Our guide to wellness adventures on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast isn’t just a destination – it’s an invitation to reconnect with nature and find peace in breathtaking surroundings. Picture yourself winding your way along coastal roads, the salty sea breeze in your hair, golden beaches glinting in the sunlight and lush green hinterlands stretching as far as the eye can see. Here, the pace slows down, the distractions of everyday life melt away and nature takes centre stage.
Whether you’re trekking through ancient rainforests, paddling along tranquil waterways, or galloping along unspoiled beaches, the Sunshine Coast invites you to breathe deeply and recharge. With a mix of heart-pumping adventure and serene escapes, this slice of paradise has wellness experiences that cater to everyone’s tastes.
Explore pristine waters
For water lovers, the Sunshine Coast delivers in spades. Paddleboarding and kayaking are perfect for exploring the serene bays and crystal-clear inlets. In Noosa, Epic Ocean Adventures offers guided tours where you can spot playful dolphins, graceful turtles and gliding rays. It’s an active yet peaceful way to immerse yourself in the region’s coastal beauty.
The Noosa Everglades are an absolute must. One of only two everglades systems in the world, this tranquil haven is best explored on water. Take an eco-cruise with Habitat Noosa or glide through mirrored waterways on a kayak with Kanu Kapers. The lush mangroves, serene waters and thriving wildlife make it an unforgettable escape.
For a unique underwater adventure, head offshore from Mooloolaba to explore the ex-HMAS Brisbane. This decommissioned Navy warship has become a vibrant artificial reef. Snorkelers can admire the colourful coral and fish from above, while certified divers can explore the intricate structure, home to turtles, octopuses and abundant marine life. Total zen!
Adventure activities
The dramatic Glass House Mountains are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. These ancient volcanic peaks, just an hour from Brisbane, offer trails for every fitness level. Beginners can enjoy the panoramic views at Beerburrum State Forest, while seasoned hikers might tackle the challenging scramble up Mt Tibrogargan. Either way, the raw beauty of this adventure activity on the Sunshine Coast is unforgettable – a grounding experience for both body and soul. Watch out for snakes in the warmer months,
For a seaside adventure like no other, saddle up for beach horse riding on the Sunshine Coast with Rainbow Beach Horse Rides. As you trot along the vibrant coloured sands, keep an eye on the horizon – you might spot dolphins gliding gracefully through the waves or between May and October even whales.
Tranquil escapes
The Sunshine Coast isn’t all action – there are plenty of opportunities to unwind. At ikatan Spa, just outside Noosa, the Day Retreat package transports you to a Balinese paradise. Start your day with yoga or meditation, then indulge in a foot ritual, spa treatments and a nourishing lunch in lush tropical gardens. This eight-hour escape leaves you feeling utterly renewed.
For a boutique wellness experience, head to TANK Farm, a secluded 40-acre retreat. With only two guests at a time, you’ll rotate through magnesium pools, a cedar sauna and a Moroccan steam room. After your soak, enjoy a gourmet meal of detox juices and fresh, raw bites served on the deck. It’s a private and immersive experience designed to restore balance and calm.
Something a little different
Looking for unusual things to do on the Sunshine Coast? At Shambhala Farm, a 12-acre regenerative family farm on the Sunshine Coast, you can learn to grow your own food while reducing your environmental impact. Twice a year, the farm offers a 6-day Food Growing Course, blending hands-on learning with yoga and nourishing daily lunches. Guided by experienced farmers, you’ll master skills like composting, organic pest management and harvesting fresh produce, all while reconnecting with the earth and meeting like-minded individuals.
For an adventurous twist, try fossicking for gemstones with Ethical Crystals. Wander creeks and bushland with Izzy – your gem expert and lapidary artist – shares geological insights and safe fossicking practices. You'll discover and keep your own gemstones while learning their mineralogy. The experience encourages mindful collecting, and after the tour, you can explore further, enjoy a picnic, or visit a nearby giant Eucalypt cave.
Where to stay
The Sunshine Coast offers an array of accommodation options to suit every kind of traveller. For a peaceful hinterland retreat, Narrows Escape in Montville delivers sustainable luxury surrounded by nature. Tucked into the lush greenery, it’s the perfect place to unwind with the soothing sounds of the forest as your backdrop.
If you’re after something closer to the water, Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp offers a fantastic base just outside Noosa on stunning Lake Cootharaba. Whether you choose to camp or glamp, this sustainable haven immerses you in the beauty of the Everglades, creating a truly unique escape.
Those seeking coastal luxury will enjoy Essence at Peregian Beach. With its elegant design and laid-back vibe, this boutique stay effortlessly blends comfort and style. It’s a place where you can truly relax, recharge and soak in the best of Sunshine Coast living – and yes, it’s as luxurious as it sounds!
The journey to the Sunshine Coast is all part of the adventure. Just an hour’s drive north of Brisbane, the road takes you past scenic landscapes that tease the natural beauty awaiting you. Be prepared, though – the highway can get busy, especially during peak times, so plan ahead to avoid traffic jams. Prefer a more relaxed journey? The Sunshine Coast train line offers a scenic route from the city with stops stretching all the way to Gympie. While the train takes an inland path, buses are readily available to connect you to the beaches and other key destinations.
For those coming from further afield, flying into Sunshine Coast Airport in Marcoola (10km north of Maroochydore) will get you to the heart of the region without any snags. From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll feel the balmy air and laid-back vibe that defines this slice of paradise. Renting a car from the airport is your best bet for exploring each pocket of this region at your own pace. Whether cruising along coastal roads, winding through lush hinterlands, or discovering hidden gems, the freedom to roam is part of the Sunshine Coast’s undeniable charm.
Image credits: Tourism and Events Queensland, ikatan Spa, Shambala Farm.
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