Top Sunshine Coast experiences to enjoy this winter

If you’re not quite ready for winter yet, fly north and chase the sun in Queensland. A short break on the Sunshine Coast this winter is the perfect way to ease into the cooler months. With an average daily temperature of 22 degrees, the Sunshine Coast is a great destination to visit all year round. However, holiday here in winter and you’ll discover something truly extraordinary. Here are some of the top Sunshine Coast experiences to enjoy this winter.

Winter is a fantastic time to visit the Sunshine Coast. Not only will you have no trouble finding a quiet stretch of beach to relax on but, look out to the horizon and you just might see some majestic Humpback Whales joining you for their very own Queensland vacation.

Every year between June and October, the Humpback Whales leave the harsh cold waters of Antarctica for the warmer waters of Queensland. During their northern migration the Humpback Whales mate, birth and bond with their young before returning to Antarctica for the summer.

The best way to see Humpback Whales up close is to jump on a Sunshine Coast whale watching cruise that will take you deep into their natural environment. Join the whale watching experts for an unforgettable wildlife encounter watching the gentle giants of the ocean splash about in the Pacific Ocean. If you want to get even closer to the Humpback Whales, strap on the wetsuit and Ma href="https://www.experienceoz.com.au/en/sunshine-coast/swim-with-whales">swim with the whales to observe the mammals from above and below the water's surface.

In between Martinis at Mooloolaba, get to know the local culture with a day at the Eumundi Markets. Open to the public every Wednesday and Saturday, the Eumundi Markets are Australia’s largest open air markets with hundreds of local artisan producers selling their arts and delicious food. If you don’t have your own wheels then book your return transfers to Eumundi Markets here with up to three hours free time to explore at your leisure.

From artworks to decorate your home, to psychics reading your fortune, opal jewellery, cutting edge fashion, farmers selling fresh produce and handcrafted ceramics. There is something for everyone here. Pick up a souvenir or splurge and treat yourself to some goodies. You are on holiday after all. Following your morning at the markets, return transfers will deliver you and all your shopping goodies back to your accommodation.

Taste locally brewed craft beers from one of the many micro breweries that have popped up on the Sunshine Coast. With a local behind the wheel, settle in on this Sunshine Coast Brewery tour for a craft brewery adventure ticking off at least two popular breweries plus a delicious lunch and ample beer paddles to sample.

This is your chance to go behind the scenes, meet the brewers and see what it takes to produce these unique golden brews that come with spectacular coastal or hinterland views. The Sunshine Coast Brewery Tour departs daily between Wednesday to Sunday at 11am with pick-ups available from Maroochydore and Mooloolaba. If you love a cold beer and you have an appreciation for the brewing process, this tour is for you.

Stop looking for the best picnic spot on the Sunshine Coast. We’ve found it right here at the Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World. The gorgeous gardens are situated in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland with a prime position overlooking the Glass House Mountains and coastal beaches.

Take a peaceful stroll through the gardens and stop to smell the roses or enjoy a moment of serenity near the lakes and waterfalls. Spread out over 18 hectares, there is no shortage of space to warm up with a cosy picnic in the sun. The privately owned botanic gardens also houses Bird World, an aviary with an impressive 700 native and exotic birds. Guided tours are conducted several times a day or you can wander through the aviary and gardens on your own at your leisure.

What better way to toast to a special day on the Sunshine Coast than with a glass of bubbly on a Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise. If the water is a little cool for your liking, a scenic cruise is a fantastic way to discover the picturesque waterways and beautiful waterfront homes during a 1.5 hour cruise from Mooloolaba.

With a licenced bar on board, a sunset cruise is a great way to kickstart an evening of fun in Mooloolaba. Once you disembark, an array of dining options are just mere steps away from the wharf.

Embrace the warm Queensland winter sun and the great outdoors on a challenging Sunshine Coast TreeTop Challenge. If you prefer to be active on your holiday rather than sunbathing by the pool, you’ll be pleased to know there are five aerial courses and a series of ziplines and flying foxes to tackle at Australia’s largest aerial obstacle park.

Get to grips with the easy courses first and then as your confidence develops, step it up a notch and work your way up to more difficult courses. Those who are up to the challenge can complete the entire course in half a day.

Nestled in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a secret maze of dense rainforest and secluded waterfalls that are waiting to be discovered. Travel with a local in the know and jump on a Sunshine Coast Day Tour to experience some of the hidden gems off the beaten coastal track.

While we don’t want to give all the secrets away here, you’ll have the opportunity to walk in the rainforest, view the Glass House Mountains from the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and swim in a waterfall or two. This exclusive tour is limited to 10 guests giving it a nice and personal touch.

Chase the sun with a short break in the Sunshine Coast this winter. Whether you are looking for a family vacation or a couples getaway, visitors will find this an ideal location with plenty of activities to do. Don’t delay - get in early and start filling your itinerary with extraordinary experiences right here.