8 must-see tourist spots on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast in Australia is a tourist destination located on the northern part of the east coast of the Australian continent. True to its name, it is a tropical paradise with sunlight shining throughout the year. While the Sunshine Coast has not garnered much attention due to its location between the major tourist destinations of Brisbane and Cairns on the east coast of Australia, it still retains much of its natural beauty and is full of stunning beaches and attractions. Here are 8 must-see tourist spots on the Sunshine Coast.

1. Explore the Sea and Forest at Noosa National Park

Noosa is located at the northernmost part of the Sunshine Coast and is one of the main tourist spots in the area. In contrast to the glamorous Gold Coast with its high-rise hotels, Noosa has strict building regulations that prevent the construction of buildings taller than trees, allowing it to maintain a more rustic atmosphere. The most bustling and popular area for tourists in Noosa is Noosa Heads, which features the main beach.

Noosa Heads, along with nearby beaches and forests, is part of Noosa National Park. This national park is home to unique Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos. It also offers various walking trails, allowing visitors to enjoy both the natural coastal beauty and forests of the Sunshine Coast.

2. Enjoy the Crocodile Show at Australia Zoo

One of the must-see attractions when visiting the Sunshine Coast is Australia Zoo, located in the southern part of the Sunshine Coast, near Brisbane.

Many may recognize the name "Steve Irwin," who was known for his efforts to protect crocodiles living in the wild by capturing them and relocating them to safer places. Steve Irwin, along with his wife Terry, established the Australia Zoo.

Although Steve tragically passed away in 2006 after being struck by a stingray during a filming, the zoo remains active and is run by his family. The highlight of the zoo is, of course, the crocodile show, but there are also many other animal shows available. Australia Zoo is an essential stop on any Sunshine Coast tour.

3. Fraser Island, the Sand Island World Heritage Site

Fraser Island is a sand island located just north of Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. While there are several islands near the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world.

Fraser Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, as its forests are home to 230 species of wild birds. Tours to the island depart from the Sunshine Coast and take about 30 minutes. The island features several freshwater lakes, including Lake McKenzie, which is famous for its high water clarity and beautiful blue waters that contrast with the white sand, creating a stunning scene. Other activities on Fraser Island include driving along the 75-Mile Beach, whale watching, and feeding dolphins.

4. The Original Eumundi Markets: A Fun Experience

The Sunshine Coast hosts many free markets, but the most well-known tourist spot is the original Eumundi Markets.

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, with a night market on Fridays, this market features around 600 stalls offering clothing, crafts, artworks, ethnic food vendors, and more. There are also live music performances, and some musicians who started here have gone on to gain recognition.

The original Eumundi Markets, located near Noosa on the Sunshine Coast, attract not only locals but also many tourists. It's the perfect spot to enjoy the local culture and buy souvenirs.

5. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is located in Maleny on the Sunshine Coast. Maleny is about an hour's drive inland from Maroochydore, where the Sunshine Coast University is located.

Once a sparsely populated area with only 800 residents, Maleny has grown into a town of over 2,000 people through tourism and revitalization efforts. The Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is dedicated to the protection of flora and fauna that inhabit the tropical rainforest. The reserve is equipped with accessible pathways that allow visitors to enjoy the forest and walk freely, even in a wheelchair. Several ecological education centers have also been established, making it an interesting destination for those interested in nature and wildlife.

Although the Sunshine Coast is often associated with coastal tourism, the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve offers a chance to experience the essence of nature itself.

6. Mooloolaba Beach: A Fun Place Just for Swimming

Mooloolaba Beach, located in the central part of the Sunshine Coast, is one of the most popular tourist spots in the area, known for its beautiful white sandy beach and easy swimming conditions.

Visitors of all ages can enjoy a day of swimming in the clear waters or simply relaxing on the beach. Occasionally, the waves become stronger, and surfers arrive to show off their skills.

In addition to the beach, Mooloolaba offers other attractions, including the SEA LIFE Mooloolaba Aquarium, where visitors can learn about marine life from the Sunshine Coast, and Magic Mountain Dive Site, offering diving and other marine activities.

7. The Unique Ginger Factory

Located in the central inland area of the Sunshine Coast, the Ginger Factory is a tourist spot centered around a food factory that produces products made from ginger, a local specialty. The factory area includes amusement facilities and restaurants, making it a fun and educational stop.

Though small, visitors can tour the ginger factory to learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and manufacturing processes involved in ginger-based products. The park also sells various ginger-flavored foods, making it a must-see spot for ginger enthusiasts.

One of the highlights is the wide variety of ginger-flavored ice creams, offering unique flavors to enjoy. The souvenir shop sells ginger jam, candies, and cookies. The Ginger Factory is sure to leave a unique memory of the Sunshine Coast.

8. Queensland Air Museum

The Queensland Air Museum is located in the southernmost town of Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast. Established in 1973, the museum has been renovated several times and is now a top-tier museum popular among tourists. Surprisingly, the museum does not feature modern jet aircraft but showcases wartime aircraft, including fighter planes used during the war.

Although set in the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast, this museum offers visitors a different experience, where they can not only enjoy the exhibits but also learn a lot about aviation history.

◎Summary

The Sunshine Coast on the east coast of Australia remains rich in natural beauty and is, in many ways, an underrated tourist destination. With its stunning beaches, forests home to unique Australian wildlife, and distinctive attractions, it offers something for everyone. If you're looking for a different kind of Australian experience, the Sunshine Coast is the perfect destination to visit.

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8 must-see tourist spots on the Sunshine Coast