The combo of great people and weather
The most distinctive thing about the Sunshine Coast is the people. It's a place where you'll feel like a local from the moment you arrive, and where you'll be sure to pick up some tips for a secret swimming spot (or two). From sun-kissed surfers to bohemian artists, there's no shortage of friendly folk with easy smiles. After all, happiness comes with the territory here: we soak up an average of 300 days of sunshine per year!
Landscape diversity
The Summit Of Mt Ngungun, Glass House Mountains
Part of what makes the Sunshine Coast region special is the diversity of its landscape. We're comfortably tucked between Brisbane and K’gari, featuring an abundance of impressive views, fresh local food, immersive encounters, and world-class events. From the majestic Glass House Mountains, to the coloured sands of Rainbow Beach, our region includes more than 100 kilometres of pristine sandy beaches, surrounded by the quiet beauty of coastal and hinterland villages. While there's no shortage of sand to throw down your towel, a trip to Noosa North Shore is always a must. Take a trip along the Great Beach Highway from Noosa to Double Island Point with a guided tour, making sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and turtles in the surf. Another way to explore Noosa North Shore is on horseback with Equathon Horse Riding Tours or e-bike, before spending the night nearby in glamping accommodation - bliss.
Queensland's Sunshine Pantry
Fresh oysters onboard Saltwater Eco Tours
Experience the very best of fresh local produce, farm stays, experiences, and more when you arrive on the Sunshine Coast. Whether you feel like cruising along the sparkling Mooloolah River enjoying canapes inspired by native flavours, reclining back in the tranquil surrounds of a luxury farm stay, or dining out at one of our award-winning restaurants, you certainly won't leave hungry!
Exhilarating events
Queensland Garden Expo
Every year, we host a variety of major and regional events that extend from the coast through to the Hinterland. Highlights include the Noosa and Mooloolaba Triathlons, the Queensland Garden Show, The Curated Plate, Gympie Music Muster, and the Noosa Festival of Surfing.
Australia's Craft Beer Capital
Brouhaha Brewery, Maleny
In case you missed it, we've claimed the crown as Australia's Craft Beer Capital. With thriving microbreweries dotted across our coastal towns and sprawling countryside, we're in the prime position to offer up a quality chilled brew. From Brouhaha, Your Mates, Moffat Beach Brewing, and plenty more, you'll find easy access to our craft beer hotspots on a guided tour.
Fresh seafood
Eating Mooloolaba prawns at The Surf Club Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
At the glistening coastal haven of Mooloolaba, you'll find one of the busiest fishing ports on the eastern seaboard. The wharf here is a hive of daily activity, with trawlers bringing boatloads of fish, Mooloolaba prawns, lobsters, and spanner crabs ashore. Grab the catch of the day on Parkyn Parade in Mooloolaba, where you’ll find a range of fish markets and takeaway shops, all offering fresh local seafood.
Beachside culture
Tea Tree Bay, Noosa National Park. Credit Tourism & Events Queensland
Sunshine Coast beaches are, quite simply, some of the best in the world. Whether you’re searching for a secluded patch of sand to sink your toes into, a family-friendly spot where the kids can make friends with other sandcastle-makers, or dog-friendly spot to bring along your furry friend, the Sunshine Coast has dozens of safe and picturesque beaches to choose from. Check out our guide here.
Swim with whales
Getting ready to swim with the Whales with Sunreef
Strap on your flippers and zip up the wetsuit... you're going swimming with a humpback whale! Whale-watching tours are also available and our coastal areas have some stellar viewing platforms and lookouts to watch these regal creatures frolic from June through to late October. Find out more here.
Head to the Hinterland
Glass House Mountains aerial view
A short 40 minute drive from our sandy shores will show you another side of the Sunshine Coast: our stunning Hinterland. Days spent here are characterised by mountains walks in the Glass House Mountains, cooling dips in rainforest pools and more good food than you can poke a fork at. Make sure to visit the Noosa Hinterland too, where the charming villages of Cooroy, Pomona and Kin Kin exude country charm.
