The Sunshine Coast is a natural playground for the young and young at heart, think family days at the beach, trips to the ice cream parlour and warm summer nights under the stars.
And for those seeking adventure, you’ll find it in spades with family friendly attractions that will make your spirits soar.
From the rollercoasters of Aussie World to wildlife encounters at Australia Zoo, we’ve rounded up six of the best family attractions not to miss next time you’re on the Sunshine Coast.
Wildlife wonder
There’s no doubt the late Australian icon Steve Irwin put the Sunshine Coast on the world map with his passion for wildlife and conservation, so don’t miss the chance to visit his home for the ultimate family wildlife adventure.
Australia Zoo, Beerwah
One day at the eco warrior’s famous Australia Zoo won’t seem enough with a slew of world-class shows and exhibits home to more than 1200 animals including otters, snakes, a red panda, parrots, cheetahs, tigers, elephants and Australian favourites like echidna and dingoes.
Of course, no trip to Australia Zoo is complete without a visit to the Crocoseum to watch the Wildlife Warriors Show, where passionate keepers and their animals take guests on a slithering, jaw-snapping adventure.
If you can’t drag yourselves away, the Crocodile Hunter Lodge is a stylish and sustainable place to rest your heads - and continue the fun.
Ginger Factory
It’s the Sunshine Coast’s very own version own a Ginger Bread House, but unlike a fairy-tale, the Ginger Factory is all too real.
Located at Yandina, The Ginger Factory is one of the region’s most-loved destinations for outdoor family fun and gives visitors a taste of the Sunshine Coast with a celebration of everything ginger.
The Ginger Factory, Yandina
Learn about how ginger is grown and harvested before sampling the ginger-inspired treats, ride the 120-year-old historic Ginger Train – Moreton - around the sub-tropical gardens and follow the gingerbread man on the Overboard boat ride, featuring handmade moving puppets and tunes.
There’s also a live bee show, on-site ice creamery and chocolate shop that will have you stocking up on all things delicious.
If the kids still have energy to burn, follow the Gruffalo Trail into the rainforest with the Gruffalo Spotter app in search of Mouse and Fox.
Marine magic
If seeing a jovial colony of Little Blue Penguins in the flesh isn’t enough to win you points for the Best Parents Award with the kids, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast’s 80m-long Ocean Tunnel sure will.
Home to 10,000 sea creatures, this aquarium is a major drawcard for families – and for good reason.
Located at The Wharf at Mooloolaba, this magical marine world offers an inspiring mix of animal encounters and hands-on activities, as well as some weird and wonderful marine residents.
Despite behind home to all things under the sea, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is an indoor attraction so any wet weather won’t dampen the fun.
Splash out at Kings Beach
For a fun, affordable and relaxing day out that won’t break the bank, make tracks to Caloundra’s Kings Beach.
This coastal gem has a patrolled beachfront, rockpools and the Sunshine Coast’s only saltwater sea pool, but the real drawcard is the Kings Beach Water Feature.
Kings Beach pool, Caloundra
Sit back and let the kids run wild in the time-delayed fountains till their heart's content while you enjoy a coffee and bask in that glorious sub-tropical weather.
We had you at ‘relaxing’, right?
Just Tree-rific
For adventurous families keen to test their limits and get their hearts pumping, hit up the TreeTop Challenge.
Located next door to the Big Pineapple at Woombye, this High Ropes Adventure Park is suspended high amongst the trees of lush coastal rainforest.
TreeTop Challenge, Woombye
Boasting six courses unique to the Sunshine Coast - from easy to what has been hailed as the most extreme in Australia - and 12 ziplines, this action-packed adventure delivers one seriously thrilling family day out.
Be sure to take in the killer vistas from the tree canopy - it’s pretty special.
Amaze the kids
Take a break from the waves and sand and step into an enchanting world tucked just 20 minutes from the beach.
Set amongst tropical forests, the magical Amaze World features a living hedge maze - where you’ll actually want to get lost! - a timber maze as well as mini golf.
If you’re looking for something really special, have a go at their immersive augmented reality experiences where fairies, trolls, unicorns and dragons roam the enchanted forest.
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