Sunshine Coast – 5 Day Self Drive Itinerary
The Sunshine Coast averages seven hours of sunshine daily - one of the highest ratings in the world. The atmosphere here is casual and relaxed, perfect for great holiday. For children, the Sunshine Coast offers safe beaches, wildlife and educational adventures; and for parents a chance to enjoy the traditional Aussie holiday. Or if you prefer self-indulgence Noosa is the perfect spot.
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Day 1.
Brisbane to Noosa
Noosa is an easy 1 and a half hour drive from Brisbane via the beachside towns of Mooloolaba, Maroochydore and Coolum Beach. Noosa has a unique combination of sophisticated charm, subtropical climate, golden beaches and bush clad coves and bays. The township of Noosa Heads is set on the edge of Noosa National Park where you can spend some time bush walking or browsing the boutique shops and cafes.
Day 2.
Blackall Range
Take a drive up to the hills behind Noosa to the Blackall Range. Here you can visit the pretty towns of Flaxton, Mapleton and Montville — these areas are home to many artisans and the galleries here feature some of Australia’s best-known artists. Carry on to Mary Cairncross Park for the best views of the Glass House Mountains.
Day 3.
Rainbow Beach
Leaving early, drive north to the Cooloola National Park and take a river cruise through the Everglades (allow 4 hours for the cruise). On the way to Rainbow Beach you may want to stop by Gympie - a historic gold mining town. At Tin Can Bay you may be lucky enough to see dolphins particularly in the morning.
Join one of the daily island tours which leave from Rainbow Beach and explore Fraser, the largest sand island in the world. The island is home to pristine creeks and rainforest and to over 265 species of birds, including pelicans, ospreys and kingfishers.
Day 4.
Spend the day in and around Noosa
There are plenty of options within an hours drive of the town. For families, visit Underwater World and The Ginger Factory at Yandina, the Big Kart Track, the House of Bottles and The Big Pineapple. Take a Camel Safari from Tewantin or hire a pontoon boat complete with barbecue and spend the afternoon cruising and swimming along the Noosa river waterways.
Do some shopping at the local markets — the best known are in the nearby towns of Eumundi, Peregian, Maleny and Buderim.