While kicking back at Mooloolaba Beach or grabbing beachfront cocktails in Noosa Heads is always a delight, make sure you save room in the itinerary for some of the Sunshine Coast's lesser-known walks, lookouts and swimming spots. From lush rainforests to lookouts tucked away in the Hinterland hills, this guide will have you feeling like a local in no time.
Secret hiking and walking spots on the Sunshine Coast
Trachyte Circuit, Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Local tip: For even more trails to tackle, make sure you check out this guide to Sunshine Coast walks.
Whether your idea of a 'hike' means less walking and more wildlife-spotting, or getting serious with some pulse-pumping trails, the Sunshine Coast won't leave you disappointed. Hidden away in rainforest pockets and in the heart of our mountainous Hinterland, you'll find your new favourite outdoor adventure.
Think spots like the Trachyte Circuit, a 6.4km journey that'll have you weaving through bushland and emerging out to some jaw-dropping views of the Glass House Mountains. This isn't the view you typically see on postcards, either. Instead of climbing up, you’ll get to enjoy a fresh vantage point of the Sunshine Coast’s most iconic local peaks from the ground, while still clocking up some cardio at the same time. Keep the exploration coming at the Strangler Cairn Walk in Conondale National Park, where a huge sculpture surrounded by rainforest awaits.
Walking in Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
If *ambling* is more your style, come ready to play 'I-Spy' at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in Maleny, which is home to gorgeous red-legged pademelons. You'll start in the immersive Rainforest Discovery Centre (a great chance to clue up on some of the animals that call this place home) before heading out to weave your way through the rainforest walk.
For a stroll that's truly the definition of short and sweet, the Fig Tree Walk is calling your name. This little gem loops its way through huge Moreton Bay Fig Trees and can be found less than a 10-minute drive from the township of Kenilworth.
Sunshine Coast walks - good to know
Best for kids: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Best for unique views: Trachyte Circuit
Best for an easy stroll: Fig Tree Walk
Best for an adventure: Strangler Cairn Walk
Sunshine Coast lookouts you need to visit
McCarthy's Lookout, Maleny, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Trying to find a lookout that doesn't come with a massive walk? We've got you covered. Just a five-minute drive from spots like Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in the Hinterland town of Maleny, you'll find McCarthy's Lookout. Pull up the car and stroll straight over to an unforgettable view out across the Glass House Mountains, or grab one of the picnic tables for a scenic lunch. Keep chasing the idyllic countryside views at Ball Lookout in Eumundi (a great spot to unwind after a bustling morning at the Eumundi Markets) and Imbil Lookout in the Gympie Region.
Early risers will want to make tracks for Howell's Knob Lookout, located only a five-minute-drive out from the main street of Maleny. To get to the lookout, you'll drive up a narrow road to the top of a hill, where dawn light makes the distant countryside and Glass House Mountains look even more spectacular.
Local tip: Once you’ve visited Howell’s Knob Lookout, take the short drive back into Maleny afterwards for coffee and a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafes that line the main street.
Point Perry, Coolum Beach, Sunshine Coast
You can still find hidden lookouts along the coastline, too. Once you've climbed Mount Coolum and cooled off at Coolum Main Beach, take a drive (or walk) the coastal path up to Point Perry Lookout and Second Bay Lookout. Come winter and early spring, these places make ideal locations to spot humpback whales swimming past our shore on their annual migration.
Sunshine Coast lookouts - good to know
For easy access: McCarthy's Lookout and Ball Lookout
For an Insta-worthy snap: Howell's Knob Lookout, Second Bay Lookout, Point Perry Lookout
For a countryside picnic: Imbil Lookout
Hidden nature places on the Sunshine Coast
Booloumba Creek, Conondale National Park, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
These secret nature spots are so good that we're not going to gatekeep them from you (thank us later). For a secluded swimming spot that looks like a tropical paradise, Booloumba Creek in Conondale National Park is a must. Not only will this turquoise beauty look extra pretty as your new screensaver, it's also right near some incredible hiking trails like the Strangler Cairn Walk. You will need a 4WD to access the best swimming spots, so keep this in mind when making your plans. Alternatively, book yourself a tour with Sunny Jeeps.
Seary's Creek, Rainbow Beach, Gympie Region
Right, so we've got a turquoise creek.... what's next, a golden one? You guessed it. On your way to Rainbow Beach, add a stop at Seary's Creek to your itinerary. This 'pot of gold' (made up of amber, tannin-stained water) features a small day-use area and plenty of spots to go for a refreshing dip. If you watch the water closely, you might even see colourful rainbowfish darting below the surface.
Local tip: From Seary's Creek, continue your drive to Rainbow Beach and stop by Carlo Sand Blow: a magnificent sandy moonscape that gazes out across the coastline beyond.
Mount Coolum Boardwalk, Coolum
When you're ready for a secret nature spot without needing to travel far, the Mount Coolum Boardwalk is always a worthwhile option. With views of Mount Coolum at one end, and sparkling beach vistas at the other, you'll want to have your camera ready at every turn. Friendly reminder: parking in the area near the boardwalk can sometimes be in high demand, so factor this into your travel plans.
Sunshine Coast hidden gems - good to know
For easy scenic beauty: Mount Coolum Boardwalk
For a refreshing dip: Seary's Creek
For an iconic view: Carlo Sand Blow
If you've got a 4WD: Booloumba Creek