Attractions
Local beaches
Sunshine Coast beaches are some of the best in the world. Mostly patrolled by surf lifesavers, the beaches feature wide stretches of clean, white sand and sparkling warm water. With an abundance of surf or calm bays on offer, you are spoilt for choice.
Mooloolaba Beach has made TripAdvisor’s list of top 25 Australian beaches while Kings Beach (Caloundra) and Coolum Beach rank highly on Surf Life Saving Queensland’s best and safest beaches. There are many dog-friendly beaches too.
As well as beaches, modern aquatic centres are located in every major centre, most with onsite cafés, swimming squads and lessons.
For further information on swimming or surf safety on Sunshine Coast beaches, go to Surf Life Saving Queensland or Sunshine Coast Council.
Surf safety
Always follow basic surf and water safety on Sunshine Coast beaches and swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags which indicate lifeguards and lifesavers supervise the area.
The meaning of other flags are:
- BLUE FLAGS: Shows the area allocated for board riding and surfing.
- RED FLAGS: Indicate that the beach is closed and that you should not enter the water.
- YELLOW FLAGS: Indicate there are potential hazards in the water.
- RED AND WHITE QUARTERED FLAG: Emergency evacuation, leave the water immediately
Amusement parks
Looking for a bit of fun that doesn’t involve getting the sand between your toes? There are plenty of theme parks and a wide assortment of family attractions to choose from. Get up close to an Emu at Wildlife HQ, let the competitive spirit go racing at the Big Kart go kart track or take in the scenery of the lush sub-tropical gardens on Morteton, the 100 year old sugar cane train at The Ginger Factory. Go to the Visit Sunshine Coast’s website for a full list of current attractions and things to do on the Sunshine Coast.
- Amaze World
- Aussie World
- Australia Zoo
- Big Kart Track
- Blast Aqua Park Coolum
- Bli Bli Watersports Complex
- Sea Life
- The Big Pineapple
- The Ginger Factory
- TreeTop Challenge
- Wildlife HQ
Take in the hinterland
Beyond the beaches is the Sunshine Coast hinterland where you’ll find charming villages, ancient sub-tropical rainforests and waterfalls, rolling country hills and breathtaking scenery.
The mountain towns of Maleny, Mapleton and Montville are not to be missed, with cobblestone streets and artisan shops. The spectacular Glass House Mountains have stunning walking trails with awesome views at every turn.
Adventure Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast Council has created Adventure Sunshine Coast to give residents and visitors inspiration on new ways to explore the region’s great outdoors.
With a growing list of free, self-guided activities the Adventure Sunshine Coast website is the ultimate guide to your next outdoor adventure.
Search the map to choose from more than 150 walking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding and canoeing activities, from the hinterland to the coast.
- Online adventure guidebook provided by Sunshine Coast Council
- Discover all the great trails and view interactive trail maps
- 150+ walking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding and canoeing activities
- Relax, discover and be active in a beautiful and unique natural environment
- See other people’s impressions and photos before you head on your adventure
- Find out if your dog can come along