Ultimate Trip Planner for the Sunshine Coast

Ultimate Trip Planner for the Sunshine Coast

Planning a trip to Australia’s stunning Sunshine Coast? Good choice! This east coast destination showcases some of the best Australia has to offer: stunning beaches, rural hinterland and heaps of family fun and entertainment.

Stretching down from Great Sandy National Park to Caloundra, the best thing to do is rent a car from RaD Car Hire Sunshine Coast, so you can see all the highlights. Whether you’re going for a long weekend or a whole lot longer, our ultimately trip planner will help you prepare for an amazing Sunshine Coast holiday.

Just a Taste of Sunshine Coast

If you’ve only got a few days in the Sunshine Coast, fly up to Brisbane, hire a car from Brisbane airport and work your way up the coast. After an hour and a half drive, you’ll reach the rural hinterland town of Maleny. Explore its quaint charm and boutique shops before heading to the coast to spend the rest of the day at popular beach town, Caloundra.

In Caloundra you’ll find beautiful east coast beaches like the popular Kings Beach. There are plenty of great cafés for lunch or a coffee and, if you are after a scenic walk, try the nine-kilometre Coastal Walkway.

Spend the next day driving your car hire into the heart of the Sunshine Coast. Explore famous beach holiday resort Mooloolaba and then make your way up the coast to Coolum Beach. Along the way you’ll find plenty to tickle your fancy, from relaxed seaside strolls to whale watching, scuba diving and snorkeling.

From here, you can drive your hired car even further north to trendy Noosa, a resort town that offers more beaches, out of this world shopping and access to the Noosa National Park. Relaxed and refreshed, your few days in the Sunshine Coast will be a welcome sunny holiday before carrying on to your next Australian holiday destination.

Stay a Little Longer

If you have some more time in the Sunshine Coast, there is plenty more to see and do. Bundle the family into the rental car for a day at the famous Australia Zoo run by the family of the late Steve Irwin. With their exhibits and live shows, Australia Zoo will teach you all about your favourite Aussie creatures like koalas, kangaroos and crocodiles.

Experience the region from a unique perspective by hopping on a river cruise, departing from Mooloolaba or Noosa. You’ll explore the waterways and lakes, view the gorgeous coastline and you might even glimpse the inhabitants of this area like dolphins and whales.

Spend some time away from the coast and experience more of Queensland’s tranquil hinterland. From the mountain town of Montville, you can tour the Australian rainforest, see an historic English village and visit local artisan shops, art studios and galleries.

When to Go to Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast truly is a year-round destination. In summer, expect hot days, some rain and plenty of sun. Be prepared for days in the mid-thirties with unyielding sunshine by always having a hat, water and sunscreen either with you or nearby in the rental car. Winter offers cooler but comfortable weather; evenings can be brisk but you’ll find the sea is still warm enough to swim in. Plus, you’ll get the benefit of fewer tourists to compete with. Pack layers for a winter trip, especially if you are heading into the hinterlands.

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