Discover the Sunshine Coast's Top Beaches
Queensland's Sunshine Coast boasts some of Australia's most stunning beaches, offering powdery sand, pristine waters, and abundant sunshine. From Caloundra's golden shores to Noosa's bush-backed bays, the Sunshine Coast is a beloved holiday spot, perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and beach strolls.
Whether you're after a romantic cove, family-friendly waves, or a scenic picnic area, the Sunshine Coast has a beach to suit every preference.
1. Main Beach, Noosa Heads
Main Beach at Noosa Heads is a sun-drenched, north-facing gem ideal for families and surfers. It's close to Noosa's attractions and offers gentle swells for beginners and challenging waves at First Point for experienced surfers. Nearby, Noosa National Park offers scenic trails, while Hastings Street provides shopping and dining options. For a quieter experience, Little Cove is just around the corner.
2. Mooloolaba Beach
Mooloolaba Beach is vibrant and picturesque, with volleyball courts, picnic areas, and a scenic boardwalk. It's also one of the safest beaches, with gentle waves and year-round lifeguard patrols. Surf schools offer lessons, and nearby accommodations include the Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park.
3. Sunshine Beach
Sunshine Beach is a less crowded alternative to Noosa's Main Beach, offering excellent surfing conditions and wildlife sightings, including humpback whales and dolphins. The nearby Sunshine Beach Village has dog-friendly cafés and restaurants, and the beach itself has an off-leash area for dogs.
4. Peregian Beach
Peregian Beach is a wind-swept haven with a charming village atmosphere, featuring shops, cafés, and a playground. The Peregian Beach Markets offer a lively shopping experience on select Sundays.
5. Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach caters to surfers, swimmers, and beach strollers, with a patrolled beach and a variety of surf breaks. The area has eateries, shops, and the Coolum Beach Holiday Park for longer stays.
6. Tea Tree Bay, Noosa National Park
Tea Tree Bay is a secluded surf spot within Noosa National Park, offering a natural escape with rock pools and scenic coves like Alexandria Bay.
7. Mudjimba Beach
Mudjimba Beach is a versatile destination with ocean and riverfront activities, including swimming, surfing, and kayaking. The nearby Mudjimba Island is a snorkeling hotspot, and the beach area has a dog-friendly section and family-friendly amenities.
8. Kings Beach, Caloundra
Kings Beach in Caloundra is a family favorite, featuring a gentle beach break, rock pools, a water park, and an oceanfront saltwater pool. Dining options are conveniently close.
9. Marcoola Beach
Marcoola Beach is a tranquil spot with picnic facilities and a playground. The Marcoola Market offers food stalls and live music on Friday afternoons.
10. Cotton Tree & Maroochydore Beach
Cotton Tree is ideal for families, with calm waters and picnic areas, while Maroochydore Beach offers more surf action. The area is rich in dining and shopping options.
11. Alexandra Headland
Alexandra Headland is a bustling beach with surf breaks, scenic views, and a coastal trail. It's a popular picnic and sunset spot, with a skate park and eateries nearby.
12. Bulcock Beach
Bulcock Beach in Caloundra is a picturesque picnic location with calm waters, dolphin sightings, and the Caloundra Coastal Walk. Shops and cafés are just across the street, and the Rumba Beach Resort offers luxurious accommodations.