Sunshine Coast, QLD

An Australia holiday in Sunshine Coast is not just about the beach. In addition to the stunning coastlines and premier surf beaches, Sunshine Coast is also home to the lush national parks and the famous Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Holidays to Sunshine Coast would be incomplete without exploring this magnificent nature lover’s paradise comprising various charming and historic towns and villages. The pristine, sub tropical rainforests offers those on a Sunshine Coast holiday in Australia the opportunity to enjoy towering trees and sparkling waterfalls, alongside native plants and wildlife. The Sunshine Coast hinterland also encompasses the Mary Valley, the Noosa Hinterland areas, and the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains. The striking pinnacles of the Glasshouse Mountains are remnants of an ancient volcano chain and on Mount Ngungun, Mount Beerwah and Mount Tibrogargan, visitors can explore the various trails which provide spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and ocean.

Caloundra is located on the south end of the Sunshine Coast and offers a great collection of nearby beaches which are good for a variety of water sports. The Pumicestone Passage located between the mainland and Bribie Island is famous for excellent fishing. Popular activities in Caloundra include hiring a boat, canoeing, jet skiing, windsurfing, sailing, scuba diving and surfing.  

  Mooloolaba is famous for its magnificent beaches, charming restaurants and great resort style shopping. Underwater World at Mooloolaba provides fantastic underwater views of the sea and coral life and is a popular attraction for those with kids.    

  Maroochydore is the commercial hub of the Sunshine Coast but it is also a popular beach holiday destination. The beaches have many excellent surf spots and surfers have been journeying here since the 1960s and continue to do so today. Visitors to Maroochydore can enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding country and coastline at Mount Coolum National Park.    

The Sunshine Coast has one of the highest sunshine readings in the world, averaging seven hours a day. The variation between summer and winter is much less than you experience in Europe, North America, and northern Asia. Ocean temperatures range from 26 degrees Centigrade in summer to 19 degrees C in winter (79 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit). Summer average temperatures between December and February range from a minimum 17 degrees Centigrade to 28 degrees C maximum (63 to 82 degrees F). Though there are warmer days the coastal areas enjoy sea breezes. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) temperatures range from 13 to 25 degrees C (55 to 77 degrees F). Winter (June to August) ranges from 7 to 22 degrees C (45 to 72 degrees F). Temperatures in the Blackall Range can be several degrees cooler.