 Just north of Brisbane lies aptly named Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and Fraser Island, a heavenly stretch of white sandy beaches, miles of surf, crystal-clear waters and rolling green mountains. The region is also blessed with the majestic Glasshouse Mountains and unspoiled rainforest. There's plenty to do and see to keep the whole family happy and active.
A Queensland holiday on the Sunshine Coast offers families a fun-filled adventure that spans from Caloundra - famous for its kid-friendly Kings Beach to Mooloolaba – a vibrant cafe and surfing haven, to Noosa – renowned for boutiques, restaurants, cafes and hotels, and to the enchanting Maleny, Montville, Mapleton and Mary Valley on the Hinterland. There is a Sunshine Coast holiday perfect for the whole family.
The Fraser Coast is two hours north and a stunning tapestry of nature’s wonders uniting the iconic World Heritage listed Fraser Island and the Great Barrier Reef. The calm protected waters of Hervey Bay offer a natural playground for thousands of majestic humpback whales providing the world’s best up close and personal whale encounter experience.
Click here for more information about visiting Fraser Island and the Fraser Coast.
 How do I get there?
The Sunshine Coast is accessible by road or air. Located an hour’s drive north on the Bruce Highway from Brisbane or you can fly direct from Sydney and Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast Airport and hire a car. Major coach companies also service the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane.
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From |
Hrs |
|
Sydney |
1:15 |
|
Melbourne |
2:00 |
|
Adelaide |
2:45 |
|
Perth |
4:00 |
Weather
Boosting its perfect year round weather with an average of seven hours of sunshine daily, it’s no wonder it’s called the Sunshine Coast, a Queensland holiday favourite.
Average Season Temperatures |
°C |
|
Summer (December to February) |
21 – 27 |
|
Autumn (March to May) |
13 – 25 |
|
Winter (June to August) |
11 – 19 |
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Spring (September to November) |
12 – 26 |
Where to stay
Sunshine Coast accommodation is as varied as the attractions and activities on offer. In line with the Sunshine Coast's family holiday appeal, many of the resorts have supervised kids clubs for the young set, allowing parents to take time out for a round of golf or perhaps some much needed pampering at the spa.
Click here for more family friendly accommodation on the Sunshine Coast.
Food and drink
The Sunshine Coast is a food lovers haven, offering a feast of flavours and a tempting array of places to eat. Dazzle your tastebuds in a relaxed surf club with amazing views, cosy hinterland hideaways, or one of the dozens of award winning food and wine restaurants. Not your idea of fun with the family, then go to the local fish and chip shop or pick fresh strawberries to eat as you pick your favourite spot on the beach to enjoy them.
Water life
Enjoy an aquatic paradise with breathtaking beaches, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, everglades and more. Whether you want to cast a line to go fishing with the kids, take a kayak along the waterways, go to UnderWater World, learn to stand up paddle, surf or just simply enjoy feeling the sand between your toes, your perfect beach holiday awaits on the Sunshine Coast.
 Attractions
A Sunshine Coast holiday has more activities and action than you can dream of ... Experience the wildlife action at Australia Zoo including croc shows and a new Africa exhibit. Aussie World Family Fun Park is located behind the iconic Ettamogah Pub and set in beautiful native Australian gardens with over 30 rides and games to choose from, while the Big Kart Track is the largest commercial go-kart track in Australia. Get a kiss from a seal at UnderWater World or chase the gingerbread man at the Ginger Factory.
Click here for what to do on the Sunshine Coast.
Shopping
The Sunshine Coast offers a diverse shopping experience for visitors, from small roadside craft and antique stores to classy fashion boutiques and sophisticated art galleries.
Markets remain one of the most popular shopping and cultural activities for visitors to the Sunshine Coast. Visit a well established markets such as the iconic Eumundi Market, Noosa Farmers Market, or a market at  Caloundra, Cotton Tree, Fishermans Road or Yandina.
For art and antiques visit Montville village, a picturesque destination in itself with its Irish and English cottages of log and stone, Swiss and Bavarian chalets and colonial and old Queenslander houses.
Airport
The Sunshine Coast airport, also known as Maroochy Airport, is the principle domestic airport for the Sunshine Coast region. There are ample facilities for passengers including a kiosk, bistro, gift shop, ATM, post box and tourist information desk.
Transfers from airport
The Sunshine Coast Airport is situated on the coastal strip five kilometres north of Maroochydore and is approximately equal distant between Caloundra to the south and Noosa to the north. Car rental through Avis, Hertz, Thrifty, Budget and Europcar is available at the airport. A coach service is available to pick up arriving passengers throughout the day and a limousine service to your hotel is also available on request. A fleet of private taxis also service the airport.
Getting around for families
If you're not bringing a car with you to the Sunshine Coast, car hire is definitely a good option for exploring the area. The attractions are quite spread out and unless you are on a tour or have your own car, accessing them can be difficult and slow. A public bus service runs through most towns and attractions in the Sunshine Coast and cabs are also available throughout the region.
What to wear
Casual lightweight clothing is sufficient for most of the year in the Sunshine Coast. A jacket or warmer clothing may be required for cooler winter evenings. Long pants and comfortable walking shoes are recommended if you plan to do any bushwalking or horse riding. Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential all year round.
HWK Travel Tips
Long drives with the family can be a real test of patience. Toys, games and puzzles are a must for long drives. Pack a goody bag for each child containing stickers, stamps, colouring pencils, activity books and small toys. Bring healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, juice and cereal bars. Plan a stop at least every two hours.
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