What is the Sunshine Coast known for?

The Sunshine Coast encapsulates everything about Queensland that is gorgeous and lush, with sublime beaches, dense hinterland, vibrant forests and a friendly, laid back atmosphere that makes any traveller feel right at home!

The ideal antithesis to the bustling Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast is the place travellers go to kick it at the beach, put their feet up and maybe go for a spot of forest hiking for enjoying a sundowner in the balmy tropical breeze.

There are a huge amount of exciting adventures and pristine places to enjoy on the Sunshine Coast, so let’s take a look at some of them below…

Noosa’s tropical splendour

Noosa has long been one of Australia’s favourite travel towns. Why? Because it is the perfect place to chill and unwind in idyllic tropical surroundings! Noosa Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Queensland, with the gorgeous Noosa National Park waiting just around the corner with its dense forest and towering ocean views.

There are also heaps of secluded beaches where you can spot adorable koalas in the trees and playful dolphins in the seas. Be sure to head out to the Noosa Everglades, an untouched series of wetlands and waterways that truly take you away from the constant buzz around town!

Have a meal at Maroochydore markets

The Nights on Ocean markets at Maroochydore are the perfect place to get a vibe for the carefree atmosphere that makes the Sunshine Coast such a wonderful place to visit!

This awesome market, held every second Friday of the month, has plenty of bites, stalls selling arts and crafts and live music to keep you entertained for hours. Afterwards, head into the NightQuarter for even more Sunny Coast exuberance.

Swim with whales at Sunreef Mooloolaba

Queensland is truly blessed with some of the world’s most incredible tropical reefs and marine species, and there is no better way to experience them on the Sunny Coast than with a visit to Sunreef Mooloolaba.

From July to October, budding divers have the opportunity to swim with the gentle giants of the sea, humpback whales, as they migrate north to warmer waters for the Southern Ocean’s chill.

This is a truly spectacular way to spend a day on the Sunny Coast, and diving novices have the opportunity to cut their teeth and earn their licence in the safe and calm Mooloolaba waters!

Related article: What is the best time of year to visit Brisbane?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.