Explore the Sunshine Coast

Things to Do on the Sunshine Coast

While on your beach vacation at Chateau Royale Maroochydore on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, you can chill out on Maroochydore Beach or in the local parks and picnic areas, “shop ‘til you drop” at nearby Sunshine Plaza Shopping Centre, go fishing along the banks of the Maroochy River or stroll through the Cotton Tree Sunday markets.

For those who want more than relaxing in the sun, sightseeing is made easy with a long list of places to visit and things to do on the Sunshine Coast, including:

Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo Australia Zoo is the home of the famous Crocodile Hunter and offers a full day of wildlife action and adventure for everyone, with over 13 wildlife shows daily including crocs, snakes and birds.
Underwater World
Underwater World Underwater World is Queensland’s largest aquarium & oceanarium, featuring the world famous 80 metre underwater viewing tunnel and has 14 interactive shows and presentations daily.
Aussie World and Ettamogah Pub
Aussie World Aussie World is home to over 30 rides and games for everyone of all ages. It has mini golf and a side show alley, and is home to the iconic Ettamogah Pub.
Big Kart Track
Big Kart Track Big Kart is the largest commercial go-kart track in Australia. The track is 1.2km in length and 8 metres wide for those wanting to get their adrenaline running!
Top Shots Fun Park
Top Shots Top Shots has two of the best 18 hole adventure mini golf courses in Queensland (one undercover), and also has an indoor rock wall and video games arcade.
Nutworks Macadamia Factory
Nutworks At the Macadamia Factory you can view the macadamia nut processing, chocolate coating and confectionary area, and sample many different flavours of nuts.
The Big Pineapple
Big Pineapple The Big Pineapple is set on a working farm of nearly 400 acres and grows over 100 varieties of plants and fruits. Experience a ride on the authentic sugar cane train or take a visit to the koala and fauna sanctuary.
Eumundi Markets
Eumundi Markets The famous outdoor Eumundi Markets are a must do on the Sunshine Coast! There are more than 500 stalls of arts, crafts, clothing, jewellery, plants, produce and much more. Open Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
Sunshine Castle at Bli Bli
Sunshine Castle Sunshine Castle offers excitement, enchantment, and education as you pass through the doors of this Norman style castle with medieval additions, complete with moat, turrets, towers and drawbridge.
The Ginger Factory
Ginger Factory If you’re looking for something a bit different, why not spend a day experiencing the delicious food, fabulous shopping and entertaining tours of the Ginger Factory, which is home to the world’s finest ginger.
Bellingham Maze
Bellingham Maze Take the family to ‘get lost’ in the Bellingham Maze with 2 metre high rows of hedges. Added attractions include rope maze, tyre maze, hay bale maze, mini puzzles and bird aviary.
Super Bee Honey Factory
Super Bee An educational and fund day out, the Honey Factory offers Australia’s only live beekeeping demonstration and the chance to taste 28 types of honey. Also has mini-golf and a merry-go-round.
Motor Gliding
Motor Gliding See the glories of the Sunshine Coast from your self-launching glider – flies like an ordinary aeroplane, and can soar on silent wings. The most exciting scenic experience you will ever have!
Forest Glen Sactuary
Forest Glen Become part of the wilderness environment on the unique safari drive. The 24 hectare animal sanctuary is home to colonies of deer, emus, kangaroos and other Australian Wildlife. Hand feed the deer from your own car!
Eco’ River Cruises
Eco River Cruise Cruise the tranquil waterways of the Maroochy River exploring the hidden treasures of the wetland and coastal and rainforest habitats and see a variety of wildlife.
Ski & Skurf and Suncoast Barra Fishing Park
Ski n Skurf Ski & Skurf offers a fun and unique experience to help you master knee boarding, skurfing, skiing or wakeboarding in a safe environment.
The Suncoast Barra Fishing Park is located beside Ski & Skurf, and is a must for the fishing enthusiast.

Other things to do close by include:

  • Touring the Glasshouse Mountains and hinterland
  • Browsing the Montville art and craft village
  • Wine trails
  • Whale watching at Hervey Bay
  • Golfing at Horton Park and Twin Waters Golf Courses
  • Exploring Fraser Island
  • Scuba diving the HMAS Brisbane
  • Horse riding
  • Boat hire
  • Jet skiing
  • Kayaking
  • Skydiving
  • Fishing

Buy your Underwater World attraction tickets from Reception to receive a discount on normal admission prices!

Car Hire
If you wish to explore the local area or to travel further afield, car hire is available in Maroochydore at very competitive rates. Let us arrange car hire for you for the duration of your stay. Pick up can even be organised from the Sunshine Coast Airport!