The 20 best things to do with kids on the Sunshine Coast

Mooloolaba Rock Pools

Nudging the main beach of Mooloolaba is a collection of rock pools that offer hours of entertainment for the little ones, as they hunt for crabs, fish, and seashells. Mooloolaba itself is an easy choice when it comes to the best things to do with kids on the Sunshine Coast thanks to ample eateries and beaches.

Kings Beach Ocean Pool

Take a dip in Caloundra’s multi-million-dollar foreshore resident the Kings Beach Ocean Pool. Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the free public swimming closure comes complete with shade sails, a 25-metre lap pool, and children’s swimming pool with wading area and disability access.

Point Cartwright

At the northern end of Kawana Beach you’ll find Point Cartwright. While best known for surfing, this sandy destination is ideal for families thanks to ample facilities; playground La Balsa Park, picnic-friendly grassy slopes, and toilets included. There’s also an off-leash dog area nearby.

Great Sandy National Park

Take the 4WD on an adventure, driving the beach at Cooloola in the Great Sandy National Park. After a ferry ride across the Noosa River you’ll reach your destination, where your day is best spent splashing in the surf and sand dunes, stopping to gaze at Red Canyon.

Nature

Convenience is key when it comes to taking the kids out for the day, which is why Gardners Falls has become a firm family favourite. The waterhole tempts young and old with its easy access - you’ll find the flowing freshwater of the natural wonder off Highway 23 near Maleny.

Tin Can Bay Wildflower Walk

Floral appreciators will have a field day (literally) along the Tin Can Bay Wildflower Walk, accessible from the corner of Emperor Street and Oyster Parade. During spring is when the trail is at its best, but don’t fear - there are a number of vibrantly hued varieties which can be enjoyed year round.

Maleny Botanic Gardens

Head for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. It’s here that you’ll find the Maleny Botanic Gardens, and 14 acres of manicured land nestled between ancient rainforest and the Glass House Mountains. It’s not just greenery here to explore - think lakes, waterfalls, peacocks, ducks, hens, roosters and more.

Wildlife

Noosa National Park

Get up close and personal with Australia’s native flora and fauna in Noosa National Park. The awe-inspiring natural stretch of sandy coves, surf spots, and ample brush is home to plenty of lizards, and birds, as well as an endearing population of koalas.

Australia Zoo

For budding zoologists there’s nowhere better than conservation haven Australia Zoo. Steve Irwin’s much loved animal sanctuary is home to a population of both local and international critters, including wombats, kangaroos, dingoes, Asian elephants, giraffes, tigers, and of course crocodiles.

Sea Life Mooloolaba

Get better acquainted with life under the sea with a trip to Sea Life. More than 10,000 marine creatures can be enjoyed here, including Australia’s largest collection of jellyfish. Walk the 80-metre-long ocean tunnel, play in the rock pools, or even swim with the seals.

Hinterland

The Ginger Factory

Learn all about one of Queensland’s most famous products with a trip to The Ginger Factory. Learn how ginger is grown, harvested, and turned into treats before climbing aboard the 118-year-old train as you explore the acres of subtropical grounds.

Eumundi Markets

Peruse the stalls of one of the nation’s biggest artisan markets, The Eumundi Markets. The popular outing is a family affair, held every Wednesday and Saturday. There’s something here for everyone - from toy stalls to produce, and live music.

Maleny Dairies

Give your kids a taste of farm life with a visit to the hinterland’s famous Maleny Dairies or neighbour Maleny Cheese. Take a tour of the dairy, greet the cows, and watch the process of milk and cheese both being made before stopping off to sample some of the goods for yourself.

Montville

Quaint Montville is well worth the drive through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Take a step back in time with the kids at this petite village in the rainforest, famed for its edible delights, from pies to fudge from the famed Fudgyboombah’s fudge shop.

Adventure

Amaze World

Let your little ones journey to a magical land at Amaze World. Here they can tackle the Bellingham Hedge Maze, a living labyrinth of Lilly Pillys; uncover fairies, troll and unicorns with an augmented reality game;  test their skills at the 18 hole mini golf course, and cool down in the water play area. And that’s only the beginning of the fun to be had.

TreeTop Challenge

Get your adrenaline pumping with a trip to the TreeTop Challenge in Woombye. Located at the iconic Big Pineapple. Spanning 10 acres of lush rainforest, weave your way through the tree canopy on 120 high ropes games, while gliding along 12 ziplines spanning up to 140 metres in length.

See the Sunshine Coast from the sand to the sea with Aquaduck, Australia’s first amphibious tour. The one-hour tour will take you along Mooloolaba Beach and the Esplanade before taking to the water and cruising the canals – be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife that call this beautiful pocket of the region, home.

Eco Noosa River Adventures

Take your family picnic to the water with Eco Noosa River Adventures. Climb aboard the eco-friendly boats and glide along the Noosa River. The boasts are self-drive which means everyone can relax and soak up the views and good vibes. There’s sun protection, soft seats and you can BYO food and drinks to keep the costs down.

Peckish? Grab a table at one of the best kid-friendly cafes and restaurants on the Sunshine Coast.