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.
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.
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.
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
Discover Sunshine Coast's epic food scene
The restaurant scene is buzzing here and we guarantee you’ll be able to taste the sunshine.
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.
Watch the sunset from the water
Take in the pink and orange hues of the sun going down while gliding along the Mooloolaba River.
Explore Noosa National Park
Discover scenic walking trails, spot dolphins, whales (June-October), sea turtles, and even koalas in the wild.
Explore BreakFree Alexandra Beach
Sunshine Coast
BreakFree Alexandra Beach
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1059
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore BreakFree Grand Pacific Caloundra
Sunshine Coast
BreakFree Grand Pacific Caloundra
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1079
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore ULTIQA Shearwater Resort
Sunshine Coast
ULTIQA Shearwater Resort
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1499
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas
Sunshine Coast
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas
Return flights
7 nights
Breakfast daily
from
$
2089
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore Mandolin Beachfront Resort & Bluey's World
Sunshine Coast
Mandolin Beachfront Resort & Bluey's World
7 nights
7 day car hire
Bluey's World Tickets
from
$
785
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Meet our Sunshine Coast specialists
Lisa Crawford
House of Travel Lower Hutt
My love of languages and exploring the world has naturally evolved into
a career in travel. I enjoy discovering what motivates your travels and
tailoring your trip to suit your own style and interests.
I have travelled extensively across Europe and lived abroad both in the UK and
Paraguay. Recent travel highlights include cruising Hawaii’s Islands and
experiencing the best of Washington DC.
My special interest is in cruising, from the world’s largest floating resorts
to casually cruising Europe’s rivers or the more adventurous Expedition ships
to the Antarctic. There is a cruise possibility for every personality and
preference!
I look forward to getting to know you and helping you to get the most out of
your next adventure.
Lisa
Leanne Newton
House of Travel Upper Riccarton
Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel.
It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people.
It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.
Leanne
Hannah Brown
House of Travel Wanaka
Always with a smile I will be just as excited and passionate about your future adventures as you are! Originally from the UK I've spent the last 10 years travelling around the globe before finally settling in heavenly New Zealand.
Here I've turned the joy of travel into a profession I love. I enjoy nature, the beach, spending time with loved ones and exploring new places especially on the open road or by cruise.
I believe the biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams!
To me, traveling is so much more than a simple trip or relaxing vacation; it is a journey that always leaves me transformed and forever changed by the experiences presented. I have had the pleasure of visiting too many countries to count from backpacking on a shoestring budget around Asia to going all out on a private luxury adventure filled holidays such as trekking Machu Pichu!
My firsthand recommendations will ensure that your destination choices, no matter how uncommon, are always extraordinary. No matter what you are looking for, whether it’s a bucket list adventure or something that completely takes you off the grid, you can count on me to open doors to the most exceptional experiences and enhance every travel adventure.
Hannah
Rebecca Gilbert
House of Travel Hornby
Why Me? I Love Travel!
I can help with it all - from a quick business trip to Brisbane, or that cruise holiday you have always wanted to book.
I really enjoy providing options, and information, based on what we've established you may need. I can answer questions, offer suggestions and be there to help you plan your holiday.
I'm here to assist you with any travel-related inquiries so If you have specific questions or need assistance with your travel plans, feel free to reach out.
Rebecca
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