Embrace the outdoors by teeing-off at some of Australia’s most picturesque golf courses, discovering our pristine coast on horseback, tackling epic mountain bike trails, and more. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful morning of birdwatching on the glassy Noosa Everglades, or something fast-paced (Sugarbag Road Mountain Bike Trails, we’re looking at you), this is the ultimate guide to some of the fabulous outdoor activities on offer here. Let’s go!
What The Locals Love
❤️ Letting the adrenaline flow while taking on our mountain biking trails
❤️ Enjoying a scenic tee-time at one of our stunning golf courses
❤️ Experiencing the magic of a full moon beach horse ride at Rainbow Beach
❤️ Spotting an Azure Kingfisher in the scenic surrounds of the Noosa Everglades
Horse & mountain-bike riding
Among the extensive range of tracks on offer here, the Sugarbag Road Mountain Biking Trails provide more than 60 built timber features to enhance the riding fun.
Alternatively, embrace the idyllic magic of Rainbow Beach Horse Rides. With the breeze in your hair and the rustle of waves in the backdrop, you’ll be in prime position to marvel at the coloured sands of Rainbow Beach... all while on horseback!
Golf courses
Pack up your clubs and head over to Pelican Waters Golf Club for a session on the pristine greens. Designed by Greg Norman, this course is a gorgeous spot to enjoy the dual benefits of 18 holes and views of our iconic Glass House Mountains. Golfing legendry continues further north at the Twin Waters Golf Club, where you’ll find an 18-hole, par 72 championship course designed by five-time British Open champion Peter Thomson, and partner Mik Wolveridge. For more inspiration, check out our golfing guide here.
Fishing
Whether you prefer a saltwater or freshwater catch, the choice is yours: take your pick from our sparkling beaches, ancient river systems, lakes, and dams.
Local favourites include anywhere from the shore of the Caloundra Boardwalk to Golden Beach, or in a tinny along the Maroochy and Noosa Rivers. Inland, try your luck for Australian Bass at Baroon Pocket Dam, Ewan Maddock Dam, or Lake McDonald. For those with more experience, there are several charters offering deep-sea fishing adventures off the coast.
Birdwatching
Twitchers, this one’s for you! The Noosa Everglades, which is one of only two everglade systems in the world, boasts an impressive array of birds – including the Azure Kingfisher, osprey, White-Faced Heron, and even the rare jabiru. If you’re looking for a secret spot teeming with wildlife wonders, the Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary is home to more than 200 different types of birds. A number of Sunshine Coast attractions also celebrate native and exotic bird species, such as Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World, and Australia Zoo.
