From whale-watching ocean kayak tours to drinks at a buzzing rooftop bar, we’ve crafted the ultimate hitlist of newbies to check out on the Sunshine Coast this year. You’ll be tucking into trendy Mediterranean fare, patting Highland cows, and raising a glass to our newest craft brewery in no time. Let’s go!
EAT
Peli's, Noosa Marina
Settle back with stunning waterfront vistas at Peli’s—a brand-new restaurant from the same talented crew behind Noosa’s iconic Asian fusion restaurant, Sum Yung Guys. This time, your tastebuds will take a tour of modern Mediterranean morsels that are elevated by the sparkling backdrop of the Noosa Marina in Tewantin. We’ll see you there.
Casa Restaurant
Dining dreams are made in Mooloolaba, where sunset cocktails at Casita Wine Bar turn into dinner at Casa Restaurant by Casita... right next door. Located only a short stroll from the sand, this chic venue brings the ultimate combo of Mediterranean-meets-coastal vibes. Tuck into the share-style menu before hitting the beach for an evening stroll.
Young Giants Brewing
Young Giants Brewery, Marcoola
In case you missed it, we’re Australia’s Craft Beer Capital... and it’s time to raise a glass to our 26th brewery, Young Giants Brewing, which seeks to champion both tradition AND innovation. Onsite, you’ll find a taproom and a kitchen serving fresh, sourdough pizza. Need we say more?
Lyra Restaurant
Make tracks for Lyra Restaurant in Maroochydore’s Ocean Street for a taste of authentic Greek flavours. Here, you’ll find plenty of room for the whole family in this sleek, 90-seat venue, which promises an enticing mix of traditional and modern plates of food—all with a strong focus on local and seasonal produce.
Slipstream Brewing
Slipstream Brewing Social House, Birtinya
You’d be right for thinking Slipstream Brewing sounds familiar—the Brisbane-based brewers have now opened their second home in Southeast Queensland right here on the Sunshine Coast. At their Birtinya venue you’ll find a spacious, 40-tap Social House with both indoor and outdoor seating, al fresco dining, and cosy booths. Bring along a mate and enjoy a glass of their exclusive new North Coast pilsner. Cheers!
Glasshouse Plantation
Elevate your next cup of coffee with a visit to Glasshouse Plantation, who’ll be processing AND roasting their Sunshine Coast-grown beans onsite this year. Warm your hands around a local brew and soak up the sights of this stunning working coffee farm and cafe, which offers a full farm-to-cup coffee tasting experience. Oh, and did we also mention the jaw-dropping views of the Glass House Mountains?
A new Cider Hub and cellar door
Enjoy a tasting paddle or glass of bubbles while learning about the cider-making process directly from the maker at Sunshine Coast Cider’s new Cider Hub and cellar door. Known for their specialty Méthode Traditionnelle Cider (better known as Champagne-style Cider), Sunshine Coast Cider is the only Cidery in Queensland applying the complete Champagne process to their Cider—so you know your drinks are in the best hands.
Bokarina beauties
Sunday Coffee & Bagels, Bokarina
If you’re looking for us around ‘brunch time’, there’s a good chance we’ll be busy tucking into the acai bowls and smashed avo bruschetta at Stoa Bokarina. This vibrant foodie hotspot captures plenty of dreamy coastal energy, serving up the finest seasonally inspired dishes for breakfast and lunch. Only a short drive away, you’ll be set to dial the Instagram feed up a notch at Sunday Coffee & Bagels, where bagels and iced strawberry matcha lattes are just the start of the fun. We’re already feeling hungry!
Crackerjack
Asian fusion delights take centre stage at Crackerjack in Cooroy—the newly rebranded Your Mates BowlsPub. Here, Noosa Hinterland charm meets an elevated menu boasting the likes of chicken karaage, charcoal whole baby snapper, and house-made cabbage kimchi. Good food isn’t the only fun on the menu, either—make sure to have a go at some lawn bowls while you’re there.
Holiday Inn Rooftop Bar
Rooftop Bar, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Maroochydore
Pair a cosy stay at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast with drinks at its scenic rooftop bar. Featuring ocean views and local brews on tap, this is the Sunshine Coast’s newest spot to sip sundowners in the heart of Maroochydore's new CBD.
Coolum Beach Bar
Coolum Beach Bar, Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach Bar is the latest venue of the three Beach Bars on the Sunshine Coast. Opening February 2025, the kitchen will be open all day, every day, with plenty of live music to set the tone. It’s the ultimate beachside spot to settle in and soak up the afternoon while overlooking the water.
STAY
Double the luxury at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge
Crocodile Cabin, Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Australia Zoo, Beerwah
Take a walk on the wild side at Australia Zoo’s luxe accommodation, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, which has just unveiled its four newest cabins. Your new favourite getaway spot (AKA the Crocodile Cabins) overlooks freshwater crocodiles and turtles in a new state-of-the-art habitat. Soak up the surrounds from the comfort of your private temperature-controlled plunge pool, before cosying up in the double-storey cabin.
A new nature escape for the whole family
Truly a home among the gum trees, unwind to the sounds of native birds in the exquisitely appointed Yarrabee Place—a luxury stay set on five pristine acres in Valdora, near Yandina. Sleeping up to 16 guests across its main house and two cabins, you’ll want to bring the whole crew along for a country escape here. Fancy a dip? There’s also a large saltwater swimming pool overlooking a dam, and a sauna.
Beachside escape in Bokarina
Seanna, Bokarina
Bokarina’s coastal beauty is calling, and you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to spend the night. We’re talking the likes of Zinc Bokarina, Oceanus, and Seanna Residences –all of which feature a sweep of stunning views and luxurious apartments. Set yourself up here before hitting the beach and string of trendy eateries nearby.
Backpacking in style
Halse Lodge, Noosa Heads. Photo Credit: Tim Salisbury
If you’re into heritage vibes, Noosa’s Halse Lodge Backpackers’ accommodation is for you. Lovingly restored to its former glory, the delightful interiors feature yellow and salmon pinstriped curtains, original timber floors, and hues of yellow and red. When you’re ready to hit the beaches at Maroochydore, you'll only be a car-ride away from the digs at Palms on Parker. This well-known backpacker hostel (formerly Suncoast Backpackers Lodge) has undergone an epic makeover which includes a new outdoor area with an in-ground pool.
PLAY
Go inside the Big Pineapple
Selfie at The Big Pineapple, Woombye
Ever wondered what the views from the top of the Big Pineapple are like? Wonder no more! Climb up inside our sweet icon to enjoy one-of-a-kind vistas and snap the ultimate holiday selfie. Next up, fill the itinerary with a ride on The Pineapple Train, and a visit to family-friendly attractions like Wildlife HQ Zoo and the TreeTop Challenge—all located right next door.
Picnic on a Peak
Picnic on a Peak, Oceanview Helicopters
Pop the new Picnic on a Peak tour with Oceanview Helicopters on your ‘must-do’ list this year. Soak in the views of the Sunshine Coast’s coastal and hinterland landscapes, before stopping in the country town of Kenilworth for a couple of famous doughnuts and some local cheese. From there, you’ll take a scenic flight over the Glass House Mountains before landing on a private peak in the hinterland to enjoy a secluded picnic packed with local produce, craft beer, wines, and premium spirits.
Whale watching ocean kayak tours
Whale Watching Ocean Kayak Tour, Epic Ocean Adventures
Make your wildlife dreams come true as you hit the water on a unique whale-watching ocean kayak tour with Epic Ocean Adventures. Departing daily from Noosa during the Sunshine Coast’s whale migration season (June-November), this new tour is the ultimate feel-good #SunshineMoment. After all, it’s one of Australia’s most unique, minimal impact whale-watching experiences.
Highland Hideaway Experiences
This is your sign to make some furry friends and head out on a farm experience this year. You’ll find the countryside delights of Highland Hideaway Experiences tucked away in Lower Wonga, just over 20-minutes from Gympie and an hours’ drive from Noosa. Here, the stars of the show are the highland cattle (get ready to say g’day to Cupcake, Apollo, and Blinky Bill), the baby sheep, playful goats, and curious piglets.
Sunny Jeeps
Sunny Jeeps, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Get off the beaten track and explore our stunning National Parks with Sunny Jeeps, who offer exclusive, customised off-road 4WD adventures. Tours include the ‘Conondale Adventure’, which takes you into the depths of the rainforest of Conondale National Park and includes a stop-off at the crystal clear, aqua water of Booloumba Creek.
Bush tucker gardens and micro donkey at Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
The crew at Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World have partnered with the Jinibara Peoples (Traditional Owners), and local cultivators, Brush Turkey Enterprises, to create an enticing Bush Tucker Experience that’ll have your tastebuds tingling. Two expansive gardens have been stocked up with Indigenous plants, including Davidson’s Plum, Emu Foot, Aniseed Myrtle, and Lemon Myrtle. While there, be sure to also pay a visit to the venue’s new pint-sized micro-Mediterranean donkey, Ziggy!
Horizon Festival (2-11 May 2025)
Get ready... the 10-day multi-arts Horizon Festival will be marking its vibrant return in 2025! Taking place all over the Sunshine Coast, from the sun-soaked beaches to the hinterland, you’ll be in for a unique celebration of place and the Traditional Custodians of Country on which the festival is held: the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Peoples. Stay tuned for when the full program is announced in February.
The Curated Plate (25 July – 3 August 2025)
Sunshine Coast Asian Food Festival, Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Tuck into all the new delicious events at this year’s The Curated Plate. Returning for ten delicious days, the annual festival celebrates the Sunshine Coast’s mouthwatering food and drink offerings—including our abundance of fresh, locally-grown produce, seafood and meat.
Looking for this year’s event guide? Check it out right here.
