The Sunshine Coast, filled with shopping spots and activities, is one of Queensland’s most popular tourist destinations. In addition to its beautiful beaches, the area offers bustling markets, theme parks, zoos, and aquariums. Here’s a guide on how to fully enjoy all that the Sunshine Coast has to offer!
What is the Sunshine Coast?
Stretching north to south across the three cities of Caloundra, Maroochydore, and Noosa, the Sunshine Coast is a seaside region where the golden sunlight illuminates emerald-green waters and pristine white sand beaches. Free from the chaos of skyscrapers and urban noise, this destination offers the ultimate relaxation.
Whether you want to release stress through marine activities and shopping, or simply sit on the beach and watch the waves, the Sunshine Coast will refresh your mind and soul. Thanks to its stunning coastline, it has been attracting not only tourists but also new residents in recent years.
With zoos, aquariums, and other theme parks, the area also offers plenty of attractions for children. Let’s take a closer look at how you can enjoy the Sunshine Coast.
Weather and Temperature on the Sunshine Coast
As its name suggests, the Sunshine Coast enjoys many sunny days, and its mild climate is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
In summer, the average temperature hovers around 30°C. Even in winter, daytime highs often exceed 20°C, allowing you to comfortably wear short sleeves.
Depending on when you visit, you may need to bring light outerwear, so always check the season before choosing what to pack.
Recommended Shopping Spots on the Sunshine Coast
Markets are held at various locations every week across the Sunshine Coast. Even if you’re not there to shop, just strolling through them feels like enjoying a festival, adding excitement to your trip.
Sunshine Plaza
The Sunshine Coast’s largest shopping center, Sunshine Plaza, features supermarkets, restaurants, cinemas, and more. You can find almost everything you need for your trip here.
Name: Sunshine Plaza
Address: 154-164 Horton Parade, Maroochydore QLD 4558
Eumundi Markets
Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the large Eumundi Markets fill their spacious grounds with shops selling miscellaneous goods, accessories, fashion, handmade foods, fresh fruits, vegetables, and more.
There are also food stalls serving dishes from various countries—perfect for satisfying a quick hunger.
Name: Eumundi Markets
Address: 80 Memorial Dr, Eumundi QLD 4562
Noosa Farmers Market
Taking place every Sunday in a pleasant space shaded by fragrant eucalyptus trees, the Noosa Farmers Market specializes in organic products.
Here you can buy organically grown produce, flavorful seasonings made from them, and other goods crafted from nature’s bounty. Organic skincare products with rich scents are also available, making for great souvenirs.
Name: Noosa Farmers Market
Address: 155 Weyba Rd, Noosaville QLD 4566
Caloundra Street Fair
The Caloundra Street Fair has been held every Sunday since 2002 to revitalize the main street, Bulcock Street.
Thousands of people gather, and the street is full of life, creating a festival-like atmosphere. Each week, up to 100 stalls are selected, selling a variety of products such as miscellaneous goods, fashion, beauty, and health products.
Local performers, from well-known entertainers to emerging artists, further enhance the lively atmosphere of Bulcock Street. There are also food stalls, so you can enjoy eating while shopping.
Name: Caloundra Street Fair
Address: Bulcock St, Caloundra QLD 4551
Recommended Activities in Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast offers plenty of family-friendly activities, including aquariums, zoos, and theme parks. Here are some spots where both adults and kids can have fun together!
Aussie World
Aussie World was built based on the setting of an old comic. With over 30 rides and attractions, you can enjoy a full day here.
If you are at least 130 cm tall, you can ride almost all of the attractions, and even those under 100 cm can enjoy seven rides.
There are also giant slides and water play areas, making it a satisfying trip for children. If you’re visiting the Sunshine Coast with your family, this is a must-visit spot.
Name: Aussie World
Address: 1 Downunder Drive, Palmview QLD 4553
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
The largest aquarium in Queensland, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, is divided into 11 themed zones where you can watch marine creatures swim gracefully.
In addition to viewing, you can also swim with seals, interact with them, or spend a day as a trainer for a unique experience.
The 80-meter-long underwater tunnel is home to giant rays and sharks, making you feel as if you are truly under the sea.
Explore this unique underwater world!
Name: SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
Address: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557
Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo is the largest zoo in the country. It is run by Steve Irwin, famous from the American TV show The Crocodile Hunter, and his family.
Covering 70 acres (about six Tokyo Domes), the zoo is home to over 1,000 animals, including Australian natives such as koalas, kangaroos, dingoes, and wombats.
Daily shows are held within the zoo, the most notable being the once-a-day Crocodile Show.
In the 5,000-seat coliseum, you can watch crocodiles open their massive jaws to snap up food—a thrilling and powerful sight!
Bring your whole family to this zoo that will delight kids and adults alike.
Name: Australia Zoo
Address: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah QLD 4519
Marine Activities
With its coastal location and warm climate, marine activities are a must in the Sunshine Coast.
At Mooloolaba Beach, you can enjoy jet skiing, kayaking, surfing, charter fishing, and even seaplane tours.
For something different, head to Noosa Beach, known as the Sunshine Coast’s hidden retreat, where you can go diving, snorkeling, or whale watching at Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world.
Relaxing on the beach is nice, but with such beautiful waters in front of you, why not take part in some activities and enjoy the Aussie lifestyle?
Recommended Hotels in the Area
If you’re staying in the Sunshine Coast, highly rated 5-star hotels are recommended. Here are options for families and couples.
Recommended Family Hotel: Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort
Located in the heart of Hastings Street, Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort offers easy access to Noosa Beach, the national park, and many other attractions, making it perfect for family stays.
The on-site restaurant offers a kids’ menu, so children can enjoy meals with their parents.
Recommended Couple’s Hotel: RACV Noosa Resort
This 5-star resort offers an immersive Sunshine Coast atmosphere. It is about 2.4 km from the city center, and only a 3-minute drive to Hastings Street and Noosa Beach, which are lined with stylish shops and restaurants.
There are various room types available, all of which are clean, beautifully designed, and comfortable.
Summary
The Sunshine Coast, rich in nature and free from the hustle of the city, is the perfect place to enjoy an extraordinary getaway.
Whether with friends, as a couple, or with family, why not visit this beautiful coastal town and experience its charm?