We Rank The 15 Best Tours & Experiences In Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast is a place where nature’s beauty meets a relaxed coastal vibe. It’s a hub for outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and scenic adventures that showcase the region’s stunning beaches, lush hinterlands, and vibrant local culture. Among the many options, we’re especially fond of the Noosa Heads 2 Hour Surf Experience because it offers a safe, fun introduction to surfing in warm waters with expert instructors. Or perhaps the Australia Zoo Entry Ticket and Transfer appeals if you love wildlife and want a flexible, family-friendly day out. Whatever your interests, Sunshine Coast’s tours promise a mix of adventure, learning, and relaxation—just the way a holiday should be.

For those craving outdoor thrills, the Tandem Skydive with Beach Landing delivers adrenaline with panoramic coastal views. Meanwhile, travelers with a taste for fine food and scenery will enjoy the Sunshine Coast & Noosa Hinterland Scenic Culinary Experience. Read on for our full list of the 15 best tours and experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

Quick Overview

From surfing lessons at Noosa Heads (Noosa Heads: 2 Hour Surf Experience) to wildlife encounters like the Australia Zoo (From Sunshine Coast: Australia Zoo Entry Ticket), the Sunshine Coast offers a wide variety of activities. You’ll find scenic tours that take you through the hinterlands (Sunshine Coast & Noosa Hinterland Scenic Culinary Experience), adrenaline-filled skydiving (Sunshine Coast: Tandem Skydive), and marine adventures like swimming with whales (Swim with Humpback Whales). Whether you’re up for a relaxed river cruise, a craft beer tour, or family-friendly visits, the Sunshine Coast’s tours have something for every traveler.

1. Noosa Heads: 2 Hour Surf Experience on the Sunshine Coast

Learning to surf in Noosa Heads is an iconic Aussie experience, and this tour makes it accessible even if you’ve never stood on a board. The 2-hour surf lesson is perfect for first-timers, with warm water and expert instructors guiding you from your first wave to catching more confidently. The focus is on safety, technique, and having fun. The reviews, with a 4.9/5 rating from 629 people, speak to the quality and friendly atmosphere. The tour lasts between 2 to 6 hours, so you can fit it into your day easily. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick, memorable introduction to surfing or those eager to build confidence in the ocean.

Bottom Line: A fun, beginner-friendly surf lesson that gets you riding waves in one of Australia’s most famous beaches. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for some water action.

2. From Sunshine Coast: Australia Zoo Entry Ticket and Transfer

A visit to the Australia Zoo is a must for animal lovers. This tour offers a hassle-free transfer in a luxury vehicle, giving you plenty of time to explore the zoo at your own pace. You’ll get to see the Wildlife Warriors show, where crocodile feeding is a highlight, and wander through the various exhibits. With a 4.8/5 rating from 146 reviews, the tour is praised for its comfort and flexibility. The self-guided experience means you can spend six hours discovering everything from koalas to kangaroos, and even visit the Wildlife Hospital. The trip also includes a short visit to the hospital, adding an educational touch.

Bottom Line: A flexible, family-friendly day out that combines wildlife encounters with comfortable travel. Great for those looking to explore at their own pace without the hassle of planning transfers.

3. Noosa: Epic Learn to Surf Safari 4×4 – Double Island Point

For a more adventurous surf experience, this 4×4 trip to Double Island Point takes you to Australia’s longest, safest beginner wave. The location is known for its crystal-clear waters and gentle surf, perfect for beginners. The tour includes transportation into the Great Sandy National Park, away from the crowds, so you can focus on learning without interference. The 6-hour adventure is highly rated (4.7/5 from 39 reviews) and offers a chance to ride waves hundreds of meters long. The guides are knowledgeable, and the remote location makes it a special escape from tourist hotspots.

Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners wanting a wide, safe wave in stunning surroundings, with the added thrill of reaching a beach only accessible by 4WD.

4. Sunshine Coast & Noosa Hinterland Scenic Culinary Experience

This tour combines breathtaking scenery with local gourmet delights, making it a hit for foodies and nature lovers alike. It starts with a scenic stop at the Glass House Mountains, then visits the Maleny Chocolate Co., where you can indulge in sweet treats. The tour includes cheese tastings, a lakeside gourmet lunch with wine, and stops at Montville Village for shopping and exploring. The 7-hour experience is rated 4.8/5 and offers a perfect mix of scenic views, culinary indulgence, and cultural charm. Highlights include tasting award-winning cheeses, selecting a chocolate gift pack, and enjoying panoramic views from Gerrards Lookout.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded day for those who appreciate both stunning landscapes and excellent food, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the region’s flavors.

5. Sunshine Coast: Tandem Skydive with Beach Landing

If you’re craving adrenaline, this skydiving adventure from Caloundra offers jumps from up to 14,000 feet, giving you around 50 seconds of free fall. From the plane, you’ll soar over the coast, then enjoy a 5-7 minute parachute glide with panoramic views. All training is included, and the small group size makes for an intimate experience. Rated 5/5 from 19 reviews, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers who want to tick off a bucket list activity. The landing on Currimundi Beach adds a scenic touch, and the entire experience lasts roughly 6 hours including preparation.

Bottom Line: An unforgettable, high-adrenaline adventure with breathtaking coastal views—best suited for experienced thrill-seekers or first-timers eager to try skydiving.

6. Noosa River Cruise with Seafood Lunch and Commentary

Relax and unwind with a scenic cruise along Noosa River, paired with a delicious seafood lunch. The fully licensed bar and informative commentary enhance the experience, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful waterways while learning about the local area. The 2-hour cruise offers options to upgrade your meal with oysters, share plates, and salads. Rated 4.9/5 from 10 reviews, this tour is perfect for those wanting a laid-back way to see Noosa’s natural beauty while indulging in fresh seafood. The departure point is conveniently located at Noosa Marina, with easy access for visitors.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a relaxing, scenic break, combining good food, beautiful views, and local insights—ideal for couples or groups seeking a leisurely activity.

7. Swim with Humpback Whales: Sunshine Coast

For a truly memorable experience, this small-group tour offers the chance to swim with Humpback Whales in the waters around the Sunshine Coast. Limited to just six people, the tour emphasizes personalized attention from experienced guides and skippers. The 4-hour trip includes safety instructions, whale spotting, and the opportunity to get in the water with these majestic creatures (subject to conditions). The reviews highlight the uniqueness of the experience, making it perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers.

Bottom Line: A rare, intimate opportunity to connect with one of nature’s most magnificent marine animals—best suited for confident swimmers and wildlife enthusiasts.

8. Noosa: Maleny & Montville Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting

This full-day luxury experience takes you into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. It features visits to the charming Maleny and Montville villages, scenic views of the Glass House Mountains, and a lakeside lunch with wine. The tour includes tastings at a local winery, chocolate at Maleny Chocolate Co., and a guided nature walk through a rainforest. With a 5/5 rating from 4 reviews, it’s perfect for those who want a mix of scenic drives, gourmet treats, and cultural exploration. The highlight is the panoramic view from Gerrards Lookout and the opportunity to purchase artisan goods.

Bottom Line: For lovers of scenic drives, fine food, and boutique shopping, this tour offers a relaxed, all-encompassing taste of the hinterland.

9. Sunshine Coast: Brewery Tour with Lunch

Beer aficionados will enjoy this behind-the-scenes brewery tour. Visiting four local breweries, you’ll learn about craft beer production and sample a range of brews. A tasty lunch is included, and the tour lasts about 5.5 hours, making it a great midweek activity. The 5/5 rating from 3 reviews underscores its popularity among beer lovers. The tour is ideal for those curious about craft brewing or looking for a social, relaxed experience.

Bottom Line: A craft beer lover’s dream tour, combining tasting, learning, and a good meal in a laid-back setting.

10. Tasty Noosa Everglades

Explore the only Everglades system in the Southern Hemisphere on this cruise. The tour includes a craft beer tasting from the only brewery within a national park in Australia, plus a lakeside lunch. The waterway is home to native wildlife, and the boat ride is a peaceful way to see the natural beauty. Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, it combines wildlife, food, and scenery in a half-day trip perfect for nature lovers and foodies alike.

Bottom Line: An unusual combination of wildlife viewing and regional tasting—perfect for those seeking a relaxing yet engaging experience.

11. The Sunshine Coast: The Ginger Factory Tour & Tasting

Discover the story of Buderim Ginger on this engaging guided tour of their factory. The 40-minute tour includes a tasting plate of sweet and savory ginger products, plus unlimited access to gardens, playgrounds, and attractions. It’s a family-friendly activity rated 4.5/5 from 14 reviews, giving you a fun, educational experience that’s suitable for all ages. The factory’s long history and delicious samples make it stand out.

Bottom Line: A tasty, educational visit that’s great for families and anyone interested in Australia’s ginger legacy.

12. Sunshine Coast: Fishing Charters

For anglers and beginners alike, this half-day offshore fishing charter offers a chance to catch reef species with local expert crews. Departing from Caloundra, the trip lasts five hours and provides all gear needed. Perfect for families or groups short on time but eager for a salty adventure. With 2 reviews rated 5/5, it’s a reliable, straightforward way to add some fishing fun to your trip.

Bottom Line: Simple, effective, and fun—ideal for those wanting a quick ocean fishing experience without complicated arrangements.

13. The Sunshine Coast: The Ginger Factory Play Taste & Discover

This all-day pass to The Ginger Factory grants access to every attraction, from train rides to live bee shows and tastings. Kids and adults alike will enjoy unlimited rides, a playground, and interactive exhibits. The factory tour and sampling of ginger products make it both fun and educational. Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, it’s perfect for families wanting a full day of activities combined with regional flavors.

Bottom Line: A day of fun and learning that suits families with children seeking variety and engagement.

14. Sunshine Coast: Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental & Lesson

Get active on the Maroochy River with a stand-up paddleboarding lesson. The session lasts 1 to 2 hours and is suitable for beginners. Learn proper paddling techniques from experienced instructors and enjoy the peaceful water. You can cruise on flat water or catch some small surf, making it suitable for all fitness levels. The tour has a 4/5 rating from 4 reviews, making it a reliable choice for a fun physical activity on your trip.

Bottom Line: An accessible, active way to enjoy the river and improve your balance, perfect for beginners and families.

15. Noosa Heads & Eumundi Markets Private VIP Tour from Brisbane

This private VIP tour offers a flexible, luxury experience of the Sunshine Coast. Starting from Brisbane, you’ll explore Eumundi Markets, Noosa Heads, and Mooloolaba with a private guide. The small group size and custom itinerary make it ideal for those wanting a tailored day. Highlights include local markets, beach views, and fresh seafood. The tour lasts about 7 hours, with options to adjust the schedule and destinations.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, comfort-focused day exploring iconic spots and markets in style.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your experience, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you’re keen on learning to surf, the Noosa Heads surf experience offers a quick, beginner-friendly session. For wildlife lovers, the Australia Zoo provides a full-day adventure, while adventure seekers should look into skydiving or whale swimming. Families should consider the Ginger Factory or river cruises, while food and wine enthusiasts will love the culinary hinterland tour. Always check reviews, and book early, especially for popular activities like skydiving or whale swims.

Final Thoughts

Sunshine Coast’s diverse range of tours ensures there’s something for every traveler. If you want a relaxed day of scenic drives and gourmet tastings, the Hinterland Scenic Experience is ideal. For adrenaline junkies, the skydiving and whale swims deliver unforgettable thrills. Families and wildlife lovers will find plenty of engaging options, from zoo visits to boat cruises. Whichever you choose, booking in advance will help secure the best times and avoid disappointment. Sunshine Coast’s best experiences are waiting—now all you need to do is pick your adventure!