As our chilly winter days slip away, and cute wildlife offspring takes up residence in the National Parks, we pop on our hiking boots and make a beeline for the great outdoors. Here, spring is all about cool mornings and warm afternoons that leisurely extend into vivid peachy sunsets. Ocean swims become extra inviting, trails get a makeover with stunning wildflowers, and the stage is set for beachside brunches with friends. Let’s explore!
Grab brunch
White Picket Fence, 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 here, with each place serving up its own mouthwatering touch. Take a stroll along the Coastal Pathway at Caloundra, before stopping by White Picket Fence for a trendy spread of truffled mushrooms on toast and fruit bagels, or The Giggling Goat Emporium for a crispy rosti benny.
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 blueberry muffins that go perfectly with a cup of tea.
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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In the Kawana region, get the 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.
Enjoy a farm stay
Seven Peaks Farm Stay
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, or get amongst the action of a real working farm at Wittacork Dairy Cottages. Alternatively, embrace a date-night escape at the secluded Mayan Luxe Villas in the Noosa Hinterland.
Head to the markets
Eumundi Markets
Longer days mean more time for inspiration when it comes to sourcing fresh local ingredients for your next meal. We’re home to more than16 markets, which offer everything from moreish international street food to hand-crafted treasures. Makeover your spring wardrobe at the Sunshine Coast Collective Markets, check out the feathery friends on offer at the Perma Poultry Markets in Beerburrum, or enjoy the live music and eclectic mix of stalls at the Eumundi Markets. Shopping never looked (or felt) so good!
Catch the ‘tail end’ of the whales
Whale watching with Adventure Rafting
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 crew from Noosa Thriller Ocean Adventures on their sleek, comfortable vessel which puts you straight in the heart of the action or zip up the wetsuit and join the whales in the water for an unforgettable swim-with-whales experience. To discover more ways to see our majestic humpbacks, check out our guide.
Outdoor family fun
Meet the wildlife at Australia Zoo
Spring is the perfect time to get out with the family, and you can catch all the action at Australia Zoo, where you’ll enjoy an entertaining show in the Crocoseum and catch sight of more than 1,200 gorgeous animals. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is also home to Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World, which has something for everyone: from its accessible buggies and new bush tucker garden (launching Aug 4) to its aviary filled with exotic and native bird species. Keep things interactive with the magical Zog Trail and ‘Overboard’ ride at The Ginger Factory in Yandina, or putt up a storm at spots like Maroochy River Mini Golf and Holey Moley Maroochydore.
Keep things eventful
The Big Pineapple Festival
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 spring 2024 also signals the return of a local favourite – the Big Pineapple Music Festival. This year, you can expect to hear from headliners like Tones & I, The Amity Affliction, and Golden Features, so don’t miss out on securing your ticket! If sport is more your thing, the Ironman 70.3 will kick off on 8 September, showcasing the best in the triathlon business.
Spot wildflowers
Catch a glimpse of nature’s bouquet at hidden pockets across the Sunshine Coast as winter rolls into spring. Great spots to witness these vibrant bursts of colour include the Emu Mountain Summit Walk in Noosa, and the Jowarra section in the Mooloolah River National Park. If you’re in town on the tail-end of winter, you won’t want to miss the Sunshine Coast Wildflower Festival. This beautiful festival is filled with a range of relaxing guided botany walks designed to enhance your knowledge of our local flora.