☀️ Australia's #1 Holiday Coast
🌿 UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Sunshine Coast Sun, Surf & Hinterland

60km of golden beaches, ancient rainforests, and vibrant towns — from Noosa to Caloundra and everything in between.

Humpback Whales Are Here

Every year from June to October, thousands of humpback whales migrate through the waters off the Sunshine Coast on their journey north. Join a guided whale watching tour from Mooloolaba — or simply watch from the shore as these gentle giants breach and play. It is one of Queensland's most spectacular natural events.

Whale Watching Guide →
🐋 Whale Season · June – October
✦ Sunshine Coast · Queensland

About the Sunshine Coast

Boasting over 300 days of pristine sub-tropical weather, Queensland's Sunshine Coast is the ultimate Australian travel destination. Stretching from the calm waters of Caloundra up to the pristine shores of Noosa Heads, this iconic region effortlessly blends laid-back coastal vibes with breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you are chasing an adrenaline-fueled escape or a slow, restorative getaway, the “Sunny Coast” caters to every travel style.

What truly sets Sunshine Coast tourism apart is its incredible geographical diversity. In a single afternoon, you can transition from burying your toes in the golden sands of Mooloolaba Beach to hiking through the ancient, volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains. Just a short drive inland lies the lush Sunshine Coast hinterland — where charming mountain villages like Maleny and Montville offer sweeping coastal views, artisanal craft markets, and hidden rainforest waterfalls like Kondalilla Falls.

For nature lovers, the region is a literal paradise. It is home to the pristine Noosa Everglades — one of only two everglades systems on Earth — and the world-famous Australia Zoo. Beyond the landscape, the local food scene is a major drawcard. Taste your way through a booming craft beer capital, sample ocean-to-plate dining at bustling coastal wharves, or pick up organic treats at the famous Eumundi Markets.

In recognition of this extraordinary natural environment, the entire Sunshine Coast was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2022 — one of only a handful in Australia. The listing celebrates the region's remarkable biodiversity, from the volcanic Glass House Mountains and the rainforests of the Blackall Range to the wetlands of the Noosa Everglades and the rich marine life along the coast. More than a title, it reflects a community-wide commitment to protecting these landscapes while living, farming and travelling sustainably within them. For visitors, it's a reminder that the beaches, bushland and waterways here are not just beautiful — they're globally significant, and worth treading lightly to preserve.

From luxury beachfront resorts to tranquil eco-cabins nestled in the rainforest canopy, the Sunshine Coast offers a deeply authentic slice of Queensland paradise. Discover an unrushed pace of life where the spectacular coastline meets vibrant green ranges, and start planning your unforgettable Sunshine Coast holiday today.

Updated Aug 2026

Find Your Match

Which Destination Suits You?

Every part of the Sunshine Coast has a distinct personality — find the right fit for your trip

Crystal-clear water at Noosa Main Beach, Sunshine Coast Queensland
Noosa
Travel Style🌿Noosa🏄Mooloolaba🌊Coolum🦅Caloundra🌳Hinterland
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Families ●● ●●● ●● ●●●
💑Couples & Romance ●●● ●● ●● ●● ●●●
🏖️Beach Lovers ●●● ●●● ●●● ●●
🏄Surfers ●●● ●●● ●●● ●●
🌿Nature & Wildlife ●●● ●● ●● ●● ●●●
🍽️Foodies ●●● ●● ●● ●●●
🥾Hikers & Adventurers ●● ●● ●●●
💰Budget Travellers ●● ●● ●● ●●● ●●
🐕Pet Owners ●● ●●● ●● ●●
🚗Day-Trippers ●● ●● ●● ●● ●●●
●●● Top pick●●○ Great choice●○○ Worth considering
🗺️ Destinations

Explore the Sunshine Coast

All destinations →
🌿
Noosa
National park, Hastings Street & dolphins

Queensland's crown jewel, where coastal luxury meets raw wilderness. The north-facing beach delivers perfect swimming year-round, while Hastings Street's celebrated restaurants and boutiques set the tone. Noosa National Park's headland trails reveal wild koalas, dolphins, and hidden coves.

Beyond the headland, Noosaville's café-lined river banks and the sheltered Noosa Sound offer a quieter counterpoint to the main strip. The famous Eumundi Markets — Queensland's largest artisan market — fill Wednesday and Saturday mornings just 20 minutes inland, drawing locals and visitors alike with handmade food, fashion and live music.

Noosa HeadsNoosavilleTewantinEumundiCooroyPomona
Explore Noosa
🏄
Mooloolaba
Esplanade dining, beach & whale watching

The vibrant heart of the Sunshine Coast, where a sparkling north-facing bay and lively Esplanade dining combine into one of Australia's great beach experiences. Humpback whales rest in the sheltered bay every August and September — visible from the shore with the naked eye.

HMAS Brisbane lies scuttled just offshore — one of Australia's premier wreck dives, teeming with marine life and accessible by half-day boat from the Spit. The Mooloolah River mouth is a local favourite for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, while the weekly Wharf Markets offer fresh-caught seafood and artisan produce steps from the water.

MooloolabaAlex HeadlandMaroochydoreCotton TreeBuddinaBirtinya
Explore Mooloolaba
🌊
Coolum
Surf point break & Peregian village

The Coast's unhurried middle stretch, where those who wander off the highway find some of the region's most rewarding beaches. Coolum's surf point break is a favourite with experienced surfers, while Peregian's boutique village charms with weekend markets.

Coolum BeachPeregian BeachMudjimbaYandinaTwin WatersPacific Paradise
Explore Coolum
🦅
Caloundra
Seven beaches & a heritage ocean pool

The Sunshine Coast's southern gateway anchors seven distinct beaches around a dramatic headland. Kings Beach is the social heart — its heritage-listed saltwater ocean pool is one of Queensland's most beloved landmarks. Moffat Beach draws surfers; Golden Beach suits families.

Kings BeachMoffat BeachGolden BeachDicky BeachCurrimundiPelican Waters
Explore Caloundra
🌳
Hinterland
Rainforest villages & Glass House peaks

Just 30 minutes from the beach, the Blackall Range feels like another world. Rainforest villages like Maleny and Montville offer artisan galleries, farm-fresh produce, and sweeping coastal views. Kondalilla Falls and the Glass House Mountains reward those who venture deeper.

MalenyMontvilleMapletonKenilworthBeerwahGlass House Mtns
Explore Hinterland
📖 Travel Guides

Sunshine Coast Local Guides

Browse all guides →
💧
The Natural World
Waterfalls & Swimming Holes

Kondalilla, Mapleton Falls, Gardners Falls — the hinterland's best rainforest cascades and natural swimming holes.

Read guide →
🏊
The Natural World
Swimming Holes

Cool off in a creek, a rock pool or a shaded dam lake — freshwater swims well away from the beach crowds.

Read guide →
🐋
Ocean & Wildlife
Whale Watching

Thousands of humpback whales pass through each July–November. Some rest so close you can spot them from the shore.

Read guide →
✈️
The Wider Region
Getting Here

Flying in, driving from Brisbane or taking the coach? Honest advice on every way to reach the Sunshine Coast.

Read guide →
🗓️
Planning
Itineraries

Not sure where to start? Ready-made day-by-day plans for every style — romantic, family, budget or full explorer.

Read guide →
🌋
The Natural World
Glass House Mountains

Thirteen ancient volcanic peaks sacred to the Kabi Kabi people. Dramatic, hikeable and utterly unforgettable.

Read guide →
🛶
The Natural World
Noosa Everglades

One of only two everglade systems on Earth. Kayak the mirror-still waterways at dawn — nothing else like it in Australia.

Read guide →
🍽️
Planning
Foodie Guide

Ocean-to-plate at the wharf, farm tables in the hinterland and the best café breakfast you'll have all year.

Read guide →
🎒
Planning
School Holiday Hub

Events, deals and family activities updated for every Queensland school holiday period. Bookmark this one.

Read guide →
🚩
Ocean & Wildlife
Surf Life Saving Clubs

New to the surf? Everything you need to know about swimming between the flags and staying safe in Queensland surf.

Read guide →
🏞️
The Natural World
Noosa National Park

Wild koalas, hidden coves and dolphins — all ten minutes from Hastings Street. One of Queensland's great coastal walks.

Read guide →
🐊
Ocean & Wildlife
Australia Zoo

Steve Irwin's legendary wildlife park — 1,200+ animals, croc shows and a full day of up-close wildlife encounters.

Read guide →
🌤 Weather

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Live forecastClimate data →
Best time to visitSeasons guide →
☀️
Summer
Dec – Feb
26–29°C

Peak beach season — warm ocean, long days and a buzzing holiday atmosphere. Start early to beat the afternoon heat and the occasional tropical storm.

🍂
Autumn
Mar – May
23–27°C

Arguably the sweet spot — warm, dry and less humid, with fewer crowds. Ideal for hiking, waterfalls and still-warm ocean swims.

🐋
Winter
Jun – Aug
20–22°C

Mild, sunny and dry — clear blue-sky days perfect for whale watching, hinterland drives and the zoo. Pack a layer for cooler evenings.

🌸
Spring
Sep – Nov
23–26°C

Warming days and a packed events calendar as the water heats up again. A great all-rounder for beaches, festivals and the outdoors.

🎉 Events & Festivals

Sunshine Coast Events

View all events →
Hotels.com
Book Your Sunshine Coast Stay
No booking fees
Free cancellation options
Collect stamps, get free nights
Millions of traveller reviews
Find Hotels →
klook
Find Your Perfect Stay

Search hotels, resorts and holiday stays on the Sunshine Coast — great rates, easy booking.

Hotels, resorts & apartments
Instant confirmation
Best price guarantee
Trusted by millions of travellers
Find a Stay →
Explore at Your Own Pace

Compare 500+ car rental suppliers — find the best deal for exploring the Sunshine Coast and beyond.

Save up to 70% on car rentals
Free cancellation on most bookings
No hidden fees — clear prices
Trusted by 7M+ travellers
4.6 / 5
Search Cars →
✨ Experiences
Things to Do
View all →
300+
Days of sunshine per year
60km
Of pristine coastline
40+
Towns & villages to explore
30+
Beaches to explore
🏖️ Sunshine Coast

Ready to book?

Beachside hotels, hinterland retreats, and everything in between — find your perfect Sunshine Coast base.

✉️ Newsletter

Stay in the loop

New openings, events and exclusive deals — delivered straight to your inbox. No spam, ever.

Unsubscribe any time. We respect your inbox.

🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know

Plan your perfect Sunshine Coast trip with our guides, itineraries, and travel information.