Grab your camera for the 10 most beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is a place well-known for its ample good looks. But while this stretch of beaches and hinterland north of Brisbane may be synonymous with beauty, that’s not to say that there aren’t some extra-special stand-out spots. From staggering lookouts to eye-catching coves, here are the 10 most beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast.

Noosa National Park

Noosa is undeniably the jewel in the crown of the Sunshine Coast region, a resort town increasingly popular thanks to its combination of fine diners, and stunning beach access. But part of its appeal also lies in the neighbouring Noosa National Park, a reserve that plays host to a collection of bushwalking tracks, swimming (and surfing) coves, and native animals galore that deserves some of your attention.

Double Island Point

Some of the most beautiful places in the Sunshine Coast require you to travel a little further afield. Like Double Island Point, a gathering of crystalline waters and white sands that’s accessible only by 4WD. Sitting in the Great Sandy National Park, this scenic headland boasts mesmerising views of neighbouring Fraser Island and makes for an ideal day trip - just remember to pack a picnic. You can also take to the water here with Epic Ocean Adventures.

Little Cove

While there’s no shortage of beaches to choose from on the Sunshine Coast, some are more memorable than others. Nudging Noosa National Park is Little Cove, a picturesque swimming (and if you’re lucky surfing) spot that is particularly popular among families thanks to its protected waters. Drop by for a dip pre-wander into the famous Hastings Street.

Spirit House

While Noosa is overflowing with award-winning eateries, it’s in nearby Yandina that you’ll find one of the Sunshine Coast’s most famous venues. The Spirit House is an essential addition to any list of the most beautiful places in the Sunshine Coast - the Asian-focused eatery is not only home to a revered cooking school, but a restaurant housed in traditional Thai buildings, set amongst a tropical rainforest of luscious foliage, pond included.

Noosa Everglades

It’s not just beautiful beaches in these parts which constitute the waterways available to explore - the Noosa Everglades is undeniably another of the most beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast. One of only two everglade systems in the world, this ecologically diverse destination stretches 60 kilometres long and is nicknamed the ‘river of mirrors’ for its calm and reflective waters.

Montville

Among the towns that cluster among the rolling hills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland sits the historic town of Montville on the Blackall Range. The picturesque strip has long drawn tourists to its main drag, the township was first settled in 1887 and today consists of a quaint gathering of cafes, boutiques, and galleries.

Mt Ngungun

Grab some decent walking shoes - you’re about to embark on an adventure to the top of Mt Ngungun. At 253 metres in height, this place is the sixth tallest of the Glass House Mountains and a very popular hike due to its views of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin and Mount Beerwah from the summit, not to mention the surrounding coastline. But do keep in mind a moderate level of fitness is required as it is a grade 4 track.

Maleny Botanic Gardens

One of the most beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast but arguably one of the lesser known is the Maleny Botanic Gardens. Settled in one of the hinterland’s most popular towns, this unique, privately owned garden is spread across 18 acres. If the flora here doesn’t tempt you the fauna will - there are four walk-through aviaries present, home to 700 native and exotic birds from around the globe.

Kondalilla Falls

You’ll find plenty to choose from when it comes to waterfalls across the Sunshine Coast. But most famously is the Kondalilla Falls, a 90 metre high stretch that means ‘rushing waters’ in the local indigenous language. While getting to the Kondalilla National Park resident is no easy feat - more than 100 stairs are featured on the 4.7 kilometre Kondalilla Falls Circuit walk - the views from the lookout promise to make the effort worth it.

Booloumba Creek

While Kondalilla Falls may be the Sunshine Coast’s most famous natural water feature, Boolumba Falls is just as beautiful, but far more secluded. Nestled deep within Conondale National Park, expect serenity aplenty, with this natural wonder surrounded by rainforest and boulders aplenty. You will need a 4WD to gain access but the effort will be worth it - you can even cool off with a splash in its adjoining rock pool.