Family walking at Mooloolaba beach
If you’re looking to plan your next summer escape, look no further than the Sunshine Coast.
Here warm summer days melt in to balmy summer nights, the cool sea breeze a constant reminder that the coast is never far away.
family on beach
Days are spent outdoors with barbecues at the beach or escapes to the hinterland to explore cool waterfalls surrounded by lush sub-tropical rainforest.
We’ve compiled a list of family-friendly activities to get the most out of summer on the Sunshine Coast… all that’s left to do is pack your bag!
Discover our hinterland waterfalls
As you walk through the winding paths of the Kondalilla National Park in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, you can feel the temperature start to drop.
Above, the lush sub-tropical rainforest canopy buffers the sun as the sound of trickling water echoes through the trees.
hinterland walks
There are plenty of waterfalls to explore on the Sunshine Coast, from Kondalilla Falls in Montville to Gardeners Falls in Maleny.
Serenity Falls in Buderim offers a sub-tropical oasis with towering trees, meandering tracks and a cascading waterfall perfect for cooling off.
And if you’re looking to get off the beaten track, try Booloumba Falls in the Conondale National Park where in the warmer months the main pool is around 15m wide giving you plenty of space to cool off.
Feel the sand between your toes
Nothing says summer like packing an esky of local produce and heading down to the beach with the family.
And here on the Sunshine Coast, you’re truly spoilt for choice.
With beaches spanning the coastline from Caloundra to Noosa, you’re sure to find our own private slice of paradise.
Simply pack a barbecue, grab your towel and sunscreen and settle in for the day.
Explore our craft beer scene
No quintessential Aussie summer would be complete without a beer, and here on the Sunshine Coast, we have plenty to choose from.
If you’re looking for some alone time from the kids, check out the Sunshine Coast’s thriving craft beer scene, with epic Sunday sessions, brewery tours and food and brew options to choose from.
Simply follow our Craft Beer Trail for a scenic tour that will take you from Moffat Beach to Maleny, join a Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tour or sit back on a Sunday in one of our local brewery’s for an ice cold beer.
All aboard the Rattler
After the Christmas festivities are over, start your summer of fun with a family trip on board the Mary Valley Rattler.
The journey will take you through the scenic Mary Valley, with plenty to be discovered on board the historic locomotives and carriages.
Mary-Valley-Rattler
For the kids
With summer in full swing, Aqua Park Coolum, Twin Waters Aqua Fun Park and Bli Bli Aqua Park will open their doors seven-days. Test yourself on the giant inflatables, slides, trampolines and balance beams for the ultimate day out, and don’t forget your towel!
Get in touch with wildlife
It’s all hands on deck this summer at Sea Life Sunshine Coast, with the arrival of brand new Little Blue Penguins: The Sea Creature’s Secret live show.
This is the opportunity to be immersed in the wonderful world of the smallest penguin species – above and below the water!
Alternatively, step into the wild and allow your kids to be a zoo keeper for the day at Australia Zoo, where they will go behind the scenes and learn how to prepare delicious meals for the animals.
Book an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure for your kids at Apex Camp and recreation centre with the School Holiday Outdoor Adventure Drop-Off program.
Based entirely outdoors, nestled in the Maroochy River Conservation Park and a short stroll from the beach and river, these adventure activities offer something for everyone. From climbing on their outdoor rock-climbing tower, to running through their army-commando style mud pit challenge course, to launching themselves off one of their flying foxes, they offer more than 20 activities with something to suit both fun lovers and adventure seekers!
Challenger your family on Australia’s largest commercial track these school holidays at the Big Kart Track. The 1.2km track is open every day and as an added bonus, if you book a 30-minute go-karting adventure between 5pm and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, you will get an extra 10 minutes for free.
Find out more about the naturally refreshing Sunshine Coast:
- Sunshine Coast Summer Deals - Stay, play and save with these fantastic summer deals on the Sunshine Coast. From accommodation providers to popular attractions, get the most out of your Sunshine Coast getaway.
- Things to do - Beaches, hiking, surfing, festivals, food and art trails and world-class events - the Sunshine Coast has it all!
- Places to see - Experience our friendly, laid-back beachside culture, taste fresh local produce and explore some of the most beautiful regions of Australia.
