The winter holidays can drag on and on, especially if you have kids stuck inside and are working from home or on leave. Routines are out of whack, it may be far too cold where you live to get outside, and there’s only so much LEGO you can build or colouring in pages you can decorate. The good news is – the weather in Northern Queensland and in particular, the Sunshine Coast barely dips below 15 degrees during winter, with the sun shining year-round. Whether you’re a keen surfer who doesn’t mind a refreshing chill on your way out of the surf, or you want to find indoor activities to keep the kids entertained, the Sunshine Coast will have something for everyone.
If you want to continue travelling further North, you will find the weather gets even warmer and the attractions never fail to thrill you. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most compelling reasons to spend your winter holidays up North, and we’re certain that you won’t regret it!
The beach is a part of life for Sunshine Coast locals, and winter is no exception. The views are as relaxing and inspiring as ever, and the pure saltwater air will refresh and renew you. There may be a chill from the wind, but you can spend the day building sandcastles, searching for rocks and shells, rolling down sand dunes, and even dipping your toes into the water. Pack a picnic, a good book and a light blanket – the kids will keep themselves busy and you can relax!
Winter brings out crisp leaves, clear water, gorgeous early sunsets, fresh air, and fewer tourists than you may see in summer. You will be surprised and delighted with what you’ll find while holidaying up North on the Sunshine Coast during winter. Whether you follow your path to the Buderim Falls or Mooloolaba Spit, spend the day touring around Australia Zoo or the Maleny Botanical Gardens, these natural attractions will keep your mind entertained and your body moving. Get your heart rate up with a climb up the 25-million-year-old Volcanic dome of Mount Coolum, traverse Ewen Maddock Dam on Horseback, go for a Jet Ski ride in Caloundra, or take the 25-meter-high Tree Tops Challenge at the iconic Big Pineapple.
With every man and his dog holidaying up North during the warmer months, you may have seen a Koala from afar while waiting for a cuddle, viewed a glimpse of a stingray at Sea Life, or not been able to get into the croc arena at Australia Zoo. The wildlife at these attractions are available year-round for cuddles, scary displays and interesting education, and you may find the crowds much easier to navigate. From the cute and funny Penguins at the Sea Life Aquarium to the 700 birds flying around the Maleny Botanical Garden’s Bird World, or the huge Crocodiles leaping from the water at Australia Zoo, the Sunshine Coast has no shortage of exciting and thrilling wildlife attractions to get your heart racing and camera clicking.
The Sunshine Coast is buzzing with markets from North to South, featuring the many talented artisans that reside among the Hinterlands or by the seaside. The Eumundi Markets are a local favourite in the small Hinterlands town of Eumundi. A mere 40 minutes from Caloundra or 20 minutes from Noosa, the Eumundi markets are some of the biggest and best regular markets on this side of the Coastline. If you’d like to stay closer to the coastline, most major suburbs have their very own markets, with the Caloundra Twilight Markets on the last Friday of every month plus their regular Sunday Street Fairs, the Noosa Farmers Markets for fresh and local produce, or the Cotton Tree Markets – to name a few. If markets aren’t your thing, or if you’re looking for some shelter from the rain – the Sunshine Plaza in Maroochydore is one of Queensland’s biggest shopping centres and will have every shop you could dream of. Set aside an entire day to traverse this two-story mega mall, ending your day in one of the unique and delicious restaurants in the alfresco section of the mall, which has ample coverage and a sweet view of the Maroochy River.
You won’t experience seafood fresher than that caught in Noosa or Mooloolaba, with even the Cod from cheap fish and chips tasting like it’s jumped straight from the ocean onto your picnic rug. Keeping in tune with fresh food, you can pick strawberries at the Strawberry Fields in Palmview or enjoy gelato at the Fior De Latte Gelateria at the Mooloolaba Wharf. Foodies and picky eaters alike can rejoice with the different cuisines and high-quality dining options from Mooloolaba to Noosa. For the adults, there is a range of tours available from craft beer to wine and cheese among the Hinterlands, and romantic opportunities such as a massage for two or a night in one of Caloundra’s houseboats.
With our five top reasons to holiday up North during winter, we’re confident your winter holidays will never be boring again. With loads to do with the kids and even more for the adults, the whole family will fall in love with all that the Sunshine Coast has to offer. Experience the best of nature in weather that you only need a light jacket for, enjoy fewer crowds and easier access to popular tourist attractions, shop till you drop, and enjoy the freshest winter produce you can find. For all your winter holiday needs, G1 Holidays will have the perfect beachside apartment, hotel, bed and breakfast or luxury accommodation package ready for you.
To book an attraction or tour for your Winter or Summer getaways, click here, or browse our accommodation options.