The Sunshine Coast is just one hour's drive north of Brisbane, encompassing pristine coastline, unspoilt surf beaches, lush scenic hinterland, superb cuisine, action, adventure and a relaxed casual lifestyle. The Sunshine Coast takes in tranquil hinterland including the Glass House Mountains, Blackall Range, Noosa Hinterland and the Mary Valley; as well as more than 100 kilometres of beaches.

Beaches & Mountains

On the Sunshine Coast enjoy the patrolled and stinger free surf beaches and sheltered bays, offering temperate waters for year-round swimming. Truly special are the dramatic coloured sand cliffs of Rainbow Beach and the Cooloola National Park. For nature lovers don't miss visiting the Glass House Mountains, Noosa Everglades, Noosa National Park, Kondalilla Falls National Park, Mapleton Falls.

Attractions

Australia Zoo, UnderWater World, Big Kart Track incorporating Bungee Bullet, The Ginger Factory, Aussie World, Ettamogah Pub, Superbee Honey Factory, Ski & Skurf, Surfing Schools, Top Shots Adventure Park, Queensland Air Museum, Mary Valley Rattler

Arts, Crafts, Cuisine & Markets

Markets occur almost every day of the week on the Sunshine Coast. The famous Eumundi Market held every Wednesday and Saturday are an iconic reflection of the Sunshine Coast's special culture. The market motto, 'Make it, bake it, grow it or sew it' is passionately observed by it's dozens of farmers, producers artisans and craftsmen who set up their stalls at first light under the shade of massive, ancient fig trees.

From Peregian Beach to Gympie, Maleny to Maroochydore, Coolum to Caloundra there are stalls a plenty and bargains galore. Explore the Art & Craft Gallery trail of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The trail will take you to the work rooms and galleries of painters, potters, glass blowers, jewellers and sculptors, all creating unique pieces in serene surrounds. With surf, sun and tranquil hinterland as the backdrop, the pursuit of fabulous food is high on the agenda on a Sunshine Coast holiday. Always fresh, often organic, it's a relaxed, local cuisine making the most of produce grown in the lush hinterland and plucked fresh from rivers and surrounding ocean.

Country Towns & Hinterland

The Sunshine Coast offers more than subtropical weather, oceanfront dining, and a superb coastline. Just a stone's throw inland from the beaches is a series of mountain ranges, charming country towns and rich volcanic land. Towns such as Montville, Mapleton, Flaxton and Maleny offer art galleries, wineries, country markets, fabulous food, pristine national parks and spectacular views. Experience cheese making in Maleny or Kenilworth, horse riding in forest reserves, fishing on a lake, or learning to cook authentic Thai food.