Secret summer spots to cool down on the Sunshine Coast

While sorbet, sandy strolls and surfing might be synonymous with summer on the Sunshine Coast, we’re also home to the best kind of hidden gems to stay cool.

From gushing waterfalls to stunning creeks decked out in green and gold, grab your towel and dive into our guide.

Let’s go!

Booloumba Creek

Booloumba Creek, Conondale National Park

Tropical vibes *WITHOUT* the crocodiles gives you Booloumba Creek in Conondale National Park. Located within easy reach from Brisbane (around a 2-hour drive), this secluded Sunshine Coast Hinterland gem boasts some seriously clear water to set the stage for your next dip. Better yet, if you’re keen to float a little longer in this turquoise oasis, camping sites are also available. While a high clearance 4WD is required to access creek crossing areas, local tour operator Sunny Jeeps can take you through for an unforgettable summer adventure in this special part of the world.

Baxter Falls

Crafting your list of Sunshine Coast waterfalls to escape to? Don’t miss Baxter Falls. Featuring a suspension bridge and plenty of greenery along the way, you’ll find this lesser known (but stunning) waterfall tucked up in the northern tail end of Kondalilla National Park. Make sure to set aside a couple of hours to complete the round trip to Baxter Falls – we recommend setting out early on summer days to make the most of the cooler morning air. Like all our waterfalls, Baxter Falls looks its finest after rainfall, so make sure to keep an eye on local weather forecasts before setting out.

Seary's Creek

Seary's Creek, Rainbow Beach, Gympie Region

Shh... we might have just found the pot of gold at the end of Rainbow Beach. Located just over an hour and a half from Noosa Heads, the clear, cold water in Seary’s Creek has a stunning amber colour thanks to the tannins from the surrounding vegetation. Skip the pool and bring your inflatables along for a float here, where tiny rainbowfish flit beneath the surface. With a day-use carpark close by, this is the ideal spot to hang out with mates and hide away from the summer heat.

Buderim Forest Park and Falls

Serenity is the name of the game at Buderim Forest Park, where tranquil falls and bubbling streams await. Keep cool under the dense rainforest canopy as you stroll along a scenic boardwalk before hitting the trail to a footbridge and the iconic waterfall itself. This natural beauty also turns it on come rain or shine, with the natural soundtrack of streams and falls dialling up a notch after a shower.

Plus, did you know? Buderim Forest Park is less than a 20-minute drive from the beach, making it easy to enjoy the Sunshine Coast’s ‘surf and turf’ without travelling too far.

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny, Sunshine Coast Hinterland

It doesn’t get much cooler than dense subtropical rainforest blocking out the summer sun! Take a break from the heat and make tracks for Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in Maleny, where spectacular views and wildlife-spotting opportunities await. Be sure to download the ‘Forest Detective Trail Guide’ if you’re travelling with kids, and see if they can tick buttress roots, pademelons and strangler figs off their list! You’ll also find plenty of loops to explore, with wheelchair accessibility on the Glider Gallery Boardwalk (via the Rainforest Discovery Centre) and the Butterfly Walk.

Mudjimba Beach

Couple at Mudjimba Beach, Mudjimba, Sunshine Coast

If Mudjimba Beach isn’t already on your summer line up, it’s time to hit *update* on the itinerary. This quieter local spot will set you up for the ultimate combo of refreshing ocean dips and iconic Sunshine Coast views out to Mudjimba Island. You’ll also still be close to all the action, with the popular coastal hubs of Coolum and Maroochydore within easy driving distance.

Kings Beach Ocean Pool (and Kings Beach)

If you think the Sunshine Coast is ALL sandy beach, think again! Caloundra is home to our very own ocean pool that’s well worth a splash. Patrolled by lifeguards in the summer, this 25m sea water pool has plenty of shaded spots and seats to relax away from the sun... not to mention a special beachfront view. When it’s time for some real wave action, you can head straight down to the sand for a dip in the magnificent blue waters of Caloundra’s Kings Beach.

Please note: while our waterfalls are stunning, they can also be dangerous. Always stick to marked trails, follow any local signage and check park alerts before you visit at parks.qld.gov.au