Where to stay
For a 72-hour mini break on the Sunshine Coast, we recommend booking a single accommodation spot within easy driving distance of both the beaches and hinterland. If you’re looking for ideas, check out places like Sixty6 Acres in Woombye, where you can get set up in their self-contained accommodation, kick back in sparkling outdoor plunge pools and sip on signature Pineapple Daiquiris from the onsite Farmhouse Restaurant & Bar.
Sixty6 Acres, Woombye, Sunshine Coast
For laidback stays closer to the beach: Avani Mooloolaba Beach, Elysium Noosa Resort, Beach on Sixth, Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort, Landmark Resort
For cosy stays with forest bathing vibes: Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Secrets on the Lake, Misty View Cottages, Lovestone Cottages, Spicers Clovelly Estate, Spicers Tamarind Retreat
Day One:
On the agenda: Swimming with turtles, dining with rainforest views and gelato on the beach.
Snorkeling with turtles off Mudjimba Island with Sunreef Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
Winter who? Expect to soak up warm day-time temperatures on the Sunshine Coast as you kick off your wellness vacay in Mooloolaba, ideal for an early morning dip. Don’t linger in the ocean too long, though! It’ll soon be time to zip up your wetsuit and join the crew from The Pressure Project or Sunreef on a snorkel with turtles adventure at the reef near Mudjimba Island. Trust us, once you’re out discovering the beautiful sea life that calls the Sunshine Coast waters home, you’ll feel a world away from the bustle of everyday life.
Buderim Forest Park, Sunshine Coast
Back on dry land (and still wishing you were back with the turtles!), take some time over a meal to reflect on the special experience you’ve just had. Our suggestion? Drive 20-minutes inland to Harry’s On Buderim for a peaceful fine dining experience set against a lush rainforest backdrop. As you trade stories of turtles and eye-catching coral, you’ll tuck into modern Australian cuisine while seated out on the deck of a 142-year-old homestead. Afterwards, make tracks for the boardwalk through Buderim Forest Park and soak up the natural soundtrack of the gushing creek and falls. It’s forest bathing, Sunshine Coast style.
Finish your day as you started, by the ocean at Mooloolaba, where you can bury your feet in the sand and watch the pastel colours of twilight spill over the waves as you enjoy a scoop of gelato. Talk about a #SunshineMoment.
Day Two
On the agenda: National Park hike, checking out a waterfall, a scenic picnic in botanic gardens, and a holistic spa
Kondalilla Falls Circuit, Kondalilla National Park, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Day Two of your Sunshine Coast wellness getaway takes things into the Hinterland hills, where visits to a National Park, a Hatted restaurant and a boutique day spa are all on the agenda. First up, get your heartrate pumping with a hike through the crisp forest air in Kondalilla National Park, where you’ll descend several hundred stairs on your way to the spectacular falls. While winter isn’t ideal for swimming, take as long as you like filling your camera roll with snaps out across the valley beyond.
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Take the scenic drive along the range (if you’re in the passenger seat, you’ll be in for some jaw-dropping views) to Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World for a picnic like no other. Set across 23 magnificent acres and boasting sweeping views out towards the iconic Glass House Mountains, this spot is a must if you love garden strolls and meeting some friendly feathered friends. Once you’ve collected your picnic box from the cafe, your only job is choosing the best place to make the most of the scenic vistas.
Don't miss the chance to dial the wellness vibes up further by booking an experience at The Range Holistic Spa and Wellness in Montville, where onsite facilities include a Finnish sauna, magnesium spa and cold plunge. Come evening, pull up rested and refreshed at The Long Apron (located at Spicers Clovelly Estate) for a feast of contemporary French fare.
Day Three
On the agenda: beach swims, whale watching, a nourishing breakfast and a trendy spa and dining experience
Relaxing in the pools at Tank Bathhouse, Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
On your last Sunshine Coast day make your way to Coolum Beach, where an invigorating swim between the flags and a leisurely coastal stroll up to the Point Perry lookout awaits. Here, you’ll be in the prime position to watch for migrating whales as they head along the famous ‘humpback highway’. Fuel up with a breakfast salad and a tropical juice at the Coolum Beach Bar before taking the 20-minute drive to TANK Bathhouse & Day Spa in Mooloolaba for rejuvenating magnesium bath soaks, sauna, steam and riverfront dining awaits (make sure you book in advance). Finish with sunset sips at one of Mooloolaba’s trendy bars like Casita Wine Bar, Pavilion’s Coastal Rooftop Beach Bar, WAT Den, or Sully’s Rooftop Restaurant & Bar (Avani Mooloolaba Beach), before grabbing a special final dinner at Fish House Steak & Grill.
Time your visit to align with these unmissable events: Queensland Garden Show, Sunshine Coast Solstice Swim, Noosa Food and Wine Festival, The Curated Plate.
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.
By Visit Sunshine Coast
Published 2 days ago