You've come to the right place for school holiday fun.
With spring bringing a dreamy combo of warm days and cool nights, the conditions are primed for getting out and about across our region.
From checking out our BIGGEST attractions to zipping along rides at the Sunshine Coast’s legendary theme park, let’s explore!
Animal encounters
Meerkat encounter at Wildlife HQ, Woombye, Sunshine Coast
Kids animal crazy? With everything from ocean tunnels to giraffe encounters on the agenda, there’s plenty to keep them entertained this spring. Your first stop is Australia Zoo, where the kids will be kept busy with plenty of Spring Holiday Fun. Keep the animal action coming with a visit to Wildlife HQ, which is also accessible via the Big Pineapple Train, or hop in a kayak with Epic Ocean Adventures and see if you can spot dolphins frolicking in the wild.
Family at Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
If you combine stunning views of the Glass House Mountains with plenty of feathered (and furry!) friends, you’ll end up with Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World. Here, you can take a fully guided aviary tour and say g’day to the miniature farm animals, before enjoying a picnic in the scenic grounds. Looking for a different kind of animal encounter? We suggest a visit to the Hologram Zoo in Nambour!
When it’s time to take the fun ‘underwater’, head over to Mooloolaba for a visit to SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, where checking out the Little Blue Penguins, discovering the epic ocean tunnel and enjoying plenty of seal antics is just the start of the fun.
Adrenaline rush
Zip along the Rush Coaster (Australia’s first indoor air coaster) at Rush Adventureland in Maroochydore, before tackling the Ninja Course and Hyper Bumper Cars. Next up? Put your racing energy into gear as you zoom across the Big Kart Track and get competitive with some Laser Tag action at Laserzone Sunshine Coast.
SX360 at Aussie World, Sunshine Coast
Next door to the Big Pineapple, you’ll find the TreeTop Challenge – an epic adventure hub surrounded by lush rainforest that’s teeming with ziplines and high ropes (age restrictions vary). A visit to the Sunshine Coast also isn’t complete without a visit to the Sunshine Coast’s legendary theme park: Aussie World. Thrill-seekers will find plenty to love on the likes of the Dingo Racer and the SX360, while the little ones can keep busy on the Giggle Go-Round and more. Plus, Aussie World knows that while daytime rides are plenty of fun, a NIGHT of rides is where the real holiday vibes are at. Make sure you book a ticket to Ride the Night: Fireworks, Foam and Fun, on September 19, where plenty of thrills await after dark.
Explore the coast
Surf Lesson at Coolum Surf School, Coolum Beach
Nothing says spring like a day spent exploring the coast! Top of your list for getting you from A to B is eco Tekk, who offer e-bike hires and tours. As you cruise along the coastal pathways, make sure to keep an eye out for splashing whale tails out to sea as the annual migration continues.
Keen to get a better look at the whales? You’ll still find plenty of activity in the ocean during the early stages of spring, so don’t miss the chance to head out with one of our local tour operators for an unforgettable #SunshineMoment in nature. For kiddies wanting to get out on the waves, you can score the ultimate trio of spring sunshine, school holidays and surfing lessons with the crews from the Coolum Surf School and Go Ride a Wave Noosa, who will have you honing your board skills in no time.
Eat and drink
Fish & chip picnic, Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
It’s no secret that school holiday fun works up an appetite! Make the most of the warm spring evenings and grab an early dinner at kid-friendly spots like The Doonan, where you’ll find a slide and spring free trampolines to keep the little ones entertained. Other must-visit spots that’ll have the family coming back for more include eateries at The Wharf Mooloolaba, Matso’s Sunshine Coast in Eumundi, and Mooloolaba Fisheries on the Spit for some takeaway fish and chips.
Stay the night
Family accommodation at Big4 Caloundra Waterfront, Sunshine Coast
With DAYS of school holiday fun to uncover, you’ll want to stay the night on the Sunshine Coast to make the most of it all. Set up the tent or caravan at spots like Borumba Deer Park and Kookaburra Park, or discover the magic of watching kangaroos splashing through the shallows of Lake Cootharaba at Habitat Noosa. For some waterslide action, head south to the BIG4 Caloundra – home to everything from gorgeous views of the Pumicestone Passage to a sparkling lagoon-style pool. Alternatively, the whole family will love escaping to the lush beauty of Kondalilla Eco Resort.
Camping at Cotton Tree Holiday Park, Sunshine Coast
Keep things coastal (and central!) at spots like the Cotton Tree Holiday Park, or head over to Alexandra Headland, where you’ll have easy beach access thanks to accommodation offerings like the Grand Palais Boolarong Beachside, Mandolin Beachfront Resort, and Alexandria Apartments. Planning a Mooloolaba holiday? Make sure you check out Coco Mooloolaba and Osprey Apartments, where attractions like SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium are only a short drive away.
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Family fun
Zog Trail at The Ginger Factory, Yandina, Sunshine Coast
Tickle your tastebuds and get set to explore the grounds of The Ginger Factory in Yandina, or stop by the Big Pineapple for a selfie and to ride the Pineapple Train. For even more train action, head north to where the Mary Valley Rattler awaits. This historic experience features a range of train journeys to choose from, as well as a memorable station cafe. Other must-dos to add to your school holiday list include getting competitive with a visit to Amaze World, hitting the (mini) greens at Holey Moley in Maroochydore and Maroochy River Mini Golf. Any budding aviation enthusiasts will love a visit to the LifeFlight Jocelyn Walker Visitor Experience and Education Centre: a free experience where the kids can jump in aircraft simulator and take to the skies.
Looking for more things to do? Get more inspiration here.
Visit Sunshine Coast recommends checking with each operator about opening times and terms and conditions. It is also advisable to book ahead with attractions/tours and dining venues due to limited capacities and to avoid disappointment.
By Visit Sunshine Coast
Published 20 days ago
