Summer on the Sunshine Coast means sunrise swims at Mooloolaba Beach, long alfresco lunches on Hastings Street, and golden sunsets over the Maroochy River. It’s peak season for good reason-school holidays, warm ocean temperatures, lively markets, and a full events calendar. Popularity brings crowds, so planning matters. This guide shares 10 Sunshine Coast travel tips for first-time visitors, covering where to stay, what to pack, the best beaches, and how to enjoy a relaxed, stress-free summer holiday.

Tip 1: Book Accommodation Early for Summer Travel

Summer accommodation fills fast, especially in Noosa Heads, Mooloolaba Esplanade, and Caloundra. January, long weekends, and school holidays often sell out months ahead. Book at least one to two months early for better rates and availability.

Highlight: LOEA Group Accommodation
Address: 361 Bradman Ave, Maroochydore QLD 4558

LOEA offers up to 15% off group stays, ideal for families and friends. Its central Maroochydore location provides easy access to beaches, Cotton Tree Park, Sunshine Plaza, and Sunshine Coast Airport - perfect for longer summer stays.
Explore rooms: https://www.loea.com.au/rooms

Tip 2: Choose the Right Sunshine Coast Area for Your Travel Style

Noosa

Noosa is iconic for a reason. Swim at Noosa Main Beach or the quieter Little Cove, then walk the Noosa National Park Coastal Track to Tea Tree Bay for ocean views and wildlife sightings. Hastings Street offers stylish shopping and dining, ideal for couples and first-time visitors seeking a classic coastal experience.

Mooloolaba

Mooloolaba Beach is north-facing, patrolled, and one of the safest swimming beaches in summer. Evenings are relaxed and social along the Mooloolaba Esplanade, while SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast makes it a family favourite. It’s perfect for travellers who want beach time without the buzz of Noosa.

Caloundra

For a quieter pace, Caloundra delivers. Enjoy calm waters at Kings Beach and Bulcock Beach, walk the scenic Caloundra Coastal Walk, or kayak along Pumicestone Passage. It’s an excellent choice for families and travellers seeking space and calm.

Sunshine Coast Hinterland (Maleny & Montville)

Escape the beach heat in the Hinterland. Visit Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, swim at Gardners Falls, and browse boutiques in Montville Village. Cooler temperatures and rainforest views offer a refreshing contrast to the coast.

Tip 3: Plan Your Summer Activities on the Sunshine Coast

Popular attractions book out quickly in summer. Plan early and start days early to avoid heat and crowds.

Family & Iconic Attractions

Australia Zoo (Beerwah)
One of Queensland’s most famous attractions, Australia Zoo is a must-visit for families. Founded by Steve Irwin, the zoo offers live wildlife shows, up-close animal encounters, and shaded walking paths - ideal for summer visits if you arrive early.
Address: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah QLD 4519

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast (Mooloolaba)
Perfect for hot or rainy summer days, this indoor aquarium showcases sharks, rays, turtles, and tropical fish. It’s centrally located near the beach, making it easy to combine with a coastal lunch or swim.
Address: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

The Ginger Factory (Yandina)
A relaxed, family-friendly stop featuring factory tours, scenic train rides, gardens, and cafés. It’s a great break from the beach and particularly popular with younger children.
Address: 50 Pioneer Road, Yandina QLD 4561

Aussie World (Palmview)
A compact theme park offering classic rides, family-friendly attractions, and carnival-style fun. It’s less overwhelming than larger theme parks and well-suited for half-day visits.
Address: 73 Frizzo Road, Palmview QLD 4553

Markets & Local Experiences

Eumundi Markets
Held every Wednesday and Saturday, these iconic markets are famous for handmade crafts, local art, fashion, and gourmet food. Arrive early in summer to beat the crowds and heat.
Address: 80 Memorial Drive, Eumundi QLD 4562

Cotton Tree Twilight Markets
Set along the Maroochy River, these evening markets offer street food, handmade goods, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe - perfect for warm summer nights.
Address: King Street, Cotton Tree, Maroochydore QLD 4558

Maroochydore Moonlight Markets
A lively night market featuring food trucks, live music, and pop-up stalls. It’s a great way to experience local culture after a day at the beach.
Address: The MET, 5/19 Market Lane, Maroochydore QLD 4558

Water & Outdoor Experiences

Glass House Mountains
Ideal for early-morning hikes in summer, the Glass House Mountains offer panoramic views across the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Adventurous travellers can also try guided rock climbing or abseiling experiences.
Address: Glass House Mountains National Park, Glass House Mountains QLD 4518

Noosa National Park
Explore coastal walking trails leading to hidden coves and pristine beaches. The Coastal Track is especially popular - go early to avoid heat and crowds.
Address: Park Road, Noosa Heads QLD 4567

Gardners Falls
A freshwater swimming hole surrounded by rainforest near Maleny, perfect for cooling off after a hinterland drive.
Address: Obi Obi Road, Maleny QLD 4552

Surf Lessons (Mooloolaba & Noosa)
Summer waves are ideal for beginners. Both Mooloolaba Beach and Noosa Main Beach offer professional surf schools with gentle conditions.
Address: Mooloolaba Beach: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557
Address: Noosa Main Beach: Noosa Parade, Noosa Heads QLD 4567

Kayaking, Paddleboarding & Boating
Calm waterways like the Maroochy and Noosa Rivers are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. You can also hire a boat for a scenic self-drive cruise along the Noosa River.
Address: Maroochy River: Bradman Avenue, Maroochydore QLD 4558
Address: Noosa River: Gympie Terrace, Noosaville QLD 4566

Whale Watching (Seasonal)
From July to October, humpback whales migrate past the coast. Tours depart from Mooloolaba Marina and offer unforgettable ocean encounters.
Address: Mooloolaba Marina, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

Discover more attractions here: https://www.loea.com.au/sunshine-coast-attractions

Tip 4: Prepare for the Sunshine Coast Summer Climate

Summer temperatures average 28 - 29°C, with warm evenings, high UV levels, and moderate to high humidity. Pack smart to stay comfortable.

Summer packing essentials include:

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen
Hat, sunglasses, and rash vest
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Reusable water bottle
Insect repellent for evenings

Tip 5: Plan Your Transport & Driving Ahead

If you’re driving, check tyres, fluids, air-conditioning, and brakes before arrival. Expect congestion near beaches, shopping centres, and popular dining areas during peak periods. Use alternative parking zones such as Noosa Junction or Sunshine Plaza.

Rideshare services work well for summer evenings. Book rental cars early to avoid peak pricing. While public transport (Sunbus and Queensland Rail) services main routes, car hire offers the most flexibility, especially for visiting the Hinterland, Glass House Mountains, Eumundi, and quieter coastal towns.

Tip 6: Make the Most of Summer Evenings

Evenings are when the Sunshine Coast truly shines. Cooler temperatures invite twilight markets, outdoor concerts, and community events. Enjoy sunset picnics by the river, beachside dining with ocean breezes, or casual drinks overlooking the water. Seasonal festivals vary each year but add energy and colour to summer nights.

Tip 7: Plan Relaxed Day Trips

It’s tempting to overpack your itinerary, but the Sunshine Coast rewards slow travel. Popular day trips include Brisbane (South Bank and Roma Street Parkland), the Gold Coast (Broadwater Parklands and theme parks), and Hinterland escapes to waterfalls and scenic lookouts. Balance active sightseeing with relaxed coastal mornings to avoid burnout.

Tip 8: Make Summer Travel Easy for Families

The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most family-friendly destinations. Shaded coastal walks in Noosa National Park, picnic areas and public BBQs at Cotton Tree Park, botanical gardens, playgrounds, and calm swimming beaches make travel easy with kids. Central accommodation reduces daily driving and heat fatigue, keeping everyone happier.

Tip 9: Enjoy Fresh Local Seafood by the Coast

Summer is peak season for seafood on the Sunshine Coast, when warm waters and local fisheries deliver exceptionally fresh prawns, fish, oysters, and bugs. Must-try seafood spots on the Sunshine Coast

Tides Waterfront Dining - Caloundra
Located right on Bulcock Beach, Tides Waterfront Dining offers elevated seafood dishes with uninterrupted water views. It’s ideal for long summer lunches or sunset dinners, especially for couples or special occasions.
Address: 115 Bulcock Street, Caloundra QLD 4551

Prawn Star - Mooloolaba
An iconic Sunshine Coast experience, Prawn Star is a floating seafood bar at Mooloolaba Wharf. Expect freshly cooked local prawns, bugs, oysters, and champagne in a casual, no-frills setting - perfect for a relaxed summer afternoon.
Address: The Wharf Mooloolaba, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

Psari Seafood Bar & Grill - Mooloolaba
Specializing in modern Mediterranean-style seafood, Psari is known for premium grilled fish, shared plates, and a stylish coastal atmosphere. A great option for dinner after a beach day.
Address: 4/19 River Esplanade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

Mooloolaba Fisheries - Casual Takeaway
If you’re craving classic fish and chips or want to enjoy fresh seafood back at the beach or accommodation, Mooloolaba Fisheries is a local favourite. Fast, fresh, and perfect for summer evenings.
Address: The Wharf Mooloolaba, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

Noosa Boathouse - Noosaville
Set directly on the Noosa River, Noosa Boathouse is a relaxed, family-friendly venue serving fresh seafood, modern Australian dishes, and wood-fired pizza. The riverfront setting is especially beautiful at sunset.
Address: 194 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville QLD 4566

Explore more dining options: https://www.loea.com.au/sunshine-coast-restaurants

Tip 10: Slow Down & Enjoy the Sunshine Coast Lifestyle

What sets the Sunshine Coast apart is its pace. Warm, beach-friendly weather, distinct coastal towns, outdoor adventures, and a strong café culture create a holiday vibe that feels relaxed even during peak season. It’s less hectic than major cities, making it perfect for first-time visitors seeking balance.

Best Time to Visit the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is a year-round destination, but timing depends on your priorities.

Summer (December - February

Summer is peak season on the Sunshine Coast, bringing warm temperatures, long sunny days, and ideal conditions for ocean-based activities. It’s the best time for swimming, surfing, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkelling. Top beaches to visit in summer include Mooloolaba Beach, Noosa Main Beach, and Alexandra Headland.

Winter (June - September)

Winter on the Sunshine Coast is mild and dry, making it perfect for outdoor adventures without the summer heat. Cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking and sightseeing in the hinterland, where rainforest trails, waterfalls, and panoramic lookouts shine.

Popular winter hiking spots include the Glasshouse Mountains, Mapleton Falls, and Noosa National Park. It’s also a great time to explore charming hinterland towns like Maleny and Montville, enjoy scenic drives, and dine at cozy cafés with mountain views.

Whale Watching Season (July - October)

From July to October, the Sunshine Coast becomes one of Queensland’s prime whale-watching destinations. Whale-watching tours depart from Mooloolaba Marina and Noosa, offering close-up encounters and informative guided experiences.

Choose LOEA Boutique for a Relaxed Sunshine Coast Summer Stay

Summer on the Sunshine Coast is vibrant and full of energy - but it can also be busy. LOEA Boutique Hotel offers a calm, boutique-style alternative for travellers seeking comfort, flexibility, and a more relaxed pace during peak season.

Located in Maroochydore, LOEA Boutique Hotel places you right in the heart of the Sunshine Coast. From here, you’re just minutes from popular beaches like Mooloolaba Beach and Alexandra Headland, close to major shopping and dining precincts, and a short drive from Sunshine Coast Airport, making arrivals and departures seamless.

LOEA is particularly well-suited to summer holidays, offering spacious accommodation ideal for couples, families, and group stays. Its pet-friendly policy makes it a standout choice for travellers who want to bring their four-legged companions along for the adventure. With easy access to coastal walks, outdoor activities, cafés, and day trips across the region, LOEA provides a flexible base to explore without the stress of constantly relocating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is summer the best time to visit the Sunshine Coast?

Yes. Summer is ideal for beach lovers and water-based activities such as swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and boating. While it’s the busiest time of year, planning ahead ensures you make the most of the sunshine and vibrant coastal atmosphere.

2. What’s the best area to stay on the Sunshine Coast for first-time visitors?

Noosa and Mooloolaba are popular choices for first-time visitors thanks to their beaches and dining scenes. Maroochydore is a great alternative, offering central access to the entire coast, easy transport connections, and a more flexible base for exploring both the beach and hinterland.

3. What should I pack for a Sunshine Coast summer holiday?

Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. A reusable water bottle and a light jacket for evenings are also useful.

4. Are there free things to do on the Sunshine Coast in summer?

Absolutely. The Sunshine Coast offers plenty of free experiences, including beaches, coastal walks, local markets, picnic areas, scenic lookouts, and national parks - perfect for budget-friendly summer travel.

5. Is the Sunshine Coast suitable for family holidays?

Yes. With calm patrolled beaches, family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and plenty of open space, the Sunshine Coast is considered one of Australia’s top destinations for family holidays.

10 Sunshine Coast Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors This Summer