Sunshine Coast & Noosa : Distilleries Tour with Tastings

Planning a visit to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and wondering how to experience its vibrant spirit scene? This Distilleries Tour with Tastings offers an engaging day that combines the craft of local gin and rum making with scenic Queensland landscapes. With a carefully curated itinerary, expert-guided tastings, and a delicious lunch, it’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation for Australia’s burgeoning craft spirits scene.

We love that this tour combines private, intimate experiences—particularly at the Steampunk Distillery with its small group setup—and the opportunity to sample handcrafted spirits at multiple distilleries. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch at Paradise Rum adds a relaxing culinary element, making the whole day feel both indulgent and educational. Plus, the flexible options for smaller or larger groups mean you can tailor the experience to your preference.

One thing to consider is the price point—at $713 for a group of up to two people, it’s a premium experience. However, given the number of distilleries visited, tastings, lunch, and private transport, many will find it offers solid value for a full day of authentic, behind-the-scenes insights. This tour is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, lovers of boutique distilling, or travelers seeking a unique, locally rooted experience in Queensland.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with expert insights into distillation.
• Multiple distilleries visited—including Sunshine & Sons, Steampunk, and others—offering diverse spirits.
• Gourmet lunch paired with rum tasting, adding culinary delight to the day.
• Small group size at Steampunk ensures a more personal experience.
• Flexible options for different group sizes and scheduling.
• All transportation and tastings included, simplifying planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Sunshine Coast & Noosa Distilleries Tour

This tour provides a comprehensive look into the region’s artisanal spirits scene, blending a scenic drive with behind-the-scenes visits to some of the Sunshine Coast’s most innovative distilleries. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits lover or new to craft gin and rum, this experience promises a blend of education, flavor, and local charm.

The day begins with pickup from your preferred location, after which you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus equipped with Bluetooth—allowing you to set your own soundtrack for the day. The group size is kept intimate, with the maximum at Steampunk Distillery around six adults, fostering a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that encourages questions and personal attention.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Diverse distillery visits are a core feature. Starting at Beachtree Distillery, you’ll be introduced to a selection of handcrafted gins, each with its unique character. This is a great starting point because it sets the tone for the artisanal nature of the region’s spirits.

Next, the day includes a delicious lunch at Paradise Rum, where you can enjoy a freshly prepared meal paired with their signature rums, aged in American oak barrels. The combination of flavors at this stage of the tour provides a satisfying break and a chance to discuss your favorite spirits so far.

The afternoon continues with visits to Sunshine & Sons and potentially to Dacelo Distilling or Noosa Heads Distillery, depending on scheduling and availability. Each location offers its own story, production style, and tasting experience—ranging from traditional to innovative.

Visiting Each Distillery

Beachtree Distillery

This charming spot is the perfect starting point. Known for its sophisticated gin, Beachtree offers an introduction to the art of distillation. Guests can expect a tasting session where nuances are explained—be it botanical selection or distillation techniques. It sets a high bar for what’s to come, with many reviews noting the “excellent variety of artisanal gins” and “friendly, knowledgeable staff.”

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Paradise Rum

A highlight of the day, Paradise Rum is where the focus shifts to the sweet side of spirits. The lunch here isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The staff introduces you to rums aged in American oak barrels, giving a rich, mellow flavor profile. The tasting paddle allows you to explore different styles, while the setting provides a relaxed, tropical vibe perfect for enjoying your drinks.

Sunshine & Sons

This distillery, nestled in the hinterland rainforest near Queensland’s famous Big Pineapple, is a firm favorite. Known for their signature gins and vodkas, the tasting here is both educational and flavorful. The friendly team offers insights into the handcrafted process, and many reviewers appreciate the “relaxed yet informative atmosphere.”

Steampunk Distillery (smaller groups only)

For those opting for the smaller, more intimate experience, Steampunk Distillery stands out. Founded by two nurses and a dog, this boutique distillery’s orchard setting creates a serene backdrop. The focus here is on unique gins, with guests often mentioning the “quirky, charming vibe” and “personalized tasting experience.” The group size ensures you’ll get plenty of attention and opportunities to ask questions.

Alternative Stops

In case of scheduling changes, Dacelo Distilling in Coolum and Noosa Heads Distillery at Land & Sea Brewery serve as excellent alternatives. Both maintain the same high standards of quality and storytelling, ensuring your day remains rich in flavor and insight.

The Lunch Experience: More Than Just Food

The lunch at Paradise Rum is a key part of the tour, providing a well-deserved break and a chance to reflect on the spirits tasted so far. The menu features freshly prepared dishes that complement the rum experience, creating a perfect pairing of flavors. The staff’s friendly approach enhances the overall vibe, making it more than just a meal but a moment of relaxation amid your busy day.

Transport and Group Size: Comfort and Intimacy

The tour’s transport is modern and comfortable, with Bluetooth connectivity to customize your playlist. Pickup and drop-off are included, adding convenience—especially important for a full-day experience. The private group setting, especially at Steampunk, means a more personalized experience. Larger groups at Diablo & Co. offer a lively, social atmosphere, ideal for those who enjoy sharing the experience with others.

Price and Value

At $713 for a group of up to two people, this tour is an investment. When you consider the multiple distillery visits, tastings, gourmet lunch, and private transportation, it offers good value for spirits lovers wanting to go beyond the usual tourist experience. It’s a premium experience, but one that delivers a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at regional craft spirits.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy craft spirits, appreciate local production, or are looking for a unique day out in Queensland. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a private or semi-private setting, with an interest in learning about distillation processes and regional flavors. If you’re a foodie or enjoy pairing spirits with good food, the lunch component will be a big bonus.

While not suitable for children under 18, it’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers keen to meet like-minded enthusiasts. It’s also a fantastic choice for celebrating special occasions or simply adding a memorable experience to your Sunshine Coast itinerary.

The Sum Up

This Sunshine Coast distillery tour offers a well-rounded exploration of boutique spirits, combining education, tasting, and scenic drives—all in a private, comfortable setting. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch, expert-guided tastings, and flexible options make it a standout choice for those who want to savor Queensland’s craft spirit scene in depth.

The personalized experience, especially at the boutique distilleries like Steampunk, ensures you’ll gain more than just a tasting: you’ll get a window into regional craftsmanship and a chance to meet passionate local producers. The price may be on the higher side, but for true enthusiasts, the quality, variety, and intimacy of the day justify the cost.

This tour suits travelers seeking a premium, authentic, behind-the-scenes look at spirits-making, paired with scenic Queensland landscapes and a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a unique day out, it promises a memorable taste of the Sunshine Coast’s craft beverage scene.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners or only for spirits connoisseurs?
It’s suitable for both! The tastings are explained in accessible terms, and there’s plenty of opportunity to ask questions, making it perfect whether you’re new to spirits or a seasoned enthusiast.

How many distilleries are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit four distilleries, including options like Sunshine & Sons, Beachtree Distillery, Paradise Rum, and Steampunk Distillery, depending on the schedule and group size.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off, tastings at multiple distilleries, a gourmet lunch with a rum tasting paddle, and transport in a private, air-conditioned minibus.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Take-home spirits are not included, so if you wish to purchase bottles or souvenirs, that would be extra.

What is the group size?
Small groups are typical, with a maximum of around six adults at Steampunk Distillery, ensuring a more personal experience. Larger groups can enjoy a lively atmosphere at places like Diablo & Co.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour proceeds rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather and consider bringing rain gear if necessary.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is set, the private nature of the tour allows some flexibility—especially regarding music and possibly timing, based on your preferences.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day of exploring, tasting, and relaxing.

This Sunshine Coast distillery tour offers a genuine, in-depth look at regional spirits, perfect for those who want to enjoy local craftsmanship with a side of scenic Queensland beauty. Whether for a special occasion or a unique ad hoc adventure, it’s an experience that’s as flavorful as the spirits tasted.

You can check availability for your dates here: