Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains
We’re talking feeling sunlight on your cheeks as you walk by the sea at Caloundra, racing trail bikes along the Ewan Maddock Dam track, laughing till your cheeks ache at our renowned comedy festival, meeting local producers and creators at farmers markets, and enjoying moreish meals with a view. Winter’s over and we’re coming out of hibernation. Here are 15 of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast this spring.
1. Rock on at the Caloundra Music Festival
(29th September – 1st October 2023)
Where: Caloundra
Caloundra Music Festival
Embrace the fresh air and let the pristine backdrop of Kings Beach set the tone for three fabulous days at the annual Caloundra Music Festival. Jam-packed with an international and locally renowned lineup (including 19-Twenty, Allensworth, and Ampersand), you’ll be set for a sun-soaked weekend of your favourite artists. With 3-day or single day passes available, there’s something to suit every kind of music-lover at this family-friendly event. If you’re coming from out of town, be sure to purchase a camping ticket and pitch your tent on the flat, four-hectare site provided by Caloundra State School. With accommodation sorted, it’s time to focus on the shows ahead!
2. Go strawberry Picking at McMartin’s Farm
Where: Bli Bli
Strawberry Picking at McMartin’s Farm
If you’re chasing a burst of sweet goodness (plus a fun way to pass the afternoon), add strawberry picking at McMartin’s Farm to your list. Situated in Bli Bli near the Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary, this Sunshine Coast family favourite is open from June till October. Let I-Spy take on a fruity dimension as you hunt for red gems amongst the leafy fields, and make sure to grab a scoop of award-winning strawberry ice-cream to end the day on a high note.
3. Laugh away at the Sunshine Coast Comedy Festival (9th-12th November 2023)
Where: The Sunshine Coast
The sun’s out, summer’s coming, and good times are on the cards. It’s time to let the endorphins flow and enjoy a good laugh at the Sunshine Coast Comedy Festival. Featuring a star-studded lineup of comedians, you’ll quickly find your schedule filling up with shows across our gorgeous region. Be sure to come along to the launch gala at the impressive J Theatre in Noosa with Dave O’Neil or grab a ticket to the craft beer and comedy combo with Lawrence Mooney. Other standout events across the four-day festival include comedy cruises in Mooloolaba, hilarious life drawing, and much more!
4. Be inspired at Sculpture on the Edge (23rd November – 10th December)
Where: Flaxton Gardens (part of the Hinterland)
Sculpture on the Edge. Credit: Barry Alsop Eyes Wide Open Images
If you’re keen for some creative inspiration, take the scenic hinterland drive up to Flaxton Gardens for the spectacular Sculpture on the Edge competition. Starring an array of indoor and outdoor designs (and stretching across 18 artistic days!), you’ll find this family-friendly event full of vibrant experiences – be it workshops, the exhibition itself or artist talks. With the warm sunlight spotlighting the magnificent view of the Blackall Range below, what better way to see out spring, and say hello to summer?
5. Go camping and glamping
Where: The Sunshine Coast
Habitat Noosa, Boreen Point
If winter is for cosy wood cabins and crackling fireplaces, then spring is for pitching your tent amongst the forest or by the sea. Luckily, the Sunshine Coast is filled with perfect spots to spend the night – be it in style or with an eco-flair. For those looking for an Instagram-worthy set-up, Starry Nights Camping has got you covered – after all, there’s nothing prettier than an elegant bespoke tent situated amongst our hinterland forests! If you’re keen on keeping your camping practices sustainable, but also enjoy a bit of added comfort on the side, check out Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp, which features solar energy on their powered sites, glamping tents, and easy accessibility to hiking trails and water activities.
6. Celebrate local brewing
Where: The Sunshine Coast
Blackflag Brewing
Ever participated in a festival on wheels? At the Pop and Pour Festival, held on the 21st of October, you’ll have the opportunity to try out five of the Sunshine Coast’s best craft breweries (Terella Brewing, Eumundi Brewery, Pomona Distilling Co, Black Flag Brewing and Your Mates Brewing), with no need for a designated driver! To keep things simple (and safe!) the Pop and Pour Festival has arranged bus services that can collect you from Brisbane, Caloundra, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum Beach and Noosa. As well as entry to the five participating venues, your ticket also includes the free shuttle bus between venues, live entertainment and a polycarbonate keep-cup for use throughout the festival. Cheers!
7. Visit the Eumundi Markets
Where: Eumundi
Explore Eumundi Markets
It’s time to ditch your scarf and boots, break out the long skirts and sandals, and head to the Eumundi Markets. More importantly, it’s time to immerse yourself in one of the largest artisan markets in the Southern Hemisphere! Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of clothes, local art, and fresh produce on offer – perfect to keep you occupied on a beautiful Wednesday or Saturday morning. With our warmer weather and early sunrises, which characterise spring on the Sunshine Coast, we’d be surprised if you’re not already looking forward to waking early and journeying to the markets for your weekly fix of culture, entertainment, and food.
8. Book a farm tour at Shambhala Farm
Where: Doonan (Noosa Valley)
What better time than spring to connect with the earth, as well as learn about regenerative farming practices taking place right here on the Sunshine Coast. With private farm tours available for groups of ten and above, you’ll want to book your place for an informative exploration of the 12-acre Shambhala Farm in Doonan (Noosa Valley), which includes a meeting with their friendly pig (AKA Peppa Pig)! Activate your green thumb and find plenty of inspiration for transforming your own garden leading into the summer months. Even better, you’ll get to toast the morning with a delicious green smoothie made with ingredients from the farm.
9. Jump on a Bushtucker Cruise
Where: Mooloolaba
Saltwater Eco Tours, Mooloolaba
If your perfect afternoon combines voyaging out of the Mooloolaba Wharf with a glass of champagne in hand, sampling canapes made with native ingredients and gaining local knowledge (all in the gentle midday sun), then check out Saltwater Eco Tours’ Bushtucker Cruise. This two-hour cruise is the perfect antidote to your winter hibernation, with three days across the week to choose from (Tuesday, Friday or Sunday). The combination of local culture, delicious food and sunshine will be sure to welcome in spring in the most delicious way.
10. Try the Caloundra Coastal Walk
Where: Caloundra
Caloundra Coastal Walk
Let the sea breeze tangle in your hair as you wander along the 25km stretch from Golden Beach to Mooloolaba – otherwise known as the spectacular Caloundra Coastal Walk. Make sure to take your phone or camera along, as there’s plenty of wildlife (watch for fish flitting beneath the surface of the water beyond) and scenic photo opportunities perfect for your springtime Facebook profile update. Even better, this walk is perfect for the family, with beautiful rock pools and a beachfront saltwater pool at Kings Beach along the way.
11. Find some time for self-care
Where: The Sunshine Coast
As baby animals are born across the countryside and wildflowers flourish in the hinterland fields, we don’t blame you for seeking some springtime rejuvenation. Fortunately, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to wellness on the Sunshine Coast – whether you’re interested in Mooloolaba’s Salt Caves’ (featuring an ancient salt therapy treatment in a specially-designed halo chamber) or finding tranquility on a guided tour of the gardens and temple at Buddhist Chenrezig Institute in Eudlo, there’s something for everyone. If you’re an outdoor lover, you can get the most out of the day by starting your morning with a sunrise yoga session at Mudjimba with Zen Beach Yoga.
12. Have a picnic at Wappa Park (Jack Harrison Park)
Where: Wappa Dam (west of Yandina)
Springtime equals picnic-time on the Sunshine Coast, and fortunately, we’ve got the perfect spot to enjoy your sandwiches and cake. Jack Harrison Park is nestled right near the magnificent Wappa Dam (just west of Yandina in the Sunshine Coast hinterland) and offers a prime viewing spot to watch any spills across the dam wall. With lush deciduous trees reclaiming their lost winter foliage, peaceful green flats and benches to watch the view, you’ll be set to lay down a blanket and let the afternoon pass by.
13. Try a craft beer tour
Where: The Sunshine Coast
Moffat Beach Brewing
We all know that chilled, locally-brewed craft beer is irresistible on a warm day – add in a coastal view and you’ve found paradise! With the Sunshine Coast wearing the crown of the Craft Beer Capital of Australia, you’ll have your work cut out for you tasting the offerings from all our fabulous breweries. So, if you want to put the planning into someone else’s hands and focus on the brew, check out our convenient guide to the best craft beer tours on the Sunshine Coast.
14. Enjoy some jazz in the park
Where: Buderim
Looking for a laid-back afternoon of jazz, tasty food, and a fun community atmosphere? Jazz in the Park, hosted by the Buderim War Memorial Community Association on the 24th September (2023), has you covered. Over five musical hours from 1-5pm, you’ll be treated to a diverse range of performances from some of Queensland’s top jazz musicians – all beneath the warm September sky. Relax amongst the dappled sunlight of Buderim Village Park and unlock your inner jazz buff, all while tucking into a gourmet hamper (available for preorder) or snacks from the nearby food vans. Better yet, this is a free community event (though a gold coin donation supporting the BWM is always welcome!).
15. Embracing mountain life
Where: The Sunshine Coast
Hinterland walks
Whether you get your kicks from mountain-bike trails, or simply taking in the beautiful surrounds on a casual bushwalk, spring presents the perfect opportunity to take to the mountains and discover the Sunshine Coast’s lush forests. With the chilly, misty winter mornings behind you, you’ll find the conditions ideal for whatever type of adventure takes your fancy. Best of all, we’ve got your guide to the best national park walks and mountain bike trails for all levels scattered across the Sunshine Coast. Whether you feel like tackling the rugged 11.5km Wooroi Introduction Loop in Tewantin National Park (featuring epic views of Noosa), or want to enjoy the panoramic views of the Glasshouse Mountains National Park … you’ve come to the right place.