SUNSHINE COAST & HINTERLAND

THINGS TO DO IN SUNSHINE COAST & HINTERLAND

This sunny stretch of coastline has a whole lot of urban cool and easy-going vibes. 

Where beach-going days are always high on the agenda, Queensland's Sunshine Coast is nothing short of paradise – and the throngs of tourists who flock to this stretch of Queensland can attest to that. From Noosa to Maroochydore to Pelican Waters, the Sunshine Coast is an outdoor lover's dream. 

The list of things to do is seemingly endless. Made up of a string of beachside towns and hinterland hideaways, the Sunshine Coast is a veritable playground for water-based activities thanks to the vast waterways, inlets and beaches. And with all this water around, it's not surprising that the foodie scene delights with fresh ocean seafood that gets reeled in daily. Restaurants and cafes take full advantage of the ocean views, and the vast selection of boats at hand are just begging to take you on a seafaring adventure. 

Add into the mix shopping hubs, open-air markets, pulsing nightlife and waterfront and hinterland stays, and you know that you're in for a real treat. So, pack your bag and plan to stay for a while because the list of things to do on the Sunshine Coast is endless.  

Beach Culture

Renowned for its stunning coastline, the Sunshine Coast promotes an Aussie beach life that those from far-flung places can only dream about. Therefore, it's not surprising that people from all over flock to the beaches of the Sunshine Coast for the ocean swells and foreshore parklands. Swim, surf, paddle or fish along the shoreline that has surfers out from the crack of dawn vying for the perfect wave.

Water Wonderland

It's not just beaches the Sunshine Coast has in spades. It's also the incredible line-up of waterways, inlets, and rivers that flow throughout. Set sail or paddle your way around the many coves, bays and inlets. Learn to kayak, surf and dive, or hire a boat to explore places you can't reach by foot. There really is no shortage of things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

A Foodie's Delight

Noosa to Mooloolaba and across the hinterland, farmgate produce and ocean-fresh seafood dominate the menus of on-trend cafes, casual eateries and fine-dining restaurants. From barista-made coffee to wholesome brunches, the Sunshine Coast knows how to start the day right. The casual fish n' chippery makes a roaring trade, and waterfront dining is in abundance. And although seafood features in a big way, that's not all the Sunshine Coast does well – Asian, Mediterranean, American, and organic health food bars also have a place here. 

Bars & Nightlife

Soaking up the coastal vibes in a way that only this stretch of coastline knows how the bars and nightlife of the Sunshine Coast make the most of balmy summers and temperate winters. Cafes that turn into chilled-out bars, eateries that have a killer drink menu, and late-night bars and pulsing nightclubs keep things kicking well into the early hours of the morning.  

Shop 'till You Drop

With an undeniable beach vibe, the Sunshine Coast has its own fair share of surf shops which alone deserve a look in. But the trendsetting storefronts of Noosa will have fashionistas in a flutter while pop-up markets along the coast have one-of-a-kind finds. Sprinkled throughout the coastline are an array of fashion and homeware stores that are well worth a visit, yet still, Maroochydore has big-name brands in the sprawling shopping centre. 

Big Attractions 

Being the holiday destination that it is, the Sunshine Coast has some big drawcards. Noosa National Park is a natural wonderland with stunning views of the coastline. Sealife dives deep into local marine life, and Australia Zoo brings you up close and personal with some of Australia's most exotic and feared animals and reptiles. 

Stay

With so many things to do on the Sunshine Coast, it pays to stay awhile and enjoy the best this region has to offer. And what a choice you have with each beachside town boasting an abundance of Airbnbs, barefoot glamping, waterfront apartments and resort-like getaways. 

The Sunshine Coast is an outdoor lover's dream. From ocean swells to calm bays and lush bushland to a line-up of vibrant neighbourhoods filled with global eats and intimate wine bars. There's no denying it. There are so many things to do on the Sunshine Coast.