From our sparkling coastline to our idyllic Hinterland hills, you'll quickly find the Sunshine Coast to be a smorgasbord of activities and attractions. Only passing through the region for the day? No worries. Let us guide you to some fabulous spots where you can experience the rich diversity of experiences on offer.
A day amongst the mountains
Glass House Mountains aerial view
From the moment you witness the majestic peaks of the Glass House Mountains, you’ll instinctively slow down to take in the view and start to take it easy.
On your way through the rolling hills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, stop in for a light takeaway snack at Maleny Food Co. Browse through their delectable range of cheeses, cured meats, and a mouthwatering selection of gelato and sorbet (freshly churned onsite, of course!).
Maleny Food Co, Credit: TEQ
Just a short drive from the town of Maleny, you'll find Gardners Falls. This gorgeous spot is an easy stroll from the carpark and is shrouded in a lush, subtropical setting. Dip your toes in the rockpools, set out the picnic blanket with your goodies from Maleny Food Co, and enjoy the peaceful surrounds. You'll easily spend a couple of hours here!
Family at Gardners Falls, Maleny
After working up an appetite at Gardners Falls, make tracks for a locally sourced dinner at Harry's on Buderim. This iconic Sunshine Coast restaurant offers a flavoursome menu that includes the likes of charred beef sirloin steak, or crispy skin Coral Coast saltwater Barramundi. Conclude the day with one of their delectable desserts: such as a caramelised mango tart, or their beloved banana fritters.
Caloundra ahoy!
Walking the Boardwalk, Caloundra
If you're keen to keep things coastal, start your day with a coffee and breakfast from The Pocket Espresso Bar in Moffat Beach, Caloundra. We can’t go past their avo toast! Once you're fully fuelled, take the beautiful Coastal Walk from Moffat to Caloundra and Golden Beach... where it’s time to hit the water.
Bills Boat Hire at Golden Beach, Caloundra
With stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and jet skis to hire, you’ll be all set to explore Pumicestone Passage: the pristine body of water between Bribie Island and the Queensland mainland. You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled as the passage is teaming with native wildlife.
Be sure to also grab some tasty bites from our friends at Moffat Beach Brewing Co before you head home. We recommend the schnitzel, hot chips... and of course, a glass of their crisp Passenger Pale Ale.
One for the adventurers
Mt Ngungun, Glass House Mountains
If ‘explorer’ is your middle name (and you find it hard to stay still), then the Sunshine Coast is the perfect place for you. Whether you feel like witnessing the golden sunrise from the summit of Mt Ngungun (one of the Glass House Mountains) or admiring the view on a trip with Paradise Sea Planes, there's no shortage of ways to experience our natural beauty.
Mooloolaba Spit
After a busy morning getting your sweat up, it’s time for breakfast and a swim. Only a short distance away, you'll find Mooloolaba: one of our popular seaside towns full of shops, trendy restaurants, and a spectacular coastal vista. Spend a few hours recuperating here before tackling your next adventure... a waterfall.
Tucked away behind Maroochydore, Buderim holds a secret little gem close to its heart. Buderim Forest Park is a 45-hectare secluded oasis with a beautiful, accessible walkway that takes you through the forest towards the falls. With the familiar sounds of catbirds in the trees, and the bubbling of gentle streams over rocks, you’ll be completely astounded that this reserve is only a 20-minute drive from Mooloolaba!
Culture and coast
Couple at Eumundi Markets, Eumundi
The Original Eumundi Markets is the perfect way to kick-start your weekend. Held every Saturday and Wednesday, the Eumundi Markets is a premier artisan market that's an iconic fixture on local calendars. With entertainment and great food to accompany you while you browse, it’s a market experience like no other.
Couple enjoying the sunrise from Mt Coolum.
After filling up on local tastes and treats, it’s time to conquer a mountain. Work off lunch by climbing up Mount Coolum for an unforgettable experience that leads to an incredible view of the coastline. It’s about a 45-minute walk to the peak of Mount Coolum, and once at the top, you'll be in a great position to spot whales in the distance towards Mudjimba Island.
To refuel after your climb, enjoy a delicious meal from the Coolum Surf Club. Try their burgers and chips, and stroll down the main beach as the sun sets and the sky turns into a spectacular show of vivid colour.
