Spring has arrived on the Sunshine Coast, bringing longer days and the perfect excuse to plan your next holiday and find your Sunshine Moment. While you’re here, make the most of your stay by discovering some of the fun and adventure waiting across the region. Whether that means an adrenaline rush, family fun, getting back to nature or a leisurely cruise, there’s a tour or attraction waiting to be discovered.
From coast to hinterland and everywhere in between, we’re taking the scenic route north to uncover some of the Sunshine Coast’s tours and attractions worth stopping for along the way.
Among the rolling green hills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World pairs sweeping Glass House Mountains views with colourful, up-close bird encounters. Down among the peaks, Australia Zoo needs little introduction, home to crocodiles, koalas, elephants, giraffes and more.
As the mountains give way to the coastline, there’s plenty to discover around Caloundra. Step inside the Queensland Air Museum or pick up the pace on the water with Caloundra Jet Ski Hire and Safaris.
For families, there’s plenty of fun to be had along the way. Chase the thrills at AussieWorld, or wind your way through the mazes, puzzles and challenges at nearby Amaze World.
Closer to the coastline, Mooloolaba offers a different kind of adventure. At The Wharf Mooloolaba, come face-to-face with sharks, seals and marine life from around the world at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, or see another side of Mooloolaba aboard Aquaduck, travelling from the beachfront streets to the Mooloolah River.
In Maroochydore, the action heads skyward at Next Level High Ropes Adventure Park, with courses and ziplines suspended above Cornmeal Creek at Sunshine Plaza.
Turning inland, one of the Sunshine Coast’s most recognisable icons comes into view. The Big Pineapple in Woombye has been drawing visitors for generations, and today there’s even more reason to stop by. Ride the Pineapple Train for a little nostalgia, meet native and exotic animals at Wildlife HQ or test your nerve on TreeTop Challenge’s rainforest ziplines and aerial obstacles.
The Ginger Factory in Yandina is an easy family stop with free entry and plenty for little ones, from the Overboard boat ride to the ginger train. Grown-ups can wander the gardens, enjoy ginger tastings and discover how one of the region’s best-known ingredients goes from paddock to plate.
Nearby, browse local makers, artists, food and live entertainment at The Original Eumundi Markets every Wednesday and Saturday.
Around Noosa, the pace is yours to choose. Make the most of the longer spring days with a leisurely cruise along the Noosa River aboard Noosa Ferry, or explore on two wheels with an e-bike from ecoTekk.
For a taste of Noosa’s wilder side, venture into the mirrored waterways of the Noosa Everglades with Everglades Eco Safaris.
Towards Rainbow Beach, the bitumen gives way to sand with Great Beach Drive 4WD Tours. Covering more than 70 kilometres of beach between Noosa and Rainbow Beach, tours combine coastal scenery, wildlife spotting and access to Double Island Point Lighthouse.
At the northern end of the Sunshine Coast, swap coast for countryside at Highland Hideaway Experiences, with hands-on encounters with Highland cows and other farm animals.
Then step back in time aboard the Mary Valley Rattler, winding from historic Gympie Station through the rolling landscapes of the Mary Valley on a beautifully restored heritage train.
Find your Sunshine Moment at visitsunshinecoast.com
