as revered – Australia Zoo and Sealife anyone?
But that’s not all this seemingly endless stretch of coastline serves up, there is a lot of other beautiful things to do on the Sunshine Coast. Thanks to the ocean-fresh seafood that gets reeled in on the daily, the Sunshine Coast’s foodie scene delights on so many fronts. Then throw a handful of shopping hubs and lustful waterfront properties into the mix, and you too will be contemplating a sea-change when next in town.
Neon-lit signs and playful art, Light Years Asian Diner combines Asian-fusion fare with a seriously good drinks menu. The bountiful menu is designed to be shared, so if you’re a dining duo, we recommend you taste your way around at least five of their delicious dishes, but not before starting out with some dumplings. And although they have a comprehensive drinks menu, it’s the cocktails that will really get the night going.
1 Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa Heads
A sleek fit-out with a tropical garden feel, this is one good looking bar and eatery that you’ll want to escape to. There are several areas to relax in, from the couches to the banquette seating to the bar stools. The cocktails are creative, and the spirits, beers and wine are flowing. They even have kombucha on tap. Plus, if you’re feeling a bit peckish, the menu is Asian fusion.
51 Duporth Avenue, Maroochydore
A bright and breezy casual dining restaurant at Mooloolaba Marina, Pier 33 oozes summer vibes. Inside, the interiors are fresh with coastal hues of navy and white with relaxing couches and dining tables to linger around. But outside is really where it’s at. Spread out on the lush lawn or at one of the many outdoor tables while you take in the coastal surrounds. Dine on fresh seafood and order a delightful cocktail from the panoramic island bar.
33-45 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
Miss Moneypenny’s is exactly what you’d expect from a stylish beachside bar. Laid-back bamboo chairs, ambient lighting and an easy-on-the-eye palette. Perfectly plated Mediterranean-inspired dishes flow freely, while the drinks menu is extensive, with an entire section dedicated purely to Champagne cocktails. Be sure to check out their renowned bottomless brunch and their cocktail classes go down a real treat.
6 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads
Sunshine Coast Beaches
The Sunshine Coast is renowned for its beaches, and people come great distances to experience surf breaks, swimming spots and impressive views. Mooloolaba Beach ranks as the safest beach in the area, while Alexandra Headland is permanently etched in local folklore as having the best surf in the area. But no matter the time of year, the string of beaches from Noosa to Mooloolaba are teeming with people eager to feel the sand beneath their feet.
Adventure Activities
The Sunshine Coast is jam-packed full of activities on and off-land. The many beaches and waterways provide ample opportunity to go surfing, swimming, paddling, gliding, cruising and sailing on your own terms, or private tourism operators have made it their business to showcase the region’s finest. Australia Zoo gets you up close and personal with Australia’s most feared and loved animals while Sealife gives you a glimpse into the magical underwater world.
Noosa National Park
The resort town of Noosa Heads, not only has stunning beaches that were made for swimming and paddling, but it also has one good looking national park. Hugging the coastline, Noosa National Park has a network of walking trails that takes in some incredible views of the coastline and connects Noosa Heads with Sunshine Beach. Along the way, there are several secluded beaches and bays, so don your hiking shoes and swimwear and escape the bustle of Noosa Heads.
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Take a break from hanging out beneath oversized beach umbrellas and head in-land to explore the incredible Hinterland region. Just a short 30-minute drive from the coastline, charming mountain villages, national parks and conservation reserves give way to wineries, produce markets, and studios and galleries that showcase local artists. There are treetop adventures, mazes and botanic gardens to explore.
A collection of bespoke holiday homes in Noosa, Sunshine Beach and Sunrise Beach, Sable Stays brings a whole other level of coastal coolness that this part of the Sunshine Coast has been begging for. Each one of the four houses are a private oasis that accommodates up to four or six guests, completely self-contained with a chic boho coastal styling. Their winning location, either steps from Noosa’s Hastings Street and beachfront or with views of the coast, also makes these properties a standout.
Noosa Heads, Sunrise Beach
If you love the work of interior design powerhouse, Luchetti Krelle than you’re going to love Little Red Barn. This Noosa Hinterland hideout is the work of Rachel Luchetti, who brings a touch of luxe to the humble barn. Soaring vaulted wooden ceilings, a spacious living area and three bedrooms, plus two bathrooms, one with a freestanding cast iron bathtub on the verandah. Outside, balconies overlook the lush treetops and a heated concrete water tank swimming pool is a treat year-round.
Doonan, QLD
Head inland into the lush regions of the Sunshine Coast’s hinterland rainforests, and you’ll stumble across this stunner, which backs onto the Kondalilla Falls National Park, famous for its cascading waterfall. They offer a variety of studio, lodge and villa-style accommodation, but the resort’s treehouses are what’s in hot demand. They’re all equipped with kitchenettes, TVs, air conditioning, baths and decks that lap up the lush surroundings. To take your stay up a notch, ask for an in-room spa treatment.
61 Kondalilla Falls Road, Flaxton
For your next holiday, why not book a weekend on the Sunshine Coast? From Mooloolaba and Sunshine Beach, to Caloundra and Coolum Beach, there is a lot of things to do on the Sunshine Coast. For more Sunshine Coast and travel inspo, check out the latest destination guides on Sitchu.