Planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast? You’re in for a real treat. 

This laid-back stretch of Queensland coastline blends beautiful beaches, lush national parks, and unforgettable outdoor experiences with just the right amount of adventure and relaxation. While the area is famous for its surf and sunshine, there’s far more to discover once you start exploring beyond the sand.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 15 best things to do on the Sunshine Coast, from kayaking with dolphins and swimming in hidden rock pools to scenic coastal walks, food experiences, wildlife encounters, and adrenaline-filled adventures. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, these hand-picked experiences will help you make the most of your time on this beautiful coast. Here are the highlights!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Mooloolaba Coast lunch cruise! Not only were we treated to incredible views and a sunny afternoon, but also a fresh seafood spread that I still think about today.

Check out the 900+ reviews and book this tour here!

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Things to do on the Sunshine Coast

1. Kayak with dolphins and other wildlife

• Duration: 6 hours
• Time: Multiple times available from 7 am–1:30 pm
• Highlights: Drive along remote Sunshine Coast beaches by 4WD from Noosa, kayak at Double Island Point in Great Sandy National Park, spot dolphins, turtles, and seasonal whales along the way
• Inclusions: Beach drive by 4×4, fully guided kayak & wildlife tour (equipment included), Double Island Point, Great Sandy National Park, Noosa North Shore & Tewantin Ferry, swimming, water, light snack 
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 360+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you want one Sunshine Coast experience that genuinely feels like an adventure, this is it. Picture bouncing along a wide-open beach in a 4WD, ocean breeze coming through the windows, before slipping a kayak into clear blue water where dolphins regularly cruise past. This combo adventure tour combines two bucket-list experiences into one unforgettable half-day, and it’s easily one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

The journey alone is worth it. Crossing the Noosa North Shore ferry and driving along the endless stretch of Great Beach Drive feels wildly remote, especially knowing most of this coastline is only accessible by 4WD. When you arrive at Double Island Point, the scenery ramps up even more, with sandstone cliffs, turquoise water, and the iconic lighthouse perched above it all. 

Once on the water, the real magic begins. Bottlenose dolphins often swim right alongside the kayaks, and during migration season, whales can be spotted breaching offshore. You may also see turtles popping up for air and rays gliding beneath us.

An early start makes a big difference, especially in warmer months, before the heat kicks in. Water shoes are also a good idea, and you’ll want to pack extra snacks or lunch since only light refreshments are included.

There’s something special about exploring this stretch of coastline by land and sea, especially when dolphins swim past your kayak, and the only way in is by 4WD. For a true Sunshine Coast highlight, this experience is hard to beat!

Kayak with dolphins and sea turtles, and book this tour here!

2. Enjoy a seafood lunch cruise

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Time: 11 am and 1 pm
• Highlights: Enjoy a relaxed cruise in Mooloolaba, dine on fresh local prawns and classic Aussie favorites, take in coastal views with onboard commentary
• Inclusions: Lunch, 1.5-hour cruise, commentary, table service, fully licensed bar
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

When the Sunshine Coast heat kicks in and the beaches start to feel crowded, this seafood lunch cruise is a perfect way to slow things down without missing out on the views—or lunch! Instead of fighting for a table at a busy waterfront restaurant, you’re seated in a comfortable booth, cruising along Mooloolaba’s rivers and canals with fresh seafood served straight to your table. It’s relaxed, scenic, and honestly one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a lunchtime on the coast.

The 1.5-hour cruise departs from The Wharf Mooloolaba and glides through calm waterways lined with waterfront homes, passing by golden beaches and local landmarks along the way. Entertaining onboard commentary adds a bit of context without ever feeling overdone, and because it’s table service the entire time, there’s no need to leave your seat. 

A delicious seafood lunch is a highlight and features local favorites like Mooloolaba prawns, calamari, fish, or an Aussie burger, with optional add-ons available if you want to upgrade your meal. There’s also a fully licensed bar on board, making it easy to pair your lunch with a cold drink.

This was hands-down our favorite tour on the Sunshine Coast. The mix of great food, relaxed cruising, and beautiful scenery just works. We highly recommend it—and clearly plenty of others do too—just check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here and see why this tour standsout among the best!

For great food and epic views—reserve this seafood lunch cruise here!

3. Hit the beach

The Sunshine Coast is all about its beaches, and each one has its own personality. Whether you’re after gentle swimming, consistent surf, or a laid-back spot to roll out a towel and relax, there’s a stretch of sand here that fits the mood. From lively town beaches with cafés steps away to quieter coastal gems, beach hopping is easily one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

• Noosa Main Beach – The most popular beach on the coast and one of the few north-facing beaches in Australia, making it great for swimming year-round. It’s patrolled, beginner-friendly, and surrounded by excellent restaurants, cafés, and shops, so you can easily spend a full day here.

• Mooloolaba Beach – Wide, golden, and easy to access, this beach has a lively yet relaxed vibe that appeals to just about everyone. Patrolled swimming areas, a long beachfront promenade, and plenty of cafés nearby make it great for morning swims, sunset walks, and easy beach days.

• Coolum Beach – A go-to for surfers, thanks to its consistent swell and open coastline. It feels more spacious and less built-up than Noosa, with headlands framing the beach and plenty of room to spread out, even on busier days.

• Kawana Beach – A classic Sunshine Coast beach with a more local feel. Long, uncrowded stretches of sand and reliable surf make it a favorite for those who want a quieter beach experience without giving up good waves.

• Happy Valley – Known for its calm waters and grassy foreshore, this area is perfect for families and slower-paced beach days. Picnic spots, playgrounds, and gentle swimming conditions make it easy to spend a relaxed afternoon by the sea.

4. Canoe through Australia’s Everglades

• Duration: 6 hours
• Time: 8:45 am
• Highlights: Cruise into Australia’s only Everglades through mirrored waterways in Cooloola National Park, spot abundant birdlife and ancient landscapes, choose between an eco-boat cruise or a scenic canoe paddle
• Inclusions: All equipment, Noosa pickup and drop-off, light refreshments, guided commentary
• Rating: 4.6 stars (check 330+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re craving something calm, immersive, and completely different from the coast’s busy beaches, this guided tour takes you deep into Australia’s only Everglades, where still, tea tree–infused waterways create mirror-like reflections so perfect they almost don’t look real. It’s peaceful, otherworldly, and easily one of the most memorable nature experiences on the Sunshine Coast.

The day begins with a scenic cruise across Lake Cootharaba before entering the heart of Cooloola National Park. From there, you can choose your own adventure. Stay onboard a specially designed eco boat for a relaxed journey through the “River of Mirrors,” or grab a paddle and hop into a Canadian-style canoe for a more hands-on experience. 

The canoe option includes a gentle but steady paddle upstream through ancient landscapes and is incredibly rewarding if you’re comfortable with moderate activity. Along the way, you’ll learn fascinating insights about the region’s history, flora, and fauna, including the fact that nearly half of Australia’s bird species call this ecosystem home.

Because this area is so untouched, it’s worth coming prepared. A bit of insect repellent and sun protection will go a long way, especially if you choose the canoe, where you’ll be closer to the water and moving at a slower pace.

Quiet, scenic, and deeply calming, this Everglades tour reveals a side of Noosa that feels almost frozen in time. If you’re looking to swap crowds for stillness and experience one of Australia’s most unique natural landscapes, this is an unforgettable way to do it.

See this unique waterway for yourself and book your spot here!

5. Learn how to surf

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 10 am and 1 pm
• Highlights: Learn to surf at Noosa Heads with a professional instructor, catch your first waves in beginner-friendly conditions, enjoy flexible morning or afternoon sessions with all equipment provided
• Inclusions: All necessary equipment, small class sizes
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 270+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If learning to surf has always been on your bucket list, there are few better places to do it than Noosa Heads. With gentle, rolling waves, golden sand, and that laid-back surf culture Australia is famous for, this surfing class makes catching your first wave feel exciting instead of intimidating. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to clean up your technique, this is one of the most iconic things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

To start the lesson, you’ll meet your instructor and get fitted with all the gear you need, including a soft beginner board and a rash shirt or wetsuit, depending on the season. After a short walk to the beach, things kick off with a safety briefing and basic technique on the sand before heading into waist-deep water to try your first waves. 

Unlike other surf lessons we’ve done, the small group size here makes a huge difference. With fewer people in the water, the instructor can give more hands-on guidance, adjust the tips to your ability, and genuinely help you progress faster instead of just cycling through the group. 

Just remember to apply sunscreen before you go, so you’re not rushing and expect a bit of a workout too—surfing is fun, but it definitely uses muscles you didn’t know you had. This supportive, confidence-boosting lesson is a fun way to experience Noosa’s surf culture—just read through the five-star reviews here to see why many travelers come back for more than one lesson.

Catch your first wave and secure your spot here!

6. Visit the Australia Zoo

A visit to Australia Zoo is a must while you’re on the Sunshine Coast, especially if you grew up watching The Crocodile Hunter. Located about a 30-minute drive from Mooloolaba, this world-famous zoo was created by Steve Irwin and his family, and his passion for wildlife and conservation is still felt everywhere you go.

What makes Australia Zoo truly special isn’t just the sheer number of animals, but how immersive the experience feels. Wide, open enclosures let you get surprisingly close to kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and massive saltwater crocodiles, while daily wildlife presentations bring the animals’ personalities to life. The Crocoseum show is a standout, where you’ll learn about crocodile behavior in a way that’s exciting, educational, and unmistakably Irwin-style.

Steve Irwin’s legacy is woven into the zoo’s mission, with a strong focus on conservation, education, and protecting endangered species. It feels less like a typical zoo and more like a place that genuinely cares about wildlife and inspires the next generation to protect it.

Australia Zoo is open daily from 9 am–5 pm, with tickets costing around $75 AUD (roughly $50 USD). Plan to spend most of the day here—it’s bigger than you might expect. For hours, tickets, and updates, check the official site here.

7. Taste your way around the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

• Duration: 7 hours
• Time: 10 am 
• Highlights: Explore the Sunshine Coast Hinterland on a small-group food and wine tour with Maleny tastings, a lakeside lunch, Montville village, and Glass House Mountains views
• Inclusions: Visit Mary Cairncross in Maleny Scenic Rainforest Reserve, lakeside lunch, Glass House Mountain views, pickup, snacks (handmade chocolates, cheese platter), wine (winery tasting on Fridays & Sundays)
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re ready to trade beaches for rolling hills, fresh mountain air, and seriously good food, this small-group food and wine tour is an easy yes. It’s the kind of day that feels indulgent without being rushed, combining scenic lookouts, charming villages, and some of the Sunshine Coast’s best local flavors into one beautifully paced experience.

The day begins at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, where sweeping views of the Glasshouse Mountains set the tone for what’s ahead. From there, you’ll head into Maleny, a postcard-perfect dairy town known for its artisan producers.

Cheese lovers are in for a treat here, with a guided tasting featuring award-winning Australian and international cheeses, complete with condiments and crusty sourdough. There’s also time to wander the town and pop into local shops before indulging in handcrafted Belgian chocolates to take home.

Lunch is a standout, served lakeside at Secrets on the Lake, surrounded by rainforest with views over Lake Baroon. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to linger, and thankfully, the small-group format allows for a relaxed, unhurried meal. Depending on the day, you’ll also enjoy a guided wine tasting at a local vineyard or perfectly paired wines with lunch.

The afternoon continues with free time in Montville Village, followed by a final scenic stop at Mapleton Falls. Thoughtfully curated and intimate, this tour is perfect for travelers who love food, scenery, and a slower pace. 

This tour is a must for food lovers—reserve your spot here!

8. Get your adrenaline pumping on a quad bike adventure

• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Time: 9 am and 2 pm
• Highlights: Ride quad bikes through the rainforest trails of Woondum National Park, start with a training session and safety briefing, explore off-road tracks on an ATV, stop at natural rock pools for swimming and a relaxed break
• Inclusions: Quad bikes, safety gear and helmets, bottled water, fresh fruit
• Rating: 5 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: No
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re craving a shot of adrenaline and don’t mind getting a little dusty, this ATV tour through Woondum National Park is an absolute blast. It’s fast-paced, dirty in the best way, and surprisingly scenic—perfect for anyone who wants to experience the Sunshine Coast beyond the beaches. Even better, it’s beginner-friendly, so you don’t need prior ATV experience to have a great time.

The tour kicks off with a full safety briefing and a training session on a dedicated practice track, which is a huge confidence booster if it’s your first time riding. Once everyone’s comfortable, you’ll head out into Woondum National Park, riding along rugged 4WD trails that wind through subtropical rainforest. 

The terrain keeps things exciting, with plenty of twists, bumps, and splashes along the way. One of the highlights is reaching the natural rock pools, where you’ll have time to cool off with a swim, relax, and enjoy fresh fruit and water before the return ride.

Closed-in shoes and a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit are required, and you’ll need to bring cash for the national park and club entry fees, paid on the day. And you will likely get dirty, so consider wearing clothes you don’t mind muddying up, especially if it’s rained recently.

This tour really stands out for its fun, supportive guides, thorough training, and genuinely epic trails through Woondum National Park. Add in the rock pool swim and the thrill of riding deep into the rainforest, and it’s easy to see why this experience earns so many five-star reviews!

Secure your spot here and get ready for a seriously fun ride!

9. Noosa National Park Coastal Walk

The Noosa National Park Coastal Walk is one of the most rewarding free things to do on the Sunshine Coast, combining ocean views, wildlife sightings, and secluded beaches into one unforgettable hike. The full trail is about 10.8 kilometers (almost 7 miles) return and typically takes around 3–4 hours, but the beauty of this moderate walk is that you don’t have to do it all at once. Many people choose to tackle shorter sections and turn back whenever they feel like it.

The trail starts here and winds along the rugged coastline and through coastal bushland, with frequent lookout points where you can spot dolphins and turtles cruising below. If you’re lucky, koalas can sometimes be seen resting in the trees along the way. 

One of the highlights is Hell’s Gate, a dramatic rocky headland where powerful waves crash against the cliffs, sending spray high into the air. It’s an impressive sight and well worth the short detour. You can stop here as part of the coastal walk or pair it with a visit to the nearby Fairy Pools when conditions are calm, making it an easy and worthwhile extension of the hike.

Along the route, you’ll also pass Alexandra Bay, a secluded stretch of sand that’s known as a clothing-optional beach. Whether you stop here or continue on, the coastal scenery never disappoints.

Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and allow extra time for photo stops—this walk is as much about slowing down and enjoying the views as it is about the distance.

10. See the Sunshine Coast on a sunset cruise

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 4 pm, 4:30 pm, and 5 pm
• Highlights: Cruise the Mooloolaba canals at sunset on a historic vessel, enjoy live music and tranquil waterways, savor local cheese and meat grazing boxes, sip a complimentary drink with access to a fully licensed bar
• Inclusions: Snacks (local cheeses, meats, nuts, crackers, etc.), drinks with local spirits and native flavors, licensed bar with beers, wines, and spirits
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to end the day on the Sunshine Coast, this sunset cruise along the Mooloolaba canals is hard to beat. It’s calm, intimate, and effortlessly relaxing—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting to slow things down and soak up the scenery as the sun dips below the horizon.

The cruise takes place aboard a beautifully restored historic vessel that glides through the peaceful waterways of Mooloolaba. As the sky shifts from golden hour to soft pastels, you’ll cruise past waterfront homes and out toward the river mouth, where the views really shine. Live music sets the mood without overpowering the experience, creating a warm, easygoing atmosphere that feels more like a floating lounge than a tour.

Food and drinks are thoughtfully done here. Each guest gets an individual grazing box filled with local cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and snacks—a nice touch for casual nibbling as you cruise. You’ll also be welcomed with a complimentary drink made with local spirits and native flavors, with a fully licensed bar on board if you’d like to try something else. It’s indulgent without feeling over-the-top and strikes that perfect balance between special and relaxed.

Bring a light jacket for after sunset, even on warmer days, and arrive a bit early so you can settle in stress-free. Romantic, scenic, and beautifully paced, this sunset cruise is a standout on the Sunshine Coast. 

Toast the day the best way possible and book this sunset cruise here!

11. Explore Noosa National Park on an electric mountain bike

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 9 am and 1 pm
• Highlights: Ride electric mountain bikes through Tewantin National Park, explore the Wooroi trail network tailored to your skill level, and cruise rainforest single-track trails
• Inclusions: All fees & taxes, e-mountain bikes, snacks, small-group tour
• Rating: 5 stars (check 60+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: No
• Price: Check price here!

If you like your nature with a side of adrenaline, this e-mountain bike tour is a standout Sunshine Coast experience. Set in Tewantin National Park, it combines pristine rainforest scenery with flowing, purpose-built trails that are just as fun as they are scenic. It’s fast, exciting, and surprisingly accessible thanks to electric bikes that do the hard work on the climbs.

You’ll spend around two to three hours riding the Wooroi trail network, one of the best mountain biking areas in southeast Queensland. Trails are selected based on your ability, so whether you’re newer to single-track riding or comfortable on intermediate terrain, the experience feels challenging without being overwhelming. 

A good way to picture it is skiing without snow—smooth, flowing descents where you carve through the trees, followed by an effortless cruise back to the top using pedal assist. It’s all about maximizing the fun without burning out.

The small-group format is really helpful. With fewer riders, guides can tailor the route, offer helpful tips, and keep the pace just right. While you don’t need to be an expert rider, you should be confident in handling a bike on loose, bumpy trails. National park fees and e-bikes are included, so you can focus on the ride instead of logistics.

Thanks to its epic trails, expert guides, and pure fun factor, this tour stands out as one of Noosa’s most exhilarating outdoor experiences, and for many travelers, it ends up being the highlight of their trip—check out the glowing five-star reviews here!

If you’re up for the ride, secure your spot here before it sells out!

12. Wander through Hastings Street

Hastings Street is the lively heart of Noosa Heads and one of the easiest places to soak up the area’s relaxed, beachy vibe. Running just behind Noosa Main Beach, this bustling pedestrian-friendly strip brings together great food, boutique shopping, and people-watching in one perfectly positioned spot. Whether you’re fresh off the sand or heading out for the evening, it’s a place you’ll likely find yourself returning to more than once.

Spend some time wandering the street and popping into the mix of fashion boutiques, surf shops, art galleries, and local stores. There’s no real agenda needed here—grabbing a coffee, browsing, and strolling at your own pace is part of the appeal. When hunger strikes, you’ll be spoiled for choice, with everything from casual cafés to upscale restaurants lining the street.

One standout is Bistro C, a longtime favorite known for its beachfront location and consistently good food. It’s a great spot for a relaxed lunch or sunset dinner with your toes practically in the sand. If you visit in the evening, Hastings Street has a lively but laid-back energy that feels distinctly Noosa.

Easy, walkable, and always buzzing, Hastings Street is one of those places where slowing down and soaking in the atmosphere is the whole point.

13. Enjoy the Great Beach Drive

• Duration: 8 hours
• Time: 7:30 am
• Highlights: Explore the Sunshine Coast by private 4WD, drive remote beaches in Great Sandy National Park, visit the Colored Sands and Double Island Point, spot marine wildlife, and enjoy a beach picnic
• Inclusions: Private tour, gourmet picnic lunch on Rainbow Beach in the Coloured Sands paired with a drink, hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle, booster seat 
• Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you want to see the Sunshine Coast at its wildest—and do it your way—this private 4WD beach adventure is hard to top. Stretching from Noosa all the way to Rainbow Beach, this full-day private charter lets you explore vast, untouched coastline, dramatic sand formations, and hidden swimming spots that are only accessible by four-wheel drive. With your own guide and flexible itinerary, it feels less like a tour and more like an epic coastal road trip.

After a morning pickup, you’ll hit more than 70 kilometers (44 miles) of iconic beach driving, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and bushland on the other. Stops along the way include 40-Mile Beach, the striking Red Canyon, and the famous Colored Sands, where swirling layers of reds, yellows, and oranges create one of the most photogenic landscapes on the coast. 

At Double Island Point Lighthouse, sweeping 360-degree views often come with bonus wildlife sightings, including dolphins, turtles, rays, and even humpback whales during migration season. 

You’ll stop for a gourmet picnic lunch right on the beach, complete with wine, beer, or a soft drink, and later cool off with a swim in the calm saltwater lagoon at Honeymoon Bay. There’s even the option to detour through a rare rainforest growing in sand dunes for a true off-road experience.

Because this is a private charter, the day can be tailored to your interests. Whether you want more swimming, more scenery, or more 4WD action, the choice is yours. Scenic, adventurous, and completely customizable, this tour shows off the Sunshine Coast in unforgettable fashion.

Reserve this private tour here and see the Sunshine Coast your way!

14. Go whale watching

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 8 am, 10:30 am, 1 pm, and 1:30 pm
• Highlights: Join a whale-watching tour from Noosa, cruise past Noosa Heads and National Park, spot humpback whales breaching and swimming with calves, enjoy close-up wildlife viewing with binoculars and expert commentary
• Inclusions: Life jacket, raincoat, action goggles, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Seeing whales in the wild is one of those experiences that stays with you long after the trip ends, and Noosa is an incredible place to do it. From around June to November, humpback whales migrate past the coastline, making this the prime season for whale watching, and this small-group cruise offers an up-close, respectful way to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

After departing the Noosa River, you’ll cruise past Noosa National Park, which looks just as impressive from the water as it does from land. Once whales are spotted, the skipper carefully positions the vessel so you can observe their natural behavior without feeling crowded or rushed. 

During peak season, it’s common to see breaching, tail slapping, and even calves swimming alongside their mothers. Binoculars are provided for closer viewing, though whales often surface close enough that you won’t need them.

With fewer people on board, there’s more room to move around and ask questions, and the skipper’s knowledge adds real depth to the experience. Our guide had excellent insight into whale behavior, explaining what they were doing and why in real time, which made each sighting even more fascinating.

Out on the open water, watching these massive animals move so effortlessly through the ocean is humbling in the best way. It’s a peaceful, awe-filled experience that offers a deeper appreciation for Noosa’s marine life and makes this seasonal tour a true highlight on the Sunshine Coast.

Experience the magic and book this whale-watching cruise here!

15. Swim in the Fairy Pools

Swimming in the Fairy Pools is one of the most magical experiences in Noosa, especially if you catch them at the right time. Tucked away in Noosa National Park, these natural rock formations fill with seawater at low tide, creating calm, crystal-clear pools that are perfect for a refreshing dip. With waves crashing against the rocks nearby and the ocean stretching out in front of you, it feels like a hidden oasis along the coastline.

The Fairy Pools are accessed via the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk, making them an easy add-on if you’re already exploring the area. Timing is everything here—low tide is best, when the pools are most visible and safest to enjoy. When conditions are right, the water is calm and inviting, and it’s an ideal spot to cool off, relax, or simply sit back and take in the scenery.

Because this area is completely natural and unpatrolled, it’s important to use caution. Only visit during calm weather and low tide, and avoid swimming if the ocean is rough. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes for the walk in, and allow extra time, as you’ll likely want to linger once you arrive.

Peaceful, scenic, and undeniably beautiful, the Fairy Pools are one of Noosa’s best natural gems and a must-see for anyone exploring the national park.

Where to Stay on the Sunshine Coast

Now that you’ve planned out the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast, it’s time to find somewhere great to stay. For first-time visitors, Noosa Heads is one of the best areas to base yourself, with easy access to the beach, Noosa National Park, and plenty of dining and shopping options.

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Noosa Heads, but a few really stand out. Below are three solid options offering great locations and value. Just be sure to book early if you can—this area is popular year-round.

Luxury – $$$

Fairshore Noosa offers one of the best luxury apartment stays on the Sunshine Coast, with beachfront accommodation right on the main beach. Located on Hastings Street, you’re steps from the sand, cafés, and shops, yet the apartments still feel private and relaxed. Each spacious apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and a sunny balcony with ocean or pool views. 

With an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and free parking, it’s easy to see why couples rate the location so highly. Apartments typically go for around $900–$1,100 AUD per night ($600–$730 USD). Check availability and book Fairhshore Noosa here!

Mid-range – $$

Ocean Breeze Resort is a fantastic option if you want space, comfort, and an unbeatable location without the luxury price tag. Located directly opposite Noosa Main Beach and right on Hastings Street, you’re steps from the sand, restaurants, and shops, while still enjoying a quieter, resort-style setting. The self-contained apartments come with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and private balconies or courtyards, making them ideal for couples, families, or longer stays. 

On-site amenities include an outdoor pool, sauna, tennis court, and free parking, which is a big plus in this area. Rates typically range from $300–$720 AUD per night (USD $200–$480). See room options and book this stay here!

Budget – $

Noosa International Resort is a great-value option if you want space, resort-style amenities, and a central location without paying Hastings Street prices. Set among lush tropical gardens, it’s just a short walk from Hastings Street, Noosa Main Beach, and Noosa National Park, yet feels quiet and relaxed in the evenings. The self-contained apartments come with air conditioning, private balconies, and kitchen or kitchenette options, making them ideal for couples, families, or groups. 

With two swimming pools, hot tubs, a sauna, a steam room, a game room, and free parking, it offers excellent value for the area. Rates typically range from $245–$575 AUD per night ($160–$385 USD). See if there’s availability for your travel dates here!

Want more great options? Check out all the hotels listed for the Noosa Heads here!

Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in Australia

With many must-see destinations in Australia outside city limits, one of the best ways to get around is driving yourself!

Australia is a huge country and traveling between cities or getting to some of the most scenic spots requires driving. While public transit is sometimes an option, it often adds a lot of time. Plus, we love the freedom to stop wherever we want and not have to stick to a set schedule.

You have three options: a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:

• Car – A rental car is the most affordable option – especially if you choose a smaller vehicle. It gets you to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels along the way (no camping).  The easiest place to rent a car in Australia is on DiscoverCars.com where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.

• Campervan – A Campervan is a large van with a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what many budget travelers use to get around Australia since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here.

• Motorhome – A motorhome is larger and more comfortable than a campervan. Many motorhomes will comfortably sleep 6 or more people – perfect for a family visiting Australia. Motorhomes are the most expensive option, but with one you won’t ever need to stay in a hotel and you’ll save money that way. My top choice for a motorhome company is Star RV because they have beautiful motorhomes at affordable prices. You can check prices and availability for Star RV motorhomes online here. For more detailed info, read my complete guide to renting a motorhome in Australia!

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If you want to experience Australia’s iconic surf, beach towns, wildlife, and overall laid-back beauty, the Sunshine Coast will be a dream come true! It’s one of my favorite places to visit in Queensland, and if you get the chance to check off even a few of these top activities, I know you’ll love it too.

Before you go, check out our other Australia blogs. As an Aussie myself and overall travel enthusiast, you can find lots of helpful resources for Australian travel, including multi-day itineraries, where to stay guides, and some of my favorite hidden gems! Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next destination – cheers!

How to Spend 3 DAYS in Gold Coast, Australia: The Best 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Brisbane, Australia: The Best 3-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay in Sydney, Australia: 7 Areas & Hotels

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