Sunshine Coast Guide: More Than Just Beaches

The Sunshine Coast is pretty diverse: Beaches, rainforest, waterfalls and rock pools, wildlife, volcanic outcrops and trails of every size.

And while the coast and beaches get the crowds, the hinterland offers the peace and quiet the beaches often lack.

EXPLORE THE AREAS

GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS

Volcanic peaks and scenic drives. Find the best lookouts without getting out of your car. Or go for a walk for more views.

View of a waterfall flowing over large boulders into a clear rock pool, located past Artists Cascades within Conondale National Park, Sunshine Coast.

THE BLACKALL RANGES & WATERFALLS

Beyond the beaches. Head here for winding scenic drives, rainforest and the best waterfalls in the region.

NOOSA COASTAL TRACK (NOOSA NP)

The coastal track is a classic for a reason. It’s stunning but busy. A place you generally can’t miss when visiting the coast.

SUNSHINE COAST AT A GLANCE

Best Time: April to September (unless you want to melt in the Hinterland)

The Map: The Coast and the Hinterland (Blackall Ranges and Glass House Mountains)

The Standouts: Noosa Coastal Track, Mount Ngungun and the Condondale waterfalls

Access: Mostly sealed roads, but keep the 4WD handy for the sandy tracks on Bribie

✨ Highlights: Volcanic peaks, waterfalls and rock pools, and avoiding the Noosa traffic

GEAR FOR THE COAST & HINTERLAND

I’ve spent plenty of time exploring the Coast and the Hinterland; these are a few of the essentials I actually pack to handle the humidity and the hiking tracks.

Sunshine Coast Essentials

🥾 Walking Shoes: For hinterland hikes, I usually wear my Merrell Moabs. I’m currently on my second pair; they have the grip you need for steep tracks without feeling like lead weights.

💧 Hydration: The coastal humidity is no fun once you head into the rainforest, especially in the warmer months. I love my Mont water bottle because it’s lightweight and has this nifty sipper lid so you don’t slop water all over yourself. I usually use it with some Pure electrolytes to help stay hydrated on the longer trails.

☀️ Sun Protection: Whether you’re on the sand or in the hinterland, the sun bites. I prefer Little Urchin natural zinc—it’s not sticky, practical for the beach and much better for the environment.

Note: This list contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I’ve actually used out on the trails!