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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

Angela Malone

Angela Malone

House of Travel Albany

The best holiday experience is a blend of organised activity along with a sense of discovery.

Bespoke holidays are my specialty.

Exploring off the beaten track destinations where you feel like a local yet welcomed as a guest creates treasured memories.

Angela

Charissa Vincent

Charissa Vincent

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

My name is Charissa (you say it Sha-ree-sa) ?? and I LOVE travel.


I’m all about discovering new places, whether it’s a sneaky weekend escape here in NZ or an epic adventure overseas. New cultures, new food, new experiences – I can’t get enough! But as much as I love getting out there myself, I get just as much of a thrill sending you off on your dream holiday.
I’m not into one-size-fits-all packages – I’m all about crafting trips that suit you. Your style, your pace, your dream destinations.


I’ve been part of the travel industry on and off since 2006, and my passion for it has only grown. So, whether you’re ready to start planning or just need a little inspiration, I’m here to help. Pop into the store, send me an email, give me a call — or let’s catch up over a Face2Face video chat. Let’s get your next journey underway!


Charissa

Sarah Newton

Sarah Newton

House of Travel Albany

Life is a collection of moments and memories.  

Both planning your travel and the journey itself should be enjoyable. I find joy in working with travellers to build holidays that are perfect for them. 

Sarah
Hannah Smaha

Hannah Smaha

House of Travel Johnsonville

Creating a holiday to suit your needs and budget is one of my favourite things to do.

Whether it's based on my own experiences or researching an obscure destination that is on your bucket list, I can't wait to help you book your dream holiday.?

Hannah

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