12 Sunshine Coast Experiences Not to Be Missed
With pristine stretches of beach, lush subtropical rainforest, and majestic mountain landscapes, it’s no surprise that the Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. You’ll never run out of things to do here, with an exciting attraction to suit everyone who visits. Here are 12 Sunshine Coast experiences not to be missed. Go for the holiday, stay for the feeling.
Eumundi Markets
Located in the historic hinterland town of Eumundi, the world-famous Original Eumundi Markets is one of the most popular Sunshine Coast attractions. Guided by an ethos of ‘Make it, Bake it, Sew it, Grow it’, this is the biggest and best artisan market in Australia. At The Original Eumundi Markets, you’ll find hundreds of vendors selling locally made artwork, fashion, jewellery, homewares, and woodwork, along with plenty of food stalls serving local produce and freshly baked goods. In addition to stocking up on beautiful and unique wares, you can also relax with a massage, have your palm read, and enjoy an ever-changing line-up of musicians and street performers. A hub of creativity, this market truly is unmissable. Open every Wednesday and Friday. Book lovers will need a couple of extra hours to peruse the exceptional Berkelouw Eumundi Bookshop & Café, just across the road.
Australia Zoo
No Sunshine Coast holiday is complete without visiting Australia Zoo. Home of the iconic Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, this must-visit attraction spans over 110 acres and is known for being the most interactive conservation destination on the planet. Australia Zoo is home to over 1,200 animals, including exotic species from Africa and Southeast Asia, along with native Aussie favourites. The best way to learn more about the various animals at Australia Zoo is by checking out the free daily shows on offer. Don’t miss the Wildlife Warriors Show in the world-famous Crocoseum, which features Steve Irwin’s favourite animal, the impressive saltwater crocodile. One of the most immersive zoos you’ll ever visit, Australia Zoo is not to be missed.
Noosa Everglades
Did you know that the Sunshine Coast is home to one of only two everglades systems in the world? The Noosa Everglades is a spectacular network of wetlands and waterways, often nicknamed the ‘River of Mirrors’ due to the insanely clear waters that reflect the trees and sky above. This ecosystem also acts as a sanctuary for over 40% of Australia’s bird species. To best explore this unique Sunshine Coast attraction, join Everglades Eco Safaris on their Everglades Explorer Tour. Led by an expert Eco Tour Guide, cruise the Noosa Everglades in a specially designed eco boat, with the opportunity to jump out and explore at your own pace in a canoe. If you’re looking for the ultimate experience in serenity, this is the adventure for you.
Glass House Mountains
Like something out of Jurassic Park, Glass House Mountains National Park is one of the most distinctive landmarks in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Made up of 11 rocky peaks, the Glass House Mountains were formed millions of years ago from volcanic activity. For the best views, head to the lookout in Beerburrum State Forest or explore one of the many walking tracks. There’s a hike for every skill level, including challenging summit routes suitable for those with climbing experience. The Mountains are spiritually significant to the Aboriginal Traditional Owners, with some areas of the national park under special protection. This is the perfect place to disconnect from the daily grind, and immerse yourself in nature.
Food and Wine Tours
Get set for a feast to remember. Foodies will love the blossoming culinary scene on the Sunshine Coast. The rich volcanic soil of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is perfect for growing fresh produce, and the region is also known for having some of the best dairy products in Australia. A farm-to-fork tour is a great way to sample the best of the Sunshine Coast’s produce. This Scenic Food & Wine Tour takes you to Maleny Food Co., The Barrel at Clouds Vineyard Maleny and Chocolate Country Montville for a full day of delicious cheese, chocolate and wine.
Amaze World
Amaze World, located amid subtropical hinterland, is one of the best family attractions on the Sunshine Coast. In fact, this unique outdoor location was voted the number one thing to do on the Sunshine Coast in 2021! There is a range of activities to enjoy at Amaze World, including augmented reality experiences, mini golf, timber mazes, and a nature playground with water play. In the Bellingham Hedge Maze, you’ll meet a cheeky forest trickster who has left riddles, puzzles, and missing items to help navigate your way out. For those with a keen sense of imagination, Amaze World is a must-visit. Have you got what it takes to find your way through the twisting labyrinth?
Noosa National Park
Beach lovers can’t miss Noosa National Park. Spanning over 2,800 hectares, this popular park is made up of three sections: Noosa Headland, Emu Mountain, and Peregian Beach. Cruise along the Noosa Coastal Walk to soak in some of the Sunshine Coast’s most picturesque scenery. As you pass beautiful beach after beautiful beach, keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and whales. At the end of this 5.4-kilometre trail is Sunshine Beach, a lovely spot for a swim, surf, or picnic – the perfect reward after a long hike. Allow approximately four hours to complete the full return walk. Get ready for spectacular views from the headland.
The Ginger Factory
The Ginger Factory is another popular Sunshine Coast attraction. Located in Yandina, this is the world’s largest operating ginger factory and produces a vast variety of locally-made ginger drinks, sweets, spreads and foods. The Ginger Factory is also home to lush subtropical gardens, a boutique shopping village, a café and ice creamery and kid-friendly rides. While at The Ginger Factory be sure to join a Factory Tour and Tasting, where you’ll learn how ginger is grown and harvested, before sampling a variety of treats. Another popular attraction is the Live Bee Show and Tasting, which is led by an experienced beekeeper. With rides, activities, taste sensations, and tours, everyone will love The Ginger Factory!
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
Backdropped by the beautiful Glass House Mountains, Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World is another unmissable attraction in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. This privately-owned botanic garden offers over six kilometres of walking paths that follow thousands of different plants, along with picturesque lakes, waterfalls, and ponds. Additionally, Maleny Bird World boasts four walk-through aviaries that are home to over 700 native and exotic birds from across the globe. Join an interactive tour, led by expert birdkeepers, to get up close and personal with the birds and learn more about what makes them unique.
Aussie World
Aussie World is another family favourite on the Sunshine Coast. This popular theme park is the only one on the Sunshine Coast and offers over 30 rides and attractions, including kid-friendly coasters and adrenalin-pumping thrill rides. Some must-experience attractions at Aussie World include the Bombora Bounce, a 10-metre drop ride, and SX360, Australia’s tallest and fastest 360-degree pendulum ride. In addition to rides, Aussie World is also home to mini golf, a hall of mirrors, several carnival games, and a water play area, along with numerous restaurant and shopping options.
Craft Brewery Tour
Did you know that the Sunshine Coast is the craft beer-brewing capital of Queensland? If you’re looking for something different to do during your next Sunshine Coast holiday, why not join a craft beer tour? You’ll go behind the scenes and see brewing in action, learn about the passionate local brewers, and sample plenty of beer as you go! With over 19 breweries in the region (and counting), there’s a beer for every drinker to enjoy. Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours offers a huge range of local experiences, where you’ll visit neighbourhood breweries, craft beer bars, distilleries, wineries, and other top foodie destinations. Our pick is the Coastal Hop, which takes you to four of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular breweries.
Strawberry Picking
Add a bit of sweetness to your next Sunshine Coast holiday by strawberry picking! The Sunshine Coast is home to some of the best pick-your-own-fruit farms in the country. Support local farmers while stocking up on juicy local produce. Talk about a win-win! Whether you’re looking for a unique date idea or a fun family day out, we love strawberry picking at McMartin’s Farm between June and November. Simply grab a punnet and pick to your heart’s content! If strawberries straight from the vine aren’t enough, you can also pop into McMartin’s Farm’s onsite store for a scoop of gourmet ice cream, some homemade jam, or a cup of classic Devonshire tea – all made from their very own strawberries, of course! Enjoy the outdoors and indulge some of the best strawberries in Australia.
Getting There
No matter your travel style, the Sunshine Coast has an exciting attraction for everybody. Discover your Sunshine Moment with My Queensland’s exclusive holidays, perfectly packaged with bonus inclusions like room upgrades, resort credits, local experiences and so much more. Explore our sensational Sunshine Coast holidays here. Pin this blog until your next Queensland holiday, or send to a friend. See you in the sunshine!
Tags: Experiences, Holiday, Queensland, Sunshine Coast
Categories : Travel
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