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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.

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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.

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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

Ella Cotterall

Ella Cotterall

House of Travel Takapuna

I believe that planning travel isn’t just about booking flights and hotels - it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.


I’m not just here to book your flights and hotels - I’m here to turn your travel dreams into something real, seamless, and extraordinary. I’ll take the time to understand you – see what excites you, what comforts you, and what you want out of every journey. My goal is to create experiences that feel perfectly tailored to what you are after, never generic.


Having explored some of the world’s most incredible destinations, I love using my firsthand experience to create holidays that truly suit you. Whether it’s ticking off iconic landmarks, venturing off the beaten track, relaxing on a luxury escape, setting sail on a river or ocean cruise, or planning the perfect trip for couples, families, solo travellers or groups - I’m here to help bring your next adventure to life.


Ella

Cherry McGovern

Cherry McGovern

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

Having worked in the Travel Industry for 9 years and counting, I am incredibly passionate about detail and no trip is too small!

I have lived in London & Perth, both opening destinations for me to explore! My favourite trips to date were Greece and Thailand. 

Every part of the process excites me, from simple flights, group holidays, to your bucket list trips! 

I enjoy getting to know my clients and I understand that no detail is too small and warm prompt service is key to delivering great customer experiences.

Cherry

Stacey Mullinger

Stacey Mullinger

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, I’ve built a career focused on creating exceptional holidays through expert planning, attention to detail, and in-depth destination knowledge.

Stacey

Peter Davies

Peter Davies

House of Travel Wellington City

I’m Pete, the globetrotting geek. A passionate traveller who thrives on learning and discovery.

Travel provides an endless array of opportunities for this; it’s a way to experience new, ever changing and always exciting places, meet curious people and engross yourself in a different culture or witness wildlife that is truly wild.

Be it museums, historical landmarks, wildlife excursions or gaming havens – I revel in these aspects of adventure and love to share it with others.

To put it in other words.

Whether you seek the wonder of enchanted cities, the solitude of mystical forests, or the thrills of a perilous expedition, I am your trusted companion—your Gandalf, if you will—helping you navigate the world’s vastness and ensuring that your journey is free from worry and full of memories to last the ages.

Let’s together, chart your course through the lands, creating an adventure that will be sung about for years to come. As a wise halfling once said.

“Not all those who wander are lost” – Bilbo Baggins


Peter

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