Sunshine Coast

Travel Guide

A rural landscape with fields, scattered houses, and prominent rock formations.
A coastal landscape with a lighthouse, rocky shoreline, clear blue sea, and a grassy area with a path.
A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and a hilly backdrop.
An aerial view of a coastal town with a marina, sandy beaches, and lush greenery.
A coastal town with a wide sandy beach, clear turquoise waters, and a mountain in the distance.

Check out family-friendly beaches, engaging shopping spots, and outdoor adventures that connect you with nature on the Sunshine Coast.

Sunshine Coast is an ideal destination for family and outdoor travelers. You can explore the Mooloolaba Esplanade, a popular waterfront area, and visit The Wharf Mooloolaba, which is a marina offering various activities. For families, the Big Pineapple is a notable tourist precinct that provides entertainment for all ages. In addition to attractions, you can enjoy shopping at Sunshine Plaza and engage in activities like bowling at Suncity Tenpin. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the Mount Coolum Summit Walk offers scenic views and a chance to connect with nature.

Take time to wander the neighborhoods surrounding Sunshine Coast, each with its own character. Mooloolaba and Twin Waters are known for family-friendly outdoor experiences, featuring beaches such as Buddina Beach and Mudjimba Beach. Additionally, Twin Waters Spa provides relaxation options. Nearby, Pacific Paradise is recognized for its outdoor sports experiences, making it another area to explore. These neighborhoods offer a mix of leisure and recreation, ensuring you have various options during your visit.

The best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is warm and mostly dry, with temperatures ranging from 74 to 76°F. This period is often sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Demand for accommodations and experiences stays fairly steady throughout the year, so you can enjoy the attractions without extreme fluctuations in crowd levels. Whether you're looking for a vibrant atmosphere or a more relaxed visit, you'll find something to suit your preferences.

Sunshine Coast Travel Guide Video

Where to stay in Sunshine Coast

Find the best Sunshine Coast areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Sunshine Coast
Learn more about Sunshine Coast

Noosa Heads

Travelers to Noosa Heads praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Noosa National Park and Hastings Street.

Mooloolaba

Mooloolaba is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like The Wharf Mooloolaba and Mooloolaba Esplanade.

Caloundra

Caloundra is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Caloundra Events Center and Bulcock Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Sunshine Coast.

Maroochydore

Travelers come to Maroochydore for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Maroochydore Beach and Sunshine Plaza while you're in town.

Coolum Beach

The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Coolum Beach. A stop by Coolum Beach or Peregian Beach might round out your trip.

Holiday Inn & Suites Sunshine Coast by IHG

Holiday Inn & Suites Sunshine Coast by IHG

4 out of 5
42 First Avenue and Fairway Drive Maroochydore QLD
$105 nightly
The price is $115 total per night from Dec 6 to Dec 7
$115 total
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Great hotel. Rooms are super big but enough for what you need. Great block out blinds and quiet. Really close to shops and essentials"

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2026

Holiday Inn & Suites Sunshine Coast by IHG
Ramada By Wyndham Marcoola Beach

Ramada By Wyndham Marcoola Beach

4 out of 5
923 David Low Way Marcoola QLD
$129 nightly
The price is $142 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$142 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
Ramada By Wyndham Marcoola Beach
Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel

Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel

4.5 out of 5
10 Brisbane Road Mooloolaba QLD
$246 nightly
The price is $270 total per night from Nov 16 to Nov 17
$270 total
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Popular attractions Mooloolaba Esplanade and ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (63 reviews)
"Great rooftop restaurant Sullys, pool lounge access difficult due to demand versus supply"

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Rumba Beach Resort

Rumba Beach Resort

5 out of 5
Bulcock Beach Esplanade Reception Caloundra QLD
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,329 reviews)
"Great location, easy to walk everywhere. Room very clean, and fantastic pillows!"

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2026

Rumba Beach Resort
Mantra Mooloolaba Beach

Mantra Mooloolaba Beach

4.5 out of 5
Cnr Mooloolaba Esplanade & Venning St Mooloolaba QLD
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free parking, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,829 reviews)
"It had everything you need"

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
Landmark Resort

Landmark Resort

4 out of 5
11 Mooloolaba Esplanade Mooloolaba QLD
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,210 reviews)
"Have stayed many times. Great location. My only issue is that the spa area could do with some renovation .. some tiles missing etc . The room we had was very comfortable but could also do with a little updating - needed a smart tv as is pretty standard these days. Staff are terrific . Everything ..."

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Landmark Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Sunshine Coast attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Sunshine Coast worth visiting?
Sunshine Coast is worth visiting for its beautiful Noosa Beach and popular Hastings Street. Travelers can also explore distinct areas like Noosa Heads and Tewantin, and enjoy diverse Asian and Italian dining options.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Sunshine Coast?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Sunshine Coast depend on what you want to see:

  • Noosa Heads features popular spots like Noosa Hill, Hastings Street, and Noosa Spit Recreation Reserve.
  • Tewantin offers outdoor activities at Tewantin Noosa Golf Club, Tewantin National Park, and Noosa Marina.
  • Noosa North Shore is ideal for nature exploration with its Nature Refuge, Teewah Bushland Reserve, and Beach Road Nature Reserve.
  • Noosaville provides access to natural areas including Lake Weyba, Noosa Northrise Future Bushland, and Shorehaven Bushland Reserve.
  • Cooroibah lets travelers explore green spaces like Lakeside Bushland Reserve, Glenridge Bushland Reserve, and Cooroibah Conservation Park.

What is Sunshine Coast known for?
Sunshine Coast is known for Hastings Street, a popular area for travelers, and its beautiful shores like Noosa Beach and Mooloolaba Beach. Travelers can also find Asian food, and explore neighborhoods such as Noosa Heads and Tewantin in this Australian city.
What is a good itinerary length for Sunshine Coast?
A good itinerary length for Sunshine Coast is two to three days to enjoy popular spots like Hastings Street, Noosa Beach, and Mooloolaba Beach. An extended stay of four to five days lets you explore more areas such as Noosa Heads and Tewantin, or try activities like a Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise or an Offshore Fishing Charter. See Sunshine Coast Activities.
How do you get around Sunshine Coast?
Sunshine Coast offers train service, with stations like Yandina Station, Eudlo Station, and Palmwoods Station connecting various areas. For more flexibility, travelers can rent cars, with options available in neighborhoods such as Noosa Heads, Caloundra, and Maroochydore. Rideshare services are also generally available for convenient local travel.
What are the top things to do in and around Sunshine Coast?
Sunshine Coast offers a mix of beautiful beaches, lively streets, and exciting marine adventures:

  • Stroll Hastings Street, a popular area for shops and dining
  • Relax on Noosa Beach, known for its scenic beauty
  • Enjoy a Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise for evening views
  • Embark on an Adventure Rafting Mooloolaba Turtle Tour
  • Go on an Adventure Whale Watching Tour from Mooloolaba.

How do I plan a trip to Sunshine Coast?
To plan your Sunshine Coast trip, book flights, hotels, and activities like a Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise or Offshore Fishing Charter in advance. Explore areas such as Noosa Heads and Tewantin, visiting attractions like Hastings Street and Noosa Beach. Trains are available for getting around, with a rental car offering flexibility for wider exploration.
What cuisines can you find in Sunshine Coast?
In Sunshine Coast you can find Thai cuisine, with dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry. Travelers can also enjoy other Asian options such as Japanese food, alongside Italian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North American dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Sunshine Coast?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Sunshine Coast by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Sunshine Coast with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Sunshine Coast trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Sunshine Coast?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Sunshine Coast can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Sunshine Coast trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Sunshine Coast trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Sunshine Coast trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Sunshine Coast trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Sunshine Coast?
If it's your first trip to Sunshine Coast, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Sunshine Coast hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Sunshine Coast hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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