12 Best Tourist Attractions on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast offers plenty to explore, from coastal lookouts with ocean views to walking trails and waterfront precincts. Whether you're after a short walk, a scenic viewpoint, or a different kind of attraction, here are the top spots worth visiting.
- 1Lookouts Noosa Heads
1. Hell's Gates
A dramatic coastal lookout offering sweeping views over the Tasman Sea. It's a must-see for photographers and anyone after an impressive vantage point of Noosa's coastline.
View venue4.8(1,142)· Google68Spot ScoreWorth a Look 
2Lookouts Caloundra2. Glass House Mountains Lookout
Capture iconic views of the distinctive volcanic peaks that give this region its character. A straightforward stop for those wanting to understand the geography and natural landscape of the area.
View venue4.7(3,806)· Google68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
3Tourist Attractions Mooloolaba3. Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout
A scenic vantage point near Mooloolaba if you want elevated views without committing to a long walk. Handy for a quick stop while exploring the central Sunshine Coast.
View venue4.7(1,045)· Google67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
4Tourist Attractions Noosa Heads4. Mount Tinbeerwah Lookout
Another Noosa viewpoint for those wanting to explore multiple perspectives across the region's northern coast and hinterland views.
View venue4.8(576)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
5Tourist Attractions Mooloolaba5. The Wharf Mooloolaba
A working waterfront precinct combining coastal scenery with dining and retail options. Visit to experience the hub of Mooloolaba's visitor activity in one spot.
View venue4.5(3,246)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Tourist Attractions Coolum Beach6. Mount Coolum Walking Trail
A walking destination if you prefer activity-based exploration. The trail provides access to elevated views and a sense of accomplishment for visitors keen on a moderate hike.
View venue4.8(403)· Google65Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Lookouts Noosa Heads7. Boiling Pot Lookout
A smaller lookout alternative in the Noosa precinct, useful if you're building an itinerary of multiple viewing spots without backtracking.
View venue4.8(385)· Google65Spot ScoreWorth a Look
8Tourist Attractions Noosa Heads8. Fairy Pools
A natural waterhole attraction offering a different experience from coastal views. Visit if you're interested in freshwater swimming or a quieter natural setting in Noosa.
View venue4.6(836)· Google65Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Tourist Attractions Mooloolaba9. Hologram Zoo Sunshine Coast
An indoor, technology-focused attraction offering a break from outdoor sightseeing. Useful on rainy days or if travelling with visitors who prefer sheltered activities.
View venue4.7(276)· Google63Spot ScoreWorth a Look
10Lookouts Noosa Heads10. Dolphin Point Lookout
A coastal lookout with wildlife-watching potential. Stop here if you're hoping to spot marine life while enjoying the view.
View venue4.7(284)· Google63Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Tourist Attractions Noosaville11. Tea Tree Bay Beach
A beach setting slightly removed from Noosa Heads proper, offering a quieter alternative if the main beaches feel crowded during peak times.
View venue4.8(208)· Google63Spot ScoreWorth a Look
12Tourist Attractions Kawana Waters12. Point Cartwright Lighthouse
A historic landmark on the southern end of the Sunshine Coast visitor trail. Visit to add architectural and maritime history to your itinerary.
View venue4.7(3,188)· Google63Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hell's Gates | 68/100 | 4.8(1,142) | — | Noosa Heads | — |
| Glass House Mountains Lookout | 68/100 | 4.7(3,806) | — | Caloundra | — |
| Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout | 67/100 | 4.7(1,045) | — | Mooloolaba | — |
| Mount Tinbeerwah Lookout | 66/100 | 4.8(576) | — | Noosa Heads | — |
| The Wharf Mooloolaba | 66/100 | 4.5(3,246) | — | Mooloolaba | — |
| Mount Coolum Walking Trail | 65/100 | 4.8(403) | — | Coolum Beach | — |
| Boiling Pot Lookout | 65/100 | 4.8(385) | — | Noosa Heads | — |
| Fairy Pools | 65/100 | 4.6(836) | — | Noosa Heads | — |
| Hologram Zoo Sunshine Coast | 63/100 | 4.7(276) | — | Mooloolaba | — |
| Dolphin Point Lookout | 63/100 | 4.7(284) | — | Noosa Heads | — |
| Tea Tree Bay Beach | 63/100 | 4.8(208) | — | Noosaville | — |
| Point Cartwright Lighthouse | 63/100 | 4.7(3,188) | — | Kawana Waters | — |
Frequently asked questions
Are these attractions free to visit?+
Most lookouts and beaches are free to access. Hologram Zoo Sunshine Coast is a paid indoor attraction. The Wharf Mooloolaba is a public precinct, though dining and retail involve separate charges. Check individual venues for any entry fees or parking costs.
Which attraction is best for families with young children?+
Hologram Zoo Sunshine Coast and The Wharf Mooloolaba offer family-friendly facilities. Fairy Pools and Tea Tree Bay Beach provide natural swimming options. Most lookouts are accessible but vary in walking difficulty.
What's the best time to visit these attractions?+
Early morning often offers clearer skies at lookouts and fewer crowds. Beach and waterfront areas can get busy during school holidays and weekends. Weather conditions affect visibility at elevated vantage points.
Are these attractions wheelchair accessible?+
Accessibility varies significantly. Lookouts may have limited access depending on carpark facilities and track conditions. The Wharf Mooloolaba and Hologram Zoo are more likely to have formal accessibility provisions. Contact specific venues to confirm.
How long should I spend at each location?+
Lookouts typically take 15–30 minutes. Beaches and waterholes suit longer visits depending on your plans. The Wharf and Hologram Zoo allow several hours. Mount Coolum Walking Trail takes longer depending on fitness and pace.
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