The Sunshine Coast is perfect for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. The Sunshine Coast is mainly accessible from Brisbane (just over an hour away) or serviced by the local Sunshine Coast Airport. It is a stunning region in Queensland, Australia, known for its picturesque hinterland, vibrant lifestyle and beautiful beaches, such as Mooloolaba, Noosa, and Coolum Beach. These sandy shores are perfect for swimming, surfing, sunbathing and offer various beach activities.
The region includes striking hinterland areas, featuring the Glass House Mountains, Blackall Range, and national parks like Kondalilla and Mapleton Falls. These areas are great for offer hiking and have a number of waterfalls, and scenic lookouts.
The town of Noosa is a highlight of the Sunshine Coast, known for its upscale shopping, great dining experiences at Hasting Street and Noosa National Park. The coastal walks here are quite stunning with breathtaking views of the ocean and opportunities to spot dolphins, koalas kangaroos and more than 150 species of birds, making it perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Mooloolaba is a lively town, known for its beautiful beach, vibrant esplanade filled with restaurants, and its aquarium featuring marine life encounters.
On the Sunshine Coast there are a wide range of outdoor activities available, including surfing, fishing, hiking, and golfing. There are also opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and cycling along scenic trails. The region also hosts various markets, such as the Eumundi Markets, which are famous for handmade crafts, fresh produce, and local foods.
As mentioned the region is home to diverse wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and numerous bird species. Wildlife parks like Australia Zoo, founded by Steve Irwin, provide opportunities to learn about and interact with local animals. Whilst I am not a huge fan of zoos this one is an exception to the rule and worth a visit.
Australia Zoo is world-renowned for its wildlife conservation efforts and was famously established by the late Steve Irwin, affectionately known as the “Crocodile Hunter.” The zoo embodies Steve Irwin’s legacy of passion for wildlife and conservation, making it a unique and important destination for wildlife enthusiasts and advocates and Steve’s dedication to animal conservation. His love for wildlife and intense enthusiasm and TV exploits, helped propel the zoo into international fame. The zoo plays a significant role in wildlife conservation and education, with efforts directed towards protecting endangered species. It engages in various conservation projects, both locally and globally and offers educational programs that promote awareness about wildlife preservation.
The zoo operates an animal hospital, rescuing and rehabilitating sick or injured wildlife. They work to release animals back into their natural habitats whenever possible.
Through its extensive conservation efforts, interactive experiences and educational initiatives, Australia Zoo has gained recognition worldwide for its commitment to protecting and preserving wildlife.
Brisbane. Queensland is known for its vibrant lifestyle, friendly atmosphere, and diverse culture. Located on the Brisbane River, the city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the nearby mountains, and offers both urban and natural attractions.
Its subtropical climate has warm summers and mild winters. This makes it an ideal place for outdoor activities year-round.
The city boasts a rich cultural scene and the South Bank is a popular pedestrian area that features parklands, walking paths and beaches along the river. All the restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and occasions, making Brisbane’s dining scene vibrant and exciting, from casual eateries to fine dining: Moo Moo steak restaurant, offer a great dining experience with a fabulous wine collection – booking in advance is imperative.
Brisbane’s blend of urban charm, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty is not just a hub to feed the Sunshine Coast or theGold Coast but makes it a fantastic destination for visitors to relax and explore.
