Sunshine Coast beaches courtesy of Tourism Sunshine Coast
Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast are connected by more than just a road. There is the stream of memories many Brisbane people cherish of summer holidays spent on Sunshine Coast beaches.
The many quick day trips 'up the coast' to enjoy a meal, a quick swim or a relaxing day out of the city all add up to Brisbane people choosing the Sunshine Coast as their playground.
Leave Brisbane city behind and cruise up the highway to swim, dine and sightsee on the famous Sunshine Coast.
Travel time
Caloundra (at the south end of the Coast) is approximately an hour's drive from Brisbane and if you drive straight to Noosa (at the north end), expect it to take up to 90 minutes. The Sunshine Coast is deceptively large and takes a while to discover so perhaps choose one spot to explore for the day… A tip: try not to drive to or from the coast at peak times, e.g. to the coast on Friday afternoons or back into Brisbane on Sunday afternoons.
Travel options
If driving, take the Bruce Highway north. From the south of Brisbane take either the Gateway Bridge or Gympie Road through the northern suburbs to connect to the highway.
There are regular train services to the Sunshine Coast, with bus connections to coastal destinations not on the rail line. Or consider hiring a car to give you freedom to go wherever the surf is good.
What to see and do
There are numerous surf life saving clubs on the coast and they often have the best views of all. Order a meal or have a drink while staring out to sea.
The Sunshine Coast isn’t all about beaches. There are literally hundreds of restaurants, or relaxing day spas, busy markets and world class golf courses. There are arts festivals, music concerts and gourmet food delights too. One day just isn’t enough time!
Heading south to north, you’ll find the beaches and towns of:
Caloundra - Caloundra has the reputation as a top family spot on the Coast. There’s an outdoor saltwater pool at Kings Beach, the river mouth area of Pumicestone Passage and good playgrounds just made for families to enjoy. Go to Bulcock Beach for a feed of fish and chips or walk on the boardwalk.
At Beerwah, in the Caloundra hinterland there’s Australia Zoo, the famous destination for crocodiles and animals of all sorts.
Or try an Aussie pub experience at the Ettamogah Pub, just off the highway heading north.
Maroochy - home of the Sunshine Coast’s biggest shopping centre, Sunshine Plaza. There are movies, stores galore and everything you could need for a beach holiday. The nearby beaches of Cotton Tree and Maroochydore also await. Cotton Tree is positioned on the mouth of the Maroochy River and you can take your choice between still water or surf beach. Barbecue areas and playgrounds make it easy to have a group picnic.
Mooloolaba - a strip of shops perfect for browsing and many outdoor, well-known eateries. Cross the road to Mooloolaba beach and you’ll find rock pools, a good beach break and white sand. There is lots of apartment accommodation if you want to extend your day trip into a longer break. Or take a look at Mooloolaba Wharf and admire the boats.
Anyone who loves diving will want to see the HMAS Brisbane, a spectacular wreck in the warm, clear waters just north of Mooloolaba. You can even swim into the engine room or see the teeming underwater life.
Coolum/Peregian - these open surf beaches are the stuff you see on postcards. Good waves, long white beaches to walk along and communities built with views of the Pacific. Golfers will love the courses at Hyatt Regency Coolum and Peregian Springs. Or climb to the top of Mount Coolum for a challenge.
Noosa - Head further north, to the end of the Sunshine Coast and you’ll reach the famous beach, Noosa. Hastings Street, of course, is a destination for many tourists because it combines wonderful, world-class restaurants, shops and accommodation next to the calm Main Beach. But take a walk (or a short drive) to Noosa National Park to discover clear water and uncrowded pebbly beaches. You might even see dolphins and koalas. The Noosa River is also beautiful with great family swimming and boating or walk, ride and picnic beside the water. Thomas Street, Noosaville is packed with eateries.
Inland from Noosa, don’t miss the famous colourful Eumundi Markets loaded with fresh produce, handcrafts and unique gifts each Wednesday and Saturday.
Well known Sunshine Coast festivals and events:
There’s the Noosa triathlon, Mooloolaba triathlon, Coolum Kite Fest, Noosa Long Weekend arts and food festival, Noosa Jazz Festival and many more.
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a different place entirely from its coastal cousin. The hinterland will tempt you with cool mountains, bushwalking, waterfalls and lovely villages of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton. It’s a whole other day trip!
Find out more about the Sunshine Coast by visiting the following websites:
Of all the beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast, where is your favourite?
