Travelling through the Sunshine Coast in a campervan is easily one of the best things to do in Queensland on a budget. Nestled along the stunning coastline of Queensland, Australia, the picturesque Sunshine Coast is a campervan trip dream. Renowned for its pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, this region offers a plethora of free and cheap activities making this the perfect destination to discover the joy of budget van travel.
In this article, we'll guide you through the best free and cheap things to do in the Sunshine Coast, ensuring you make the most of your trip without burning a hole in your pocket. Whether you're a nature lover, a cultural explorer, or an adventurous road tripper, there are plenty of free things to do in the Sunshine Coast to make your trip truly memorable. Let's dive into some of the most affordable and awe-inspiring experiences waiting for you in this sun-kissed paradise.
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
But first, what's the best way to explore Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast is a wide-spanning region filled with beaches, national parks and endless scenic drives – making it perfect for van travel. There are plenty of benefits of campervan hire when exploring the Sunshine Coast:
Flexibility and freedom: Set your own itinerary, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and change plans spontaneously.
Cost-effectiveness: Save on accommodation and dining expenses with budget-friendly campervan campsites and cooking facilities in your campervan.
Convenience and comfort: Enjoy amenities like a bed, kitchenette, and storage space, all in one self-contained vehicle.
Immersion in nature: Travelling in a campervan allows you to camp in scenic locations close to nature, wake up to breathtaking views and have easy access to outdoor activities.
Scenic Routes and Exploration: Van travel is the ultimate way to discover hidden gems, drive along stunning coastal roads, and experience stunning landscapes at your own pace.
If you are looking for a campervan hire for your adventure, be sure to check out Mighty Campervans. You can easily hire a Mighty camper from our Brisbane branch and enjoy the easy hour-and-a-half drive from Brisbane to start exploring these sunny pastures.
Everything you need to know about Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is the perfect blend of natural beauty, a laid-back atmosphere, and a vibrant cultural scene. Spanning over 60km of stunning coastline, from Caloundra to Noosa Heads, this area is filled with pristine beaches, a thriving arts and music community, local markets famed for their fresh produce and handmade crafts, as well as a wide range of parklands and national parks to discover. Whether you're looking to unwind by the ocean, explore the lush hinterland, or immerse yourself in the local culture, the Sunshine Coast promises a truly unforgettable experience.
The weather in Sunshine Coast
The sunny coast region has a sub-tropical climate and is best known for its record-breaking 300 days of sunshine per year. Safe to say, all seasons are near perfect for campervan travel. Here is an idea of what weather to expect at different times of year on the Sunshine Coast:
Summer (Dec-Feb) - Doesn’t get too hot, typically around 30°C
Autumn (Mar-May)- Warm during the day, cooler mornings and evenings
Winter (June-Aug)- The region enjoys sunny days over winter even with most of the rainfall at this time of year, around 16-21°C average, cooler in the evening
Spring (Sept-Nov)- Warm and sunny with temperatures averaging around 18°C during the day, closer to 10°C at night
The best time to visit Sunshine Coast
This corner of Queensland is a great place to visit year-round, but Spring/Summer is easily the best time to visit the Sunshine Coast (September - February). Spring days are warm but not too hot, so it’s a great time to enjoy the outdoors, while summer can be quite hot during the daytime and perfect for beach hopping adventures. That being said, while winter is cooler, there is still plenty to do. Just don’t forget to pack a jumper for the cool mornings and afternoons.
What Sunshine Coast is famous for
Sunshine Coast is famous for being an iconic summer holiday destination, attracting visitors from near and far. It is renowned for its vibrant nightlife hubs and celebrated for its spectacular beaches that dot the coastline, as well as being home to the famed Australia Zoo – originally started by the late Steve Irwin – which provides an unforgettable Australian wildlife experience for visitors of all ages.
Budget-friendly campsites in Sunshine Coast
Exploring the best free and cheap things to do on the Sunshine Coast in a campervan means that you can take advantage of the beautiful and affordable campervan accommodation along the way. Here are some of our top picks for budget-friendly campsites on the Sunshine Coast.
Noosa River Holiday Park
Located in the heart of Noosa, Noosa River Holiday Park offers a prime location just a short walk from the beach and the famous Hastings Street – Noosa’s iconic and vibrant shopping precinct. This holiday park provides a tranquil escape with a range of excellent facilities, including:
Riverfront sites
Camp kitchen
BBQ areas
Laundry
Cotton Tree Holiday Park
Cotton Tree Holiday Park is an award-winning caravan park located on the picturesque Maroochy River, offering breathtaking views of the water. This stunning waterfront location is also in close proximity to local shops, restaurants, and beaches and is well-equipped with a range of great facilities, including:
Powered sites
Camp kitchen
BBQ areas
Direct access to the Maroochy River
Free Wi-Fi.
Caloundra Waterfront Holiday Park
Nestled on the scenic waterfront of Pumicestone Passage, Caloundra Waterfront Holiday Park offers a stunning location for a relaxing getaway. In addition to its close proximity to the local shops and cafes in Caloundra, this park provides a range of facilities, including:
Camp kitchen
Espresso van on-site
Pool and entertainment precinct
BBQ areas
Jumping pillow
Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park
Located just steps away from the pristine sands of Mooloolaba Beach, Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park is the perfect spot for budget-friendly beach accommodation on the Sunshine Coast. This holiday park offers a range of facilities, including:
Camp kitchen
BBQ areas
A swimming pool
Wi-Fi access.
The best things to do in Sunshine Coast on a budget
Let’s dive into the affordable hidden gems and top free things to do in the Sunshine Coast on your upcoming Australia road trip.
Visit the beaches
The Sunshine Coast is home to some of the best beaches in Australia. From Noosa Heads to Caloundra, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Some of the must-visit beaches in the Sunshine Coast include:
Noosa Main Beach: This beach is home to crystal-clear waters, gentle waves, and iconic Australian golden sandy shores
Mooloolaba Beach: This is known for its long stretch of beach and as a popular spot for paddleboarding
Kings Beach: Popular for its calm waters, as well as its great barbecue and picnic facilities
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
Explore the national parks
The Sunshine Coast is blessed with an abundance of breathtaking national parks – making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From lush rainforests to rugged mountains and picturesque coastal trails, some of the must-visit parks include:
Noosa National Park - This park is located 30 minutes north of the Sunshine Coast and is home to stunning coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, rocky headlands and lush forests. This is a great spot for bushwalks and wildlife spotting – be that koalas in the trees or dolphins on the shoreline.
Glass House Mountains National Park - This park is tucked away just 30 minutes south of Caloundra and easily accessible via camper. Home to a series of distinctive volcanic peaks that rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, wildlife spotting and exploring the area’s rich Aboriginal history.
Kondalilla National Park - This park is located 30 minutes inland from the coast, just beyond Montville and is known for its lush rainforest, spectacular waterfalls and great views. It has a range of hiking trails and rock pools you can cool off in after a long day of exploring.
Visit the Eumundi Markets
Eumundi Markets is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the Sunshine Coast. With over 600 stalls offering a wide range of art, jewellery, clothing, and delectable food, these markets are a shopper's paradise (yes- even for those on a budget). Located in the town of Eumundi, just a short drive from the coast, the markets are easily accessible by campervan. However, the markets are very popular, so be sure to get there early to grab a park for your campervan.
Wander through botanical gardens
Spanning over 82 hectares of pristine bushland, Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden offers enchanting walking trails and serene picnic areas to explore. Enjoying a leisurely stroll through this tranquil oasis is easily one of the best Sunshine Coast free activities for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Visit the Big Pineapple
The Big Pineapple is an iconic landmark on the Sunshine Coast that is a must-visit on a campervan trip to this corner of Australia. You can choose to explore the pineapple plantation with an informative tour or simply climb to the top of the giant pineapple for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Go on a scenic drive
The Sunshine Coast is easily one of the best Queensland road trip destinations to treat yourself to a scenic drive. Spend a day driving along the coast, stopping at lookout points and small towns you find along the way. Best of all, it will just cost you the price of fuel.
Visit the ginger factory
The Ginger Factory is a popular attraction located in Yandina, just a 20-minute drive inland from Coolum Beach. Here you can take a tour of the factory or simply sample the delicious ginger products and enjoy a stroll around the gardens.
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
Go on a whale-watching tour
Ever dreamed of seeing a whale in the wild? Well, as it turns out, the Sunshine Coast is one of the best places in Australia to spot humpback whales during their annual migration. This is typically northbound from June-July and again from August through to September on their return journey. A whale-watching touris the best way to see these creatures in their natural habitat, all while learning about their fascinating feeding, breeding and communication habits. While these typically are on the higher end of a budget (at around $150 per person) it’s well worth the splurge if you find yourself here during the migration.
Visit Australia Zoo
One of the most popular attractions on the Sunshine Coast (not to mention a hallmark of Australian history!) is the Australia Zoo. This world-famous zoo was started by Steve Irwin (the ‘crocodile hunter’) and his family as an animal rehabilitation centre. Since its humble beginnings, it has grown into a legacy for conservation and is easily one of the best places to meet Australian wildlife like kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles and more – a must-visit for animal lovers. With tickets starting at around $65 per person, this is definitely one of the best cheap things to do in the Sunshine Coast and perfect for a full-day activity.
Enjoy local cuisine
Sunshine Coast is known for its delicious cuisine. From fresh seafood to locally grown produce – you will not want to miss the chance to sample fresh local food. Some of the best ways to experience the local cuisine include:
Visit local cafes and restaurants: This is a perfect way to taste the flavours of the region. If you are looking for ideas, Noosa Boathouse is a top-notch restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning vistas.
Cook up some local cuisine in your campervan: Don’t have room in your budget for meals out? Don’t let your budget stop you from missing the chance to try the incredible seafood and fresh produce on offer on the Sunshine Coast. Stop in at one of the many small-scale producers, and cook up a feast of local produce. Some local favourites include macadamias, honey, cheese and wine – Maleny Cheese is a great place to grab a few of these local classics.
Explore Sunshine Coast with Mighty
Ready to explore the Sunshine Coast? Hire a Mighty campervan and get the most out of your budget while exploring the Sunshine Coast. Simply book online or head to your local branch today and start packing for this ultimate Australia road trip.
