Sunshine Coast isn’t just about stunning beaches and warm weather—it’s also a fantastic region to enjoy memorable lunch experiences that showcase its diverse landscapes and local flavors. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, a gourmet meal amidst lush scenery, or a behind-the-scenes craft beer tour, Sunshine Coast offers options that cater to all tastes. We particularly like the Noosa River Cruise with Seafood Lunch and Commentary for its combination of scenic relaxation and fresh seafood, making it a perfect way to unwind while sampling local delicacies.
For those wanting a full-day exploration, the Noosa: Maleny & Montville Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting stands out for blending stunning views, artisan shopping, and culinary delights in the Hinterland. If craft beer is your preference, the Sunshine Coast: Brewery Tour with lunch offers a behind-the-scenes look at local breweries, while the Sunshine Coast Winery, Distillery, Brewery Tour with lunch combines wine, spirits, and farm-to-table dining. Dive into these options to find your perfect midday escape.
1. Noosa River Cruise with Seafood Lunch and Commentary
At number 1, the Noosa River Cruise with Seafood Lunch and Commentary offers a charming way to enjoy Sunshine Coast’s waterways. This 2-hour cruise departs from Noosa Marina, gliding along the scenic Noosa River. The highlight is the delicious seafood lunch, with a choice of 10 options, including oysters, share plates, and salads—perfect for seafood lovers. The cruise’s relaxed pace makes it ideal for those who appreciate a calm environment paired with good food.
What sets this experience apart is the informative commentary from the captain, giving insight into the river’s history and local ecology. You can also purchase drinks from the fully licensed bar, including cocktails, which adds a festive touch. The boat departs from a convenient location at Pelli’s Restaurant dock, with clear signage and friendly staff. Rave reviews mention the attentive service and tasty meals, making it a solid choice for a half-day outing. The only potential downside is that this cruise is relatively short—just 2 hours—so it’s best suited for those with limited time or looking for a relaxing lunch escape.
Bottom Line: A great option for seafood fans and first-time visitors seeking a scenic, low-key experience with informative commentary.
2. Noosa: Maleny & Montville Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting
At number 2, the Noosa: Maleny & Montville Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting is a full-day adventure that takes you deep into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. This tour combines panoramic views, charming villages, and culinary delights—making it a well-rounded experience for those who want more than just a meal. The day begins with a visit to Mapleton Falls, where you can enjoy coffee or tea while soaking in the views.
The visit to Montville Artisan Village is a highlight, where you can browse unique shops and sample local crafts. Lunch is served at a cozy hinterland cafe, paired with a drink, offering a true farm-to-table experience. The guided nature walk through old-growth rainforest adds a refreshing outdoor touch, and the afternoon’s wine tasting at a local vineyard with ocean views rounds out the day. This tour has received a perfect 5/5 rating from a handful of reviews, emphasizing its intimate atmosphere and diverse experiences.
While the day is packed, the price reflects its value: a comprehensive exploration with multiple tastings and scenic stops. Perfect for lovers of nature, wine, and artisanal food, this tour suits those willing to spend a full day immersing in the region’s flavors and sights. The main consideration is the length—it’s a long day, so moderate fitness and comfort with a busy schedule are recommended.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those seeking a rich, all-encompassing day in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland with excellent food and drink experiences.
3. Sunshine Coast: Brewery Tour with lunch
Coming in at number 3, the Sunshine Coast: Brewery Tour with lunch is perfect for craft beer enthusiasts who want to go behind the scenes. Over 5.5 hours, this tour visits four acclaimed breweries, each offering a fresh, locally brewed beer, and includes tasting paddles at each stop. The tour also features a delicious lunch, making it a full sensory experience for beer lovers.
What makes this tour stand out is the behind-the-scenes access—visitors learn about the brewing process directly from the brewers, which adds depth to the tasting. The variety across four breweries means you get a good sense of the local craft scene, from small-batch brewers to more established names. As the tour is guided, you don’t have to worry about logistics, and the pacing is relaxed enough to savor each beer. Reviewers appreciate the fun vibe and the opportunity to try different styles of craft beer, calling it a “great day out.”
The tour is best suited for those who enjoy beer, social outings, and are comfortable with a longer afternoon. It’s valuable for the variety and educational element, but those not interested in beer might prefer other options. The main drawback is the alcohol consumption—plan for a safe journey home or alternative transport.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for craft beer fans looking to explore Sunshine Coast’s brewing scene with a tasty lunch included.
4. Sunshine Coast Winery, Distillery, Brewery Tour with lunch
Finally, the Sunshine Coast Winery, Distillery, Brewery Tour with lunch offers a broader look at local beverages paired with regional cuisine. This 6-hour tour explores Maleny and Montville, with stops at handcrafted wineries, a boutique distillery, and a craft brewery, all complemented by a farm-to-table lunch.
Highlights include tasting local wines, small-batch spirits, and Maleny Cheese, a regional specialty. The tour emphasizes regional food and drink trails, with a focus on quality, local ingredients, and sustainable production. Guests rave about the delicious lunch, made from regional produce, and the tasting experiences that include cheesemaking, spirits, and wines. The tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy the region’s food culture, learn about local producers, and indulge in a variety of tastings.
Practical considerations include the longer duration and the need to pace yourself with multiple types of alcohol. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, educational, and flavorful day. It may be less suited for families with young children or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for lovers of regional food, wine, and spirits who want an in-depth tasting experience combined with scenic exploration.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, schedule, and what kind of experience you value most. For a quick scenic escape with fresh seafood, the Noosa River Cruise offers a great balance of relaxation and local flavor. If you want a full day with scenic views, artisanal shopping, and wine tasting, the Maleny & Montville tour is hard to beat.
For craft beer lovers, the brewery tour provides behind-the-scenes insights and a fun social vibe, while the wine, spirits, and farm-to-table lunch offers a more diverse taste of regional products for those wanting a comprehensive beverage journey. Consider your time availability, dietary preferences, and whether you’d prefer a quick cruise or an all-day adventure.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular tours, and consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn for milder weather. Each option provides a different way to enjoy Sunshine Coast’s culinary scene—so pick one that matches your pace and palate.
Sunshine Coast is full of delicious possibilities, from scenic river cruises to gourmet hinterland tastings and craft brewery adventures. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, these lunch experiences will leave you with great memories—and maybe a new favorite local dish or drink. Don’t forget to book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on your perfect midday adventure.