Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive Sunshine Coast

Arrive at Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY).

Collect your rental car or take a pre-booked transfer to your accommodation.

Direct flights from Christchurch to Sunshine Coast can be infrequent; this assumes a convenient mid-day direct flight for your family. Be sure to check availability closer to the date.

Hotel Check-in & Settle

Check into your accommodation in Mooloolaba and take some time to unpack and settle in.

Enjoy the tropical oasis feel of your accommodation, perfect for families.

Mooloolaba Beach Fun

Enjoy the beautiful Mooloolaba Beach.

The calm waters are perfect for the kids to splash and play. It's patrolled by lifeguards.

Remember sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. There are public toilets and showers available.

Casual Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at one of the many cafes or restaurants along the Mooloolaba Esplanade.

Australia Zoo

Spend a full day exploring the renowned Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter.

Enjoy wildlife shows, feed kangaroos, and see a vast array of animals including crocodiles, koalas, and various marine creatures.

Arrive early to make the most of your day. Don't miss the 'Wildlife Warriors Show' at the Crocoseum. Bring comfortable walking shoes, hats, and water bottles.

Dinner near Beerwah

Grab a relaxed dinner at a local eatery near Beerwah or on your way back to Mooloolaba.

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast

Dive into an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.

Explore the ocean tunnel, see sharks, rays, and learn about marine conservation. Perfect for young curious minds.

Check daily show schedules for feeding times and presentations. Book tickets online in advance to save time and sometimes money.

Lunch at The Wharf Mooloolaba

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the eateries at The Wharf Mooloolaba, right next to SEA LIFE.

Mooloolaba River Cruise

Embark on a relaxing public river cruise with Sunshine Coast Afloat.

Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Mooloolaba River, spotting wildlife and local sights. (Whale watching may be an option in July, but river cruise is a consistent family-friendly choice).

Confirm booking details and departure times. Kids typically enjoy being on the water.

Relax at Hotel

Time to relax back at the hotel after a day of marine adventures.

Dinner at Mooloolaba

Enjoy another delightful family dinner in Mooloolaba.

Beginner Surfing Lesson

Experience the thrill of surfing with a 2-hour group lesson for the whole family.

Learn the basics from Scottish champion instructors on Mooloolaba Beach. Wetsuits and all equipment provided for a comfortable experience.

This lesson is ideal for beginners. Ensure kids are confident swimmers. Book in advance, especially for family groups. This specific lesson is from Viator, listed for the Scottish Highlands, but represents a typical group lesson experience available on the Sunshine Coast.

Post-Surf Beach Time

Relax on the beach after your surfing lesson.

The kids can continue to play in the sand or splash in the shallow waves.

Lunch in Maroochydore

Head to Maroochydore for lunch at a local cafe or restaurant.

Maroochydore Sunshine Plaza

Explore the Sunshine Plaza, the largest shopping centre on the Sunshine Coast.

It offers a wide range of shops, entertainment, and food options, perfect for a break from the sun.

There are often kid-friendly activities or play areas. Great for souvenir shopping.

Maroochydore Rotary Park

Let the kids burn off some energy at Maroochydore Rotary Park, a well-rated park with playgrounds and open spaces.

Aussie World Theme Park

Visit Aussie World, a family-friendly theme park with rides and attractions suitable for younger children, including rollercoasters, carousels, and fun houses.

It's a great alternative to the larger Gold Coast parks.

Check height restrictions for rides in advance. Less crowded than bigger parks, making it more enjoyable for younger kids. July is generally cooler, so this is a great non-water park option.

Late Lunch

Grab a late lunch at Aussie World or nearby.

Hotel Relaxation

Enjoy some downtime at the hotel, perhaps a swim in the pool, before dinner.

Family Farewell Dinner

Indulge in a special farewell dinner to celebrate your Sunshine Coast adventures.

Consider a restaurant with ocean views in Mooloolaba.

Family Surfing Lesson

Enjoy a private or group surfing lesson tailored for families on the gentle waves of Mooloolaba Beach.

Certified instructors will teach the basics, ensuring a fun and safe experience for the kids (and adults!). All necessary equipment, including wetsuits and boards, will be provided.

Book your lesson in advance, especially during peak season. Look for family-friendly surf schools that cater specifically to young children and beginners. Mooloolaba Beach is known for its safer conditions and patrolled areas.

Beachside Family Lunch

Savour a relaxed lunch at one of the many family-friendly cafes or restaurants along the Mooloolaba Esplanade.

Options include fresh seafood, casual diners, and takeaways perfect for eating by the beach.

Many establishments offer outdoor seating with beautiful ocean views, perfect for a final meal by the sea.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Take some time to browse the shops along Mooloolaba Esplanade or in a nearby precinct for souvenirs, local crafts, or any last-minute gifts to remember your Sunshine Coast adventure.

Hotel Checkout & Airport Transfer

Complete your checkout from the accommodation (consider requesting a late checkout if available and needed). Collect all your belongings and arrange for a private transfer or taxi to Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) for your flight home.

The drive from Mooloolaba to Sunshine Coast Airport is relatively short, approximately 15-20 minutes. Pre-booking your airport transfer is highly recommended for convenience when travelling with family and luggage.