Best Sunshine Coast Natural Wonders

Soaring sand dunes, verdant rainforest, intriguing volcanic plugs, rich birdlife and endless beaches beckon in every direction on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, where nature is never far away.

As the only place in Australia where three UNESCO biosphere reserves sit side by side, the Sunshine Coast – traditional land of the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples – offers unrivalled coastal and hinterland landscapes.

The Biosphere Corridor, encompassing the Great Sandy, Sunshine Coast and Noosa Biospheres, is home to more than 100 kilometres of beaches, pockets of sub-tropical rainforest, pristine waterfalls and swimming holes.

Within 30 minutes, you can travel from sandy beaches to lush rainforest, watch wildlife (including migrating humpback whales from June to October) and explore mountain tracks.

The Sunshine Coast’s sub-tropical climate delivers year-round warm weather that’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, diving, hiking and camping. Here are a few of our favourite activities in this unique region.

1. Admire the Glass House Mountains

The distinctive craggy peaks of the Glass House Mountains rise from a green and gold patchwork of pine plantations, bushland and cultivated fields in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, the mountains are spiritually significant to the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples, with many ceremonial sites now protected.

driving through a pine plantation toward Glass House Mountains — Glass House Mountains rise from a green and gold patchwork of pine plantations. (Image: Jesse Lindemann)

They’re also listed as a landscape of national significance. For a panoramic view of the mountains, head to Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in the Blackall Range near Maleny.

the scenic top of Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains — Hike Mt Ngunngun in the Glass House Mountains. (Image: Jesse Lindemann)

2. Snorkel with turtles at Mudjimba Island

To snorkel or dive at a spot favoured by locals, take a 30-minute boat trip from Mooloolaba to the rocky islet of Mudjimba . With a shallow reef – it’s only three to five metres below the surface – this beautiful place is home to turtles, wobbegongs, rays, crayfish, nudibranchs and reef fish.

diving beneath the waters of Mudijimba Island — Go snorkelling at Mudijimba Island.

3. Climb Mt Coolum

Dominated by an ancient volcanic peak, Mount Coolum National Park is home to many rare and threatened species of plants (and if you’re visiting from May to August, you’ll see glorious golden banksias flowering in the heath). It also offers excellent birdwatching – look up for peregrine falcons soaring above. Take the short but steep hike to the summit of Mt Coolum for spectacular 360-degree views of the coast, looking out to Point Cartwright, the Glass House Mountains, the Blackall Range and Noosa Heads.

two people walking along the Mt Coolum boardwalk — Take a scenic stroll along Mt Coolum boardwalk.

4. Marvel at Rainbow Beach and Carlo Sandblow

The towering, coloured sands that give Rainbow Beach its name are unlike anything you’ve seen before. Created over thousands of years, the yellows, browns and reds have been created by iron-rich minerals that have stained the sand.

an aerial view of Rainbow Beach — Rainbow Beach is strikingly beautiful with its cliffside sand dunes.

The coastal town of Rainbow Beach is a great base for exploring the beauty of the Great Sandy National Park, in particular the spectacular moonscape of the Carlo Sandblow . Sculpted by the wind, this magnificent natural wonder also provides panoramic views of the coastline and islands. Walk to the top of the sandblow and look out to Double Island Point, K’gari and Inskip Peninsula.

the Carlo Sandblow o Rainbow Beach — Gaze in awe at the impressive windblown Carlo Sandblow on Rainbow Beach.

Looking for a secluded beach that only the locals know about? Just south of Coolum Main Beach, beyond Point Perry, is the perfect place to chill out without the crowds. Families will love exploring the rock pools of First Bay Coolum , swimming, surfing, fishing or just relaxing. Take care, though, as it’s not patrolled.

walking hand in hand along the Coolum Beach, Sunshine Coast — Fringed by a grassy beachfront, Coolum Beach is a secluded spot on the Sunshine Coast. (Image: All About Adventure)

5. Glide through the Noosa Everglades

Float through flowering lily pads on a 60-kilometre stretch of waterway fringed by ancient tea tree forests to explore one of Australia’s most diverse and pristine ecosystems. The Noosa Everglades is the perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers and bird-watchers, with its dark tannin-stained waters reflecting the beauty of its environment. One of only two everglade systems on Earth, the Noosa Everglades stretches across the Noosa and Great Sandy Biospheres. It can be explored by kayak, canoe or a guided boat tour.

two people riding a boat across Noosa Everglades — Paddle your way through the Noosa Everglades.

6. Cool off under waterfalls in Montville

Kondalilla, an Aboriginal word meaning ‘rushing waters’, perfectly describes the spectacular 90-metre waterfall in Kondalilla National Park , near the hinterland village of Montville.

the Kondalilla Falls in Sunshine Coast — Kondalilla Falls is a hidden gem in the rainforest. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

From the top of the falls, take the 4800-metre Kondalilla Falls Circuit to reward yourself with a cool dip in Skene Creek at the bottom (but be warned, there are around 300 steps to challenge you along the way).

swimming in Kondalilla Falls — Dip in the spectacular 90-metre waterfall in Kondalilla National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Sunshine Coast has many waterfalls to discover, some more hidden than others – check out Gardners, Baxter, Mapleton, and Serenity Falls.

an aerial view of Gardners Falls in Sunshine Coast — Get lost in the freshwater oasis at Gardners Falls. (Image: Visit Sunshine Coast)

7. Camp and hike in Conondale National Park

Lush forest, easy walking trails and a secluded swimming hole are just some of the attractions of Conondale National Park in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Head out on the five-kilometre (round trip) Booloumba Gold Mine Walk beside the deep blue Booloumba Creek, stopping at one of the picnic areas before continuing to Strangler Cairn, Artists Cascades or Booloumba Falls, all clearly signposted. Book a spot to camp in one of the two camping areas here (tents only).

two people walking by the Booloumba Creek Falls — Take the scenic route to Booloumba Creek Falls.

8. Float along Seary’s Creek

Wander along the boardwalk leading to the clear waters of Seary’s Creek, coloured amber by tannin from the surrounding bushland, for a swim. Float down the creek, watch colourful rainbow fish, eels and freshwater catfish as they dart beneath the surface, and enjoy the shade of the paperbarks and ferns that line the banks. Birdwatchers will spot kookaburras and honeyeaters, as well as friarbirds feasting on golden banksias. From late winter to early summer, wildflowers are in bloom. Seary’s Creek boardwalk is in the Cooloola Recreation Area in the Great Sandy National Park, with the creek’s water filtered by the sands of the Cooloola sandmass.

Venture down the tea-coloured Seary’s Creek. (Image: Amber Prentice)

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.

8 natural wonders of the Sunshine Coast