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Swim with Whales
Swimming with whales on the Sunshine Coast, The Pressure Project
Did you know? Up to 40,000 whales can pass through the Sunshine Coast in one season, giving you plenty of chances to spot some action.
This winter, meet some fellow (non-human!) visitors on a spectacular swim-with-whales experience with the crews from Sunreef Mooloolaba (pictured) and The Pressure Project. You'll experience the magic of a close encounter with these majestic mammals while gliding along the cool, deep waters of the humpback highway. Dive into more details about our whale season here.
Go hot air ballooning
Hot air ballooning over Glass House Mountains with Sunshine Coast Ballooning
Don’t forget: Clear room in your photo library and charge your camera... some epic scenes await.
If there’s one thing our crisp, clear winter mornings are made for, it's hot air ballooning. Rug up warm and feel any regrets around an early start wash away as you witness the peachy sunrise glow spreading over the region with Sunshine Coast Ballooning.
Treat yourself to High Tea
High Tea at Flaxton Gardens, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Don’t miss: make sure to take a drive to the nearby Mapleton Falls Lookout after your high tea experience (it’s only 10 minutes away).
Give in to the winter comfort food cravings by indulging in a luxurious high tea experience at Flaxton Gardens (pictured), where you'll be treated to a mouthwatering selection of sweet and savoury treats. Save us a seat!
Seek out sunrise (and sunset)
Glass House Mountains, Howell's Knob Lookout, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Easy win: pick up fish and chips in Mooloolaba and head down to the beach for a sunset picnic, or check out Sunshine Coast bars with a view.
Our sunrises and sunsets REALLY turn it on in winter... so it’s worth setting the alarm early. Rug up warm and take your pick from scenic spots along our 100km of coastline to watch the crisp dawn light spilling out over the ocean. Don’t just linger by the sea, though! Come twilight, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland countryside looks extra magical under the golden glow of the late afternoons. Make sure you bring a camera to the likes of Howell’s Knob Lookout to snap up the sights of the Glass House Mountains in the distance. The Sunshine Coast also has plenty of local bars with a view for some seriously scenic sips.
Take a coastal stroll
Point Perry, Coolum Beach
Don’t miss: Second Bay Lookout, not far from the Point Perry lookout
Start your winter days on the right note with a coastal stroll, where dreamy ocean views are just the start of the ‘I-spy’ fun. Along with offering up an easy way to see dolphins and turtles flitting beneath the waves, lookout spots such as the Point Perry Lookout in Coolum (pictured) make fantastic vantage points to catch sight of migrating humpback whales offshore.
Outdoor adventures
Check out the Noosa Everglades
Did you know? The Noosa Everglades are only one of two everglade systems in the world.
Switch off Spotify and allow the chorus of local birdsong to become your playlist. More than 40 per cent of Australia's bird species call the pristine grounds of the Noosa Everglades home, ensuring they're a 'must-do' during winter if you're a nature lover. One of the best ways to explore the glassy waters is by kayaking with the experienced team at Kanu Kapers or taking up the optional canoe experience as part of the Everglades Explorer Tour, offered by Everglades Eco Safaris.
Learn to Surf
Fun fact: Coolum Beach is the home break of Australian surfing legend Julian Wilson.
Surf’s up year-round on the Sunshine Coast from the glassy waves of Noosa (a World Surf Reserve), to one of Australia’s longest waves at Double Island Point. Want to polish up your skills? A lesson with Coolum Surf School will have you hanging 10 in no time.
Head out in nature
Don’t miss: Glass House Mountain Lookout for another scenic vantage point.
Great ways to see the sights include heading to our spectacular local lookouts, like McCarthy's Lookout in Maleny, where you can enjoy a breathtaking vista of the Glass House Mountains without needing to set out on a hike. Winter is also the time to hit the trails and discover the fun of mountain biking on the Sunshine Coast. With plenty of trail networks to explore for easy family adventures or those looking to dial the adrenaline up a notch, don't miss the chance to strap on a helmet.
Spot wildlife
Good to know: Noosa Oceanrider focuses on small-group adventures, so places are limited. Make sure you book early!
There’s something special about spotting dolphins in the wild, and with Noosa Ocean Rider, you’ll be at one with the creatures of the big blue on their Dolphin Safari or Whale Watching Tour.
Fly high over the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Oceanview Helicopters, Sunshine Coast
For something extra special: Check out the Picnic on a Peak experience.
Strap yourself in for all the incredible scenes with a scenic helicopter flight over the coast and hinterland with Oceanview Helicopters. Oh, and did we mention you can even choose a Fly ‘n’ Dine experience taking you to scenic destinations by air for epic eats? Count us in.
Day trips
Discover the Noosa Hinterland
Pomona Distilling Co, Noosa Hinterland
Don’t miss: stop by the Noosa Botanic Gardens, which you’ll find only a short drive from the Cooroy township.
Pop on the jeans and boots and turn the car towards the Noosa Hinterland: an enchanting region awash with natural beauty, country charm, and culinary delights. We particularly recommend stopping in for a tipple of local gin at Pomona Distilling Co.
Journey to the Mary Valley
The Mary Valley Rattler, Gympie
Top tip: if you’ve got a dog, the Mary Valley Rattler Pets On Board experience is a must.
Filled with ancient forests, clear waterways, music, and charming heritage towns, the Mary Valley is an unmissable destination in winter. Your first stop? Make 'tracks' for the Mary Valley Rattler – a restored heritage steam train that takes you back in time on a scenic rail journey through the countryside.
Head to the Hinterland
Driving to Howell's Knob Lookout, Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Don’t miss: Hatted restaurants like The Tamarind and The Long Apron make for a special dining experience while in the Hinterland.
The dropping mercury and chilly mornings are a sure sign to head for the Hinterland hills. Here, you'll indulge in luxurious escapes, fabulous brews, and celebrated restaurants that will warm you from the inside out.
Get creative in Eumundi
The Original Eumundi Markets, Eumundi
Top tip: Head to Ball Lookout near the Eumundi township for some pretty views out across the distant hills and beyond.
From shopping at the Eumundi Markets to finding your next page-turner at Berkelouw Book Barn, Eumundi is a haven for local creatives. Make sure to time your trip around the markets held each Wednesday and Saturday, while keeping room in your diary for a trip to Matso's across the road for a glass of their classic ginger beer.
Explore Buderim Forest Park
Good to know: The creek looks extra spectacular after rainfall, so keep this in mind.
Experience another side of the Sunshine Coast with a stroll along the boardwalk through pockets of sub-tropical rainforest at Buderim Forest Park. You'll find it hard to believe that this tranquil spot is only around a 20-minute drive from the coastal beauty of Mooloolaba.
Eat
Enjoy a meal at Warrior Restaurant & Bar
Warrior Restaurant & Bar at Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Australia Zoo, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Good to know: You don’t need to be staying at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge to enjoy a meal at Warrior Restaurant & Bar.
Escape the winter chill and take your pick from an enticing menu that spotlights local flavours at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge's Warrior Restaurant & Bar. As you settle back in the cosy surroundings with a cocktail in hand, you'll be in the ideal spot to unwind after a busy day of adventures exploring Australia Zoo. Cheers!
Do a wine tasting at Flame Hill Vineyard
Wine tasting at Flame Hill Vineyard, Montville, Queensland
Why it's worth it: the views here are stunning and well worth enjoying with a glass of wine.
Perched on one of the highest points in Montville, Flame Hill Vineyard is the perfect place to kick back with a vino (or two) and dig into a local cheese platter while you soak in the views over the estate’s vines.
Go farm to fork with a food tour
Creative Tours
Did you know? The Sunshine Coast is home to more than 900 producers and makers.
Discover the stories and local secrets behind some of our most popular products on a guided food tour. Taste your way through Queensland's Sunshine Pantry, with tours offering samples featuring everything from fermented goodness (who doesn't love kimchi?) to chocolate. Check out our guide to the best food tours on the Sunshine Coast here.
Spirit House Cooking School
Why it’s worth it: A great hands-on way of picking up skills in the kitchen.
If the cool winter weather makes you feel a little *extra* hungry, channel your appetite into some new skills at the Spirit House Cooking School. Here, you'll gain a new understanding of the delicious complexities of Asian ingredients and methods. The experience also includes a feed, and a wine: a double win!
Stock up on cheese at Maleny
Cheese platter at Maleny Food Co, Maleny. Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Top tip: Maleny Cheese’s Maleny Club Cheddar range is a must-try.
Since as far back as the late 1800s, Maleny has been a hub of dairy production with small farmers and creameries dotting the countryside. Today, Maleny still remains a hotspot for all things cheese. Taste your way through some of the best in the business with visits to Maleny Cheese and Maleny Food Co.
Go gin tasting
Sunshine & Sons, Woombye, Sunshine Coast
Don’t miss: the Pineapple Parfait Australian Gin pays homage to the neighbouring Big Pineapple.
No trip to the Sunshine Coast is complete without a visit to some of our local distilleries, including Sunshine and Sons in Woombye (Nambour region). The crew here craft their gin using a blend of locally sourced botanicals like lemon myrtle and finger lime, and have previously scooped the title of World's Best (Botanical Vodka category) at the World Vodka Awards. Meanwhile, BeachTree Distilling Co in Caloundra took home World's Best Craft Producer at the 2024 Icons of Gin Awards.
Explore Australia’s Craft Beer Capital
Craft Beer at Boiling Pot Brewing Co, Noosa, Sunshine Coast
Did you know? You can discover a few of the stories behind some of the Sunshine Coast’s craft breweries in the podcast, In Pursuit of Hopppiness.
The Sunshine Coast is home to more craft breweries per capita than any state or territory in Australia, which has earned us the title of Australia’s Craft Beer Capital. From hoppy IPAs to crisp lagers, our region's breweries are producing some of the country’s best craft beer. Jump on a tour or follow our craft beer map to get a proper taste of what's on offer.
Enjoy a cosy stay
Good to know: Even though we enjoy mild daytime temperatures in winter on the Sunshine Coast, it can get crisp when the sun goes down... ideal for snuggling up in front of a log fire.
Embrace all the winter vibes by cosying up in one of the Sunshine Coast's luxurious stays. Discover our abundance of boutique accommodation spots, farm stays, and more right here.
Events
Hone your green thumb at the Queensland Garden Show
Queensland Garden Show, Nambour
Good to know: This is a family-friendly event, with plenty of fun for everyone.
The multi-day Queensland Garden Show is a must-visit winter event for gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts from all over Australia. Held annually at the expansive Nambour Showgrounds, this celebration of plants and the outdoors features hundreds of exhibitors all showcasing the latest trends, tips, and tricks in the gardening world. With entertainment for the kids, plenty of food trucks, and live talks from celebrity experts (previous speakers have included Costa Georgiadis from Gardening Australia), this is an event you won't want to miss.
Discover Noosa Alive! Festival
Why it’s worth it: If you think Noosa is all about beaches, Noosa Alive! Festival will change your mind in the best kind of way.
With outdoor stages and multiple pop-up installations, there's always something new and exciting to enjoy at the Noosa Alive! Festival in July. Discover Noosa's unique blend of creativity and natural beauty at this entertaining arts and culture festival. Whether you're a seasoned culture vulture or a first-time festival-goer, Noosa Alive! is an unforgettable experience.
Eat your way through The Curated Plate
Long Table Lunch at The Curated Plate, Sunshine Coast
Did you know? The Curated Plate runs for 10 DAYS, so set aside time in your itinerary for plenty of foodie goodness.
The Curated Plate is the Sunshine Coast’s leading food festival that brings together some of the world's most talented chefs and local producers. The festival offers a series of mouthwatering culinary events – from intimate masterclasses to epic food and drink experiences, all set against the stunning backdrop of the region's beaches, forests, and farms.
Dust off your cowboy boots and head to Gympie Music Muster
Gympie Music Muster, Amamoor Creek State Forest
Good to know: Camping at the Muster is a great option to consider.
Held annually in the rolling hills of the Mary Valley, this four-day festival is a true celebration of all things country. With multiple stages hosting the best in local and international country music, as well as a packed program of workshops, markets, and other activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the Gympie Music Muster.
Celebrate diversity at The Rangebow Festival
Under the themes of diversity, inclusiveness, sustainability and reconciliation, The Rangebow Festival celebrates the glittering creative community of the Blackall Range. Come along to enjoy a range of performances, music, First Nations food, and more.
The Australian Wearable Art Festival
Australian Wearable Art Festival, Bokarina, Sunshine Coast
Top tip: Don’t miss the chance to vote for your favourite creation in the People’s Choice Award.
Fashionistas, this one's for you! The Australian Wearable Art Festival is a unique experience celebrating artistic creativity and avant-garde designs. Sit back and admire the dramatic creations as models strut down the catwalk, with entries from across Australia and overseas on display.
Looking for even more winter events inspiration? Don’t miss Noosa Concours d'Elegance, Maleny Wedding Winter Festival and Noosa Jazz Festival.
Q: What is the best time of year to see sunrise and sunset on the Sunshine Coast?
A: Winter is one of the best times to catch sunrise and sunset on the Sunshine Coast. Clear, crisp conditions create vibrant colours visible from Hinterland lookouts like McCarthy’s Lookout and Howell’s Knob Lookout, as well as the 100km of coastline. Early mornings and late afternoons are great for catching some stunning views of the region, while our buzzing local bars provide an ideal spot to catch a view with a brew
Q: How do I explore the Noosa Everglades in winter?
A: One of the best ways to explore the Noosa Everglades in winter is by kayak or canoe. Guided experiences such as with Kanu Kapers (kayaking) and Everglades Eco Safaris (an optional canoe experience as part of the Everglades Explorer Tour) offer up the chance to paddle through calm waterways while spotting birdlife, with more than 40% of Australia’s bird species found in the area.
Q: Is it worth visiting the Sunshine Coast in winter?
A: Yes, winter is a fantastic time to visit the Sunshine Coast. With mild temperatures, clear skies and fewer crowds than peak season, you can still enjoy activities like hiking, wildlife encounters and local food experiences while making the most of the coastline and hinterland. Plus, it’s warmer in the water here than most of our southern neighbours, making it ideal for a dip.
By Visit Sunshine Coast
Published 1 day ago
