The Sunshine Coast region lies just a few hours north of the bustling, neon-lit Gold Coast, but offers a completely different experience. Instead of concrete skyscrapers, you’ll find only low-rise buildings, and instead of wild theme parks, Australia’s most visited national park begins right above the beach, where adorable koalas roam free in the wild. It’s simply another world and exactly the type of Australia that people come back to again and again. Locals come here to slow down, switch off their phones, and enjoy days that just flow differently.
The Sunshine Coast region, and especially its most famous gem Noosa, offers exactly the type of Australian holiday you know from lifestyle magazines. Morning coffee, then rainforest, then beach, and then happily back to the start again. That’s just how things work here and nobody minds. The local café scene is absolutely fantastic, so lovers of long brunches and fresh tropical fruit will feel like they’re in paradise.
If you want to take home the most beautiful memories of Australian nature, you’ll definitely be captivated by the inland region called the hinterland. Rolling green hills, volcanic peaks, and hidden waterfalls in rainforests create the perfect contrast to sun-soaked beaches. Pack your swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes, and set out to discover one of the most beautiful corners of all Queensland.
Summary for those who don’t have time to read the full article
In a rush and need just the most important information in a nutshell? Here are the key points you should definitely know before your trip.
- Sunshine Coast versus Gold Coast: While Gold Coast is a bustling metropolis full of skyscrapers and nightlife, Sunshine Coast offers low-rise development, a calmer pace, and enormous emphasis on nature conservation.
- Where to see koalas: Your best chance is in Noosa National Park, where they live freely in the treetops—just look up and have a bit of patience early in the morning.
- How many days you’ll need: Set aside at least three days for Noosa itself and the surrounding beaches; if you want to add Australia Zoo and trips to the hinterland, it’s ideal to extend your stay to five to seven days.
- Beach safety: Always swim exclusively between the red and yellow flags, because wild beaches inside the national park (like Alexandria Bay) are unpatrolled and have treacherous strong currents.
- What absolutely not to miss: Make sure you don’t miss the walk along the Coastal Track, a visit to the famous Australia Zoo, and a day trip to the green hinterland to see the volcanic Glass House Mountains.
Sunshine Coast versus Gold Coast
When planning an itinerary along the east coast, most travellers face an enormous dilemma about whether to dedicate their precious time to Gold Coast or head to Sunshine Coast instead. The answer lies in what type of holiday you’re actually looking for. Gold Coast is synonymous with endless entertainment, tall skyscrapers rising right above the beach, and wild nightlife that doesn’t quiet down even in the early morning hours. It’s a place where people go for adrenaline rushes in huge theme parks and shopping in luxury boutiques.
In contrast, Sunshine Coast prides itself on maintaining its original, slightly sleepy, and incredibly laid-back atmosphere. Noosa city councillors even banned the construction of buildings taller than the surrounding trees years ago, so you won’t find any concrete complexes spoiling the ocean views. Everything here feels organic, connected to nature, and focused on a sustainable lifestyle, which is also reflected in the local gastronomy full of farmers’ markets.
If you enjoy peace and quiet, long walks through rainforest, and prefer watching animals in the wild rather than riding roller coasters, Sunshine Coast will be the clear choice for you. The great news is that both regions lie on the same route north and south of Brisbane. So if you have a car and enough time, both destinations can be easily combined, and during one trip you’ll experience two completely different faces of Queensland, Australia.
Noosa National Park: koalas above the beach
This stunning protected area is an absolute gem of the entire region, and the numbers speak for themselves. Noosa National Park is Australia’s most visited national park, with an incredible more than one million people passing through each year. Despite this enormous interest, the park maintains its wild character and offers unforgettable experiences. The biggest draw is undoubtedly the chance to see animals in their natural habitat without having to pay admission to any sanctuary.
In the crowns of the majestic eucalyptus trees here, koalas live completely free, which is a huge rarity these days. If you want to spot them, it’s recommended to hit the trails early in the morning when the park is at its quietest. The trick is that you shouldn’t look at the ground, but constantly scan the high branches above you. Locals also advise looking for fresh scratches from claws on tree trunks, which often reveal that a furry sleeper is hiding up above.
The main artery of the entire park is the iconic coastal trail called Coastal Track, which measures 5.4 km one way. It takes you along cliffs with breathtaking views of the turquoise ocean all the way to Sunshine Beach. From there, you don’t have to walk back the same way—bus number 627 from Sunshine Beach will comfortably take you back to the centre of Noosa. But be extremely careful about swimming during the walk. ⚠️ Beaches inside the national park (like the beautiful Alexandria Bay) are NOT patrolled and have extremely strong currents, so it’s better to just enjoy the water from the cliff view and save your swim for the official town beaches.
14 tips on what to see on the Sunshine Coast
There’s so much to see in this region that you could spend entire weeks here and still be discovering new corners. Nature really showed off here in full glory, and everyone will find something for themselves, whether you love wild waves or deep rainforests.
We’ve compiled a detailed overview of places you definitely shouldn’t miss on the Sunshine Coast. It includes both the biggest attractions and a few smaller hidden gems.
1. Noosa National Park
Exploring Sunshine Coast can hardly begin anywhere other than this iconic national park (Google rating 4.8 from an incredible 6,819 reviews). Right at the entrance, you’re enveloped by the scent of eucalyptus and salty ocean breeze. A network of perfectly maintained trails takes you through dense rainforest to dramatic rocky headlands where powerful waves crash.
While hiking along the coastal trail, don’t forget to occasionally turn your gaze toward the ocean as well. From viewpoints like Dolphin Point or Hells Gates, you can very often see playful dolphins surfing in the waves, or even sea turtles gracefully gliding in the crystal-clear water far below you. During the Australian winter, whales even migrate past here.
💡 Tip: If you want to avoid the biggest tourist crowds, head to the park right after sunrise. Not only will you have the best views almost to yourself, but the early morning hours also significantly increase your chances of spotting active animals before they hide deep in the shade during the hot midday.
2. Noosa Heads Main Beach
If there’s such a thing as a perfect beach for all-day lounging, it’s undoubtedly Noosa Heads Main Beach (Google 4.7 out of 5,280 reviews). Its enormous and completely unique advantage is the fact that it’s one of the few north-facing Australian beaches. Thanks to this, the entire bay is naturally protected from the strong southern winds and ocean currents that typically batter the east coast.
Because of this specific orientation, you’ll find incredibly calm and gentle water here that resembles a giant swimming pool more than a wild ocean. The sand is brilliantly white and incredibly fine, ideal for long barefoot walks. Just behind the beach stretches a tree-lined promenade that provides pleasant shade during the hottest hours of the day.
💡 Tip: Precisely because of the calm waves, this beach is an absolutely ideal spot for beginner surfers. The local waves are long, gradual, and forgiving of many mistakes. Swimming here is also very safe, as experienced lifeguards from the local surf club watch over the beach throughout the day.
3. Hastings Street
Just a few steps from the main swimming area, you’ll find yourself on the beating heart of the entire town, the famous Hastings Street. This iconic street is the embodiment of luxurious beach elegance. Beneath mature trees that are beautifully illuminated with tiny lights in the evening, you’ll discover the most stylish boutiques from local designers, art galleries, and countless dining establishments.
The local café scene here is refined to absolute perfection. You can enjoy the best brunch of your life, from rich avocado toast with poached egg and pomegranate to giant açai bowls full of fresh exotic fruit. Baristas here treat coffee preparation like a religion, and your morning flat white will have just the right thickness, temperature, and latte art. Simply beyond debate.
💡 Tip: In the evening, the street transforms into a wonderfully romantic place for strolls. Grab a scoop of proper artisan ice cream, listen to street musicians, and enjoy that unmistakable relaxed coastal vibe that blends with the sound of nearby surf.
4. Noosa Everglades
Did you know that to see real everglades, you don’t have to travel all the way to Florida in America? Noosa Everglades (Everglades Eco Safaris has a Google rating of 4.8 out of 1,298 reviews) are one of only two everglades systems in the entire world. It’s a fascinating maze of freshwater rivers, lakes, and wetlands that stretch deep into the Australian interior.
This ecosystem is absolutely unique with its dark, tea-colored water. The coloring is caused by tannins released from the leaves of local tea trees, which fall into the water. The surface therefore functions as a huge perfect mirror, in which the surrounding impenetrable greenery and blue sky are reflected in the smallest detail.
💡 Tip: The best way to explore this untouched wilderness is from the deck of a sea kayak. As you glide silently over the mirror surface, you have a unique chance to observe a huge number of waterbirds, including iconic pelicans and majestic white-bellied sea eagles that nest in this area.
5. Australia Zoo
If there’s one place in Queensland you absolutely shouldn’t miss, it’s the legendary Australia Zoo in the town of Beerwah (Google 4.7 out of 25,683 reviews). It’s not just an ordinary zoo, it’s the life legacy of the famous Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin. Even after his tragic death, the zoo continues to flourish, and today it’s run by his wife Terri Irwin, while their daughter Bindi proudly holds the position of CEO.
The zoo sprawls over a huge area, and the animals here have access to incredibly spacious enclosures that faithfully replicate their natural environment. In addition to iconic Australian species such as kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils, you’ll also find an expansive African savanna with giraffes and rhinos. Part of the complex is also an extensive wildlife hospital that rescues injured wild animals from the entire surrounding area.
💡 Tip: Definitely set aside a full day for your visit, as there’s truly a lot to see here. The highlight of the program is the famous show in the giant Crocoseum, where keepers demonstrate feeding massive crocodiles, which is an experience that will definitely take your breath away and make you understand the enormous power of these prehistoric reptiles.
6. Eumundi Markets
For lovers of local markets and authentic artisan atmosphere, Eumundi Markets are an absolute must (Google 4.5 out of 12,455 reviews). This is one of the largest and most famous markets in all of Queensland, regularly drawing thousands of visitors to the small inland town. Right next door, you’ll also find the popular Eumundi Square (Google 4.6 out of 1,642 reviews).
The markets have an incredibly strict “make it, bake it, sew it, grow it” policy, which in practice means that no cheap resold souvenirs may be sold here. You’ll find exclusively original artworks from local creators, hand-sewn clothing, beautiful ceramics, natural cosmetics, and of course endless amounts of fantastic food.
💡 Tip: ⚠️ The days and hours of these markets can change throughout the year, so it’s absolutely essential to check them in advance on their official website. Definitely allow yourself at least three hours to browse the stalls, and don’t forget to taste the local macadamia nuts and fresh vegetarian delicacies from street food vendors.
7. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and Glass House Mountains
When you’ve had your fill of sandy beaches, head inland near the town of Maleny, where you’ll find the stunning Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve (Google 4.8 out of 3,522 reviews). This reserve protects some of the last remnants of the original subtropical rainforest that once covered this entire area. Walking beneath the canopy of giant trees is like a journey through time.
However, the main reason people head here is the absolutely breathtaking view from the local panoramic terrace. From there, you’ll get the best view of the famous Glass House Mountains. These bizarrely shaped volcanic peaks that rise steeply from the completely flat surrounding landscape received their name from none other than Captain James Cook himself in 1770.
💡 Tip: The reserve has an excellent visitor center full of interactive exhibits about the local fauna and flora. If you’re lucky and keep quiet, you might spot small pademelon wallabies in the rainforest undergrowth or hear the distinctive song of lyrebirds, which can perfectly mimic any sound.
8. Kondalilla National Park
Another gem of the green interior is Kondalilla National Park (Google 4.7 out of 1,739 reviews). The park’s name comes from the language of the local Aboriginal people and fittingly translates to “falling water.” This park is home to the waterfall of the same name, which dramatically plunges from a height of 90 meters into a deep forested valley.
The trails take you through dense eucalyptus forest smelling of resin and damp earth. The descent to the waterfall is quite steep and there are really a lot of stairs, but at the bottom, a magical rainforest valley awaits you with crystal-clear rock pools that are cold but absolutely perfect.
💡 Tip: The way back up to the parking lot will give you quite a workout, so don’t forget to bring plenty of drinking water and comfortable shoes. Right at the park entrance, you’ll also find well-equipped picnic areas with grills, where you can have a pleasant lunch in nature after your hike.
9. Montville and the hinterland
The Sunshine Coast hinterland hides several picturesque villages, and Montville is undoubtedly the most charming of them all. When you arrive here, you’ll momentarily feel like you’ve teleported from Australia to the English countryside or Bavarian foothills. The main street is lined with historic wooden buildings housing cozy tea rooms and independent art galleries.
The area is also renowned for producing local cheese, chocolate, and especially traditional fudge (caramel confections), which you can find here in dozens of different flavors. From many viewpoints around town, fantastic views open up across green hills to the sparkling ocean in the distance.
💡 Tip: If you’re looking for a truly exceptional experience, the area is home to the famous Secrets on the Lake accommodation (Google 4.7 from 1,732 reviews). Even if you don’t stay overnight, the area around Lake Baroon Pocket Dam, above which these luxury treehouse cabins perch, offers beautiful opportunities for romantic afternoon walks.
10. Mooloolaba Beach
If you’re traveling with children or looking for a beach with maximum facilities, Mooloolaba Beach (Google 4.7 from 1,512 reviews), located just south of Noosa, is an absolute bullseye. While Noosa is more boutique and exclusive, Mooloolaba offers a relaxed, very family-friendly and livelier atmosphere. Its wide strip of white sand is bordered by a long promenade that’s perfect for morning runs or rollerblading.
The beach is sheltered from the biggest waves, and here too, experienced lifeguards from the surf club carefully watch over swimmers’ safety all day long. The facilities are absolutely perfect: from clean public showers and toilets to shady parks with playgrounds and free BBQs that are so typical of Australian beach culture.
💡 Tip: Mooloolaba is a major port from which boats set out to sea daily. In the local establishments along the esplanade, they serve the most renowned and freshest seafood in the entire region, which locals enjoy for early dinner with ocean views.
11. Sunshine Beach
At the very end of the stunning coastal trail from the national park lies Sunshine Beach. Unlike the sheltered bay at Noosa, this beach is much wilder, more open to the ocean, and offers the real, untamed Australian beach experience. The sand stretches as far as the eye can see, and thanks to its length, you’ll never feel crowded here, even if you arrive in the middle of peak summer season.
The atmosphere here is much more relaxed and “surfy.” Don’t expect luxury boutiques, but rather laid-back cafes where people sit down right after morning surfing in their swimsuits with sand on their feet. It’s the ideal place to escape when the bustle of the main Hastings Street starts to feel too hectic.
💡 Tip: The waves here are noticeably bigger and stronger than on the main beaches. The breathtaking view of the rough ocean is best enjoyed from the terrace of the local Surf Life Saving Club, where you can sit with a cold drink and watch brave surfers battling enormous waves.
12. Trip to K’gari
From the Sunshine Coast, you can head to one of the most remarkable places you’ll ever have a chance to visit: K’gari island (formerly known as Fraser Island). K’gari Explorer Tours (Google 4.8 from 1,451 reviews) and other agencies will take you to a place that has been on the UNESCO list since 1992. At 122 km long with an area of 1,840 km², it’s the largest sand island in the entire world. From 2023, the island returned to its original Indigenous name K’gari, which translates as paradise.
Getting around the island is a huge adventure because there are no paved roads here. Only 4WD (four-wheel drive) vehicles are permitted, and the main thoroughfare is the famous 75 Mile Beach. This beach doesn’t just serve as an official “highway” with a strict speed limit of 80 km/h – it even functions as an official landing strip for small aircraft. Besides breathtaking freshwater lakes with crystal-clear water, the island is also known for its wild dingoes.
💡 Tip: If you encounter a dingo on the island, remember this absolutely crucial rule: you must never feed them, you must maintain a distance of at least 20 meters, and breaking the rules carries draconian fines of up to 28,495 AUD. The animals can be unpredictable, and the strict rules protect both tourists and the dingoes themselves.
13. Laguna Lookout
When the day starts drawing to a close and you’re looking for the best spot to watch the sunset, head to Laguna Lookout. It’s located on a hill directly above Noosa town, and you can reach it either via a short but fairly steep walk from the center or comfortably by car. At the top, you’ll find a spacious grassy area that’s perfect for an evening picnic.
The view that opens before you is absolutely spectacular. You’ll have the entire mouth of the Noosa River laid out before you, lazily winding through the landscape, and beyond it meeting the endless blue ocean. In the distance on the horizon, you can clearly make out the silhouettes of volcanic peaks of the hinterland, which in the evening light take on deep purple shades.
💡 Tip: The lookout is very popular with locals, so if you want to claim the best spot on the grass with an uninterrupted view, it’s recommended to arrive at least an hour before the actual sunset. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent, because as evening approaches, mosquitoes become quite active.
14. Maleny and surroundings
We close our list with a return to the hinterland, to the area around the charming town of Maleny. This region is historically known as a significant dairy center, and when you drive through the local countryside, you’ll understand why. Endless, lush green pastures stretch across gentle hills, creating scenery that sharply contrasts with the rugged Australian bush elsewhere in the country.
Besides the already mentioned Mary Cairncross Reserve (the park itself has a 4.8 rating from 218 reviews), you’ll find stunning botanical gardens, community farms, and countless small cafes. The atmosphere in Maleny is strongly influenced by a community of artists and people living alternative lifestyles, which is reflected in the offerings of organic food and local products.
💡 Tip: If you love specialty coffee and honest homemade baking, definitely make a stop in Maleny for a slow breakfast. The local cafes often use exclusively ingredients from local farmers and serve absolutely fabulous vegetarian dishes full of fresh vegetables from nearby gardens.
Australia Zoo: Steve Irwin’s park
Australia Zoo is more than a zoo – it’s a living monument to a man who dedicated his life to wild animals. The zoo became world-famous thanks to Steve Irwin’s inexhaustible energy and enthusiasm, and his enormous legacy radiates from this place everywhere. Today the zoo is successfully run by his wife Terri Irwin, while their daughter Bindi has taken over as CEO, continuing the family tradition of animal conservation.
The entire complex is located near the town of Beerwah, which is about an hour’s drive from Brisbane, and is designed more like a huge natural park. For 2026, admission prices are set as follows: an adult pays 76.95 AUD, a child 51.95 AUD, and convenient family admission costs 229.25 AUD. The gates open to visitors every day from 9am to 5pm. Given the size and number of accompanying programs, really set aside a full day for your visit.
The biggest magnet for visitors from around the world is undoubtedly the iconic crocodile show in the giant amphitheater called the Crocoseum. Handlers demonstrate the incredible strength of these reptiles while educating the audience about their conservation. The zoo also operates a top-notch animal hospital, which you can visit and thus support their rescue programs. For more tips on where to encounter local fauna in the wild, definitely check out our article about animals in Australia.
Where to swim
The ocean in Australia takes what belongs to it, and locals know this all too well. Swimming here is governed by strict rules that you should never take lightly. The most important rule of all: you may only swim between the red and yellow flags. Professional lifeguards place these flags on beaches daily, precisely where the seabed is safe and where there’s no danger of rip currents that could pull you far out to the open ocean.
While city beaches offer maximum service and safety, at natural beaches you need to be extremely careful. A critical warning is that ⚠️ beaches inside Noosa National Park (like wild Alexandria Bay) are not patrolled by lifeguards. The combination of open ocean and unpredictable strong currents makes them a very dangerous place for swimming, even for excellent swimmers. Here, it’s better to just dip your toes in and admire the water from the shore.
If you’re looking for calm water without big waves, your clear choice will be Noosa Main Beach. As we mentioned, it faces north, so it’s perfectly protected from the ocean’s force and swimming here feels more like swimming in a lagoon. For families with children who enjoy a livelier atmosphere and safe bobbing in the waves, the busier Mooloolaba Beach is absolutely ideal, where you’ll also find all facilities including showers and barbecues.
Trip to the hinterland
The hinterland is the part of the Sunshine Coast that will surprise you most, yet many people skip it entirely. As soon as you leave the coast and start climbing into the hills, the air noticeably cools and the scenery transforms dramatically. The main attraction of this area is undoubtedly the volcanic formations of Glass House Mountains, which you can admire in all their glory from viewpoints in Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, a stunning remnant of original rainforest near Maleny.
Another stop that’s guaranteed to delight you is the rainforest paradise of Kondalilla National Park. After descending hundreds of steps, you’ll reach a magnificent waterfall and cool rock pools that are perfect for a photogenic pause in the middle of the wilderness. Unlike the coast, where public transport works very well, having a car is practically essential for a hinterland trip, as distances between attractions are quite large.
Don’t forget to make time for the inland towns themselves. Stop in artsy Montville, browse its independent galleries and craft shops. A bit further in the Maleny area, you can enjoy views of rolling green pastures that resemble rural Europe more than the harsh Australian bush. On the way back to the ocean, be careful though, because wildlife on the roads is most active at dawn, dusk, and at night. If a kangaroo jumps into your path, never jerk the steering wheel or you risk losing control of the vehicle—just brake hard instead.
Where to stay
💡 Accommodation and experiences tip: We compare accommodation here to see what’s available and at what price. We prefer to look for it on Booking.com, where they usually have the best cancellation terms. Tickets, tours, and activities are worth comparing and buying through GetYourGuide.
Choosing your accommodation location on the Sunshine Coast will fundamentally affect the character of your entire holiday. The most expensive and logistically best location is Noosa Heads. You’ll be just a few minutes’ walk from the national park, the sheltered beach, and iconic Hastings Street for great coffee. A more affordable and considerably quieter alternative is nearby Sunshine Beach, which, while away from the biggest crowds, still offers beautiful ocean access.
For families with children looking for great value for money with plenty of attractions and restaurants within walking distance, the family areas of Mooloolaba and Maroochydore are most commonly recommended. Apartments here often offer ocean views for a fraction of the price you’d pay in central Noosa. And if you crave total isolation and romance in the middle of the rainforest, choose accommodation in the green hinterland.
As for specific exceptional accommodation recommendations, for nature lovers, Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp (Google rating 4.3 from 1,750 reviews) right by the fascinating everglades is an absolute dream—glamping in the best sense of the word. And if you desire romance in the treetops above a lake, then the cabins at Secrets on the Lake in the Montville area (Google 4.7 from 1,732 reviews) are simply in a different league.
Where to eat
The area around the Sunshine Coast is an absolute paradise for food lovers. You’ll find everything from luxury restaurants to relaxed beach joints where you can eat in your swimsuit with sand on your feet. If you’re not sure exactly where to go for the best, we have two clear favorites that are guaranteed not to disappoint.
When you’re wandering around the area and feel like proper food, definitely stop by the local Sunshine Beach SLSC (Google 4.4 from 1,982 reviews). It’s not just about beach safety—they also have a great terrace where you can sit with a chilled drink, have solid Australian food, and watch brave surfers battling the wild waves. Another absolute gastronomic experience is the stalls at the famous Eumundi Markets. This is where you’ll taste the best local macadamia nuts and fresh vegetarian delicacies from local street chefs.
Where next
The Sunshine Coast will capture your heart and then you’ll want to explore all of Australia. Here are a few tips on where to look for further inspiration. For lovers of city life and great dining, we’ve prepared Brisbane, Australia: 20 Tips on What to See and Do. If you’re attracted to a busier atmosphere, skyscrapers, and huge theme parks, you can’t miss Gold Coast: 16 Tips on What to See Besides Beaches.
For those of you who have more time and want to drive the best of the entire coast, we’ve put together a detailed East Coast Australia: Itinerary for 2 to 4 Weeks. And if you’re just starting to plan your trip to the land down under, you’ll get the best overview in our massive pillar Holidays in Australia: 30 Most Beautiful Places + Practical Tips.
A similar concrete-free atmosphere can also be found in Byron Bay: 12 Tips on What to Do + Lighthouse and Best Beaches.
Frequently asked questions
We’ve prepared answers to the most common questions about traveling to the Sunshine Coast. Hopefully they’ll make the endless planning a bit easier and help you prepare better for your trip.
How many days for Sunshine Coast?
To make sure your visit isn’t just a frantic tick-box exercise, I recommend setting aside ideally three to five days for the whole area. Three days will be enough for Noosa itself, the national park, and relaxing on the beaches. However, if you want to add a visit to Australia Zoo and a full-day trip to the green hinterland, definitely extend your stay to at least five days.
Noosa or Gold Coast?
It depends entirely on what type of traveler you are. If you love vibrant nightlife, high-rise buildings right on the beach, and adrenaline-pumping theme parks, head to the Gold Coast. But if you’re looking for peace, unspoiled nature, an absence of tall buildings, and top-notch cafes with organic food, you’ll fall in love with the laid-back atmosphere in Noosa and on the Sunshine Coast.
Will I see koalas in Noosa NP?
There’s definitely a chance, because koalas live completely wild in the national park. The key to success is to hit the trails early in the morning, when the park is quiet and the animals are more active. You need to have a lot of patience and constantly scan the canopy of tall eucalyptus trees carefully with your eyes. Locals also recommend looking for fresh scratch marks on tree trunks.
Where can you swim safely?
The safest swimming is at Noosa Main Beach, which thanks to its north-facing orientation is protected from large waves and treacherous ocean currents. The family beach at Mooloolaba is also great. The golden rule throughout Australia is to always swim only between the red and yellow flags, where experienced lifeguards watch over you. Avoid the wild beaches in the national park for swimming.
Is Australia Zoo worth it?
Absolutely, it’s something incredible even for those who don’t normally go to zoos very often. It’s the legacy of the famous Steve Irwin, the animals have huge enclosures simulating their natural environment, and the zoo operates a giant animal hospital. The crocodile show in the main amphitheater is absolutely breathtaking, and you won’t see anything like it anywhere else in the world.
When are the Eumundi Markets?
One of the largest markets in Queensland usually takes place several times a week, but since these days can change throughout the year and seasons, it’s absolutely essential to check the exact schedule in advance on their official website. The markets are huge, you’ll find hundreds of stalls with local products and handmade goods, so allow plenty of time for your visit.
Do I need a car?
If you’re planning to stay just in Noosa and the surrounding area, you don’t necessarily need a car. The town is great for walking, and local buses (like route 627) work well for getting from the beaches (for example, from Sunshine Beach). However, as soon as you want to head to Australia Zoo or take a trip to the hinterland, you’ll practically need a rental car.
Is the hinterland worth a trip?
Definitely yes! The hinterland offers a completely different experience from the sun-drenched beaches. You’ll find breathtaking views of the volcanic Glass House Mountains, remnants of original rainforests, hidden waterfalls in Kondalilla National Park, and wonderfully picturesque artisan towns like Montville and Maleny with excellent cafes.
Can you get to K’gari from here?
Yes, organized tours to K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island) are very often offered from the Sunshine Coast. It’s the world’s largest sand island, protected by UNESCO, and you can only access it with 4×4 vehicles. For safety reasons, however, it’s much better and more worry-free to use the services of reputable agencies than to try to tackle the island and driving on deep sand on your own.
When is the best time?
The Sunshine Coast is pleasant basically year-round. During the Australian summer (December to February), expect very hot days with high humidity and occasional tropical storms. If you prefer more pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking in the national park and less rainfall, head here during the spring or autumn months instead.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (simple monthly subscription) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
