Our favourite beaches on the Sunshine Coast
No trip to the Sunshine Coast is complete without some beach time, and with over 30 beaches spanning approximately 60km of stunning coastline, there are plenty of options. Whether you prefer to dip your toes in the sand where it’s lively and buzzing, or tranquil and secluded, the Sunshine Coast has the perfect beach for you to sunbathe, swim, walk, surf, or paddleboard! Here are our favourites.
Noosa Main Beach
Noosa Main Beach tends to be the busiest beach on the Sunshine Coast, but for good reason! The beautiful turquoise waters are patrolled all year round, providing a safe swimming spot whilst the gentle waves are ideal for learning to surf. The cafes, restaurants, and bars of Hastings Street fringe the divine sand, offering no shortage of options for food and drinks with a view.
Alexandria Bay
If you’re looking for more secluded sand to escape to, Alexandria Heads could be the perfect beach for you if you’re up for the 3km scenic hike required to get there. You can forget about the rest of the world in this spot so isolated that it was previously a nudist beach. The waters are unpatrolled, but for those who are competent, it is a delightful place to swim and surf. Due to its remote location, it’s best to bring enough food and drinks to last the day.
Moffat Beach
Located in Caloundra, Moffat Beach offers a sense of serenity whilst still being close to an array of cafes along the main strip, as well as one of the area’s finest breweries: Moffat Beach Brewing Co. A favourite spot amongst the surfer crowd this beach is also home to Australia’s longest-running surf competition, the Ma and Pa Bendall Classic. The protected inlet is a tempting place for a dip, however, the beach is not patrolled. For less confident swimmers, neighbouring Tooway Creek provides a lovely alternative.
Peregian Beach
A 10-minute drive from Noosa will deliver you to the charming seaside town of Peregian Beach. It’s worth taking a stroll around the grassy village square and visiting the Peregian Beach Markets if you happen to be here on the right day before venturing down to the sand. The beach itself is pretty and relaxed, just as the village is, and is patrolled year-round for safe swimming.
Rainbow Beach
Situated between Fraser Island and Cooloola National Park, heavenly Rainbow Beach has plenty to offer its visitors. Those with 4x4s can drive onto the idyllic sand and embark on the Great Beach Drive, consisting of 50km of sandy driving and breathtaking beach views. The surrounding national park and subtropical rainforest are home to an array of spectacular walking trails, whilst the water itself attracts surfers and kayakers.