Top 12 Sunshine Coast Beaches
When planning your next beach holiday, exploring the top 12 Sunshine Coast beaches is a must. These stunning coastal gems offer everything from crystal-clear waters to perfect surfing conditions. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventurous day in the waves, the Sunshine Coast has the ideal beach for you. Dive into our list of the top 12 Sunshine Coast beaches and discover your next favourite destination.
1. Noosa Main Beach
Noosa Main Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its gentle waves and pristine sands. The beach’s north-facing orientation provides calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and beginner surfers. It’s one of the few beaches in Australia patrolled year-round, ensuring a safe environment for families. Noosa Main Beach also offers easy access to the vibrant Hastings Street, where visitors can explore high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. The nearby Noosa National Park provides stunning coastal walks with breathtaking ocean views, making Noosa Main Beach a well-rounded destination.
2. Mooloolaba Beach
Mooloolaba Beach is a favourite for locals and tourists, offering a stunning combination of soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, with gentle waves for all ages. Mooloolaba Beach is also a hub for water activities like paddle boarding, jet skiing, and kayaking. The beachfront esplanade has trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal spot for a full day out. Mooloolaba’s protected harbor is home to the famous SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, an aquarium that’s a must-visit for families. The beach’s central location on the Sunshine Coast makes it a convenient base for exploring the region.
3. Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach is a surfing hotspot known for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. It attracts surfers from all over, offering great conditions for beginners and experienced surfers. Beyond the surf, Coolum Beach is surrounded by lush greenery, with several parks and walking trails offering spectacular coastline views. Mount Coolum, a nearby volcanic dome, provides a challenging hike with a rewarding 360-degree view at the summit. Coolum’s beachside community also boasts various cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a lively yet relaxed destination.
4. Kings Beach
Located in Caloundra, Kings Beach is a family-friendly beach that offers something for everyone. The beach features a water fountain play area for children, rock pools to explore, and a saltwater swimming pool overlooking the ocean. Kings Beach is patrolled by lifeguards, ensuring a safe environment for swimming. The beachfront also has many amenities, including BBQ areas, picnic tables, and a beachfront amphitheatre where events and live performances are often held. The surrounding area is dotted with cafes and restaurants, making Kings Beach ideal for a fun-filled day with the family.
5. Alexandra Headland
Alexandra Headland, affectionately known as “Alex,” is a picturesque beach with a strong surfing culture. It’s a popular spot for both surfers and bodyboarders, thanks to its reliable waves and relaxed vibe. The beach is also a great place to unwind, with a grassy knoll that offers stunning views of the ocean, perfect for picnics and sunset watching. Alexandra Headland is centrally located between Mooloolaba and Maroochydore, making it easy to explore the nearby attractions. The local surf club is a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a cold drink while taking in the views.
6. Sunshine Beach
Sunshine Beach, located just south of Noosa, is known for its wide, open spaces and uncrowded sands. The beach is a favorite among locals who enjoy its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. Sunshine Beach is also a great spot for surfing, with consistent waves and plenty of space to spread out. The nearby Sunshine Beach Surf Club offers stunning ocean views and is a great place to relax after a day in the sun. For those who enjoy nature, Sunshine Beach provides easy access to the southern end of Noosa National Park, where visitors can explore scenic coastal walks and spot local wildlife.
7. Peregian Beach
Peregian Beach offers a relaxed village vibe, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The beach itself is long and wide, providing plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Peregian Beach is also home to regular markets where locals sell handmade goods, fresh produce, and artisanal products. The nearby village square is lined with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, offering a variety of dining and shopping options. Peregian Beach is ideal for a laid-back day by the sea, with a charming community atmosphere that makes it feel like a hidden gem.
8. Marcoola Beach
Marcoola Beach is one of the quieter beaches on the Sunshine Coast, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and tranquility. The beach is known for its natural beauty, with long stretches of golden sand and clear waters that are perfect for swimming and surfing. Marcoola Beach is also a great spot for beach fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish. The area is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers several walking trails that allow visitors to explore the local flora and fauna. Marcoola’s relaxed atmosphere and untouched beauty make it a favorite among those seeking a more secluded beach experience.
9. Bulcock Beach
Bulcock Beach in Caloundra is a unique beach that offers calm waters and stunning views of the Glass House Mountains. The beach is located on the Pumicestone Passage, a protected waterway that’s ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Bulcock Beach is also a popular spot for fishing, with plenty of spots along the boardwalk to cast a line. The beach is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient spot to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. The sunsets at Bulcock Beach are particularly stunning, making it a great place to relax and unwind at the end of the day.
10. Mudjimba Beach
Mudjimba Beach is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil setting away from the busier beaches. The beach is known for its natural beauty, with long stretches of sandy shoreline and clear waters that are perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Mudjimba Island, located just offshore, adds to the beach’s scenic beauty and provides a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Mudjimba Beach is also dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners to bring their furry friends. The beach’s quiet and peaceful atmosphere makes it a top choice for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
11. Maroochydore Beach
Maroochydore Beach is at the heart of the Sunshine Coast’s shopping and dining precincts, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The beach offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, including surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball. Maroochydore Beach is also home to the Cotton Tree area, which features a beautiful park with BBQ facilities, picnic areas, and a large swimming pool. The nearby Ocean Street is a hub for dining and nightlife, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from. Maroochydore Beach’s central location and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination on the Sunshine Coast.
12. Golden Beach
Golden Beach is the perfect spot for families and water sports enthusiasts. The beach is located along the Pumicestone Passage, providing calm waters that are ideal for kayaking, boating, and fishing. Golden Beach is also a great spot for windsurfing and jet skiing, with plenty of space to enjoy these activities. The beach is lined with picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and playgrounds, making it a great spot for a family day out. The nearby Esplanade offers a range of dining and shopping options, as well as stunning views of the Pumicestone Passage and the Glass House Mountains. Golden Beach’s family-friendly atmosphere and range of activities make it a top choice for visitors of all ages.
