Discover the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Towns | Planning Your Perfect Weekend Away

Escape the hustle and bustle of the coastal area of the Sunshine Coast to the tranquillity of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland towns intertwined among mountains, lakes, waterfalls and forests. Whether you are looking for a restful retreat, a romantic weekend away or a scenic afternoon drive, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland will tantalise your senses and leave you feeling at one with nature.

No matter how long you plan on spending in the region, there is plenty to see and do. Home to over 500 artists, explore the many unique art galleries and studios displaying original works made by local artists.  

Get lost in lively markets showcasing local produce and products, or indulge in long lunches at the many quirky cafes, gourmet restaurants and heritage pubs scattered throughout the towns of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. If wineries, craft breweries and distilleries are more your thing, you have plenty to choose from!

For those looking for a little adventure, explore one of the Sunshine Coast Hinterlands hiking trails ranging from leisurely strolls to strenuous hikes. You will be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of lush green valleys, the ancient volcanic peaks of mountains and the glorious Pacific Ocean. You can also test your mountain bike skills, conquer a mountain, go horse riding, or chase waterfalls.

If this sounds appealing, read on for more information about thirteen Sunshine Coast Hinterland towns that are well worth a visit.

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Did You Know?

• In 1770, James Cook on the deck of HMS Bark Endeavour became the first known white settler to sight the Glass House Mountain Range.
• In 1842, Governor George Gipps had the entire Sunshine Coast and hinterland from Mt Beerwah north to roughly Eumundi declared a “Bunya Bunya Reserve” for the protection of the bunya tree due to the importance of bunya groves in Aboriginal culture.
• During the Gympie Gold Rush in 1867, prospectors scaled the Sunshine Coast Hinterland mountains to develop easier roadways to and from the gold fields of Gympie. After construction of the railway line to Gympie, the coastal and river towns, being mostly ports for the early river-trade, were bypassed.

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“The sun shines brightest from the peaks of mountains.”

– We Dream of Travel –

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How to Get to the Towns of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is located on the Blackall Range mountain range about 35 minutes’ drive from the coast west up into the mountains. If you’re coming directly from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland towns are about a 1.5 hour drive north of Brisbane, or around 100 kilometres via the Bruce Highway onto Steve Irwin Way, and then onto Maleny-Montville Road.

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When to Visit the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Towns

Visitors to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland towns can enjoy a sub-tropical climate tempered by the ocean. It is never very hot and rarely very cold. The temperature ranges from 21°C to 28°C in the height of summer and 10°C to 20°C in winter.

With warm sunny days and cool cosy nights, winter in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland towns  are perfect if you love open fires. In summer, tropical lightning storms are common and they are best viewed in the evening with a glass of wine in hand.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Beerwah

This charming town has transitioned from a rural farming and timber community to a flourishing township linking city to country with Sunshine Coast beaches at its doorstep. It has retained its beautiful country appeal and offers a down-to-earth atmosphere with all the facilities you might need for a comfortable stay on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

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Reasons To Visit

Australia Zoo – Made famous by the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin and attracts international and domestic tourists

Mount Beerwah – The largest of the Glasshouse Mountains, Mount Beerwah is a steep 2.6km return trip, but you will be rewarded with panoramic views across the Sunshine Coast from the summit.

Beerwah Markets – Held on the first Saturday of each month in the Scouts Hall, on Steve Irwin Way from 8am to 1pm.

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Eat

Simpson Street – Offers a variety of dine in or take-away options including Bombay Bliss (Indian food).

The Garden – Extensive pub menu offering Australian and International cuisine.

Mrs Browns Espresso & Bar – Lovely café offering great coffee and breakfast menu.

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Shop

Beerwah Village – Offering a diverse mix of shopping, dining and services on the corner of Peachester Road and Simpson Street.

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Stay

BYO tent or caravan and embrace the natural beauty of Beerwah by staying at one of the many camp grounds. There are also lots of B&B’s dotted on the outskirts of town.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Cooroy

Cooroy is a small Noosa Hinterland town, just a few kilometres north of Eumundi. Despite its small size, Cooroy boasts natural beauty matched with amazing history, industry and creativity. The township of Cooroy offers a picturesque place to escape and embrace nature.

The name Cooroy, originally spelt Coorooey, is derived from the language of the traditional owners, the Gubbi Gubbi / Kabi Kabi people, and it means ‘possum’. Before Europeans arrived, the land around Mt Cooroy was covered in thick rainforest and magnificent stands of tall timber.

Surrounded by state forests including West Cooroy, Yurol and Ringtail, Cooroy also shares its name with Mt Cooroy. The forests are intertwined with walking, biking, horse-riding and bird trails, offering something to suit everyone.

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Reasons To Visit

Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre – The venue is a converted old butter factory that was built in 1930. The butter factory closed in 1975 and was purchased by Noosa Council for use as a community centre in 1991. The Butter Factory hosts workshops, a range of events, and new solo and curated group exhibitions opening every four to six weeks.

Cooroy Heritage Walk – Discover this historic township, with a rich history in the timber industry, on the Cooroy Heritage Walk. 

Cooroy Markets – Farmer and craft market occurring each Thursday morning at the town centre’s Memorial Hall.

Lake MacDonald – Created after the construction of the Noosa Shire Dam in 1965, it is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and relax by the water’s edge. Boating, fishing, and canoeing are also favourite recreational activities in the lake area.

Noosa Botanical Garden – Wander through the 8 hectare botanical garden with native varieties of plants nearby and a Greek-style amphitheatre that serves as a venue for outdoor opera and other events throughout the year.

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Eat

Maple Street (or venture down one of the side streets) – Cooroy is bursting with dining options to suit every taste bud.

Copperhead Restaurant and Brewery – One of a new wave of Brew Pubs that has a creative beer menu and quality food. Try the Copperhead Platter of pate, smoked pork sausages and smoked meats served with stout onion jam and pickles.

Saw and Mill – If you are looking for a meal with the ‘wow’ factor, then this is the place to go!

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Shop

Home to creative individuals and colourful souls, discover locally sourced artworks and one-of-a-kind fashion pieces inside charming boutiques.

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Stay

Known for its quality woodwork, embrace this historic country town by staying in a classic motel walking distance to the town centre and railway.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Doonan

Doonan is a small township located just 10 minutes south-west of Noosa Heads and due to its central location, is a popular spot for weekenders and day-trippers. It is a quiet and picturesque area surrounded by lush greenery, which boasts a wonderful heritage dating back to the late 1800’s.

Take a drive around this quiet rural area and you will stumble across many roads with beautiful panoramic views to the coastline. Doonan’s scenic rainforest settings and extensive bushlands offer a raft of activities.

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Reasons To Visit

Noosa Valley Vineyard / Robinsons Family Vineyard – Heather Robinson, a descendant of the Saltram’s Winery dynasty in the Barossa Valley, will guide you through an in-depth tasting of all her family’s boutique wines. Sample the award-winning varieties, including Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, while watching the sun set over the stunning Noosa Valley.

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Eat

Eumundi Noosa Road (and its side streets) – Offers a variety of eateries.

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Stay

Doonan’s tranquil village-like setting with gorgeous natural backdrop makes it the perfect relaxing getaway destination and you will find a number of B&B’s and retreats.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Eumundi

Eumundi is a historical township which has retained its old world charm and heritage architecture. This township was once the centre of the dairy industry in the region and boasted a substantial butter factory (now an integral part of the ‘market’ activities for which the centre is now known).

From humble beginnings as a timber (and dairy) town, this Sunshine Coast Hinterland town has grown into a colourful destination offering gourmet eateries, renowned art galleries, craft shops and historical pubs side-by-side along the wide main street.

Many of the buildings in this unique town constructed between 1890 and 1930 are fine examples of the era, including the original bank building, the old bakery and the School of Arts Hall.

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Reasons To Visit

The Original Eumundi Markets – A premier artisan market held twice weekly on Wednesday and Saturdays no matter if it is rain, hail or shine. The Eumundi Market is one of the most popular and markets on the coast with over 500 stalls including artworks, sculptures, furniture, handmade toys, homewares and skincare, as well as fashion and jewellery created by local designers.

Discover Eumundi Heritage and Visitors Centre – Offers helpful information to visitors including brochures, memorabilia and pamphlets about local attractions in Eumundi and the surrounding region. You will also gain a true historical perspective of Eumundi through its eclectic collection of artefacts.

Eumundi Heritage Walk – Collect a map from the Discover Eumundi Heritage and Visitor Centre for a self-guided walk visiting historical sites in Eumundi.

Eumundi Winery – The winery grows a range of Mediterranean grape varieties and produces a range of full-bodied premium wines. It opens between 11am to 5pm from Wednesday to Sunday for wine tastings and a meal.

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Eat

Memorial Drive – This street is bursting with charming cafes and historic hotels to fuel every appetite.

The Original Eumundi Markets – You will find a range of food options including laksa, calamari, Thai and paella, as well as items you can purchase and enjoy at home including chocolate, cakes, and biscuits, as well as grab an old fashioned lemonade. For those looking for fresh produce, the Eumundi Market has you covered with a huge range of fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, bread as well as locally made cheeses and yoghurt.

Imperial Hotel – The Imperial Hotel is also home to the Eumundi Brewery which offers tours and a tasting session.

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Shop

The Original Eumundi Markets – Boasting over 500 unique stalls, the markets offer a vibrant and unique shopping experience.

Berkelouw Books – The oldest bookseller in Australia.

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Stay

Spoil yourself and a loved one to a quiet B&B nestled away in the hills of Eumundi before venturing out into the town centre to join the hustle and bustle.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Flaxton

Flaxton is a tiny village with a reputation as one of the prettiest destinations on the Blackall Range. It is the perfect place to pull in for lunch, a Devonshire tea or even a romantic weekend away.

The town typifies the Hinterland’s quiet country ambience with beautiful examples of historic Queenslanders, churches, and cosy cottages, as well as wineries, award winning restaurants and charming cafes.

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Reasons To Visit

Kondalilla Falls – Located just a short five minute drive from Flaxton, the falls are home to over 107 different bird species, making it a favourite spot for bird watchers and photographers alike.

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Eat

Flaxton Drive – Enjoy one of the French inspired restaurants or charming cafes for a delightful high tea.

Le Relais Bressan Café – This is the place to go for authentic French food!

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Shop

Flaxton is surrounded by many avocado plantations and the farmers often sell their produce on the side of the road.

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Stay

With a bounty of cabins, motels, inns and secret hideaways, travellers of all budgets are spoilt for choice, not to mention spectacular views.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Kenilworth

Situated in the heart of the Mary Valley, Kenilworth is a picturesque township offering a truly relaxed way of life – just half an hour to the Sunshine Coast’s beaches.

The Aboriginal name of Hinka Booma is all but a memory, with the town renamed ‘Kenilworth’ after the title of a book that was being read at the time by the wife of the first cattle farmer in the area, Richard Smith.

The town retains a quaint 1920s-style atmosphere and along with its natural wonders, add to Kenilworth’s charm.

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Reasons To Visit

The Kenilworth Bakery – Being the biggest drawcard in the town, this is a must stop for all visitors.

Kenilworth Cheese Factory – Six-generation dairy farmers, the Cochrane Family, showcase their ward winning cheese, yoghurt, mousse and ice-cream.

The District Historical Museum – Provides a living history exhibit with memorabilia, working displays, photographs and videos of the town’s historical past.

Kenilworth Art Gallery (Elizabeth Street) – Housed in a traditional Queensland-style building, it has exhibition spaces with views of a rainforest courtyard.

Kenilworth Bluff Wines – Visit the long established Kenilworth Bluff Winery and cellar door for a unique wine-tasting experience in a beautiful setting. Relax on the scenic deck beneath the magnificent Kenilworth Bluff, peacefully overlooking the Sunshine Coast’s oldest vineyard. Enjoy personalised service as you sample Kenilworth Bluff’s wide variety of quality wines, including Semillon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz, accompanied by a gourmet platter of Kenilworth’s famous cheeses.

Conondale National Park – Located 15 kilometres south of the Kenilworth township, the park consists of 35,500 hectares of dense rainforest which is a habitat to a variety of flora and fauna including over 120 species of birds and many mammals and many rare and endangered species. There are a number of walking tracks found where you will be able to explore the forests, creeks and waterfalls within the national park. Mount Allan Fire Tower is a popular spot which provides a panoramic view of the rugged mountain ranges. At the Peters and Booloumba Creek junction, there is a scenic lookout over cascades, falls, rock pools and The Breadknife rock formation.

Kenilworth State Forest – Has lots of trails for horse riding and walking, plus fresh water fishing is popular in the Mary River and Obi Creek.

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Eat

The Kenilworth Bakery – This is considered to be the best bakery on the coast and they specialise in donuts. They also have a 1kg donut challenge (it is so popular that you need to book in advance). The challenge is to eat one of these $20 donuts in one sitting and if you do, not only do you get bragging rights, but also a plaque on the wall.

The Kenilworth Hotel – Established 1939, this hotel offers a friendly relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a drink, a meal and a stayover in a traditional Australian country pub.

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Shop

Kenilworth offers a charming mix of shops from fashion and accessories to a children’s clothing store, library, a chemist and pleasant coffee shops to refuel.

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Stay

For visitors, the area has a wide variety of options for accommodation from basic camping to luxury retreats with mountain views.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Kin Kin

Traditionally a timber town in the late 1870’s, Kin Kin is a quaint town located in Queensland’s first UNESCO Biosphere. The area is home to many eucalyptus forests and rainforests, making it a haven for native fauna and a go-to spot for birdwatchers.

Kin Kin is an aboriginal word referring to a small black ant that was common in the area. So common they named it twice!

Kin Kin attracts those focused on health, wellness and sustainability due to its organic farm to plate food philosophy, as well as the spectacular scenery on offer. The area is also well known for its quality art with many workshops and open art studios.

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Reasons To Visit

Noosa Trail Network – Nature lovers will enjoy the Noosa Trail Network which incorporates eight scenic hinterland trails that are suitable for walking, mountain biking and horse riding. They vary in length and difficulty and are very well signposted. Trails include: Sheppersons Park to Cootharaba Views Lookout, Kin Kin Arboretum to Johnstons Lookout, and Kookaburra Park to Mary River Cod Park.

Kin Kin Creations Market – On the first Sunday of each month from 8.00am-12.00pm on the Kin Kin Sports Oval. 

Weis Art Works and Gallery – This gallery, owned by Steve Weis, a well-known metal artist in Kin Kin, is in his stunning gardens.

‘The Croft’ Garden Gallery – This gallery showcases innovative and unique metalwork pieces, from small stylish planters through to complex garden and landscape features. Open every Wednesday and on the first Sunday of the month from 9.00am – 2.00pm.

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Eat

Country Life Hotel – This grand old pub exudes old-world charm while the large, wrap-around veranda is the perfect place to enjoy a home-cooked meal, a chat and a cold beer.

Black Ant Gourmet – An award-winning, licensed Cafe located at the Kin Kin General Store providing quality meals that reflect and use local, ethically grown produce.

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Shop

Main Street – Stroll along Main Street and discover quality art, eco-friendly products and a variety of organic goods.

Kin Kin Depot – Vintage and new gifts, and works by local artists and artisans.

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Stay

You can camp on the oval behind the Kin Kin Country Life Hotel on Main Street or stay in one of the funky, sustainable B&Bs.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Maleny

This unique rural town in the Blackall Range is perched high above the Sunshine Coast with amazing views to the Glasshouse Mountains.

Located 450 metres above sea level, the combination of lush rolling green hills, deep pockets of rainforest, a winding creek, and spectacular views in all directions provide the ultimate backdrop for a picture perfect outing.

Aboriginals were the first people to call the mountainous region home. They would make their camp at Obi Obi Creek, named after the Aboriginal warrior Ubie Ubie.

Maleny was officially proclaimed a town in 1891 and was a timber town until the 1920s. Since then, Maleny locals have used the fertile land for fruit orchards, as well as becoming the ideal place for boutique dairies.

Maleny is popular with weekenders who come from Brisbane or the coast for a day trip. The bustling town offers a sophisticated choice of places to eat and drink, an abundance of award-winning local cheese, ice cream, dairy and other produce farms and factories, wineries, galleries and art and craft stores.

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Reasons To Visit

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve – Nature lovers will enjoy a trip to the reserve which is a 55-hectare rainforest that overlooks the Glasshouse Mountains. There are walking tracks and viewing platforms throughout the reserve to guide visitors as well as an Ecological Education Centre within the reserve that offers information and multi-media presentations on natural history.

Maleny Botanic Gardens – With over 14 acres of gardens and lawns located on over 110 acres, many people come here to enjoy the magnificent rainforest setting and spectacular views of the Glasshouse Mountains. When attending the gardens, you will discover over 6 kilometres of walking paths, lakes and waterfalls, an aviary and a barnyard.

Maleny Dairies – Witness firsthand how dairy products are produced, as well as taste their huge range of dairy products which are available for purchase.

Lake Baroon – Enjoy a picnic on the banks of Lake Baroon followed by a refreshing swim. Baroon Pocket Dam in Lake Baroon is a fisherman’s paradise with plentiful supplies of Bass and Golden Perch.

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Eat

Tamarind Restaurant – Prime local produce comes together in a modern Asian symphony at the sumptuous Tamarind restaurant within Spicers Retreat. Chef Rory Thorpe isn’t cagey about his culinary secrets, hosting intimate cooking classes to pass on the tips and tricks that make Tamarind a dining institution.

Terrace of Maleny – Renowned for its fresh prawns, crabs and fish and amazing views to the Coast.

Hotel Maleny – The best place for a good country pub meal.

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Shop

Maleny is home to some of the most creative souls. From beautiful jewellery, enchanting soaps, colourful clothing and unique woodwork, many local craftspeople showcase their creations at the Maleny RSL Sunday markets from 8am until 2pm.

Maleny also has a range of holistic wellness gurus. Whether its acupuncture, energy healing or a soothing facial, you will discover a wide scope of wellness options to suit every health need.

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Stay

Escape to a tranquil haven and stay among the trees in a private cottage, relaxing spa or romantic B&B with spectacular views of the Glasshouse Mountains and nearby coastal plains. Spicers Retreat in Maleny is synonymous with romance!

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Mapleton

Mapleton is a scenic township located just a 30 minute drive west from the coast. This small residential town was once the home of the original cedar cutters who first settled the region. Sitting amongst the scenic Blackall Range, from this elevated position Mapleton enjoys a moderately cooler climate than the coastal strip and provides visitors with spectacular views of the entire Sunshine Coast.

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Reasons To Visit

Mapleton Falls National Park – Home to abundant native flora and fauna and the stunning Mapleton Falls. The falls themselves are formed by Pencil Creek and plunge 120 metres into a valley in the eucalypt forest below. There are two main walking tracks within the park and a viewing platform that has views to the Mary Valley.

Mapleton Observatory – The observatory is great activity for the evening with open nights once a month.

The Falls Farm – Producing organic fruit, vegies and herbs with a farm gate set into the 1930s forestry shed.

Mapleton Lilyponds – Mapleton is home to the gorgeous Mapleton Lilyponds which is a park with picnic tables under the shade of trees, plenty of grass for kids to run around as well as a playground with a flying fox.

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Eat

Mapleton Tavern – Offers a variety of pub grub with fantastic views over the coast.

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Stay

Mapleton accommodation options range from bed and breakfasts, cabins, a caravan park and self-catering lodging facilities. For a special stay, check out Smith House, the oldest original house in Mapleton.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Montville

About ten minutes south of Mapleton along the top line of the Blackall Range is the quaint hinterland town of Montville. Tucked deep into the hinterland, Montville is more of a rural town than some of the other towns in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, and is often referred to as the creative heart of the Sunshine Coast.

First settled in 1887 under the name of ‘Razorback’ due to the steep ridge it sits on, Montville today has a true village charm. You will find a blend of Tudor, Irish and English cottages of log or stone, Swiss and Bavarian chalets, an old mill water-wheel, colonial and old Queenslanders.

Wander down the main street of Montville and explore the superb art galleries, arts & gift shops, and quaint boutiques, or have a coffee and homemade cake at one of the many chic cafes or restaurants.

The spectacular and panoramic views from the top of Blackall Range are breathtaking as you look out over the beaches of the Sunshine Coast and Pacific Ocean, or west to the Great Dividing Range.

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Reasons To Visit

Kondalilla National Park – The Park is named after the beautiful Kondalilla Falls, where Skene Creek drops 90 metres into the rainforest valley below. There are several walking tracks located within the park and picnics are also popular as there are picnic tables, BBQ’s and toilets.

Montville Art Gallery – The gallery showcases an extensive mix of abstract paintings, modern landscapes, figurative paintings, ceramics, prints, glass, jewellery and sculpture.

Flame Hill Vineyard – Enjoy tasting the locally produced wines at the cellar door, followed by a tasty lunch in the restaurant overlooking the vineyards.

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Eat

Main Street – From fine bistro dining accompanied with a select bottle of wine from a local vineyard, to cafes and boutique sweet shops with decadent handmade chocolates or fudge, Montville will please the wine palate and the sweet tooth.

Long Apron – The Long Apron is based at Spicers Clovelly Estate, and specialises in contemporary European cuisine utilising fresh, seasonal produce sourced from the Spicers property and surrounding area.

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Shop

Main Street – Main Street is bursting with arts and crafts, boutiques, and health and well-being products.

Kenilworth Country Foods – Browse and taste locally produced sauces, jams and preserves, as well as their traditional cheeses and yoghurts.

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Stay

Montville has a pleasant mix of accommodation and housing, from cottages and designer homes to hobby farms and B&Bs. Secrets on the Lake is a very popular place to stay in Montville for a romantic getaway with views, a hot spa, and beautiful restaurant to dine at.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Nambour

Nambour is a flourishing town located at the foothills of the Blackall Ranges. The name of the town is derived from the aboriginal word, “naamba”, referring to the red flower bottlebrush.

The town was named after Nambour cattle station that was settled in 1891 after the rail link to Brisbane was complete. Closing at the end of 2001, the track and signal lighting still remains on display through the centre of Mill, Currie and Howard Streets, emphasizing the townships rich history.

Nambour has a flourishing retro and vintage scene. It is the perfect place to discover original items and treasurers from times past. There are also unique cafes and quirky bars, a craft brewery and an impressive line-up of events scheduled throughout the year including Queensland Garden Expo, Retro Rocks, Classic Car shows and the Collectorama Fairs.

With the benefits of a tropical and rural environment, and a mere 20 minute drive to the famous Sunshine Coast beaches, locals and visitors are spoilt with the best of both worlds and a wide choice of activities.

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Reasons To Visit

Nambour Civic Centre – Every year, the Nambour Civic Centre hosts a wide range of events including conferences, concerts, comedy shows, plays, exhibitions and film screenings. There is also an onsite cinema shows many art-house, foreign and commercial films on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Queensland Garden Expo – Held each year during July, the Queensland Garden Expo is one of the largest expos in Australia and attracts over 34,000 visitors and 360 exhibitors each year. The expo boasts different varieties of plants as well as gardening experts who will provide information and advice about gardening, landscaping, botany and the newest gardening tools and techniques.

Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show – Held each year during June in the Nambour Showgrounds, this prestigious three-day event promotes the regions iconic agricultural industries and showcases a range of entertainment, rides, show bags, a side show ally and food stalls.

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Eat

Currie Street – Along Currie Street and the surrounding streets you will find lots of hipster coffee shops as well as cafes and restaurants serving a huge variety of different cuisines.

Urban Garden – Easily one of the best coffee shops on the Sunshine Coast, these guys know their stuff.

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Shop

The Time Machine – An extensive range of original vinyl albums.

Book Exchange – Follow the steep stairs down from Currie Street to this underground book store where the smell of old hardcovers will have you craving a cup of tea and a big comfy armchair.

Op Shopping – Nambour boasts over 30 second-hand clothing stores around its small town centre of four blocks.

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Stay

Currie Street and the surrounding roads are buzzing with motels, holiday inns or apartments. There is an affordable option to suit all budgets.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Palmwoods

The small town of Palmwoods is a largely residential town in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland situated in the valley below the Blackall Range, on the coastal side. Palmwoods (named after the Piccabeen Palms that grow in the area) was originally called Merriman Flats and is at the Northern end of the valley.

Once the centre of a thriving citrus growing industry, you can still visit any of these gardens and orchards where local farmers grow a range of fruits and vegetables, including custard apples, avocado, pawpaw, banana and orange.

Surrounded by a beautiful hinterland backdrop with a tranquil atmosphere, Palmwoods is the perfect place to have a picnic, or sit and enjoy a well-deserved coffee as you relax and watch the world go by.

This unique township is home to countless art and craft enthusiasts. As you can imagine, with an area of such beauty, it is no wonder the art is exciting and unique.

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Reasons To Visit

The Big Pineapple – Nambour is also only a short 10-minute drive from one of the most popular attractions on the Sunshine Coast, the Big Pineapple. Hop on the Pineapple Train which departs every half hour, and enjoys a trip around the Big Pineapple which explores the rainforest, orchids, bamboo forest and passes by the onsite zoo.

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Eat

Ricks Garage – Devoted to the retro era, Ricks Garage is the hot spot for hot rod Holden’s and every type of booze a bar-hopper could ask for. Don’t just stop at a beer in their retro diner, make your way up to the second level where you’ll find a top-shelf whisky bar boasting first class liquor imports from the USA and beyond. Their burgers are exceptional and should not be missed!

Homegrown – Set on a large block filled with a canopy of trees and outdoor seating, Homegrown takes the paddock-to-plate ethos to a whole new level (all produce served comes from less than 100 kilometres away).

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Shop

The local boutique stores are filled with inspiring artwork, which are not only handmade and unique but created with inspiration.

The Pantry – Located at Homegrown restaurant, take home some local harvest from this little grocery store.

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Stay

Stay within walking distance to the town centre near Main Street, or opt for accommodation closer to Landers Shoot for a more private retreat.

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Sunshine Coast Hinterland Town – Yandina

Yandina is one of the oldest towns on the Sunshine Coast and it’s brimming with things to see, taste and discover.

This charming little subtropical town is bursting with heritage-listed buildings to take you back in a time warp. From its rich history to its natural beauty, Yandina is a charming town boasting a relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals.

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Reasons To Visit

The Ginger Factory – Drawing a local, national and international crowd since it opened 40 years ago, The Ginger Factory is one of the Sunshine Coasts most popular tourist destinations. Here you will discover the world’s largest operating ginger factory selling a huge range of the finest ginger products. You will also discover some fun rides, tranquil gardens as well as fantastic shopping opportunities. Take a factory tour and discover how ginger is grown, harvested and prepared and discover the myriad of uses for ginger in a variety of foods.

Nutworks and the Chocolate Factory – Across the road from The Ginger Factory is Nutworks and the Chocolate Factory Showcasing a range of locally made products, including macadamias, dried fruits, chocolates, confectionery as well locally sourced honey, cosmetics and soaps. Whilst at the factory, you can view how the nuts are processed and roasted as well as taste some free samples before you make your purchase. Factory viewing is available Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm, however formal tours are not offered.

Yandina Markets – Held every Saturday morning from 6am to 11am, these markets have hundreds of stalls selling everything from backyard potatoes to antiques.

Yandina Historic House – Enjoy a Devonshire Tea while learning about the local history of the region. There is also a lovely gift shop with homemade items and an art gallery.

Wappa Falls – Discover natural swimming holes with a shaded picnic spot accompanied by an abundance of wildlife.

Spirit House Cooking School – Whether you’re a competent cook or simply want a basic understanding of Asian ingredients and cooking methods, a hands-on Spirit House cooking class is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills and have an enjoyable day out which includes lunch / dinner and wine.

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Eat

Yandina boasts beautiful fertile land for farmers to growing the fi nest produce including fruit, sugar cane, dairy and ginger. Discover the farm to plate process at one of Yandina’s famous food factories.

Yandina Hotel – Built in 1887, Yandina Hotel is one of the hinterlands oldest buildings. It was moved by a bullock team to its present site in 1891. Enjoy a tasty pub meal and a cold beer at this authentic Aussie pub.

The Shared – This 100 year old converted stock feed building gives a contemporary bohemian atmosphere and offers live music, cafe, coffee lounge, event space for functions, art exhibitions and workshops. The Shared Cafe and Coffee Lounge is open from 8:00am to 3:00pm Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch.

Spirit House – The Spirit House is said to be one of the best restaurants on the coast offering an amazing array of delicious Asian dishes. Set in lush tropical gardens nestled around a tranquil pond, at sunset Spirit House turns into a magic wonderland which will take your breath away.

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Shop

Wander along the main street in the town centre and explore the old-fashioned stores.

Collective Haus – In an old converted church, Collective Haus have set up a stunning store of vintage clothing, furniture and hard-to-find homewares.

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Stay

If choosing to stay in Yandina, you will find B&Bs, luxurious cottages set among one of the regions oldest working cattle farms and a caravan park.

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In Summary – Sunshine Coast Hinterland Towns

While the sun, sand and surf of the Sunshine Coast are the major drawcards, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland towns offer so much to visitors.

No matter how long you are spending in the region, there is plenty to see and do. From hiking trails to art galleries, original heritage pubs to craft breweries and wineries, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland has it all. There are so many hidden gems to explore.

Have you visited any of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland towns we have listed above? Have we missed any that you really enjoy? Post your tips and questions below.

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TRIP PLANNERS FOR QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA: RELATED BLOG POSTS

Want more info to help you plan your Queensland trip? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel in Queensland below and continue planning your trip.

• MOTORHOME LIFE: THE ULTIMATE 1 MONTH ROAD TRIP FROM BRISBANE TO CAIRNS
• CAIRNS TO MAREEBA: PLANNING YOUR ROAD TRIP
• MOTORHOME HIRE BRISBANE: HOW TO GUIDE
• YOUR GUIDE TO BUNDABERG, QUEENSLAND
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• CAMPING IN BUNDABERG: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
• GUIDE TO GAYNDAH AND THE NORTH BURNETT REGION
• GLADSTONE QUEENSLAND: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR TRIP
• AGNES WATERS: CAMPING HOLIDAY PLANNER
• HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION: TOWN OF 1770, QUEENSLAND
• ACCOMMODATION IN AGNES WATERS
• AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN ATHERTON TABLELANDS, QUEENSLAND
• BEST THINGS TO DO IN YUNGABURRA, QUEENSLAND
• YUNGABURRA PLATYPUS SPOTTING
• YOUR GUIDE TO PARONELLA PARK – CAMPING OPTIONS, TOURS, HISTORY
• 26 THINGS TO DO ON THE SUNSHINE COAST, AUSTRALIA
• DISCOVER THE SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLAND TOWNS
• BEST TRAILS FOR HIKING SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLAND
• YOUR GUIDE TO VISITING AUSTRALIA ZOO: SUNSHINE COAST

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