Sunshine Coast Attractions

Sunshine Coast is located on the southeastern part of Queensland, north of Brisbane and is a well known tourist destination.

There are many attractions that draw visitors to this area the whole year through. Apart from its numerous beaches, visitors also flock to the famed Australia Zoo, made famous world wide by the late Steve Irwin and is now owned by his wife Terri. The zoo boasts of an extensive collection of animals, both native and foreign to the country, and is still undergoing expansion. The zoo offers visitors chance for visitors to get near some of the animals and some may even get to feed them. Among its famous shows are the 'Wildlife Warriors 101' and the 'Elephantasia.'

Creatures of the marine kind are the main attractions of the UnderWater World, considered as both a wildlife sanctuary as well as a marine park. The whole family will surely enjoy a stroll down the shark tunnel, where most of the marine creatures sheltered in the facility can be viewed. Apart from presenting animal shows, UnderWater World also imparts information on wildlife conservation. Visitors shouldn’t miss its Crawly Creature exhibit, featuring the largest collection of crab species in the world.

There are also several natural attractions located nearby. One is the Kondalilla National Park, where bushwalking and animal viewing can be done. There are also several vantage points for viewing spectacular scenery of the coast and the surrounding forest.

Then there’s the Glass House Mountains, a uniquely-shaped attraction named by famed explorer Captain James Cook. These mountains are also classified as a national park where people can come and enjoy Mother Nature to the fullest. Some visitors also come here to try their luck in rock-climbing, particularly Mount Tibrogargan and Mt Beerwah. Though this activity is certainly not for the fainthearted, the views on the summits are certainly worth the endeavor.

Other natural attractions well worth a visit or two are the Great Sandy National Park and the Mapleton Falls National Park.

The Sunshine Coast also boasts of one iconic landmark that shouldn’t be missed by any visitor—the Big Pineapple. Located in Woombye, this unique structure stands at 16 meters. The landmark is also located within a working farm with fruit orchards and, yes, pineapple plantations. Tours are offered around the facility, aboard the Nut Mobile or a small train. There is also a small animal farm within where animal feedings can be done on schedule.

Another interesting establishment to visit would be The Buderim Ginger Factory in Yandina. This factory is operational up to the present and welcomes visitors who want to observe the production of its confectionery products made mostly out of ginger. The establishment also features exhibits related to their operations as well as several shops and restaurants within the premises.

Urban leisure isn’t neglected when one comes to the Sunshine Coast. Golfing enthusiasts would be glad to know that the area has several golf courses to choose from. Destinations for a game or two of this sport include the Hyatt Regency Coolum, the Pacific Harbour, or the Pelican Waters.