You’ve likely got one of two big questions on your mind: will she/he say yes… or, where can we share a romantic moment away from the crowds?
Thankfully, you’re spoilt for choice on the Sunshine Coast, where our scenic locations are more than willing to play host for your special moment.
And if you’re looking for an added touch of romantic sparkle in the form of a bespoke picnic or grand romantic gesture, never fear – there’s plenty of local suppliers who will be more than happy to oblige.
1. Australia Zoo – Beerwah
Seeking a supportive backup crew (of animals, that is) for the big moment? Australia Zoo offers proposal packages that will add some wild magic to your special day. Whether you’re looking for an inquisitive giraffe to bear witness as you get down on one knee or wanting to complement the romantic moment with another animal encounter (such as cheeky meerkats, a stout rhinoceros, or sleepy koalas), you’re sure to find something that’ll suit your budget and needs. Plus, if you opt for one of the Zoo’s proposal packages, you’ll have your own photographer on site to capture the magical moment.
2. Cotton Tree Beach
Let the gentle hum of the swell in the background and the whistling chatter of gulls do the talking as you kneel in the sand at Cotton Tree Beach. Here, where the river ambles out to meet the sea, you’ll find the groundwork for a romantic expression of love has already been laid by nature itself. Set a picnic blanket down, secure some local produce (Woombye Cheese and goodies from Fresh Fruit Maroochydore are always winners) and toast the twilight together.
The Boat Shed, Cotton Tree
3. Spicers Clovelly Estate – Hinterland
Allow the rolling hinterland hills of Montville to inspire your loved one to say ‘Yes’, or ‘I love you’! If you’re keen to have your proposal all organized, then look no further than Spicers Clovelly Estate. An intimate picnic replete with champagne, strategically positioned to overlook Lake Baroon, is yours. Feel the lush lawn beneath your feet, breathe in the revitalising mountain air, and focus on the most important question at hand. Live music, accommodation, dinner at the chef-hatted Long Apron restaurant… let everything fall into place. This’ll be a proposal to remember.
Spicers Clovelly Estate, Montville, Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
4. Noosa Botanic Gardens
A quick drive from the Noosa hinterland town of Cooroy leads you to the Noosa Botanic Gardens, situated on the sparkling shores of Lake Macdonald. One of the best spots here is the stunning Greek-style amphitheatre which gazes out at the Lake’s blue expanse. There’s something so wild, yet wonderfully refined about these gardens – they’ll perfectly foreshadow a romantic moment between you two lovebirds! Abundant with more than eight hectares of thriving native flora and fauna, let nature’s soothing melody set the tone for your love at the Noosa Botanic Gardens.
5. Gerrard’s Lookout – Hinterland
The stage is set for your Jane Austen moment. Welcome to Gerrard’s Lookout: an awe-inspiring lookout situated between the hinterland villages of Montville and Maleny that gazes down upon the rolling rich farmland of the Blackall Range. On clear days, lounging up against the vivid blue horizon, you’ll even be able to glimpse the shadowed presence of Mudjimba Island out to sea. This is the storyteller’s proposal spot – after all, standing on the precipice of the Range and gazing outwards provides a living metaphor for the romantic journey. Start the next chapter of your life by proposing at Gerrard’s Lookout, where nature wants to weave a narrative alongside you.
6. Moffat Headland - Caloundra
If you’re on the Sunshine Coast, it’s hard to resist the allure of a beachside proposal. If you’re after a less populated spot to ask the big question, try Moffat Headland, located in the laid-back coastal suburb of Moffat Beach, right next door to Caloundra. With its sweeping ocean views and sheer rocky cliffs plunging into the sapphire blue sea below, the coastal journey to a romantic ‘Yes’ begins here! Gaze out across the beach, watch the sky turn pink as the sun sets, and mark the special moment with a gourmet picnic spread from Heavenly Graze.
Moffat Headland
7. Obi Obi Boardwalk - Hinterland
If you’re after a secret spot to share the love, this is the real deal. A genuine local treasure that frequently manages to escape the tourist guides, the Obi Obi Boardwalk in the Hinterland town of Maleny leads you on a sheltered forest trail that runs alongside a bubbling creek. A famous platypus-spotting destination, you might have to compete for attention with these iconic Aussie marsupials playing in the water below!
Walks to Obi Obi Creek
8. Ironbark Trail - Eumundi
Looking for a spontaneous proposal opportunity? Why not pop on the hiking boots (or saddle up a horse!) and set out on the Ironbark Trail in the Eumundi Conservation Park. Surrounded by looming eucalypts and pockmarked with dappled sunlight, this is a secluded Sunny Coast woodland paradise. Also, if you want a photographer to capture the surprise moment, they’ll have plenty of trees to hide behind!
9. Flaxton Gardens - Hinterland
If a classy, James Bond-esque arrival appeals to you, then check out the Oceanview Heli Fly ‘n’ Dine experience. Imagine you and your partner hopping onboard a helicopter at Caloundra Aerodrome, before being whisked up to the lush hinterland grounds of the Flaxton Gardens restaurant. Upon your movie star-style arrival, you’ll be invited to indulge in delectable local produce – all with a romantic view of the rolling farmland below.
Flaxton Gardens, Flaxton