If you like to get out and have a walk then there are many options for you here on the Sunshine Coast. Whether you prefer a swim in a waterhole, a mountain climb or a beachside walk, you won’t be disappointed.
Here are some of the best hikes around the Sunshine Coast, all within an easy drive from our holiday apartments in Mooloolaba.
1. Mooloolaba Spit To Alexandra Headlands
Perhaps the easiest walk to go on if you are staying with us is along the waterfront in Mooloolaba. There is an uninterrupted beachside pathway from the Mooloolaba Spit, through Mooloolaba and over the headland that separates Mooloolaba from Alexandra Headlands.
The most ideal time is in the late afternoon, while the sun goes down behind the hinterland. It can be quite a popular walk with lots of families enjoying the beach and surrounding areas. There are some great spots for a picnic, especially up on the headland and you can always pop in for a swim too.
2. Mount Ninderry
The hike up Mount Ninderry takes about half an hour to forty minutes. To get to the start of the trail, you pass through Yandina, and along Ninderry Road until you reach a small car park on your right. Mount Ninderry is not as busy as Mount Coolum and provides a sweeping view of the coastline to the east, and the mountains to the west.
A new viewing platform has been created on the Northern end of the peak. After you come down, there are some nice cafes in Yandina, such as Gun Cotton Roastery, or Eumundi is just a short drive away too.
3. Mount Coolum
Mount Coolum is the largest free-standing mountain on the coast and the second biggest rock in the world behind Uluru. It is a lot less famous than Uluru that’s for sure. Not everyone agrees it is the second biggest rock, but this isn’t a science blog.
Hiking to the top takes about 45 minutes and then it is about 30 minutes to get down. Mount Coolum can be quite busy as it is popular with joggers and there is not a lot of shade, so pack your hat and sunscreen.
4. Noosa National Park
The Noosa National Park headland walk is one of the nicest hikes on the coast. The track runs from Sunshine Beach in the South, around to the northern end of Noosa Headlands. It includes some spectacular beaches such as Tea Tree, Granite Bay and Alexandra Bay. There are also great lookouts such as Devils Gate.
At the right time of year, you can see whales in the distance, dolphins and other sea life. There is also some chance to see koalas sleeping in the trees above.
One thing to remember is that you will have to make it back to your car by retracing your steps.
5. Gardners Falls
For a swim in a beautiful waterfall, it is hard to beat Gardners Falls in Maleny. Okay, this is more of a stroll and then a dip in a water hole than a hike. Once you get to the parking area on Obi Obi Creek, it is only about 300 metres along a flat pathway to the falls and various swimming holes.
There are also picnic areas so you can pack some lunch or bring something from a nearby café in Maleny and spend a few hours in the shade of a beautiful rainforest hideaway. Unless it is a school holiday when it can get kind of busy.
Some other great places for a hike include Mount Tinbeerwah, Kondalilla Falls, The coastal walk from Yaroomba to Coolum and many more. If you want advice about getting out in nature, just ask at our reception desk.
