Family-Friendly Attractions on the Sunny Coast: Your Guide for a Perfect Getaway
As a parent, the art of holidaying changes drastically. The serene picture of sipping a cocktail while lazily lounging on the beach quickly evaporates when you have kids in tow. Australia's glorious Sunshine Coast offers you a holiday destination that promises not only relaxation but also plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep the kids entertained.
From stunning child-friendly beaches to adventurous hiking paths and delightful animal encounters, the Sunshine Coast is the ideal destination if you're in search of fun, educational encounters for your whole family. So, buckle up and let's embark on a journey to explore what the Sunshine Coast has to offer to families with kids.
Australia Zoo
One of the Sunshine Coast's gems is the Australia Zoo, owned by the Irwin family. This incredible place lets your kids hang out with kangaroos, take selfies with koalas and watch crocodile feedings. Be prepared for some jaw-dropping moments. This animal encounter on the Sunshine Coast is indeed a unique experience not to be missed.
Sea Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium
If you've got some young, budding scientists in your family, a visit to SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium should be on your list. Housing over 10,000 underwater creatures, there's enough to keep your little explorers endlessly fascinated. Add to this an interactive touch pool, and your trip will turn into an exciting, educational experience for the kids.
Kid-Friendly Beaches
For beach lovers, the Sunshine Coast boasts a plethora of stunning shorelines that are not only beautiful but remarkably child-friendly. Kings Beach, with its lifeguard patrolled beach and FREE beach-side swimming pool, is simply perfect to let your little ones frolic freely.
Family Hikes
If your family is more into getting active and exploring nature, several family hiking paths on the Sunshine Coast are just waiting for you. The Glass House mountains offer so many trails, you will be spoilt for choice! There are enough trails to keep you busy over your holiday and beyond.
All trails provide stunning views of the mountains and make you connect with nature while keeping your body fit. Some popular trails include the Mount Ngungun Summit Track, which is fairly easy, well-marked, and good for kids. For a more challenging hike, try the Mount Tibrogargan Circuit, which features steep climbs and breathtaking panoramic views.
Other solid options include the short but beautiful Wild Horse Mountain Lookout trail (steep walk, best at sunset, don't do it if you have bad knees) and the tranquil Buderim Forest Park and Falls. Don't forget to check out the Glass House Mountains Lookout, just off the Steve Irwin Way. The Mount Beerburrum Track is very challenging due to its steepness (another one that's not for those with bad knees!), has amazing views as a payoff.
Remember to bring along a hat, apply sunscreen, and carry plenty of water. Also, ensure that your footwear is right for hiking, for your comfort and safety.
Apart from hiking, the Sunshine Coast offers other family-friendly outdoor activities such as paddle-boarding, surfing, snorkeling, and more! There are also plenty of parks and playgrounds for children to enjoy. So, start planning your nature-filled getaway on the Sunshine Coast now!
Aussie World Theme Park
If time and budget permit, a trip to Aussie World, a family-friendly
theme park packed with rides and attractions, is worth a visit. Located in Palmview, just 20 minutes drive from Caloundra, provides a
full day of fun for the entire family. With everything from thrill rides
to calm, kid-friendly attractions, there's something for everyone. This
venue truly lives by its motto: "Fun's Our Thing!"
Treat
yourselves to unlimited rides, including the Dingo Racer spinnimg coaster,
the Redback, and the enchanting Bug Run. Test your
skills and try winning prizes at a variety of game stalls, or immerse in the fascinating
world under the sea at the Professor Bogglesworth's Illusionarium.
Food
and refreshment options are also plentiful with many themed eateries
boasting delicious meals and treats. The venue also caters to those with
special dietary needs. The whole family can indulgence in fairy floss,
popcorn, ice cream, and more!
Unfortunately, Aussie World does not offer
annual passes any longer. But even a
single-day visit to this park will leave you with memories to treasure long after your holiday is over.
More affordable outings
When you’re considering your Sunshine Coast
travel plan with kids, budgeting becomes paramount. In this case, you
can look forward to some fantastic affordable outings.
1. Go
to the Beach: This is worth mentioning again, as it's probably one of your main reasons for visiting the coast! The Sunshine Coast is dotted with several family-friendly
beaches that offer beautiful surroundings and a variety of fun
activities. Bulcock Beach, Mooloolaba Beach, Kings Beach, and Noosa Main Beach are
particularly popular for their calmer waters, perfect for kids to swim and
paddle, plus, these ones all have lifeguards on duty. Grab a boogie board, or visit one of the beach playgrounds.
2. Explore the Glass House Mountains National Park:
As mentioned earlier, this wonderful park offers several walking and
hiking trails suitable for all ages. So pack a picnic and enjoy a day
out in the wild, it's free!
3. Botanic Gardens: Visit one of
the many botanical garden spaces or rain forest walks available such as the Maroochy Regional
Bushland Botanic Garden or Noosa Botanic Gardens. They offer free entry
and have beautiful picnic spots, peaceful walking trails, and even bird
watching opportunities.
4. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve:
This rain forest reserve deciphers the story of local fauna. The reserve
comes with a Discovery Centre, play space, cafe, and plenty of photo opportunities. Watch for pademelons!
5. Sunshine Castle, Bli Bli:
Operating on borrowed time. The last time we drove past, we saw this was for sale! There is an entry fee of around $10 (Jan 2024) They are now offering self-guided mini tours and access around the property is more limited than it once was.
6. The Big Boing, Birtinya: Great entertainment for a rainy day. Admission is between $13-$22 AUD. Booking ahead is crucial during holiday times to avoid disappointment. You will need to purchase special grip socks if you don't already have a set. They were around $5 when we went (Dec 2023)
7. Rollerdrome, Caloundra: They have ice skating during summer holidays! Dec-Jan. Rest of the year is a regular roller rink. Prices are $15-17 per person, plus hire. What you hire varies the cost. For example, ice skate/blade hire is $6.50 per person and you need to bring your own helmet.
Whether you're on a see-it-all-in-one-day mission or taking it easy over a few days, there's something to bring a smile to everyone's face on the Sunshine Coast. From the green hills to the blue ocean, the cool forests to the sunny beaches, and the thrill of Aussie World - it's guaranteed to be a holiday packed with joy and laughter.
Check out our list of Sunshine Coast beaches while you are here!
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