Our Wonderful Local Attractions

Noosa National Park is one of the Sunshine Coast's natural jewels. The park encompasses more than 9,800 acres of paperbark forests, pristine beaches, rainforest, dunes, and heathlands. The most popular section of the park is the Noosa Headland section, with 15 kilometres of hiking trails, including a scenic coastal track that offers a great introduction to the park for first-time visitors.

Official site: https://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/noosa/

Squeaky-clean sands and glistening surf breaks lure both visitors and locals alike to the glorious stretch of north-facing coast at Noosa Main Beach. The gentle surf makes it a popular hangout for families and beginner surfers, and it's a lovely spot for a swim, with beautiful views of Noosa National Park cloaking the headland at the eastern end of the beach. If you need a break from the Aussie sun, Hastings Street, Noosa's main drag, is only a short stroll away with chic designer shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Australia Zoo is one of Queensland's most popular attractions. Steve Irwin, the late croc-loving Aussie conservationist, and his wife Terri helped the park grow into a world-class attraction on 110 acres, with a strong emphasis on conservation and education. The zoo provides plenty of fun encounters with Aussie animals, including kangaroos, koalas, snakes, and lizards, as well as a striking lineup of exotic species such as elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, and the crowd favorite: Sumatran tigers.

Official site: https://www.australiazoo.com.au/

The markets are held every Wednesday morning and Saturday in the cute hinterland town of Eumundi. Artisan foods, organic produce, designer clothes, home goods, plants, jewellery, skincare, natural therapies, and toys are just some of the items on offer.

Official site: https://www.eumundimarkets.com.au/

Popular with nature lovers and hikers, the distinctive peaks of Glass House Mountains National Park are listed on the Queensland and National Heritage Register.

Mount Ngungun and Mount Tibrogargan are the only two peaks open to the public for hiking, and they offer trails catering to all abilities, from easy base trails to more challenging summit hikes with spectacular coastal views. Abseiling, mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing are other popular activities, and the park is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including koalas, echidnas, and grey kangaroos.

Underwater World offers a fascinating glimpse at life under the sea and in Australian freshwater habitats. Shark dives, educational presentations, children's play areas, and live shows add to all the fun; the seal show is a particular favourite. Underwater World is a great rainy day attraction, although the exhibits will wow pint-sized animal lovers at any time.

Official site: https://www.underwaterworld.com.au

If you're looking for a few hours of fun with the children, the Ginger Factory in Yandina fits the bill. Kids will love riding the little train through the tropical gardens and learning about bees at a special beekeeper presentation.

The large gift shop sells all sorts of ginger-related items as well as local treats and souvenirs, and a cafe and ice-creamery are on hand for hungry visitors.

Coolum Beach is a popular base for Sunshine Coast tourists, thanks to its beautiful stretch of beach and plentiful holiday apartments. Across the street from the beach, you'll find a string of health-food cafes and restaurants, where you can stock up on picnic items or enjoy a casual lunch.

For a change in scenery from the coast's sun-splashed beaches, you can take a scenic drive across the Blackall Range, through the picturesque hinterland, to the cute mountain villages of Montville and Maleny.

In Montville, art galleries, gift shops, boutiques, and cozy cafes huddle along the tree-lined streets, and you'll notice some European-inspired architecture.