Aside from its pristine beaches, award-winning cuisine and numerous world-class events, there’s always a plethora of things to do on the Sunshine Coast. We’ve highlighted the top 5 Sunshine Coast attractions for your next holiday, so that you can experience the best of this amazing region.
1. Australia Zoo
Home of the Crocodile Hunter, the late Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo is an absolute must when visiting the Sunshine Coast. With over 1,200 animals including koalas, wombats, crocodiles, giraffe and tigers, as well as daily shows and water play area, you may need to spend a few days here…crikey!
Where to stay: BreakFree Grand Pacific, Caloundra. Just 23 kilometres from Australia Zoo, this waterfront resort boasts self-contained apartments, a lagoon pool with ocean views and an inviting barbecue area.
2. Glass House Mountains
The remnants of volcanic activity from 25-27 million years ago, the awe-inspiring Glass House Mountains are a Sunshine Coast icon. Head into the Glass House Mountains National Park or Beerburrum State Forest for a hike to some spectacular lookouts.
Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Where to stay: The Sebel Maroochydore. Just over half an hour’s drive from the Glass House Mountains, this is the perfect Oceanside resort to retreat to after a busy day exploring the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
3. Eumundi Markets and The Ginger Factory
The Eumundi Markets are held every Saturday and Wednesday, rain, hail or shine! Known as the biggest and best art and craft market in Australia, you’ll find everything here…from handcrafted furniture to fashion and jewellery. You’ll also enjoy gourmet food and plenty of entertainment.
Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
After picking up some goodies at the markets, head to The Ginger Factory, a hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast. With a ginger train, café, kids play area, shops and more, it’s the perfect place for a family day out.
Credit: Visit Sunshine Coast
Where to stay: Mantra French Quarter, Noosa. Just steps away from popular Hastings Street and Main Beach, Mantra French Quarter offers apartment accommodation in the heart of Noosa. Enjoy a heated lagoon pool, children’s wading pool, heated spas and poolside barbecues.
Where to stay: Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas. Located in the heart of Noosa National Park, you will enjoy the serenity at this beautiful resort, whilst being only a short stroll away from the shops and cafes on Hastings Street. Relax at the award-winning day spa or dine on local delicacies at View Restaurant.
Where to stay: The Sebel Noosa. Located in the heart of the cosmopolitan Hastings Street, The Sebel Noosa is surrounded by world-class restaurants, cafes and upmarket fashion boutiques, just moments from Noosa's Main Beach and the beautiful Noosa River.
4. The Big Pineapple
The Big Pineapple is an iconic Sunshine Coast attraction! Climb to the top of The Big Pineapple for stunning views of the surrounding region, learn about the pineapple farming process or take the Pineapple Train through the rainforest to Wildlife HQ for an up close and personal encounter with a wombat, red panda, meerkat or alligator.
Credit: Visit Sunshine Coast
Where to stay: BreakFree Alexandra Beach, Alexandra Headlands. Ideally located just across the street from the beach, this family-friendly resort boasts a lagoon pool with waterslide, playground and fully self-contained apartments.
Where to stay: The Sebel Twin Waters is ideal for exploring the Sunshine Coast and provides a peaceful paradise in sunny Queensland, perfect for your next getaway with a loved one or the family.
5. Sea Life Sunshine Coast
Get ready to explore the underwater world at Sea Life in Mooloolaba. With 11 themed zones including Ocean Tunnel (sharks, rays, sawfish and more) and Seal Island (interactive seal presentations) as well as a behind the scenes tour and marine biologist program during school holidays, you’ll want to come back again and again!
Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Where to stay: Mantra Mooloolaba Beach. Occupying a prime position on the Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mantra Mooloolaba Beach features indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a recreation and observation deck and modern apartments with ocean or hinterland views.