The Sunshine Coast of Queensland offers a wide range of attractions for both tourists and locals to enjoy. Here is a list of some popular places to visit on the Sunshine Coast:
Australia Zoo
Home to the famous Irwin family, this world-renowned zoo showcases a variety of wildlife and offers exciting animal encounters.
Website: https://www.australiazoo.com.au/
This aquarium in Mooloolaba offers an immersive marine life experience.
Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/sunshine-coast/
Eumundi Markets
Held every Wednesday and Saturday, these famous markets offer a diverse range of arts, crafts, and local produce.
Website: https://www.eumundimarkets.com.au/
Big Pineapple
A historic landmark with a pineapple-shaped structure, offering rides, wildlife, and a taste of the region’s agricultural heritage.
Website: https://www.bigpineapple.com.au/
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
A beautiful rainforest reserve with walking trails and breathtaking views of the Glass House Mountains.
Website: https://www.mary-cairncross.com.au/
The Ginger Factory
A fun family attraction that showcases the world of ginger, including tours, rides, and delicious treats.
Website: https://www.gingerfactory.com.au/
Nutworks
Drop in after the Ginger Factory and grab some macadamia nuts. You can also watch the factory in operation Monday to Friday 9am – 2pm.
Website:https://www.nutworks.com.au/
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
A beautiful garden with stunning vistas and a bird sanctuary featuring a variety of exotic birds.
Website: https://www.malenybotanicgardens.com.au/
Buderim Forest Park
A serene rainforest retreat with walking trails and a waterfall, perfect for nature lovers.
Glass House Mountains Lookouts
There are several lookouts in the area that offer breathtaking views of these iconic mountains. Here are some popular lookouts for the Glass House Mountains and others nearby to visit:
Glass House Mountains Lookout
This lookout provides panoramic views of the Glass House Mountains and the surrounding countryside. It’s an excellent spot to capture beautiful photographs.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
While already mentioned earlier, this reserve also offers stunning views of the Glass House Mountains from designated lookout points within the rainforest.
Website: https://www.mary-cairncross.com.au/
Wild Horse Mountain Lookout
Located just off the Bruce Highway, this lookout offers sweeping views of the Glass House Mountains and the coastal plains.
Gerrard’s Lookout
Situated in the Glass House Mountains National Park, this lookout offers magnificent views of Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah.
Website: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/glass-house-mountains/about.html
Mount Ngungun Summit Walk
While not a traditional lookout, the summit of Mount Ngungun provides stunning 360-degree views of the Glass House Mountains and the surrounding landscape.
Website: Mount Ngungun summit walking track
Please note that some lookouts, such as Gerrard’s Lookout and Mount Ngungun Summit Walk, are part of national parks, and their accessibility and conditions may vary. Always check for the latest information and take necessary precautions while visiting these locations. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Glass House Mountains!
Sunshine Coast Waterfalls
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is known for its stunning waterfalls, which are popular destinations for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some spectacular local waterfalls in the area, along with their websites:
Kondalilla Falls
Located in the Kondalilla National Park, this waterfall offers a beautiful cascading drop surrounded by lush rainforest. There are several walking trails to explore in the park, including one that leads to the base of the falls.
Website: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/kondalilla/
Gardners Falls
Situated in the picturesque town of Maleny, Gardners Falls is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. The falls cascade into a large rock pool, creating a relaxing and refreshing oasis.
Mapleton Falls
Offering stunning views of the Obi Obi Valley, Mapleton Falls is easily accessible from the Mapleton Falls National Park’s car park. There is a short walking track leading to a lookout with impressive views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
Website: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/mapleton-falls/
Serenity Falls
Located in Buderim Forest Park, Serenity Falls is a tranquil and beautiful spot, accessible via a walking track through the rainforest. The falls cascade down a rock face into a serene pool below.
Booloumba Falls
Found in the Conondale National Park, Booloumba Falls consists of three cascading waterfalls. The hike to the falls takes you through lush forests and offers a rewarding natural swimming hole at the base of the third waterfall.
Website: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/conondale/
Please note that the accessibility and conditions of these waterfalls can vary, especially during different seasons. Always check the latest information and weather conditions before planning your visit. Additionally, some of these locations may not have official websites, but the provided links should offer more details and guidance. Enjoy exploring the beautiful waterfalls of the Sunshine Coast!