The Sunshine Coast’s Hidden Gems: Unique Spots Worth a Detour

Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is an endless playground, offering sun, surf, incredible food and stunning natural surrounds to immerse yourself in. But if you’ve ticked off all the major must-dos, or are looking for something unique to try, you might be hunting down some hidden gems. 

Scroll through our guide to some of the most exceptional accommodation, places to eat and things to do on the Sunshine Coast that have yet to be discovered. 

The Sunshine Coast’s Hidden Gems – Food & Drink

Ēthos

Hidden away in Palmwoods is a restaurant that feels otherworldly. Wander down the tree-lined pathway to find a bustling, rustic-chic space that feels cosy and elevated all at once. 

Alsahwa Estate’s Mediterranean restaurant, named ēthos, embodies a farm-to-table philosophy, where each dish is made with fresh, spray-free produce. Sourcing ingredients fresh from their own garden and from local farmers, allowing the menu to be guided by what’s in season (and ensuring each dish is full of flavour). 

Ēthos is also flexible when it comes to dietaries, ensuring each diner can have a fantastic and fulfilling meal. Gaze out over the pond and the greenery as you dine, and enjoy the magic of one of the best hidden gems on the Sunshine Coast.

20 Rifle Range Road, Palmwoods

Spirit House

Stepping into the Spirit House grounds will transport you to a lush, Asian paradise. Serene lagoons, leafy pagodas and one of the Sunshine Coast’s most beautiful dining experiences await you at this award-winning restaurant in Yandina. 

On the menu, you’ll find contemporary Asian cuisine to delight the senses. The dishes here are artfully plated and best enjoyed as a set menu experience, so that you can make the most of this exceptional dining experience. 

If you’re spending a little bit of extra time on the Sunshine Coast, you might even like to come back and try one of Spirit House’s cooking classes to truly level up your culinary prowess. 

20 Ninderry Road, Yandina 

The Doonan

Nestled in the Noosa hinterland on two hectares of land, The Doonan an easy win when it comes to feeding the family or a group of friends chasing a good time. This spacious hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast is home to indoor and outdoor dining spaces, multiple bars, a pizzeria, beer garden, ice creamery, a bespoke bottle shop and an outdooor kids playground. 

Talk about something for everyone!

6 Beddington Road, Doonan

Theo’s Social Club

If you’re looking for the perfect cosy wine bar that dishes up exceptional food, interesting varietals and incredible service, look no further than Theo’s. You’ll find this Sunshine Coast hidden gem in Noosa Junction, bustling with regulars and tourists. 

Chef Jake McWilliams plates up share-style dishes that bring local flavours to life: think Mooloolaba king prawns, steak tartare and an anchovy crisp that might just change your mind if you’re not already a fan of small, salty fish. 

With an immediately inviting atmosphere, this truly feels like your regular neighbourhood bar, even if it’s your first time visiting. 

Shop 2 Arcadia Walk, Noosa Heads

The Sunshine Coast’s Hidden Gems – Accommodation

Fila Casablanca

Go off the grid in absolute luxury at this spacious Sunshine Coast accommodation. Fila Casablanca encompasses six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, an infrared sauna, and a wraparound deck with outdoor settings, perfect for your morning cuppa.

Sleeping up to twelve guests (each room has its very own lavish ensuite), Fila Casablance is destined to be the perfect destination for a family reunion or a large group holiday. Curl up by the fireplace, spread out in the lounge room, or share a meal on the deck whilst revelling in the serene, rural surroundings. 

Sitchu Tip: Wander around the gardens and pick some fresh herbs or produce from the veggie patch, and you might encounter the friendly resident peacock. 

63-83 Sudholz Road, Eumundi

Book now with Booking.com

Secluded Retreat

Escape the noise and bustle of the Sunshine Coast’s hot spots with this hidden gem that transports you worlds away into serenity. Secluded Retreat is the perfect place to unwind, with your very own saltwater swimming pool, sun terrace, beautiful gardens and a fitness centre. 

This four-bedroom, three-bathroom escape is just 20 kilometres from the airport and from the Noosa National Park, whilst still being close to many of Noosa’s most popular attractions.

21 Pryor Road, Eumundi

Book now with Booking.com

The Sunshine Coast’s Hidden Gems – Things to Do

The Majestic Theatre

For a truly unique experience on your next Sunshine Coast escape, visit The Majestic Theatre. With over a century of heritage, this historic site in the hinterland is a community-run, not-for-profit space that brings the creative community together. 

Catch a silent film (accompanied by the original 1937 Compton Organ), partake in a historic tour, film theme nights or watch a live performance – there’s plenty of variety to add a bit of culture to your Sunny Coast escape. 

3 Factory Street, Pomona

Tank Bathhouse

The ultimate destination for R&R on the Sunshine Coast, Tank Riviera is a day club, waterfront bar and restaurant, batthouse and day spa, all in one convenient location. 

This unique day spa experience offers a full suite of bathhouse amenities (such as a steam room, sauna and magnesium pools), massage and facials. With six pools (five hot tubs and one cold plunge), you can move between the different spaces on offer in pursuit of feeling like your best self ever. 

209 Brisbane Road, Sunshine Coast

Now that you’ve discovered the Sunshine Coast’s hidden gems, it’s time to lock in your accommodation. Pack your pooch and stay at one of these pet-friendly Sunshine Coast accommodations. Looking for a luxe stay in Noosa? These are the spots you need to see. 

Writer

Lexie Mamo

28 October 2025

Lexie is the Brisbane Editor at Sitchu and has been part of the team since October 2020. Her background lies in fashion eCommerce and content marketing, having worked in digital roles across brands like Lorna Jane, Black Milk Clothing and dk active. A Brisbane native, Lexie covers food, lifestyle, events, and travel guides for the Sunshine State. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her reading, visiting coffee spots or snapping shots of her rescue cat for his Instagram account.