What is the temperature like?
They call it the Sunshine Coast for a reason. The sunny subtropical climate is ideal for year round activities with summer temperatures averaging 28°C (82F) and winter a mild 20°C (68F).
When is the best time to visit the Sunshine Coast?
This part of the country has the ultimate climate for holidays, no matter what the time of year. The Sunshine Coast is perfectly positioned to capture comfortable winters and warm summers and you can swim in the ocean year-round.
Is getting to the Sunshine Coast easy?
Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) located in Marcoola is serviced by Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Qantas domestically as well Air New Zealand who provide seasonal flight services from Auckland. Centrally located in Marcoola, the Sunshine Coast Airport offers a range of transport options including shuttle buses, hire cars, taxis, and public bus services.
Travel from Sydney is about a 90-minute flight and from Melbourne it will take around two and a half hours.
The Sunshine Coast is also easily accessed as a self-drive destination. Located about 100 kms north of Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland.
Is the Sunshine Coast a good destination to take children?
The short answer is yes! A holiday to the Sunshine Coast offers families a fun-filled adventure that spans from Caloundra, famous for its kid-friendly Kings Beach; to Mooloolaba, a vibrant cafe and surfing haven; to Noosa, renowned for its boutiques, restaurants, cafes and hotels; and to the enchanting Maleny, Montville, Mapleton and Mary Valley in the hinterland.
Kids will love Australia Zoo, the legacy of a true Australian icon, Steve Irwin, the wide, open beaches and everything in between.
Is it safe to swim?
The Sunshine Coast beaches of Australia all come with soft white sand and a clear blue ocean but to stay as safe as possible, it is best to always visit patrolled beaches and swim between the red and yellow flags.
Where can I download a copy of your visitor’s guide?
Please click here to view an electronic version of our latest Official Visitor and Event Guide.
During your visit
How do I get around the Sunshine Coast?
Once you’ve arrived in the Sunshine Coast, there’s so much to see that you won’t want to stay in the one place. You’ll be happy to know there are plenty of ways to get around, whether you want to travel by car, bus or even bicycle!
The Sunshine Coast is a great destination for a self-drive holiday. You can hire a car at the airport or bring your own, and there are excellent roads winding from the coast up into the hinterland or north to Noosa.
If you don’t want to drive yourself there are a range of options from local buses to luxury tours to enjoy.
What events are on the Sunshine Coast?
Events are pumping all year round on the Sunshine Coast from triathlons to music festivals to markets. Check out the What’s On page here for the most up-to-date list of events.
What is there to do?
Whether it's a day trip, a long weekend or a week-long family holiday, you'll find a selection of fantastic drives, journeys and itineraries to help you make the most of your time on your Sunshine Coast getaway. Find an itinerary to suit your holiday.
When is whale season?
Official whale season is from June to November here on the Sunshine Coast.
Generally speaking, the best time to spot whales on the Sunshine Coast is in July and August, because that’s when the largest numbers are passing by as they head north on their migration to the warmer waters of tropical North Queensland to breed.
From mid-August through to November the whales slowly head back south to Antarctica with their calves, often resting and playing along the way.
___________________________________________________
What are the top outdoor adventures on the Sunshine Coast in winter?
Top winter adventures on the Sunshine Coast include ziplining at the TreeTop Challenge, hiking Mount Coolum or Mount Ngungun, kayaking the Noosa Everglades and exploring coastal and rainforest tracks on a guided tour. The cooler weather makes it ideal for active days across both the coast and hinterland.
How do I explore the Noosa Everglades in winter?
You can explore the Noosa Everglades by kayak with operators like Kanu Kapers, that offer guided tours and self-guided options. Paddle through calm, tannin-rich waters while spotting birdlife. The area is home to more than 40% of Australia’s bird species, making it a standout winter nature experience.
How do I visit places like Booloumba Creek or Double Island Point without a 4WD?
If you don’t have a 4WD, you can still explore spots like Booloumba Creek and Double Island Point with guided experiences from Sunny Jeeps. Tours such as the Great Beach Drive, Chasing Waterfalls and Magical Rainforest let you access remote areas without driving yourself.
Is winter the best time for outdoor adventure on the Sunshine Coast?
Yes, winter is one of the best times for outdoor adventure on the Sunshine Coast. Cooler temperatures and clear days make it ideal for kayaking, mountain biking and hiking, allowing you to stay active and enjoy nature comfortably across the region.
Where is the Sunshine Coast located?
The Sunshine Coast is your slice of paradise in South East Queensland, just a breezy 100 km north of Brisbane. Here, mornings start with the sun winking at you over the ocean from the balcony of a luxe seaside apartment — or maybe you’re sipping coffee in a cosy hinterland hideaway, where the only rush hour is a chorus of kookaburras. From sparkling beachfront bliss to rainforest-wrapped retreats, the Sunshine Coast has a bed (and a view) with your name on it - so start dreaming, start packing, and find your perfect place to stay today.
What is the weather like on the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast lives up to its name, with warm weather and beaches safe for swimming year-round.
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm to hot, average temps 20–28°C, with refreshing ocean breezes.
- Autumn (Mar–May): Mild and pleasant, 16–26°C, lower humidity, perfect for the beach and hinterland exploring.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild and sunny, 10–22°C. Daytimes are warm enough for the beach, nights are crisp but not cold.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Sunny and dry, 15–27°C, ideal for swimming, surfing, and outdoor events.
The region averages more than 300 days of sunshine a year, which is why it’s such a favourite for holidaymakers year-round.
What are the must-see attractions and things to do?
With 100km of coastline, there’s plenty to seek and so much to find on the Sunshine Coast.
From visiting Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo to exploring the Eumundi Markets, kicking back by the coast in Mooloolaba or exploring the Hinterland, there’s fun to be found at every turn on the Sunshine Coast.
Explore Attractions & Tours, Food & Drink, Nature & Wildlife, Cultural Experiences, Outdoor Adventure and Health & Wellness.
What can you find in a 3-day Sunshine Coast foodie itinerary?
This guide includes stops at a coffee plantation, unmissable restaurants, and immersive food experiences, giving you a well-rounded taste of local produce and flavours across the region.
Where can you start a Sunshine Coast foodie trip?
A great place to start is Glasshouse Plantation, where you can enjoy coffee tastings and farm tours set against the backdrop of thousands of coffee trees and the Glass House Mountains. It’s a relaxed way to ease into your foodie journey while learning about the coffee-making process and sampling fresh café treats.
What kind of food experiences can you expect in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
In the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, you can expect a mix of local producers, cooking school experiences, and trendy dining spots with great views.
How do I plan a food-focused trip to the Sunshine Coast?
Plan a food-focused trip by following a multi-day itinerary like this one through the Hinterland, allowing enough time to explore local producers, dine at regional spots, and enjoy scenic drives between destinations. Spreading the experience over three days helps you fully enjoy the variety of food, views, and experiences on offer without feeling rushed.
Is the Sunshine Coast worth visiting for food lovers?
Yes! The Sunshine Coast is a great destination for food lovers, especially in the Hinterland. With a strong focus on farm-to-table dining and diverse food experiences, it offers a well-rounded culinary journey that combines mouthwatering food with scenic landscapes and relaxed travel.
What is a winter escape in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland like?
A winter escape in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is all about cosy cabins, fresh countryside air and nature experiences. You’ll spend your days wandering along rainforest walks, checking out waterfalls and dining at local food spots before unwinding in the evenings beside a fireplace with a glass of wine in hand.
What are some of the top things to do in Maleny during a winter getaway?
In Maleny, the cool days will set an idyllic backdrop for visiting spots like Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World, exploring the lush trails at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, and loading up on local produce at Maleny Cheese and Maleny Food Co.
Where can you go for nature and wildlife experiences in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
Visit Baroon Pocket Dam for kayaking and beautiful surrounding nature views, head to Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve for a chance to spot pademelons hopping along the forest floor, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Kondalilla National Park.
Where can you eat and drink in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland during winter?
The Hinterland offers plenty of cosy dining spots, including Brouhaha Brewery, and hatted restaurants like The Tamarind and The Long Apron. These venues combine local produce, wine and warm indoor settings ideal for when the temperatures drop.
Where can you stay for a winter getaway in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
Accommodation options include Scandi at Maleny for elevated views, as well as Misty View Cottages and Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat in Montville. These stays offer scenic surrounds and a relaxing base for exploring the Hinterland in winter. For more inspiration, check out our guide.
What are the top things to do on the Sunshine Coast in winter?
Winter on the Sunshine Coast offers a mix of outdoor and relaxing experiences, including swimming with humpback whales, mountain biking, hiking with views of the Glass House Mountains, enjoying high tea in the Hinterland and taking coastal walks. With crisp mornings and clear skies, it’s a great time to explore nature and unique local activities.
Where can you swim with whales on the Sunshine Coast?
You can swim with humpback whales off the Sunshine Coast during winter with operators like Sunreef and The Pressure Project. These experiences take place along the ‘humpback highway’, where migrating whales pass close to shore, offering a rare chance to see them up close in the water.
What is the best time of year to see sunrise and sunset on the Sunshine Coast?
Winter is one of the best times to catch sunrise and sunset on the Sunshine Coast. Clear, crisp conditions create vibrant colours visible from Hinterland lookouts like McCarthy’s Lookout and Howell’s Knob Lookout, as well as the 100km of coastline. Early mornings and late afternoons are great for catching some stunning views of the region, while our buzzing local bars provide an ideal spot to catch a view with a brew
How do I explore the Noosa Everglades in winter?
One of the best ways to explore the Noosa Everglades in winter is by kayak or canoe. Guided experiences such as with Kanu Kapers (kayaking) and Everglades Eco Safaris (an optional canoe experience as part of the Everglades Explorer Tour) offer up the chance to paddle through calm waterways while spotting birdlife, with more than 40% of Australia’s bird species found in the area.
Is it worth visiting the Sunshine Coast in winter?
Yes, winter is a fantastic time to visit the Sunshine Coast. With mild temperatures, clear skies and fewer crowds than peak season, you can still enjoy activities like hiking, wildlife encounters and local food experiences while making the most of the coastline and hinterland. Plus, it’s warmer in the water here than most of our southern neighbours, making it ideal for a dip.
When is whale-watching season on the Sunshine Coast?
Whale watching season on the Sunshine Coast typically runs across the winter months and into spring. Around this time, you can spot the whales on their annual migration along the coastline, making it a seasonal highlight for many visitors to the region.
What is the best way to see whales on the Sunshine Coast?
There are plenty of great ways to see whales on the Sunshine Coast, including joining a guided boat tour (check out Adventure Rafting, Noosa Ocean Adventures, Sunreef and Sunshine Coast Afloat) or a whale swim with operators like The Pressure Project and Sunreef.
Is whale watching on the Sunshine Coast worth it?
Yes! Whale watching is one of the most memorable winter experiences on the Sunshine Coast. Seeing humpback whales up close, whether from a boat, kayak or coastal lookout, offers a unique connection to nature and a chance to witness one of Australia’s most spectacular wildlife migrations.
How can you see whales on the Sunshine Coast without joining a boat tour?
If you’d prefer to skip a boat tour, you can head to a coastal lookout like the Point Perry Lookout in Coolum, or join a whale watching ocean kayaking experience with Epic Ocean Adventures. Set around Double Island Point, this low-impact tour is beginner-friendly and offers a chance to see whales close up in a unique way. way.
What are the best farm-to-fork experiences in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
Some of the best farm-to-fork experiences in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland include the Creative Tours Hinterland Farm to Fork tour, Glasshouse Plantation, éthos at Alsahwa Estate, Warrior Restaurant & Bar at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Maleny Cheese, QCamel’s Camel Cuddle Farm Tour, Flame Hill Vineyard, Kenilworth Dairies, The Tamarind, Mapleton Public House and The Long Apron.
How do I do a farm-to-fork tour in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
One way to do this is by booking Creative Tours’ Hinterland Farm to Fork experience, which includes coffee insights, two farm tours, a stop at Brouhaha Brewery in Maleny and a view of the Glass House Mountains. It is an easy way to check out local growers, makers and brewers in one day while exploring the area.
Where can you taste local cheese in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
For local cheese, head to Maleny Cheese or Kenilworth Dairies. Maleny Cheese is known for award-winning cheeses and yoghurts made from local hinterland cow milk, while Kenilworth Dairies offers handcrafted cheeses, yoghurts, ice creams and mousses in a classic country-drive setting.
What are the top things to do on a farm-to-fork trip in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
On a farm-to-fork trip, you can visit local dairies like Maleny Cheese and Kenilworth Dairies, join a guided food tour with Creative Tours, dine at vineyard restaurants like Flame Hill Vineyard and enjoy a meal with a view at Mapleton Public House and éthos at Alsahwa Estate.