If you didn’t get a picture, it didn’t count, right? We’ve put together a list of some of the best places on the Sunshine Coast to snap some Instagrammable photos that’ll light up your social grid.
From stunning sunsets to ancient mountain views, you’ll be hash-tagging #VisitSunshineCoast in no time.
1. Mooloolaba Beach, Mooloolaba
Sunrise at Mooloolaba Beach, Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba is camera ready from every angle! Snap a sunrise shot along the coastal walk that wraps around the main beach for some stunning pink and orange hues. If early rising isn’t your thing, head to The Wharf Mooloolaba to grab a shot of the sunset over the water with a glass of bubbles and some local seafood. It doesn’t matter if you’re up with the sun, long-lunching or sunset dining, the backdrop of Mooloolaba’s blue skies, shimmering water and golden sun will be enough to make you want to pull your camera out.
2. Mount Ngungun, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Mt Ngungun, Glass House Mountains. Photo credit: All About Adventure
You may have to work for this one, but we promise you it’s worth it. As you begin the 2.8km trek to the summit of Mount Ngungun and the burn starts to set in, you’ll be greeted with glimpses out across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Soldier on to the top, where you’ll find breathtaking 360-degree views of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin, Mount Beerwah, and more. Talk about on top of the world.
3. Second Bay, Coolum
Looking for those secluded beach paradise vibes, but don’t quite have the time to duck over to a private island? Fear not, Second Bay at Coolum will tick the boxes you need. This lesser-known beach in Coolum is tucked alongside its beautiful coastal ‘siblings’ (First Bay and Third Bay) and is well worth a visit. Our tip? Head down for a sunrise shot… you won’t be disappointed.
4. Eumundi Markets, Eumundi
The Original Eumundi Markets, Eumundi
Nothing says ‘iconic’ quite like the Eumundi Markets, which happen to be one of the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest artisan markets. Set aside plenty of time to explore all that these markets have to offer and prepare to come away loaded up with local wares, produce, and moreish international street food.
5. Noosa National Park, Noosa
Tea Tree Bay in Noosa National Park, Noosa
Get to this one early to snag a car park and the best morning light. As you take the coastal walk through the Noosa National Park, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered another (super dreamy) world. Your shot list here includes idyllic spots like Little Cove, granite rocks rising from the golden sand, shimmering rockpools, native plants, and wildlife. Once you’ve hit Hell’s Gates, look back to get a great shot of Double Island Point.
6. Maroochy River Boat Houses, Maroochydore
Boat House on Maroochy River, Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast
Sprinkled along the riverside path on Bradman Avenue are five historic boat sheds, each with their own style and character. Both sunrise and sunset over the Maroochy River create jaw-dropping colours, mirrored by the water. Don’t stress if you’ve missed the light show of the morning, though: the river shines just as bright during the day.
7. Carlo Sand Blow, Gympie
Carlo Sand Blow, Rainbow Beach, Great Sandy National Park
Step onto the sandy moonscape of Carlo Sand Blow at Rainbow Beach and watch your photo gallery fill up. You can access this gorgeous spot via a short walking trail through the bush before trekking over the sand—desert style—towards the water for a stunning view overlooking Double Island Point. Sunrise and sunset really make the colours of the dunes glow!
8. Point Cartwright, Kawana
Sunrise at Point Cartwright Beach, Kawana Region
Catch the sunrise on Kawana Beach and see the golden rays illuminating the headland. The view from the top is worth it, too: make sure to turn back for a must-see view of the longest stretch of coastline on the Sunshine Coast. The higher vantage point also makes for excellent whale spotting during the winter months.
9. Kings Beach Pool, Caloundra
Kings Beach Ocean Pool, Kings Beach, Caloundra
Did you know that the Sunshine Coast has its own ocean pool? The Kings Beach Ocean Pool in Caloundra sits against the rocky headland and overlooks the sparkling sea beyond. From here, head towards Bulcock Beach along the boardwalk to snap a winning shot of the Glass House Mountains peeking over the Pumicestone Passage. Iconic.
10. Robinson Falls, Nambour
Robinson Falls* might just be one of Nambour’s best-kept secrets. Surrounded by lush green trees in Cilento Park, you’ll find a tumbling waterfall and a pretty walking trail that loops around the park. Make sure you’re on the lookout for native birds and wildlife while you explore the loop.
Once you’ve added these spots into your itinerary, get some more inspiration from our guide to some of the best Sunshine Coast beaches to swim, surf, snorkel and sail.
*While our waterfalls are stunning, they can also be dangerous. Always stick to marked trails, follow any local signage and check park alerts before you visit at parks.qld.gov.au
