Beautiful coastal region north of Brisbane with Noosa, Mooloolaba, and Glass House Mountains.

About Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast stretches from Caloundra in the south to Noosa Heads in the north, offering a more relaxed, nature-focused beach holiday than the Gold Coast\'s high-rise energy. Noosa is the crown jewel — a sophisticated yet laid-back town where Hastings Street\'s boutiques and restaurants meet the pristine surf beach and the coastal trails of Noosa National Park, home to koalas and spectacular headland views.

Mooloolaba and Maroochydore form the commercial center of the coast, with Mooloolaba\'s sheltered beach and esplanade offering excellent swimming and the UnderWater World aquarium. Cotton Tree, at the mouth of the Maroochy River, is a picturesque spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Alexandra Headland and Kings Beach in Caloundra provide more local beach experiences.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a highlight often missed by beach-focused visitors. The charming villages of Montville, Maleny, and Mapleton sit in the Blackall Range, offering craft galleries, artisan food producers, country markets, and stunning views across the Glass House Mountains to the coast. Australia Zoo (founded by Steve Irwin\'s family) in Beerwah is the region\'s most famous attraction, drawing visitors for its interactive wildlife experiences and conservation programs.

Nearby Landmarks

Noosa National Park Australia Zoo Glass House Mountains Eumundi Markets

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost A$200-260 ($133-173)
Time 1.5-2 hours

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost Not available
Time 1.5-2 hours

Arrivals level

Train (No direct train)

Cost A$50 ($33)
Time 1.5-2 hours
Frequency Multiple daily (book ahead)

Step-by-Step Directions

Con-X-ion shuttle buses depart from outside arrivals. Book online in advance. Alternatively, rent a car for flexibility exploring the Sunshine Coast.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi A$200-260 ($133-173) 1.5-2 hours Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare Not available 1.5-2 hours Budget-conscious, app users
Train A$50 ($33) 1.5-2 hours Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

After midnight, a taxi or Uber from Brisbane Airport to the Sunshine Coast costs AUD 180-250 depending on the specific destination (Caloundra vs Noosa). Pre-booked shuttle services (Con-X-ion, Sunbus) are the most common option. There is no direct train to the Sunshine Coast from the airport. Most visitors arrange accommodation transfers or rent a car.

Luggage Tips

A rental car is the most practical option for the Sunshine Coast — the region is spread out and public transport is limited. Pre-booked shuttles handle luggage well. If staying in Noosa, you'll likely want a car for exploring the hinterland and different beaches. Luggage storage at Brisbane Airport is available if making a day trip.

Accessibility

Brisbane Airport is fully accessible. Sunshine Coast beaches vary in accessibility — Noosa Main Beach, Mooloolaba Beach, and Kings Beach have wheelchair-accessible paths and beach matting during peak season. Australia Zoo is wheelchair accessible throughout. Hinterland villages have limited accessibility due to hilly terrain. Rental cars with hand controls can be arranged at Brisbane Airport.