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Sunshine Coast

Golden sands, lush hinterland...


From sunrise swims to starry hikes – this coast has it all

Leave only footprints, take unforgettable memories. The Sunshine Coast’s 100km of golden shoreline is where lazy beach days, wildlife wonders and hinterland magic collide – just an hour north of Brisbane.

From the bougie beach vibes of Noosa to Mooloolaba’s foodie scene and the relaxed charm of Caloundra, each coastal town has its own tale to tell. But the real surprises lie just inland: rainforest waterfalls to chase, volcanic peaks to hike, and artisan villages to explore.

This is a place where you can snorkel alongside turtles one day and swim fin-to-fin with humpback whales the next – Australia’s first swim-with-whales experience is right here.

And let’s not forget the flavours – local produce that travels from paddock to plate faster than you can say “another craft beer, thanks.” Think breezy cafes, thriving farmers markets and seriously good breweries.

Ready for a sun-soaked escape that’s anything but ordinary? Chat to your House of Travel consultant and start planning your holiday.

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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.

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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.

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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

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Discover Sunshine Coast's epic food scene

The restaurant scene is buzzing here and we guarantee you’ll be able to taste the sunshine.

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A kid with Kangaroos from Australia Zoo

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.

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Watch the sunset from the water

Take in the pink and orange hues of the sun going down while gliding along the Mooloolaba River.

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Explore Noosa National Park

Discover scenic walking trails, spot dolphins, whales (June-October), sea turtles, and even koalas in the wild.

Read more

Your go-to guide for all things Aussie - Download our Australia Brochure

Expert tips, insider info and bucket-list inspiration for your next adventure

Meet our Sunshine Coast specialists

Fiona Muir

Fiona Muir

House of Travel Whanganui

You know how some people collect handbags or shoes, well I have a love of collecting passport stamps! I developed a bit of a passion for adventure travel since working in the States at a summer camp in my early 20’s. I have travelled to over 40 countries, doing everything from eating scorpions in China, snorkelling the Silfra fissure in Iceland, to skydiving in Namibia.

Fiona


Belinda Fifield

Belinda Fifield

House of Travel Christchurch City

There is a reason why Belinda was crowned the Top Travel Consultant in New Zealand by the Travel Agents Association of NZ... and it is her commitment to her clients. Belinda's friendly approach puts everyone at ease when planning their trip of a lifetime. She loves finding the perfect cruise for her clients and her knowledge of luxury travel throughout the world is second to none. 

"Travel has the power to enrich your life and with over 25 years travel industry experience, I will provide you with the confidence and support to make your travel dreams a reality. Whether it be time out to reconnect with your family or an engaging cultural experience, my first-hand knowledge and expertise will help you along your journey."

Away from the office Belinda loves getting outdoors for a long walk with the family dog, before sitting down and enjoying a Chardonnay with a fine meal. 

Years in the industry: 28
No. of countries visited: 28 
Favourite place to visit: Europe
Next place on the list to visit: Bali 

"Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport" - Anonymous


Why I love travel?

I absolutely love the joy and excitement of discovering new countries and cultures that travel brings. The two years of "no travel" during the pandemic has also taught me that revisiting places I've loved in the past gives me just as much joy! Connecting with people and places is very special and I am reminded of this every day in the job I do. 

I love to share my travel and industry experience with my clients so that we can build the best of holidays together! 


My travel tips: 

  • Make a bucket list and I can help make those dreams become a reality. Be sure to leave some space for those spur of the moment activities! 
  • Always get to the airport early. Much better to be checked in early, relaxing and waiting for your flight than stuck at the back of a queue wondering if you will make it. 
  • Download your travelling airlines app for flight notifications. Also download the House of Travel app before you depart so that you can access your whole travel itinerary and other useful travel information while you are on the go. 


My top 5 favourite destinations: 

  • Europe - I never tire of visiting Europe. The people, history, food, wine and culture are extraordinary. The best way to see as much as possible if you are short on time is by cruise. You wake up in a different country every day. What's not to love about that. 
  • USA - this is a country that needs more than one visit to do it justice. Favourite cities in the states for me are New York, Washington, San Francisco, and Portland (Oregon). Then there are all those incredible national parks. 
  • Hawaii - deserves a mention of its own. Incredible beaches, a lovely climate year-round, fantastic outdoor activities and fabulous shopping. I recommend taking a short plane ride of one of the many magical islands that make up Hawaii. 
  • Bali - fantastic for a great value getaway whether it be with a group of friends or someone special. The accommodation options are amazing value.... be sure to ask about our villa options. 
  • Vietnam - has something for everyone even for first time visitors to Asia. Incredibly moving history, beautiful people, fabulous shopping and food, and wonderful outdoor activities. 

What's in my suitcase?

  • Kindle
  • Little black dress
  • Shoes I can walk miles in

Belinda

Kirsty Howlett

Kirsty Howlett

House of Travel Palmerston North: Broadway


I love that travel experiences gives you lasting memoires. I've worked in almost every area of the travel industry over the last 30 years and have a wealth of experience to help plan your next trip!

Kirsty

Isabella Taylor

Isabella Taylor

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

Travel is my passion, and being able to share that with others is the most rewarding part of what I do!

I love everything about travel — from adventure and culture to incredible food, relaxation, and creating lifelong memories along the way. Having explored destinations like Los Angeles, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, the Pacific Islands, and enjoyed several cruise experiences, I’m excited to help you design a journey that's just right for you.

Whether you're after an action-packed adventure or a relaxing beach escape, I’m here to make sure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the trip of a lifetime.


Isabella
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