Dive into our ultimate guide to making the most of winter on the Sunshine Coast with your family. We're talking whale swims, educational experiences, shows, and more. Let's go!
Wildlife wonders
Australia Zoo giraffe feeding
Our cool months through June, July, and August are a fabulous time to head for Australia Zoo. After all, it's the only place on the Sunshine Coast where you can witness epic saltwater crocodiles in action. Set a full day aside to explore the home of the original Wildlife Warrior, Steve Irwin, and marvel at the diverse range of creatures who reside here. Make sure to enjoy a show at the Crocoseum, have a sneak peek into the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, and get up close and personal with an animal encounter.
Getting ready to swim with the Whales with Sunreef
Clear the way for the Humpback Highway! Each winter, thousands of magnificent humpback whales migrate north from Antarctica, passing by the Sunshine Coast. We're fortunate enough to benefit from a longer whale-watching season, with front-seat views to the northward and southward migrations. Experiences include classic whale-watching tours, and even the chance to swim with the whales in an experience that'll create memories for a lifetime. Check out our guide here.
For a slightly different kind of wildlife encounter, make sure to book your spot on a Dolphin View Sea Kayak Tour with Epic Ocean Adventures from Noosa.
Activities for the whole crew
The Ginger Factory, Yandina
Embrace the winter sunshine and make your way to The Ginger Factory for a morning of train rides, hand-made gelato, a live bee show, and plenty of ginger! Wander beneath the vivid Rainbrella Project (an impressive display of colourful 'floating' umbrellas, designed by a local artist), join in on the thrill of the Overboard boat ride, explore the all-new Zog Trail, and more. Once you've tucked into some burgers and chips at the Ginger Kitchen, make sure to pick up some goodies to take home with you from the Ginger Shop.
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
Other must-do family activities include a visit to SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, where you'll get to marvel at an array of underwater kingdoms, enjoy the antics of the resident seals, get interactive in the Tidal Touchpool, and more.
If you've got an aviation enthusiast in the family, pop a visit to the Queensland Air Museum on your list. Here, you'll be in the prime position to enjoy brilliant historic aviation displays and learn more about impressive planes that once took to the skies.
Hit the trails
Tewantin Mountain Bike Trails
This winter, it's time to explore our spectacular walking trails and mountain bike tracks that zigzag through our spectacular forests and national parks. Never tried mountain biking before? Not a problem. We've got plenty of tracks to suit a range of abilities, including the scenic Ferny Forest loop, the crisp Hinterland magic of Mapleton National Park, and much more (check out our handy guide for details).
