Here are nine epic spots on the Sunshine Coast that will take your breath away, stop you in your tracks, sweep you off your feet, leave you awestruck, gob-smacked, and all kinds of other fabulous clichés.
Full moon rise on the grassy knoll at Coolum
Mount Coolum boardwalk / Photo credit: Brent Matthews
On the next full moon, head to the Coolum Boardwalk. Around halfway between the surf club and Point Perry, a set of stairs will lead you off the path and onto a sweet little grassy knoll. Take a picnic blanket and a bottle of wine and enjoy some fine full-moon-gazing with absolutely nothing (no fences, no obstructions) between you, the rocky cliff edge, and that big ol’ rising luna.
Noosa National Park
Picnic in Noosa National Park
Set up a picnic and enjoy the sparkling blue ocean beyond from the idyllic surrounds of Noosa National Park. A trek to Hells Gates near the tip of Noosa National Park is also a must-do if you're looking for epic views (plus the chance to see a dolphin or two). With plenty of angles to capture the ultimate Instagram shot, this is easily one of the most photogenic spots on the Sunshine Coast.
Star gazing from Mount Tinbeerwah
While navigating a mountain at night can be risky business, Mount Tinbeerwah in Tewantin National Park is fairly easy as far as mountain hikes go. You’ll need a torch to get to the top, but once you’re there switch it off and simply look up. Mind-blowing, breathtaking, and possibly one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast. Especially if you’re on the hunt for romantic date ideas.
Serenity Falls
Serenity Falls, Buderim
Buderim’s best (but not-so-well-kept) secret spot has got to be Serenity Falls. Explore the lush surrounds of Buderim Forest Park and dip your toes in the cooling rock-pool waters. Better yet, the Falls are only a 10-minute drive from Mooloolaba and are relatively accessible, which means they're great place for your kids to enjoy as well.
Seary's Creek
Situated in the Cooloola Recreation Area (Great Sandy National Park) Seary's Creek is a breathtaking spot that's got social media talking! Grab an inflatable ring and drift down the stream as you enjoy your immersive natural surrounds. One of the most unique features of Seary's Creek is its golden water (which it receives from the tannins of the surrounding forestry).
Mount Ngungun
Mount Ngungun, Glasshouse Mountains
Sunrise, sunset, midday… No matter what time of day it is from the top of Mount Ngungun in the Glass House Mountains National Park, it’s truly spectacular. Don’t believe us? Stalk #mtngungun on Instagram and see for yourself. Make sure to review current park alerts before setting out.
The Bays at Coolum Beach
First Bay, Coolum
Exploring the trio of bays at Coolum is a must-do. We recommend starting your adventure at First Bay, before meandering over the rocks to Second Bay, and then eventually to Third Bay. The 15-minute walk takes you around rock pools galore and all kinds of oceany goodness.
Sunrise at basically any beach
In case you haven’t noticed, we have an abundance of east-facing beaches... which means we get front-row seats to one of nature’s five-star sunrise shows every single day. All you have to do is set your alarm (even though it's super early in summer, we promise it's worth it), head to a beach of your choice, and let the show begin.
Sunrise at Point Cartwright Beach, Kawana Region
Blackall Range Tourist Drive
Want a boatload of breathtaking spots in one day? Jump in the car, take to the Blackall Range Tourist drive, and prepare to be wowed over and over and over again (you might even spot a hot air balloon drifting over the mountains beyond!). Left the packed lunch at home? Never fear. We know where to find the best eats in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Hot air ballooning over Glass House Mountains with Sunshine Coast Ballooning
