Sunshine Coast cruises offer a mix of scenic waterways, coastal sightseeing, seafood dining and wildlife encounters. Explore tranquil rivers, picturesque canals and the Noosa Everglades, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way. Coastal experiences include sunset trips past waterfront homes and Mooloolaba Bay, as well as seafood lunch cruises featuring fresh local flavours and native bushfood.
Seasonal whale-watching cruises bring you closer to migrating humpbacks, with underwater camera footage and hydrophone recordings adding another dimension to the experience.
Sunshine Coast's best-known attractions range from wildlife parks and marine exhibits to national parks, distinctive mountain landscapes and outdoor markets.
Located in Beerwah, Australia Zoo is a major wildlife attraction associated with conservationist Steve Irwin and his family's conservation work. The zoo houses Australian and international wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles and wombats. Wildlife presentations and conservation exhibits make it a popular choice for families and animal enthusiasts.
Situated on the Mooloolaba waterfront, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium showcases marine life from local coastal habitats and further afield. Exhibits include sharks, rays, tropical fish, turtles and other aquatic animals, with underwater viewing areas offering close-up views of marine species. It is a useful option for families and visitors looking for an indoor attraction near the beach.
The Eumundi Markets are among the Sunshine Coast's best-known markets, bringing together local makers, artists, food producers and independent traders. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, clothing, artworks, fresh produce and street food while experiencing the atmosphere of this hinterland town. The main markets operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Noosa National Park is one of the region’s best-known natural attractions, combining coastal headlands, eucalyptus woodlands, rainforests and secluded bays. Walking trails lead from Noosa Heads along the coastline, with viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean and beaches such as Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay. Visitors may also spot koalas in the trees and dolphins offshore.
The Glass House Mountains are a group of distinctive volcanic peaks rising above the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the mountains are among the region’s most recognisable natural landmarks and hold deep cultural significance for the Traditional Owners, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples. Visitors can enjoy scenic lookouts, walking trails and hikes around selected peaks, including Mount Ngungun.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland offers a landscape of rolling hills, subtropical rainforest, waterfalls and country towns. Explore the boutique shops and cafés of Montville and Maleny, walk through the rainforest at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve or visit Kondalilla National Park to see its waterfall and forest trails.
The region is also known for its farm-to-table dining, local produce and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Glass House Mountains. After dark, its designated Dark Sky Reserve makes the hinterland a notable destination for stargazing.
The Noosa Everglades is a network of calm waterways along the upper Noosa River, bordered by tea-tree forests, wetlands and native vegetation. Known as the ‘River of Mirrors’ for the reflections across its dark, tannin-stained water, it is one of the region’s most distinctive natural environments. The Noosa Everglades is also “one of only two Everglades in the world”.
Visitors can explore by guided eco-cruise, canoe or kayak, looking out for birdlife and enjoying a quieter side of the Sunshine Coast away from the surf beaches.
Noosa Main Beach is one of Sunshine Coast’s best-known beaches, popular for its sheltered waters, gentle waves and views across Laguna Bay. Its north-facing position offers relatively protected swimming conditions, making it suitable for families and beginner surfers when conditions are favourable.
The beach sits beside Hastings Street, where visitors can find cafés, restaurants and boutique shops, and is within walking distance of the coastal trails of Noosa National Park
Mooloolaba Beach is a popular patrolled surf beach with golden sand, ocean swimming and easy access to cafés, restaurants and the Esplanade.
A short distance south, Mooloolaba Spit is the area around the entrance to the Mooloolah River, where the river meets the sea. It has a more sheltered waterfront, fishing boats, seafood restaurants and access to boat trips, making it a good spot for fishing, waterfront walks and watching boats enter and leave the river.
Located in Yandina, The Ginger Factory is a family-friendly attraction dedicated to ginger production and local food experiences. Visitors can learn about ginger, browse the shops and sample ginger-based products, with additional rides and activities available on site. It can be a convenient stop for families exploring the central Sunshine Coast and surrounding hinterland
Located in Beerwah, Australia Zoo is a major wildlife attraction associated with conservationist Steve Irwin and his family's conservation work. The zoo houses Australian and international wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles and wombats. Wildlife presentations and conservation exhibits make it a popular choice for families and animal enthusiasts.
Situated on the Mooloolaba waterfront, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium showcases marine life from local coastal habitats and further afield. Exhibits include sharks, rays, tropical fish, turtles and other aquatic animals, with underwater viewing areas offering close-up views of marine species. It is a useful option for families and visitors looking for an indoor attraction near the beach.
The Eumundi Markets are among the Sunshine Coast's best-known markets, bringing together local makers, artists, food producers and independent traders. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, clothing, artworks, fresh produce and street food while experiencing the atmosphere of this hinterland town. The main markets operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Noosa National Park is one of the region’s best-known natural attractions, combining coastal headlands, eucalyptus woodlands, rainforests and secluded bays. Walking trails lead from Noosa Heads along the coastline, with viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean and beaches such as Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay. Visitors may also spot koalas in the trees and dolphins offshore.
The Glass House Mountains are a group of distinctive volcanic peaks rising above the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the mountains are among the region’s most recognisable natural landmarks and hold deep cultural significance for the Traditional Owners, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples. Visitors can enjoy scenic lookouts, walking trails and hikes around selected peaks, including Mount Ngungun.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland offers a landscape of rolling hills, subtropical rainforest, waterfalls and country towns. Explore the boutique shops and cafés of Montville and Maleny, walk through the rainforest at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve or visit Kondalilla National Park to see its waterfall and forest trails.
The region is also known for its farm-to-table dining, local produce and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Glass House Mountains. After dark, its designated Dark Sky Reserve makes the hinterland a notable destination for stargazing.
The Noosa Everglades is a network of calm waterways along the upper Noosa River, bordered by tea-tree forests, wetlands and native vegetation. Known as the ‘River of Mirrors’ for the reflections across its dark, tannin-stained water, it is one of the region’s most distinctive natural environments. The Noosa Everglades is also “one of only two Everglades in the world”.
Visitors can explore by guided eco-cruise, canoe or kayak, looking out for birdlife and enjoying a quieter side of the Sunshine Coast away from the surf beaches.
Noosa Main Beach is one of Sunshine Coast’s best-known beaches, popular for its sheltered waters, gentle waves and views across Laguna Bay. Its north-facing position offers relatively protected swimming conditions, making it suitable for families and beginner surfers when conditions are favourable.
The beach sits beside Hastings Street, where visitors can find cafés, restaurants and boutique shops, and is within walking distance of the coastal trails of Noosa National Park
Mooloolaba Beach is a popular patrolled surf beach with golden sand, ocean swimming and easy access to cafés, restaurants and the Esplanade.
A short distance south, Mooloolaba Spit is the area around the entrance to the Mooloolah River, where the river meets the sea. It has a more sheltered waterfront, fishing boats, seafood restaurants and access to boat trips, making it a good spot for fishing, waterfront walks and watching boats enter and leave the river.
Located in Yandina, The Ginger Factory is a family-friendly attraction dedicated to ginger production and local food experiences. Visitors can learn about ginger, browse the shops and sample ginger-based products, with additional rides and activities available on site. It can be a convenient stop for families exploring the central Sunshine Coast and surrounding hinterland
The Sunshine Coast is made up of several coastal towns and hinterland communities rather than one central city. Each offers a different base for visitors, from lively waterfronts and surf beaches to quieter coastal villages and country towns.
Home to Noosa Main Beach, Hastings Street and access to Noosa National Park
Best for: Coastal walks, beaches and boutique shopping
Coastal town known for its patrolled beach, waterfront dining, a marina, SEA LIFE and the Mooloolaba Spit
Best for: River cruises, seafood, beaches and marine attractions
The region’s main commercial centre, with beaches, shopping areas and access to the Maroochy River.
Best for: Shopping, dining and a central coastal base
A family-friendly town known for Kings Beach, Bulcock Beach and the nearby Pumicestone Passage.
Best for: Family holidays, beaches and coastal walks
Located between Maroochydore and Noosa, with Mount Coolum nearby.
Best for: Surfing, beach walks and a quieter coastal stay
These country towns offer rolling hills, rainforest, cafés, galleries, scenic lookouts and access to nearby walking trails.
Best for: Hinterland scenery, village shopping and local produce
Cruise through the Noosa Everglades (recommended)Go on seafood lunch cruise from MooloolabaLearn to surf at Noosa Main Beach/ Kings BeachRide the Aquaduck through MooloolabaSnorkel at Mudjimba IslandHike select trails in the Glass House Mountains (recommended)Walk the Noosa National Park coastal trackKondalilla Falls Circuit at Kondalilla National ParkVisit Buderim Forest Park and its waterfallExplore sections of the Hinterland Great WalkVisit Australia Zoo (recommended)Explore SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast AquariumVisit The Ginger FactoryVisit family-friendly beaches of CaloundraWander the boutiques of Montville (recommended)Browse Eumundi Markets (Wed and Sat)Eat fresh prawns at The Wharf MooloolabaDine along Hastings StreetExplore local breweries, cafés and farm-gate producers* You can mix and match these itineraries according to your time, interests and convenience to create your own Sunshine Coast experience.
Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) in Marcoola is the region’s own airport, with direct flights from major Australian cities including Sydney and Melbourne. It is around 15km from Mooloolaba, 28km from Caloundra and 42km from Noosa.
Translink’s bus network connects the main coastal towns and can be used with a go card, while taxis and rideshare operate throughout the region. Beside the hinterland, the Glass House Mountains and the main towns are spread out; hiring a car or joining a guided tour is the easiest way to see them.
| Resource | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Visit Sunshine Coast | Attractions, events, accommodation and travel planning across the region |
| Visit Noosa | Noosa-specific attractions, events and visitor information |
| Translink Sunshine Coast | Sunshine Coast buses, trains, fares and go card information |
| Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) | Flight information, airport facilities and ground transport |
| Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service | Information on Sunshine Coast national parks, plus permits |
| Bureau of Meteorology | Sunshine Coast weather, marine forecasts and warnings |
Posted On: Dec 18, 2025
The Sunshine Coast stretches from Caloundra in the south to Noosa in the north with a mix of beaches, wildlife, coastal trails and easy-going holiday towns. It is one of Queensland’s most relaxed destinations with something for every traveller.
Posted On: Feb 18, 2025
The Sunshine Coast is as dreamy as it sounds – stunning beaches, lush hinterlands, vibrant cultural scene. What's not to love? It gets even better with an incredible lineup of festivals and events throughout the year!
Posted On: Dec 11, 2024
Local, scenic and family-friendly—these are the three words that capture the essence of the Sunshine Coast. From the surf breaks of the Noosa River to the stunning beaches of Mooloolaba, and the natural beauty of Beerwah, the Sunshine Coast is Australia’s ideal holiday spot.
Posted On: Feb 13, 2024
Wildlife enthusiasts, listen up! If you're into meeting fascinating creatures, Noosa is calling your name for the next getaway. Wondering why? This charming beachside spot in Sunshine Coast is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
