As our chilly winter days slip away, and cute wildlife offspring take up residence in the National Parks, we pop on our hiking boots and make a beeline for the great outdoors. Spring on the Sunshine Coast is all about cool mornings and warm afternoons that leisurely extend into vivid peachy sunsets. Ocean swims becoming extra inviting, trails get a makeover with stunning wildflowers and the stage is set for beachside brunches with friends. Come explore!
Catch the ‘tail end’ of the whales
Whale watching with Adventure Rafting, Sunshine Coast
Missed seeing the whales in the winter? No problem! Humpback whales and their gorgeous babies can be spotted up until near the end of October, and our local whale-watching tours operate right until the middle of spring. Head out with the crews from Noosa Thriller Ocean Adventures and Cavalier Cruises , who’ll take you near the heart of the action, or zip up the wetsuit and join the whales in the water for an unforgettable swim-with-whales experience with the crew from The Pressure Project or Sunreef. To discover more ways to see our majestic humpbacks, check out our guide.
Grab brunch
White Picket Fence in Caloundra
Make the most of our glorious sunny spring mornings and combine the best of breakfast and lunch with a side of stunning views. You’ll find abundant brunch spots on the Sunshine Coast (pictured: White Picket Fence) with each place serving up its own mouthwatering touch. Take a stroll along the Coastal Pathway at Caloundra, before stopping by the Kings Beach Bar for a feast of Okonomiyaki, Turkish eggs, and pumpkin halloumi fritters.
If something sweet is calling your name, make a mid-morning booking at Flo’s Creperie in Mooloolaba, where classic crepes come doused in a range of toppings like cinnamon, Canadian maple syrup, and banana. Turning the car away from the coast, enjoy the scenic drive up the Hinterland range to Maleny, where Monica’s Cafe serves fresh muffins that go perfectly with a cup of tea. Feeling extra hungry? Tuck into some of the Sunshine Coast’s newest restaurants here.
Hike and swim
Sunrise from Mt Coolum
With warmer days on the horizon, spring is your chance to catch an early sunrise on top of Mount Coolum. Climb through the dawn and watch the early golden light spill over the Pacific Ocean, before cooling off with a refreshing dip at Coolum Beach. If you’ve got a dog, the Mount Coolum Boardwalk is an easy alternative to a summit hike and brings plenty of native flora and unique views to the party.
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Alexandria Apartments
In the Kawana region, get your heart rate pumping with a power walk along the scenic 'Loop the Lake’ circuit, which weaves its way around Currimundi Lake. Follow up with a swim in the glassy water or hop on a stand-up paddleboard for the next part of your workout. Further north at Double Island, you’ll want to tackle the scenic 2.2km return Lighthouse Walk, which offers panoramic views of K’gari, Rainbow Beach, and Noosa. You’ll also be in the prime position to catch sight of frolicking dolphins and whales out to sea. Ready to hop in a kayak? Check out the offerings from Epic Ocean Adventures.
Enjoy a farm stay
Breakfast at Seven Peaks Farm Stay, Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Animal lovers, this one’s for you! Embrace the charm of our luxurious farm stays that’ll bring plenty of cute goodness to your spring-time holiday. Stroll through the abundant veggie patch and feed the goats at Seven Peaks Farm Stay in Beerwah, set against the backdrop of our stunning Glass House Mountains, cool off in the magnesium plunge pools at Sixty6 Acres, or embrace a date-night escape at the secluded Mayan Luxe Villas in the Noosa Hinterland. Looking for a super tranquil spot to unwind? The peaceful surroundings of Whispering Valley Cottage Retreat in Maleny will have you unwinding in no time.
Head to the markets
The Original Eumundi Markets, Eumundi
Longer days mean more time for inspiration when it comes to sourcing fresh ingredients for your next meal. We’re home to dozens of local markets, which offer everything from moreish international street food to hand-crafted treasures. Makeover your spring wardrobe at the Sunshine Coast Collective Markets, kick off your Friday night with a bang at the Marcoola Twilight Market, or enjoy the live music and eclectic mix of stalls at the Eumundi Markets. Shopping never looked (or felt) so good!
Outdoor family fun
Spring is the perfect time to get out with the family, and you can catch plenty of animal action at Australia Zoo and Wildlife HQ. Don’t miss the chance to check out Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World, which has something for everyone: from its accessible buggies and new bush tucker garden, through to its aviary filled with exotic and native bird species.
Fun at Aussie World, Sunshine Coast
Keep things interactive with the magical Zog Trail and ‘Overboard’ ride at The Ginger Factory in Yandina, get competitive as you race through the Bellingham Hedge Maze at Amaze World, or putt up a storm at spots like Maroochy River Mini Golf and Holey Moley Maroochydore. When it’s time to chase an adrenaline rush, look no further than the likes of Aussie World (the Sunshine Coast’s must-visit theme park) and the zippy fun on offer at the TreeTop Challenge. When it’s time to unwind on the water, head out on a relaxed journey with Mooloolaba Canal Cruise.
Keep things eventful
Big Pineapple Festival, Woombye
Don’t miss out on the chance to catch one of our spring events while you’re visiting the region. Music fans will find plenty to love at the Mitchell Creek Rock ‘n’ Blues Festival, held near Kandanga in the Gympie Region, while you’ll want to get in quick to score tickets to this year’s Big Pineapple Music Festival. Dose up on creative community spirit at The Rangebow Festival, and hit the great outdoors for the Ironman 70.3, the Noosa Triathlon and the Blackall 100. Be sure to also keep an eye out for upcoming gigs held at The Station!
Looking for school holiday fun to check out this spring? Check out our guide.