Locals Guide to the Wider Sunshine Coast
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Eat & Drink
Rice Boi
Location: The Wharf Mooloolaba, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD
Modern Asian street food with dumplings, bao, curries, and cold beers.
Website: riceboi.com.au
The Boatshed
Location: 46 David Low Way, Maroochydore QLD
Waterfront dining with fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine.
Website: theboatshedrestaurant.com.au
Pier 33
Location: 33-45 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD
Sleek waterfront venue offering seafood-focused share plates.
Website: pier33.com.au
Vrina Mezze Bar
Location: 12 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba QLD
Mediterranean-inspired small plates perfect for sharing.
Website: vrinamezzebar.com
Soka
Location: 1/20 Aerodrome Rd, Maroochydore QLD
Charcoal Japanese cuisine served in a modern, stylish setting.
Website: sokadining.com.au
Liliana’s Trattoria
Location: 2/36 Bulcock St, Caloundra QLD
Handmade pasta and authentic Italian dishes.
Website: lilianastrattoria.com.au
Juan Fifty Kitchen and Bar
Location: 50 Pacific Terrace, Alexandra Headland QLD
Mexican food with tacos, enchiladas, and refreshing margaritas.
Website: juanfifty.com.au
Ton Khao Bistro
Location: 19 First Ave, Mooloolaba QLD
Authentic Thai dishes with a modern twist.
Website: tonkhaobistro.com.au
Market Bistro
Location: 8 Market Ln, Maroochydore QLD
European-style bistro serving locally sourced produce.
Website: marketbistro.com.au
Kings Beach Bar
Location: 43 Burgess St, Caloundra QLD
Oceanfront dining with seafood dishes and a relaxed vibe.
Website: kingsbeachbar.com.au
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Things to Do
Mooloolaba Esplanade
A bustling beachfront promenade offering a mix of dining, shopping, and leisure activities.
Dining: Indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries or enjoy international cuisines with ocean views.
Shopping: Browse boutique stores for fashion, gifts, and surf gear.
Activities: Relax on Mooloolaba Beach, take a stroll along the boardwalk, or visit nearby attractions like SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Australia Zoo
Founded by the late Steve Irwin, this world-renowned zoo offers interactive wildlife experiences.
Highlights: See crocodile shows, hand-feed kangaroos, and encounter exotic animals.
Location: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah QLD
Website: australiazoo.com.au
The Wharf Mooloolaba
A revitalized precinct featuring dining, shopping, and entertainment by the water.
Dining: Enjoy modern Asian street food at Rice Boi or authentic Greek dishes at Spero.
Activities: Embark on a whale-watching tour or visit SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Website: wharfmooloolaba.com.au
Eumundi Markets
Renowned artisan markets held twice a week, offering local crafts, food, and entertainment.
Schedule: Wednesdays and Saturdays, 7:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Location: 80 Memorial Dr, Eumundi QLD
Website: eumundimarkets.com.au
Terella Brewing
A craft brewery offering a range of beers in a relaxed, rural setting.
Offerings: Craft beers, live music, and food trucks.
Location: 196 Bunya Rd, North Arm QLD
Website: terellabrewing.com.au
Montville and Maleny
Charming hinterland towns known for their arts, crafts, and stunning landscapes.
Montville: Explore galleries, boutiques, and enjoy views from the Kondalilla National Park.
Maleny: Visit local dairies, the Maleny Botanic Gardens, and nearby waterfalls.
Cotton Tree
A serene coastal area perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking by the Maroochy River.
Amenities: Cafés, parks, and a tranquil beach atmosphere.
Sunshine Plaza
The largest shopping center on the Sunshine Coast, offering a variety of retail and entertainment options.
Features: Over 300 stores, a cinema, and a dining precinct.
Location: 154-164 Horton Parade, Maroochydore QLD
Website: sunshineplaza.com