Our ancient landscape, revered by Traditional Owners, has long been the inspiration for creatives, performers, and magnificent works of local art that capture the essence of the Sunshine Coast’s natural beauty. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn more about our local Indigenous history through guided tours on water and land, browse through galleries set against lush hinterland backdrops, enjoy vibrant artistic festivals, and more.
Indigenous culture
Saltwater Eco Tours. Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Learn the stories, traditions, and culture of our first eco-custodians, the Kabi Kabi people, as you glide along the Mooloolah River on-board with Saltwater Eco Tours. In the Hinterland town of Mapleton, be sure to also check out the Activity Centre at Triballink, which can include ochre/clay painting activities, a shared bush tucker experience, and more. Other must-dos include Biral Tours, which offer Bush Walkout Tours on the tribal lands and sacred waterways of the Kabi Kabi Tribal Nation.
Art Trails, Galleries, and Heritage
Eumundi Street Art
Experience the artistic delights of our local street art trails in Nambour and Caloundra, or check out an exhibition at the Caloundra, Noosa, and Gympie Regional Galleries.
Explore Australia’s largest historic aviation display at the Queensland Air Museum in Caloundra, or pay a visit to the Landsborough Museum, which is housed in an original shire building. Another option is to uncover our nautical history while diving the shipwreck of the ex-HMAS Brisbane off the coast of Mooloolaba.
Explore Arts, Galleries & Museums
Markets
Eumundi Markets
Discover fresh produce and handmade arts and crafts at markets right across the Sunshine Coast. Starring everything from live entertainment, street food, twilight settings, and local craftsmanship, you won’t have any trouble filling up your basket.
Festivals
Horizon Festival
Grab your calendar and make sure to book your tickets to Horizon Festival – a region-wide event that celebrates everything from visual art, performance, street art and more. Alternatively, plant lovers and those with aspiring green thumbs will love the laidback vibe and gardening goodness on offer at the enormously popular Queensland Garden Expo. If you’re looking for something a little more foodie-focused, you won’t want to miss The Curated Plate – a hotly anticipated annual event that celebrates all things Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry! For more events, see here.
