Navigation
Back

Sunshine Coast, Australia

Why visit the Sunshine Coast? Think turquoise beaches, emerald rainforests and laidback coastal lifestyle.


The Sunshine Coast has it all - from hinterland hikes to sunrise swims.

Leave only footprints and take away unforgettable memories when you book a holiday to the Sunshine Coast, Australia - a destination defined by 100 kilometres of golden beaches, diverse wildlife and scenic hinterland landscapes, just one hour north of Brisbane.

Along the coast, each town offers a distinct experience. Enjoy laidback luxury and coastal walks in Noosa, discover Mooloolaba’s thriving food scene or soak up the relaxed seaside charm of Caloundra. Just inland, the Sunshine Coast hinterland reveals a different side of the region, with rainforest waterfalls, volcanic peaks and artisan villages waiting to be explored.

Adventure seekers are well catered for, with experiences that range from snorkelling with turtles to swimming alongside humpback whales - the Sunshine Coast is home to Australia’s first swim‑with‑whales experience. Those who prefer to slow the pace can enjoy coastal hikes, scenic lookouts and stargazing under clear hinterland skies.

Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy too, thanks to local produce, farmers’ markets and craft breweries, where paddock‑to‑plate dining and breezy cafés define the Sunshine Coast lifestyle.

Looking for a sun‑soaked Queensland escape that’s relaxed, scenic and full of variety? Your Sunshine Coast holiday offers the perfect balance of beach, nature and unforgettable experiences.

Plane Stabiliser Icon

Flight time

Flying from Auckland to Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore) takes around 4 hours. You can also fly to Brisbane and hire a car to drive to the Coast.

Calendar Icon

Best time to go

Visit from September to November for warm days, and fewer crowds - best for swimming, exploring and alfresco dining. December to February is whale season and best for beach weather but it is peak holiday season so book early! March to May is great for hinterland walks and waterfalls with mild temperatures and clear skies. June to August is the best for crisp mornings and sunny days, and is also whale migration season.

Watch Icon

Time difference

Sunshine Coast is 2 hours behind New Zealand (or 3 hours during daylight saving). This small time difference is easy to adjust to, making for a seamless transition.

Our favourite things to do in the Sunshine Coast

Discover the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland feels a world away from their sandy shores, but in reality, it’s just a short 30-minute drive from the coastline

Read more

Discover Sunshine Coast's epic food scene

The restaurant scene is buzzing here and we guarantee you’ll be able to taste the sunshine.

Read more
A kid with Kangaroos from Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo - Home of the Crocodile Hunter!

Just 45-minutes drive from Mooloolaba, this world-famous zoo—founded by the legendary Steve Irwin—offers up-close encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles.

Read more

Watch the sunset from the water

Take in the pink and orange hues of the sun going down while gliding along the Mooloolaba River.

Read more

Explore Noosa National Park

Discover scenic walking trails, spot dolphins, whales (June-October), sea turtles, and even koalas in the wild.

Read more

Your go-to guide for all things Aussie - Download our Australia Brochure

Expert tips, insider info and bucket-list inspiration for your next adventure

Meet our Sunshine Coast specialists

Hannah Christopherson

Hannah Christopherson

House of Travel Dunedin

With 12 years in the travel industry and young kids of my own, I genuinely understand how much effort (and emotion!) goes into planning the perfect family holiday. 

I specialise in creating trips that work in real life- with smart flight times, family-friendly stays, and experiences that keep everyone happy, from toddlers to teens (and parents too). 

I'm here to listen, ask the right questions, and take the stress off your shoulders, so you can focus on making memories instead of managing the logistics. If you're looking for a down-to-earth consultant who treats your family getaway as if it were their own, I'd love to help plan you next escape. 


Hannah

Andy Gosnell

Andy Gosnell

House of Travel Christchurch City

There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team—and Andy is ours. His approachable, honest style fosters strong relationships and consistently positive experiences for clients, suppliers, and colleagues alike.


Travel has always been a defining part of Andy’s life. He caught the travel bug early - 3 formative years of living in the USA during his childhood hardwired his love for travel.  Since then, he has taken every opportunity to see the world, often venturing to remote and remarkable destinations. Whether trekking through the Patagonian Andes, wandering the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread around the globe, Andy is truly in his element.


With nearly ten years in the travel industry, Andy has had the opportunity to experience an exceptional range of destinations and build deep, practical knowledge. No matter where you want to go, he brings expert insight and thoughtful advice to help make your journey genuinely unforgettable.


“I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything—you're only limited by how far your imagination can stretch.”

 

Years in the industry: 10
Countries visited: 12
Favourite destination: Amalfi Coast
Next destination on the list: Poland

“Not all those who wander are lost.” — J.R.R. Tolkien


Why I Love Travel

The places I see and the people I meet—travel truly is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from different cultures and walks of life. Life is short; travel often.


My Travel Tips

  • If you are always early, you are never late.
  • Pre-book as much as possible before departure and schedule rest days on longer trips.
  • Live courageously—100% of the opportunities you don’t take are missed.


My Top Three Favourite Destinations

Italy
The food, history, people, dramatic coastlines, and mountains—Italy deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.


USA
With its extraordinary diversity of cultures and experiences, you could spend a lifetime exploring the United States and still not see it all.


Patagonia
Challenging to reach, but the dramatic landscapes that greet you make every moment of the journey worthwhile.


What’s in My Suitcase

  • Kindle / E-reader – Lightweight, easy to pack, and long-lasting battery life; an essential on every trip.
  • Noise-cancelling headphones – Ideal for busy airports and long-haul flights.
  • Travel plug adapter – Easy to forget, but absolutely essential.


Andy

Petra Otte

Petra Otte

House of Travel Wellington City

Having spent 40+ years, 30 owning my own HOT outlet here in the heart of Wellington, in this exciting and ever changing industry you could say that extraordinary resilience is at the top of my skite sheet given the many and varying challenges that have faced travellers over the years.

My clients and colleagues describe me as a passionate people person, who endeavours to get the best out of a traveller's investment.

It is important for me to be inclusive of everyone within a travelling party, to hear the voice of each traveller, and ensure everyone's wishes are met.

Having been to all continents bar Antarctica which is high on my list, I have also travelled in all styles from budget overland backpacking to luxury cruises which allows me to relate to all clients and work with you for what is best for you. 

Petra

Stacey Mullinger

Stacey Mullinger

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, I’ve built a career focused on creating exceptional holidays through expert planning, attention to detail, and in-depth destination knowledge.

Stacey

Subscribe

Want the insider word on all things travel?

Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.

Consultant Consultant Consultant

Experience all things Sunshine Coast, Australia