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.
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
Which Destination Suits You?
Every part of the Sunshine Coast has a distinct personality — find the right fit for your trip
| Travel Style | 🌿Noosa | 🏄Mooloolaba | 🌊Coolum | 🦅Caloundra | 🌳Hinterland |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 👨👩👧👦Families | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | — |
| 💑Couples & Romance | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● |
| 🏖️Beach Lovers | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | — |
| 🏄Surfers | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | — |
| 🌿Nature & Wildlife | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● |
| 🍽️Foodies | ●●● | ●●● | — | ●●● | ●●● |
| 🥾Hikers & Adventurers | ●●● | — | ●●● | — | ●●● |
| 💰Budget Travellers | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● |
| 🐕Pet Owners | ●●● | — | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● |
| 🚗Day-Trippers | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● | ●●● |









