13 Of The Most Dazzling Sunshine Coast Beaches

Lean into the Sunshine Coast’s year-round good weather with the most breathtaking Sunshine Coast beaches.

Spanning roughly 100 kilometres, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast dazzles from Caloundra in the south to Noosa Heads in the north. While there’s magical hinterland to uncover in between, my favourite sunny weather escape is beach hopping along its pristine coastline. More than 30 stellar stretches of sand offer top-notch swimming and surfing – but it’s the laidback atmosphere that wins my heart repeatedly. Here, my pick of the best Sunshine Coast beaches to help fill your cup.

In short

If you only visit one of the best Sunshine Coast beaches, make it Noosa Main Beach. It’s a tourist star, I know, but the waves are gentle, surf lessons abound, and the region’s most famed cafe culture is mere steps away.

Noosa

Looking to get in on the region’s most buzzing locale? Noosa, the Sunshine Coast’s headline act, is the place to be. Famed for its glitz and glamour, it’s a world-famous holiday magnet, mostly thanks to Hastings Street’s all-day bar and cafe scene which runs parallel to Main Beach. There’s also restorative coastal calm to be found in Noosa National Park (within walking distance from the centre of town), which offers its own beaches plus stunning bushwalks away from maddening crowds.

1. Little Cove Beach

surfers at Little Cove Beach, Sunshine Coast — Watch local surfers ride the waves at Little Cove Beach. (Image: Mark Fitz/Tourism and Events Queensland)

A local’s secret within the National Park, Little Cove Beach is a quiet corner of calm with ridiculously clear water and giant rocks to laze upon. I love how gentle the waves crash in, as do my children who run back and forth over them countless times. This Sunshine Coast beach also offers a scenic vantage point over Main Beach (we’ll get to that beauty shortly) which is totally transfixing during golden hour before the sun sinks. Peel yourself off powder-white sand to look for crabs and schools of fish between the rocks or whip out your bodyboard to catch an easy cruise. I highly recommend kicking back and indulging in idyllic nothingness, too.

2. Tea Tree Bay

surfers at Tea Tree Bay, Sunshine Coast — The north-facing Tea Tree Bay is famed for its surf breaks. (Image: Dave Wilcock/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Delving deeper into Noosa National Park, I’m struck by Tea Tree Bay, a beach I find 20-minutes’ walk from Little Cove as the coastline wraps to the right. It’s awash with tropical treasures, pristine water and killer surf conditions, so, unsurprisingly, I’m mixing with serious longboarders. Their skills are so good, I drop a towel and force the family to linger a little longer than they’d like, taken by the slicing and dicing before me. The other great thing about this Sunshine Coast beach is that there’s good shading (unlike Little Cove, unfortunately), thanks to overhanging pandanus trees, plus there are small rock pools at low tide. Another serene slice of heaven that feels a million miles away from Noosa’s central pulse.

3. Main Beach

the crystal blue waters of Noosa Heads Main Beach, Sunshine Coast — The crystal-clear waters provide a welcome respite. (Image: Dave Wilcock/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Sure, it’s tourist central but Noosa’s Main Beach is iconic. It’s an incredible stretch of sand that runs about 1.2 kilometres and rather evenly depth-wise, so getting to the surf is a short walk from wherever you enter. It ticks all the boxes: proximity to good coffee and feeds along Hastings St, surf lessons, SUP boarding, soft sand toe-squishing and mellow waves. It’s also plain gorgeous at sunset as eateries switch on fairy lights along The Parade, which runs almost half of the entire beach, to create dreamy boardwalk-strolling conditions. My little ones prefer to spend sunset running around the sand dripping ice-cream all over themselves, but each to their own.

4. Sunshine Beach

the Sunshine Beach in Noosa National Park — The 15-kilometre Sunshine Beach is situated on the southern side of Noosa National Park. (Image: Mark Fitz/Tourism and Events Queensland)

I spend a whole weekend in an Airbnb on Sunshine Beach because it’s an entirely separate holiday to the hustle and bustle of Main Beach. Tucked away on the opposite side of the National Park (you can walk over from Hastings St if you’re up for a hike), this Sunshine Coast beach is wilder than Main Beach, instantly shifting the vibes into sleepy territory. The ocean roars, luring surfers daily, and I get there early enough to set up at the northern end right beside a gorgeous cliff which provides good shade. Visitors should note that if you don’t score prime spots, there’s no coverage on this beach – so bring your cabana. Once cocktail o’clock strikes, the Sunshine Beach Surf Club has my name all over it as sweeping views over the entire beach instil bliss.

Mooloolaba

Rapidly rising as one of the Sunshine Coast’s most populated tourism stars, Mooloolaba is filled with fascinating things to do that highlight its diverse cultural roots. Meanwhile, there are slick high-rises everywhere, plus an entire stretch of cafes and bars, all while sparkling blue waters (filled with marine life) and white sand paint the perfect backdrop.

5. Mooloolaba Beach

an aerial view of Mooloolaba Beach, Sunshine Coast — Take advantage of tranquil dips along the breathtaking coast of Mooloolaba. (Image: Jesse Lindemann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

I can see Mooloolaba Beach everywhere I look when I’m driving along its retail-heavy Esplanade in search of my beach-fronting accommodation. The curving Sunshine Coast beach stretches for more than one kilometre and the sand lies right across the road from the town’s famed breakfast, lunch and dinner action. Patrolled daily, it’s a great spot for families (armed with cabanas) to set up for the day as the water is clean and dotted with dolphins, plus whales come whale watching season (June to October).

6. Mooloolaba Spit Beach

two surfers at the Mooloolaba Spit Beach — Hit the waves at Mooloolaba Spit Beach. (Image: Liam Brennan/Tourism and Events Queensland)

I discover a quieter alternative to Mooloolaba’s headliner less than five minutes’ drive away. Mooloolaba Spit Beach is utterly serene, offering gentle waves and thinner crowds while still being patrolled year-round. Tap Urunga Esplanade into Maps and don’t leave without tucking into crispy-battered goodness from the nearby Fisheries on the Spit, one of the best restaurants in Mooloolaba.

Caloundra

Scooping up the title of Australia’s tidiest town in 2012, Caloundra is a super family holiday, offering countless water sports, beautiful walking trails, farmers’ markets and more. There’s a popular 25-kilometre pathway, the Caloundra Coastal Walk, that wraps the coast from Diamond Head at Golden Beach all the way to Point Cartwright. Brought your two-wheeler? Excellent, as cyclists are welcome to ride it.

7. Moffat Beach

surfing in Moffat Beach, Sunshine Coast — Moffat Beach is friendly, vibrant and quieter than its neighbours. (Image: Reuben Nutt/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Caloundra’s Moffat Beach is quieter than its neighbouring beaches, but the surfing is absolutely awesome. Renowned for its surf break, the Sunshine Coast hot spot is littered with locals when I arrive; however, I also spot jet skiing and skydiving so adrenaline junkies can claim their fix any which way. It’s unpatrolled, but there’s a kids’ playground and plenty of cute cafes within walking distance.

8. Kings Beach

the Kings Beach Fountain saltwater pool, Sunshine Coast — The 25-metre saltwater pool on Kings Beach foreshore. (Image: Jesse Lindemann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Perfect for a family chill session, Caloundra’s Kings Beach is pretty while offering kid-friendly activities spanning playgrounds, an oceanfront saltwater pool, the Kings Beach Fountain (a very cool splash zone) and several barbecues. Plus, a grassy foreshore is home to clean toilets. When rumbling tummies call, there’s an abundance of eateries you can walk to.

9. Peregian Beach

Peregian Beach pictured from above — Walk the long stretch of golden sand. (Image: Jesse Lindemann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Driving 15 minutes south of Noosa, I fall in love with the chilled-out vibes of Peregian Beach. It’s one of a string of golden-sand beauties between Noosa and Coolum, and an instant hit with my family who soak up the sun with plenty of space to play. We need the cabana as there’s no coverage on this Sunshine Coast beach, but access is easy from the main car park filled with ample spots. Amenities-wise, toilets and barbecue facilities are on hand, as is a skate park and children’s playground situated right off the sand.

10. Coolum Beach

the Coolum Beach as seen from a helicopter — Coolum Beach has long been recognised as one of the best in the state. (Image: Kyle Hunter and Hayley Andersen/Tourism and Events Queensland)

I’ve always considered Coolum Beach as something of a secret but the cat’s officially out of the bag. The Sunshine Coast beach was crowded Queensland’s best beach in June 2025, as voted by Sunshine State locals and announced by Premier David Crisafulli. It’s located just south of Peregian, and oozes slow vibes from the moment you hit the sand. On my most recent visit, I spy all the usual locals chasing waves, off-leash dogs living their best lives at the northern end, sunbakers, young families and memorising frothy waves, creating one incredibly charming scene. The icing on the cake is Coolum’s handy amenities, which include several beachside barbecues and a skatepark. Cafes also line David Low Way, Coolum’s main retail stretch, which is a short walk up from the sand.

11. Point Cartwright Beach

the Point Cartwright Beach, Sunshine Coast — Point Cartwright Reserve is known for its surfing point break. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Another surf break lashed with board riders, the waves at Point Cartwright Reserve are stunning. Located at the base of the headland, this Sunshine Coast beach isn’t patrolled, which (delightfully) keeps crowds away. I love this place for kicking back and gazing out yonder, particularly when it’s whale watching season as the Humpback Highway runs right in front of me. To find this gem, journey to the end of Kawana Beach, and bring your four-legged bestie along for the ride, too – there’s an off-leash zone that opens Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.

12. Wurtulla Beach

A true local secret, Wurtulla Beach is relatively unknown to tourists, but its untamed beauty should be celebrated (sorry, residents). The fun is firmly focused on Vitamin D absorption and surfing because there’s nothing much in the way of amenities, but the vibes are pure tranquil, making it as alluring as any other beach standout on this list. Get there before crowds cotton on.

13. Currimundi Beach

Speaking of sensational, simple things, Currimundi Beach can’t be neglected. A Sunshine Coast beach just south of Currimundi Lake, it’s gorgeous at low tide when wide-reaching sand bars emerge. Also, its proximity to the lake offers ample activity (SUP boarding on its stillness is highly recommended) while a barbecue area will help keep you there longer.

Under wide-open outback skies, discover a fossicking gem that’s managed to slip under the radar.

While the name Clermont may feel new to even the most intrepid traveller, its gilded history stretches back centuries. You’ll find it just off the highway, humming quietly under the hazy veil of Queensland’s outback sun. It’s here, hemmed in by mountains and perched atop soil heavy with the earth’s treasures, that one of Australia’s most accessible outback adventures awaits.

Thanks to deposits of gold, copper and gemstones – souvenirs left by exploding supernovas and the heave of tectonic plates – Clermont became a centre point of Queensland’s Gold Rush. And now? Australia’s fossicking capital is yours to discover.

Getting there

car driving along Capricorn Way in queensland — Take a drive through Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. (Image: Sean Scott/ TEQ)

You’ll find Clermont in Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. To get here, it’s an easy three-hour drive over sealed roads from Mackay. Or, if you’re heading from the Sapphire Fields of Emerald, the drive will carve out just over an hour from your day.

Whether you’re road-tripping through outback Queensland or just tracing your way through all that Australia has to offer, Clermont is remote but easily accessible.

Best accommodation in Clermont

Theresa CreekDam in clermont — Camp by Theresa Creek Dam. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

All accommodation comes with a generous helping of country hospitality here. The choice is yours between modern hotels, parking up the camper or pitching a tent.

Theresa Creek Dam lies just outside town. Begin each day with crisp country air and bright outback sunrises. Spend the night under the sparkling country stars and your days out on the dam fishing or kayaking. Even if you aren’t camping, be sure to save space in your itinerary for an afternoon on the red dirt shore.

To stay closer to town, opt for a central hotel to base yourself between exploring and fossicking, like Smart Stayzzz Inn and Clermont Country Motor Inn .

Things to do in Clermont

three people on a tour with Golden Prospecting — Join a tour with Golden Prospecting.

One does not visit Clermont without trying their hand at fossicking. There are strict rules when it comes to fossicking, so stick to areas dedicated for general permission and make sure you obtain your license beforehand. Try your luck at McMasters , Four Mile , Town Desert, McDonald Flat and Flat Diggings . To increase your odds, sign on for a tour with the expert team at Golden Prospecting . They’ll give you access to exclusive plots and expert advice along the way.

Once you’ve tried your luck on the gold fields, head to the Clermont Township and Historical Museum . Each exhibit works like an archaeologist’s brush to dust away the layers of Clermont’s history. Like the steam engine that painstakingly relocated the entire town inch by inch to higher ground after it was decimated by flooding in 1916. See the tools that helped build the Blair Athol mine, historic fire engines, shearing sheds and all sorts of relics that make up Clermont’s story.

The historic Copperfield Chimney offers a change of pace. Legend has it that fossickers found a solid wall of copper here, over three metres high, kick-starting Queensland’s first-ever copper mine.

Bush Heli Services flying over clermont queensland — See Clermont from above with Bush Heli Services. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

For hiking, nearby Dysart is the best place to access Peak Range National Park. Here, mountainous horizons stretch across the outback as if plucked from another world. Set off for a scenic drive along the Peak Downs Highway for access to countless geological wonders. Like the slanting rockface of Wolfang Peak. Summit it, and you’ll find yourself looking out across a scene surely conjured up by Banjo Paterson. Dry scrub dancing in the warm breeze, grazing cattle, eucalypts and the gentle creak of windmills. Don’t miss visiting Gemini Peaks, either, for one of the park’s best vistas, and a blanket of wild flowers after rain.

Then, take to the skies with a scenic helicopter tour with Bush Heli-Services . Shift your perspective and cruise above all the sights from your trip. Spots like Lords Table Mountain and Campbell’s Peak are best viewed from the skies.

Before you head home, be sure to explore the neighbouring townships. Spend a lazy afternoon in the shade of Nebo Hotel’s wrap-around verandahs . The hotel’s 1900s dance hall has since been replaced with one of the area’s biggest rodeo arenas, so consider timing your trip to line up with a boot scootin’ rodeo. Or, stop by a ghost town. Mount Britton was once a thriving town during the 1880s Gold Rush. It’s been totally abandoned and now lies untouched, a perfect relic of the Gold Rush.

Best restaurants and cafes in Clermont

meal at Commercial Hotel — Stop into the Commercial Hotel Clermont.

Days spent fossicking, bushwalking and cramming on history call for excellent coffee and hearty country meals. Luckily, Clermont delivers in spades.

Lotta Lattes Cafe is beloved by locals for a reason. Start your days here for the best caffeine fix in town and an impeccable brunch menu.

For a real country meal, an icy cold beer and that famed country hospitality, head straight to the town’s iconic hotel: the Commercial Hotel (known endearingly to locals as ‘The Commie’). It’s been a staple in Clermont since 1877. The hotel even survived the flood of 1916 when it was sawn in two and moved to higher ground.

Naturally, time spent in the outback must include calling into the local bakery. For delicious pies and a tantalising array of sweet treats, make Bluemac Bakehouse your go-to while in town.

Discover more of The Mackay Isaac region, and start planning your trip at mackayisaac.com.

Soak up the sun at our favourite Sunshine Coast beaches