Now that the weather is getting warmer, it’s time to unwrap yourself from the cosy blankets, put your favourite TV show on hold, and get out of the house. Here are a few day trips to take that will have you feeling ready to conquer the world again.
Springbrook National Park
There are many different walks to choose from, ranging from 10 minute walks to 3 hour walks. Whichever one you choose, the views are breathtaking. Also make sure to stop by one of the waterfalls for a dip. The water is freezing all year round, but it’s the perfect way to finish a walk through the rainforest.
Mt Warning
If you’re dedicated enough to leave home at 4am, you can walk up and wake up with the sunrise. Make sure to take headlamps because it will be completely dark when walking through the forest! You may also run into the occasional wild possum, bat, or spider, making you feel like a real Steve Irwin.
Noosaville
This is a great place to get involved in some water sports. Follow a round of jet skiing or paddle boarding with a swim and some good food. Maybe grab lunch to takeaway and sit on a bench by the river so that you can watch the water sports world go by. Finish off your day with buying strawberries from friendly locals and patting the happy dogs on the streets.
Burleigh Heads
Head down to Burleigh Heads national park to start your day with a walk through the headlands. You can choose to do either the rainforest walk or the ocean view walk, which are both around 2.5km return. Once you’re done, reward yourself with a dip in Tallebudgera creek, and some lunch at one of the many on-trend cafes.
Mt Tibrogargan
Mt Tibrogargan is a goodie if you’re looking for a challenge. It’s a steep walk to the top, involving quite a lot of rock scrambling. Once you reach the top, you will be greeted by a magnificent 360-degree view of mountain ranges and coastal lines. On the drive back, stop by Caloundra for a swim and some unbelievably satisfying fish and chips.
Rainbow Bay
Rainbow Bay feels like a perfect mix of Stradbroke Island and Noosa, with great views from the top of the hill, calm coves to swim in, cute shops to browse, and a variety of tasty food. Rainbow Bay also lies on the border of New South Wales and Queensland, so feel free to run across the border for thirty times like a looney just because you can.
Hot Air Balloon ride over the Scenic Rim
This day trip is a little pricier than others, but it’s an amazing time! You get to experience life in the clouds at 6000 feet above ground, floating over farms and forests’. It’s oddly relaxing watching tractors drive along their crops and horses meandering through the fields. Some Hot Air balloon companies even offer complimentary breakfast, making the 3:50am wake up time completely worth it.
Sunshine Coast Collective Markets
If you’re looking for unique, hand-made clothing, accessories, house décor, or even dog beds, these markets are for you. As you walk through the stalls, enjoy the creative, friendly atmosphere as well as music played by talented emerging musicians. And don’t forget to grab a coffee and a fresh baked goods before you hit the road again.