Hidden gems along the Sunshine Coast.

Beautiful beaches, pristine national parks and vibrant villages have made the Sunshine Coast one of Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. So, you could be forgiven for thinking you already know what’s on in the Sunshine Coast. BUT… among the myriad of popular attractions, there are still plenty of little-known facts and hidden gems!

For instance, did you know that Matilda, the giant kangaroo mascot that opened the 1982 Commonwealth Games, retired here? Visitors to the far northern end of the coast, will see her giving her trademark wink from her perch above a Kybong petrol station.

With Mater Prize Home lottery No. 291, you could win the ultimate Sunshine Coast prize home, share in local knowledge and enjoy the Sunshine Coast the way the locals do. Get ready for your Sunshine Coast dream lifestyle with this sneak peek at some of the treasured local sites.

Secret swimming spots

With beautiful Bokarina Beach just a short stroll from the front door of this luxury prize home, we understand that it may take a while before you feel the need to explore other swimming sites. But here are just a few of the little-known beaches, lakes and natural swimming holes you’ll want to visit when you’re ready.

Beautiful beaches off the beaten track

Nestled between the famous Kings Beach and Moffat Beach, Shelly Beach is a local favourite. The whole family will enjoy exploring the myriad rock pools that stretch along the southern end.

Pack the kids (and the dog) and enjoy a great day out at Point Cartwright and Buddina Beach where an easy walk takes you right up to the lighthouse with spectacular views. La Balsa Park has a safe swimming area, playground and BBQ facilities.

Sparkling rivers, lakes and waterfalls

While Currimundi Lake itself is fairly well-known, heading west past Ahern Bridge along the Currimundi Lake canoe trail you’ll find a secluded stretch of river that is seldom explored. While you’re there, why not amble among the beautiful wildflowers and heathland of the Kathleen McArthur Regional Park.

On warm days, a scenic stroll through the lush trails of Buderim Forest Park takes you to Serenity Falls where you can enjoy a dip in the rock pool and, if it has rained, cool off beneath a refreshing waterfall.

Hinterland hideaways

When it comes to out of the way places to go and unusual things to do, the Sunshine Coast hinterland, a short picturesque drive from your Bokarina Beach prize home, has plenty to offer.

Glorious views and natural beauty

Just north of the much busier Mount Coolum, Mount Emu offers a gentler trek without the crowds. The glorious view from the top of Mount Emu makes it a great spot for a sunrise stroll or sunset picnic.

Kondalilla Falls national park, just outside of Montville offers some of the best short walks in Queensland. The trails teem with natural beauty, meandering through creek crossings, past Kondalilla Falls lookout and to the rock pools at the base of the falls.

Bellbirds, butterflies and bushland

Take a picnic lunch and binoculars and enjoy the day at Brooloo Bellbird Habitat. While it is best known for its bellbirds, in the springtime the area also throngs with butterflies.

Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens truly is a hidden gem, with a mixture of formal and manicured gardens, rustic tracks into native bushland and a not-to-be-missed sculpture garden, there’s plenty to explore.

What’s on for local Sunshine Coast families?

Feathered friends and fabulous food

Get away from the crowds and make some feathered friends at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird Aviary. Kids of all ages can explore Maleny’s fairy-tale garden, play in the treehouse or enjoy interactive encounters with native and exotic birds in the walk-through aviaries. Bring your own picnic and enjoy the view at one of the many garden gazebos or delight in a delicious Devonshire tea at the tearoom.

And speaking of delicious food, the Coast has an endless variety for foodies to savour, from the delightful teashops at Cotton Tree Bay to Kenilworth Bakery with its giant 1 kg donuts. Not to mention, the creamy goodness of Maleny Dairies and the Cheese Factory, the lush strawberry fields at McMartin’s Farm, and the incredible taste sensations on offer at the Ginger Factory.

By the way, did you know, a Mooloolaba ice-cream shop took the Guinness World Record title for the largest parfait ever made? In 2016, Sweet Lips Creamery crammed around 30 litres of custard and ice-cream along with about 12 kg of fruit, pavlova, biscuits, and Cherry Ripe chocolates into a giant sundae glass, and used 40 cans of whipped cream for the topping!

Worlds within worlds

Capture the kids’ imaginations at the Queensland Air Museum. Transport them back in time at Bli Bli Castle and the Abbey Museum and Festival, bounce around at The Big Boing, or enjoy an outdoor adventure at the Wildlife HQ Zoo (near the famous Big Pineapple).

After a massive day out, enjoy a relaxing and romantic evening taking in the full moon along the Coolum boardwalk. You’ll get the best views halfway between the surf club and Point Perry where some stairs lead off the path and onto a lovely little grassy knoll. Be sure to pack a picnic blanket and some nibbles, settle in and soak up the unspoiled beauty.

Live local on the Sunshine Coast

You could be living local and enjoying all the pleasures that local knowledge brings with our latest Mater Prize Home lottery draw No. 291 where you could WIN the Bokarina Beach home prize package, with a total value of $1.45 Million.

A bit of a hidden gem itself, this fabulous prize home is located at Bokarina Beach – one of the last beachside developments on the Sunshine Coast. So be sure to secure your tickets in the Mater Prize Home lottery today because they will sell fast. Every ticket purchased helps Mater raise much-needed funds to provide advanced medical research and exceptional patient care. Thank you and Good Luck!