A blissfully laid-back region with so much for couples to savour, including some of the best beaches in the world and a hinterland boasting quaint towns and villages, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is perfect for both a quick romantic getaway and a more extended stay such as a honeymoon or holiday.
Whether you’re chasing adventure, looking to wine and dine your love, or you want just to relax on the golden shores that have earned the Sunshine Coast world fame, there’s an idyllic spot (or 20!) here for you.
Ready to escape to where the sun shines? We’ve got plenty of ideas to inspire a perfect Sunshine Coast romantic getaway full of adventures and experiences that you’ll both treasure.
Related article: 8 short break locations under 2 hours from Brisbane
Why You’ll Love A Sunshine Coast Romantic Getaway
Within two hours’ drive north of Brisbane, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast locales have all the makings for a romantic getaway – stunning scenery, amazing dining and fabulous accommodation. Whether you’re dreaming of escaping to golden sands and crystalline waters or whimsical hinterland, you’ll discover it all here.
With a collection of captivating spots (Noosa, Maleny, Montville, Mooloolaba and Maroochydore are extraordinary options) just a short distance from each other, enjoying all that this gorgeous region has to offer seems almost too easy.
Related: The Best Restaurants in Noosa To Dine At Now
What to do on The Sunshine Coast
Escaping to the beach the first thing on your mind? You’re spoiled for choice in the aptly named Sunshine Coast, with a slew of postcard-ready pockets of sand scattered across the region. Ninety minutes’ drive north of Brisbane, Maroochydore and nearby Mooloolaba will have beach-lovers in their element. Hit the main beaches here (Maroochydore Beach and Mooloolaba Beach) for a little sand and sunshine before toasting your romantic getaway with a refreshing brew at one of the many local surf clubs. Simple, perfect!
On the hunt for Queensland’s most Insta-ready beaches? There’s a reason why Noosa (just over two hours’ drive north of Brisbane) is such a popular option for couples seeking a coastal getaway. Here, you’ll find a spectacular beach (Noosa Main Beach) just steps from high-end boutiques and world-class dining hotspots. Want to go beyond the golden shoreline?
Explore the magnificent Noosa National Park while in the region, take a dip in its romantic Fairy Pools and hit the surf at Boiling Point Lookout. You can keep going and trek from the Noosa headland to Sunshine Beach, which takes around 2.5 hours (treat yourself to a meal at Sunshine Beach Surf Club and grab an Uber back if you can’t face walking both ways!).
If you aren’t walking to Sunshine Beach, you can reach it by car in a few minutes from Noosa. It’s a chilled seaside village with a few restaurants, hip bars, cafes, a stunning surf club, and a few takeaways. Sunshine Beach is less known to international tourists than its famous big brother Noosa and is perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. It’s one of our favourite Sunshine Coast romantic getaway destinations.
There’s more to the Sunshine Coast than sun-kissed beaches, though…
Romantics, head into the lush hinterland and prepare to be totally enchanted. You’ll want to time your trip to include a stop at he colourful Eumundi markets in the Noosa Hinterland. These iconic markets are held each Wednesday and Saturday and are loaded with food stalls, unique gifts, local produce, handicrafts, clothing and homewares.
Further inland is the Blackall Range, a region of stunning beauty and beloved for the charming cafes and boutiques, relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking valley views. Maleny and Montville are the two main towns here and a must-visit any time of year. From wandering along their main streets to wine-tasting and brewery tours, there’s so much here to enjoy.
Adventure-seekers, be sure to explore the beautiful Kondalilla Falls circuit. Before your walk, you can even enjoy a picnic with barbecues, picnic tables, and toilets, all not far from the car park. Once you are refreshed, hit the circuit – you’ll be impressed by the lush rainforest, but the waterfall at the base is first prize. There are over 300 stairs on the Kondalilla Falls circuit, so you need to be reasonably fit and allow enough time to enjoy this energising walk.
Be sure to experience the ‘country life’ and meet the sweet-faced residents of Maleny Dairies for a marvellous day out, or binge on some cheese at Maleny Cheese Factory which overlooks its own working dairy factory.
Haven’t yet had your fill of delightful hinterland locales? Nearby Mapleton and Flaxton are also worth visiting, with lovely dining spots and more sensational views. Or, make your way to Mount Coolum (30 minutes’ drive east of the hinterland) and get your heart racing when you climb to its impressive peak. Trust us, you’ll want to get out of bed early – overlooking the azure coastline, the 208-metre-high mountain (the track here will take around 45 minutes to climb) is one of the best spots in Queensland for watching the sun rise.
Where to dine on your Sunshine Coast romantic getaway
With such verdant hinterland and fantastic coast, the Sunshine Coast offers truly outstanding produce – gourmands, you’re in for a treat.
A go-to foodie destination that’s home to an array of acclaimed dining spots, Noosa and nearby Noosaville should definitely be on couples’ itineraries. Top spots here for seafood and water views include Wasabi Restaurnt & Bar, Noosa Boathouse, Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant, Bistro C and Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar. Cherished for its delicious Italian cuisine, Locale also promises a wonderful meal, while Paradise Arcade and the original Betty’s Burgers are great for something casual.
Before leaving Noosa, pull up a chair at funky Asian eatery Sum Yung Guys at Noosaville (under five minutes’ drive from Noosa Heads). Co-owned by MasterChef season eight runner-up Matt Sinclair, it’s a winner for mouthwatering dishes and excellent drinks.
Thirty minutes’ drive southeast of Noosa Heads, Yandina should also be on gourmands’ radars. A beautiful country town with friendly locals and a relaxed vibe, it’s where you’ll come across the renowned Spirit House. Spoil yourselves with one of its indulgent banquets if you’re (very!) hungry, or join one of its cooking classes to get clued-up on making exquisite Asian fare.
Basing yourselves in Mooloolaba? Don’t miss lunch at Rice Boi or visit the multi-award-winning Augello’s Ristorante & Pizzaria for irrisistable Italian and dreamy beach views. Backlane Tapas & Wine Bar is also perfect for a romantic dinner, while trendy Pier 33 will win over couples with its chic style, beautifully presented share plates and marina setting. Maroochydore top of your list? Set your sights for local foodie gems Junk Maroochydore, Tome and The Silva Spoon.
If you’re heading into the hinterland, you’ll also find a vast range of brilliant dining options. For something a little bit special, book a table at the hatted Long Apron at Montville’s Spices Clovelly Estate. Another notable offering from the Spicers group, The Tamarind Restaurant at Maleny’s Spicers Tamarind Retreat is cherished for its Thai-inspired cuisine.
After something a little more casual? Maleny’s main street is blessed with a number of remarkable eateries, including Maple 3 Cafe and local treasure Maleny Food Co. – you can’t come here without trying its multi-award-winning gelato. In fact, eight of their flavours won gold at the DIAA Queensland Dairy Product Competition. Our pick? The hazelnut sorbet is real ‘desert island dish’ material.
As you can see, you’ll need more than just one weekend to discover all there is to do and see on The Sunshine Coast. Our tip is to spend at least a week exploring, or plan several romantic getaways to this glorious region!
Helpful links:
Play: Maleny Dairies // Maleny Cheese Factory // Eumundi Markets
Eat & Drink: Wasabi Restaurnt & Bar // Noosa Boathouse // Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant // Bistro C// Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar // Locale // Paradise Arcade // Betty’s Burgers // Sum Yung Guys // Spirit House // Rice Boi // Augello’s Ristorante & Pizzaria // Backlane Tapas & Wine Bar // Pier 33 // Junk Maroochydore // Tome Maroochydore // The Silva Spoon // The Long Apron// The Tamarind Restaurant // Maple 3 Cafe // Maleny Food Co.
Dreaming of a romantic short break? Find beautiful Queensland accommodation here…
Image credits: Tourism and Events Queensland, Venues featured and Ming Nomchong