An ultimate guide to the best beaches on the Sunshine Coast

Whether you’re looking for a family-favourite spot, quieter escape or a social media favourite, we’ve got you covered in this list of our favourite Sunshine Coast beaches.

Take a drive from the southern-most point to the northern tip across more than 100km of coastline to discover some of Australia's best beaches... right here in our backyard.

Kings Beach

Family on Kings Beach, Caloundra

Kings Beach in Caloundra is the ultimate family beach (patrolled), with its iconic ocean pool starring in plenty of social media content! The best part about this coastal location is its close proximity to the beating heart of Caloundra – you'll find an abundance of cafes, walking paths and street murals all nearby.

Your kids will also love the Kings Beach Fountain, a fun play water park zone right near the ocean that sends jets of seawater upwards in bursts. This is perfect for little ones who mightn’t feel confident enough to tackle the beach waves beyond.

Moffat Beach

Moffat Beach, Caloundra

While Moffat Beach doesn’t have the name recognition of Noosa or Kings Beach, it’s a local favourite amongst surfers who regularly carve up waves near the headland. Moffat isn’t patrolled, so we recommend enjoying the sights along the Caloundra Coastal Pathway, or trekking up to the Moffat Headland Lookout. Alternatively, bring your pooch along to splash through the waves – this is a dog friendly spot.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the shade of one of the picnic shelters, while your kids explore the epic surf-themed playground nearby – all with views looking out over Moffat Beach.

Coolum Beach

First Bay, Coolum

You’ll quickly learn that Coolum is the coastal gift that keeps on giving. Here, you’ll find not only a spectacular main beach, but also a trio of secluded bays that play host to sparkling rock pools and sandy strolls. If you’re keen to get out on the waves, you can learn from the best at the Coolum Surf School, or simply relax back and watch the action unfold with a side-serve of fresh local prawns at the Coolum Surf Club. Sounds pretty dreamy to us!

Dicky Beach

Locals are big fans of Dicky Beach, and after setting foot on the golden sand, you’ll quickly see why. This spectacular, patrolled beach is about 3km north of Kings Beach in Caloundra and features an oceanside skatepark your kids will be begging to return to!

History buffs will also be fascinated by the nautical backstory of this place, which received its name after the SS Dicky washed ashore 130 years ago during a storm. While you can’t see the SS Dicky and its barnacled remains protruding from the sand, its legacy still lives on in Sunshine Coast memory. There are also some off-leash dog areas for your furry friends to stretch their legs (just be sure to check out the specific boundaries here).

Kawana Beach

Kawana Beach is one of the Sunshine Coast’s longest beaches, clocking in at around 9km long. The sunrises at this patrolled coastal gem are simply magnificent – it's worth the early morning wake up, trust us! With picnic facilities and beach showers available, this is the spot to settle in for a full day of seaside bliss.

Mooloolaba Beach

Family Picnic at Mooloolaba Beach (Mooloolaba Spit Beach)

Recently voted #4 best beach in the South Pacific for 2023, Mooloolaba Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy a twilight fish and chip picnic with the family. Bring your surfboard along to make the most of the waves, or go for a stroll along the impressive sandy stretch. The choice is yours!

This idyllic coastal gem is also patrolled year-round.

Mudjimba Beach

Above image: Sunrise over Old Woman Island (Mudjimba Island)

It’s time to lay your towel down away from the crowds at Mudjimba Beach. This patrolled beach has the added feature of Mount Coolum in the backdrop and is just over 10 minutes-drive from Coolum, which means you’ll be in close driving distance to all your favourite Sunshine Coast spots.

With gorgeous views out to Mudjimba Island beyond and an abundance of golden sand where you can set up your umbrella, you’ll be in prime position to enjoy the cooling ocean temperature (a perfect contrast to our warming sunshine).

Peregian Beach

Neighbouring Noosa, Peregian Beach has a relaxed coastal feel that mirrors its laidback township. Nature lovers will adore this spot for its abundance of coastal heath, wildflowers and native fauna which dwell behind the sand. Best of all, the main beach is patrolled year-round. You'll also want to spend some time at the Peregian Beach Village, where you’ll find plenty of chic boutique stores and trendy restaurants.

For an extra special experience, grab some takeaway goodies (Sushi Wave, The Captain’s Daughter, and Pizzami Gourmet Pizza Bar are all mouthwatering choices) before heading to the beach for a picnic with oceanfront views.

Little Cove Beach

Little Cove Beach, Noosa Heads

A sibling to Noosa’s Main Beach, Little Cove Beach is a small patch of paradise emerging out from Noosa National Park. You’ll probably recognise Little Cove from stunning postcard photos of the area – it’s the complete package, after all! Whether you choose to stop by here on your way to the Hell’s Gates lookout point, or spend a morning dipping in the clear water, there's no shortage of things to do. Jump in a kayak, pack the snorkel gear, or simply recline in the dappled sunlight.

Noosa Main Beach

Need we introduce you to Noosa Main Beach? This icon of the Sunshine Coast backs onto Hastings Street, filled with renowned restaurants (pizza from El Capitano, or a sumptuous dinner from Bistro C, just to name a few) and luxury accommodation options (like Peppers Noosa Resort and Villas). Grab a premium spot on the sand and listen to the gentle hum of the waves as they lap against the shore.

With the Noosa National Park nearby, and plenty of vantage points to spot dolphins frolicking in the sea beyond, you’ll know you’re on holiday the moment you arrive here.