From kayaking through the azure waters at Double Island Point and skydiving over our pristine beaches, to chasing gorgeous sunset views from our mountain summits, there are no shortage of adventurous ways to experience our blue and green backyard. Jump behind the wheel of a 4WD and swap the bitumen for sand as you cruise along the beach, or live out your period drama fantasy with a horse ride through the waves. Let’s go!
Lace up the hiking boots
Stretch your legs on our numerous trails throughout the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, taking in the sights of our ancient trees, thundering waterfalls, and tranquil swimming holes. Alternatively, take on the steep uphill hike to the summit of Mt Ngungun, or set your alarm early for a golden sunrise atop Mt Coolum. If you’ve got a few days spare, the 58km Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk and the 102km Cooloola Great Walk will see you weaving through towering sand dunes, amongst coastal woodland, and alongside pristine rivers.
Out on the water
The Sunshine Coast’s stretch of coastline forms part of the ‘humpback highway’, where the gentle giants of the sea congregate in our calm, shallow waters enroute from Antarctica to the northern tropics. From July to October, you can get up-close and personal with these incredible creatures on an epic tour with Cavalier Cruises or Sunreef Mooloolaba. If you’d rather stay close to shore, there’s always the option of learning to surf at Julian Wilson’s home beach, or paddling your way along the ‘River of Mirrors’ in the Noosa Everglades.
Great Beach Drive
Deep within the spectacular Great Sandy National Park (and only accessible by 4WD along Teewah Beach), you’ll find the true pot of gold beyond the rainbow: Double Island Point. Have a ‘pinch me’ moment kayaking amongst the clear water with the area’s friendliest locals – the dolphins – and feel total euphoria exploring this stunning pocket of the Sunshine Coast region.
Everything in-between
Gain a whole new perspective flying in a seaplane, soar above the beaches with Oceanview Helicopters and Sunshine Coast Helicopter Tours, or experience the exhilaration of paragliding. Rather keep your feet on the ground? Jump on a bike and tackle our countless mountain bike trails that weave through impressive forestry and terrain along the way. For more speed and some extra fun, make sure to also check out a Quad Bike Tour through the Woondum National Park.
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Golf on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is also home to some magnificent golf courses, with your choice of hinterland or coastal views.
Diving
With over 100km of coastline and the warm Pacific Ocean as part of our backyard, we’re in close vicinity to arguably one of the world’s best dive sites, the Ex-HMAS Brisbane
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Surfs up at these Sunshine Coast hotspots
With more than 100 kilometres of glorious east coast shoreline, a sunny laidback vibe and quality waves, the Sunshine Coast is a world-class surfers’ playground.
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8 spots to get your thrills on the Sunshine Coast
Year-round idyllic temperatures ensure that the Sunshine Coast is a fantastic place for the adrenaline junkies amongst us.
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9 exhilarating adventures for adrenaline-fuelled fun
The Sunshine Coast is a mecca for the extreme sport enthusiast offerings thrill seekers many unique and unforgettable experiences.