Get out and about this summer

Hit the eclectic mix of boutiques

Who doesn’t like browsing clothing, beauty and homewares boutiques? Well, the Coast has plenty of quality, quirky and stylish stores. Visit Buderim, Mooloolaba Esplanade, Maroochydore, Caloundra’s Bulcock Street and Bulcock Esplanade and you are sure to find something to suit any taste. The Coast also has a great assortment of op shops for second-hand, vintage finds. Some to check out include the Salvation Army on Nicklin Way, Sanctuary Op Shop on the corner of Walan and Smith streets in Mooloolaba and Bloomhill Cancer Care Op Shop on Bulcock Street, Caloundra.

Appreciate the view at Mary Cairncross reserve

Head on up to Maleny if you haven’t yet had a chance to check out the renewal of Mary Cairncross reserve. The Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Rainforest Discovery Centre opened in February, allowing you to appreciate the 55 hectares of subtropical rainforest which overlooks the Glass House Mountains. Access the glider gallery walk or take a stroll through the rainforest for the cost of a gold coin donation.

Chase some local produce on a foodie trail

The Sunshine Coast has more than 500 food and beverage producers, and you can support this sector and sample what’s on offer. Check our the Seasons of the Sun website (seasonsofthesun.com.au) to discover some of the local producers and growers. Otherwise, tour Maleny Dairies, a family-owned business that has a rich range of dairy produce and runs tours of the grounds. Then top it off by heading to the Noosa Farmers Market between 7am and midday on Sundays. It’s at the Noosa Australian Football Club on Weyba Road. Grab some coffee and breakfast before sampling fresh produce from the region’s farmers. Other markets to explore include the Twilight Markets at Bulcock Beach every Friday evening during the holidays, the Big Pineapple markets every Saturday morning or Maroochydore’s Fisherman’s Road markets every Sunday morning.

Hunt for some marine life in the rock pools

Take a trip to Shelly Beach, located between Moffat and Kings beaches. This little stretch has ankle-deep rock pools to explore, plus it is usually a bit quieter, with great views to enjoy a picnic.

Take your pooch for a play

On the north shore of Currimundi Lake there is a one-kilometre stretch of sand that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Your pet will love playing in the lake’s calm waters, which are also perfect for a swim or paddle, plus there’s a patrolled beach further up the shore.

Witness the talent at Alex skate park

Alexandra Headland’s skate park has recently been revamped to include a five-foot mini pipe, four-foot mini bowl, a split-level advanced bowl and lots of other features for every trick. The park is suitable for all levels, but if you would prefer to just sit back and watch the talent on display you can relax under the new shelters, which even have USB phone chargers.

Do some Rock climbing

Bring out your inner Tarzan by checking out one of the Coast’s rock climbing gyms. Try Rockit Climbing Gym in Warana or Adventure Empire in Caloundra. They have walls for most skill levels and present a fun and unique way to stay active.

Relax in the Botanic gardens

Head to Tanawha to discover the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, which showcases the beautiful flora and fauna flourishing in the 82-hectare forest. The garden is beautifully landscaped with sculptures to view, and a centre to learn about the origins of the gardens along with some great walks.

Have a Breakfast barbecue

What better way to kick off your morning than with a barbie by the beach. Choose a scenic location such as Caloundra’s Happy Valley to set up camp and enjoy a morning swim, scenic views and wholesome brekkie.

FAST FACTS

Our Sunshine Coast
Population: 346,522
Median age: 44 years
The Sunshine Coast is the third most populated region in Queensland.
We are home to more individual national parks than any other region in Queensland.
The number of international visitors increased by 16.2 per cent, with a total of 291,000 visitors in 2016.
In that year those international visitors spent $266 million.
Source: Sunshine Coast Council