Well, tucked beyond the beaches of the Sunshine Coast is a cosmic treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Welcome to the Blackall Range Hinterland. It’s your front-row seat to the universe.
While the Sunshine Coast is famous for its sun-soaked beaches, there’s a whole other kind of natural attraction happening inland. Venture to the Blackall Range at night, and you'll find yourself beneath some of the darkest skies in the region. Thanks to minimal light pollution, these elevated hinterland areas offer incredible visibility which are perfect for spotting everything from constellations to shooting stars and even the shimmering arc of the Milky Way.
Yes, that Milky Way – the one you usually only see in sci-fi movies and desktop wallpapers.
Milky Way over Maleny Golf Club, Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Credit Dr Ken Wishaw
Why stargazing here is so special
From this unique vantage point, just 100km away from the state’s capital Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland treats stargazers to views of up to 4000 visible stars on a clear night. The altitude, combined with crisp mountain air and low humidity, gives you an astronomer’s dreamscape – without needing a telescope. And, if you’re into astrophotography, this is the kind of place that turns casual smartphone snaps into magical, galaxy-studded masterpieces.
🔭 Observatories Worth the Trip
1. Maleny Observatory
Hosted by the Brisbane Astronomical Society, this observatory offers regular public viewing nights where you can peer through powerful telescopes and get expert insights from passionate amateur astronomers. Keep an eye on the Sunshine Coast Astronomy - Qld Facebook page for upcoming events — it's a must-visit if you want to see Saturn’s rings or Jupiter’s moons up close!
2. Mapleton Observatory
At Mapleton State School, you’ll find this local gem which offers open nights and private viewings throughout the year. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned stargazer, this friendly setup makes astronomy accessible and fun for all ages.
The Trifid Nebula viewed from the Sunshine Coast credit Nathan Eikenbary
🚐 Guided tours to take you to the best spots
Mystic Mountain Tours hosts a regular Night Sky Journey (weather permitting) with local experts which includes:
- Pickup & return at gathering locations around the Sunshine Coast
- Sunset experience and talk overlooking the Glass House Mountains
- Informative presentation by leading local astronomers under the stars
- Guided live viewing through state-of-the-art telescopes
- Digital images of featured phenomena to take home
- Hot drinks provided at the viewing location to keep you warm after dark
Next tour: 15 August – Bookings and further information here
If you'd rather sprawl out on a blanket under the stars – picnic basket in hand – these scenic spots offer ideal views of the night sky with minimal light pollution and maximum serenity:
Top parks and lookouts for stargazing
Note: Parks in lower areas of the hinterland may be subject to fog during cooler nights.
✨ Make a night of it
When to go: Timing is everything!
The best nights for stargazing are cool, clear evenings away from the full moon – especially in the winter months when the air is at its driest. For serious star-spotters, apps like Star Walk or SkySafari can help you identify constellations and track celestial events like meteor showers or planetary alignments.
Starry Nights Sunshine Coast sky and tent
Pro Tips: For the ultimate stargazing experience
- Arrive before sunset – Watch the sky transition from golden to galaxy-filled.
- Pack warm layers – Mountain air can be chilly, even in summer.
- Bring binoculars or a telescope – Not essential, but they’ll make it even more mind-blowing.
- Avoid using white light – A red torch helps preserve your night vision.
- Stay safe – Let someone know where you’re going and stick to marked trails or lookouts.
Dark Sky Reserve proposal
With the Sunshine Coast’s natural advantages, a Dark Sky Reserve has been proposed by Sunshine Coast Council through the International Dark Sky Places Program.
A Dark Sky Reserve for our region
A Dark Sky Reserve is an international designation that recognises places across the world that are committed to preserving and protecting dark sites.
The 873 square kilometre reserve would be based on the Hinterland townships of Maleny, Mapleton, Montville, Witta, Flaxton and Conondale.
It would be the first reserve of its type on the east coast and only the second in Australia – watch this space (🌌 pun intended)!
Where to Stay
Starry Nights Luxury Camping
Where better to experience the Sunshine Coast’s night sky than Starry Nights Luxury Camping, nestled beside the serene waters of Petrie Creek, just 10 minutes from Montville in the Hinterland.
Starry Nights Luxury Camping offers an eco-friendly escape with a near-zero carbon footprint. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and the fresh, clean air of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, this tranquil haven promises peace and rejuvenation.
Starry Nights Luxury Camping, West Woombye
Each of our handcrafted 75sqm safari tents is thoughtfully positioned on the hillside, featuring reclaimed barn timber floors, stone-carved basins, and a cozy wood fire to keep you warm. Inside, you’ll find a king-sized bed dressed in organic linens, along with modern comforts like flushing toilets, a steaming hot shower, and a luxurious claw foot bath.
To ensure the ultimate privacy and a truly peaceful stay, only two bookings are accepted at a time on the property guaranteeing a truly exclusive and intimate experience.
