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Top things to do in Sunshine Coast

School Holiday Favorites in Sunshine Coast

Experience the vibrant allure of the Sunshine Coast with our curated selection of holiday specials. Dive into pristine beaches, lush hinterlands, and top attractions that define this coastal gem.

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School Holiday Favorites in Sunshine Coast
Mary Valley Rattler steam train departing Gympie station.
Steam train departing Gympie station on the Mary Valley Rattler experience.
Mary Valley Rattler staff standing by the train in Gympie.
Mary Valley Rattler staff greeting a passenger at the booking office.
Mary Valley Rattler steam train at Amamoor station, Queensland.
Mary Valley Rattler steam train crossing a wooden bridge near Gympie.
Cafe interior with pastries and drinks, barista serving a customer, part of Mary Valley Rattler Train Experience from Gympie.
Coffee cup at Rusty Rails Cafe, Mary Valley Rattler Train.
Avocado toast with pickled onions and flowers, served with a side of salsa on the Mary Valley Rattler Train.
Bowl of mixed vegetables and grains served on the Mary Valley Rattler Train Experience.
Waffles with ice cream and strawberries served on the Mary Valley Rattler Train Experience.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr 30 min
1 more
  • Hop on the Rattler Steam Train and enjoy the serene, delightful view across Mary Valley with optional lunch.

  • Experience the restored vintage engines and carriages of the steam train and enjoy a unique rail journey as you meet some of the local volunteers.

  • Opt for the Silver Bullet for an elegant high tea experience with unlimited tea, coffee, and bubbles, perfect for making your trip extra special!

  • Upgrade to a VIP Booth to enjoy priority preboarding, a host, artisanal cheeses, a drink, unlimited bar, verandah access, and a 2-course lunch.

  • Fun fact: Closed in 2012, local volunteers restored the line in 2018, turning it into a tourist attraction and preserving its historical significance.

More details

  • Hop on the Rattler Steam Train and enjoy the serene, delightful view across Mary Valley with optional lunch.

  • Experience the restored vintage engines and carriages of the steam train and enjoy a unique rail journey as you meet some of the local volunteers.

  • Opt for the Silver Bullet for an elegant high tea experience with unlimited tea, coffee, and bubbles, perfect for making your trip extra special!

  • Upgrade to a VIP Booth to enjoy priority preboarding, a host, artisanal cheeses, a drink, unlimited bar, verandah access, and a 2-course lunch.

  • Fun fact: Closed in 2012, local volunteers restored the line in 2018, turning it into a tourist attraction and preserving its historical significance.

from
AU$69
Guests boarding Aquaduck vehicle for Sunshine Coast city tour and river cruise.
Aquaduck tour boat sailing near Sunshine Coast skyline.
Family on Aquaduck Sunshine Coast tour holding certificate, seated on river cruise boat.
Child and guide giving thumbs up inside Aquaduck vehicle, Sunshine Coast skyline visible.
Aquaduck tour boat cruising along Sunshine Coast with city skyline in the background.
Aquaduck amphibious vehicle parked on Sunshine Coast street for city tour and river cruise.
Aquaduck amphibious vehicle entering water on Sunshine Coast city tour and river cruise.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr
  • Explore the best of Sunshine Coast on this land and water tour!

  • Enjoy an unforgettable ride on the amphibious Aquaduck as it seamlessly transitions from land to water.

  • Travel along the Esplanade and Sunshine Strip on the road.

  • Cruise through the numerous canals and waterways that are lined with lavish mega-mansions.

  • Discover the beauty of the Mooloolah River and its exotic sea life.

  • Let the children play their part as the captain of Aquaduck during the tour.

More details

  • Explore the best of Sunshine Coast on this land and water tour!

  • Enjoy an unforgettable ride on the amphibious Aquaduck as it seamlessly transitions from land to water.

  • Travel along the Esplanade and Sunshine Strip on the road.

  • Cruise through the numerous canals and waterways that are lined with lavish mega-mansions.

  • Discover the beauty of the Mooloolah River and its exotic sea life.

  • Let the children play their part as the captain of Aquaduck during the tour.

from
AU$50
Children interacting with colorful parrots at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World.
Visitors interacting with colorful parrots at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World.
Mother and child petting goats at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World.
Couple exploring waterfall at Maleny Botanic Gardens, surrounded by lush greenery.
Visitors interacting with colorful parrots at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World.
Person feeding a small donkey at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World.
Golf cart driving through Maleny Botanic Gardens with scenic mountain view.
Visitors interacting with colorful parrots at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World.
Colorful parrots perched on rocks at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
  • Buy the entry ticket to spend a relaxing day exploring the picturesque Maleny Botanical Gardens and Bird World in Queensland, away from the hustle and bustle of Australia's big cities.

  • Enjoy a fun family outing at this "Jewel of Maleny," consisting of nearly 18 acres of gardens on a 110-acre property.

  • Feel the tranquility as you stroll around 6 km of walking tracks that meander around thousands of different plants.

  • Explore this massive garden and discover lakes, waterfalls, ponds, and more on your visit to the Sunshine Coast.

  • Enjoy a picnic at a scenic spot with breathtaking views of the iconic Glass House Mountains surrounded by magnificent rainforest.

  • Be sure to see the over 700 majestic birds in the aviary tour, and take photos with them. Also get to see some friendly farm animals!

More details

  • Buy the entry ticket to spend a relaxing day exploring the picturesque Maleny Botanical Gardens and Bird World in Queensland, away from the hustle and bustle of Australia's big cities.

  • Enjoy a fun family outing at this "Jewel of Maleny," consisting of nearly 18 acres of gardens on a 110-acre property.

  • Feel the tranquility as you stroll around 6 km of walking tracks that meander around thousands of different plants.

  • Explore this massive garden and discover lakes, waterfalls, ponds, and more on your visit to the Sunshine Coast.

  • Enjoy a picnic at a scenic spot with breathtaking views of the iconic Glass House Mountains surrounded by magnificent rainforest.

  • Be sure to see the over 700 majestic birds in the aviary tour, and take photos with them. Also get to see some friendly farm animals!

from
AU$47
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium promotion with seal and clownfish.
Family observing colorful jellyfish at Jellyfish Kingdom, Sea Life Sunshine Coast.
Entrance to SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast with promotional banners for exhibits.
Children enjoying the underwater tunnel at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
A family at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
Woman swimming with a seal at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Family observing penguins at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast aquarium.
Family observing lionfish at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast aquarium.
Woman interacting with a seal at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Scuba divers observing a shark at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Visitors interacting with a seal at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Visitors enjoying the aquarium exhibit at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Mother and daughter enjoying snacks at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast café.
Family interacting with marine life at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast touch pool.
Family observing an octopus at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast aquarium.
Visitors receiving a map at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast entrance.
Underwater tunnel with sharks at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Father and daughter observing a seal at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Child observing clownfish in aquarium at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Handlers interacting with a sea lion at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
  • Get 20% off when you book between 15 October and 30 November 2025.

  • Step into 11 themed zones that bring Queensland’s marine world closer, from luminous jellyfish displays to colourful coral reefs alive with clownfish and seahorses.

  • Wander through the Ocean Tunnel and experience sharks and giant rays gliding just overhead, perfect for photos and wide-eyed moments.

  • Stop by Seal Island to watch resident seals splash, play and interact with keepers during daily talks and feeding sessions.

  • Let kids (and curious adults) gently touch starfish and sea cucumbers at the tidal touchpool, a hands-on way to learn about marine life.

  • Capture it all with a Digi Photo Pass, giving you 8 digital photos to share or keep as a memory of your day.

  • Make your visit even bigger: add a behind-the-scenes turtle rehab tour, swim with friendly seals, or dive cage-free with sharks in the Ocean Tunnel.

More details

  • Get 20% off when you book between 15 October and 30 November 2025.

  • Step into 11 themed zones that bring Queensland’s marine world closer, from luminous jellyfish displays to colourful coral reefs alive with clownfish and seahorses.

  • Wander through the Ocean Tunnel and experience sharks and giant rays gliding just overhead, perfect for photos and wide-eyed moments.

  • Stop by Seal Island to watch resident seals splash, play and interact with keepers during daily talks and feeding sessions.

  • Let kids (and curious adults) gently touch starfish and sea cucumbers at the tidal touchpool, a hands-on way to learn about marine life.

  • Capture it all with a Digi Photo Pass, giving you 8 digital photos to share or keep as a memory of your day.

  • Make your visit even bigger: add a behind-the-scenes turtle rehab tour, swim with friendly seals, or dive cage-free with sharks in the Ocean Tunnel.

from
AU$38.40
Aquaduck vehicle on Sunshine Coast beach and child with seal at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Guests boarding Aquaduck vehicle for Sunshine Coast city tour and river cruise.
Father and daughter observing a seal at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Aquaduck tour on Sunshine Coast water with city skyline in background.
Child and guide giving thumbs up inside Aquaduck vehicle, Sunshine Coast skyline visible.
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast entrance with Finding Dory and Seal Island exhibits.
Visitors receiving a map at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast entrance.
Family on Aquaduck tour holding certificate, Sunshine Coast water view.
Aquaduck amphibious vehicle parked on Sunshine Coast street for city tour and river cruise.
Family observing an octopus at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast aquarium.
Underwater tunnel with sharks at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Aquaduck tour on the water with Sunshine Coast skyline in the background.
Child observing clownfish in aquarium at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Flexible duration
  • Experience the thrill of riding on an amphibious Aquaduck that transforms from a bus to a boat in seconds.

  • Explore the best sights of Mooloolaba by land and sea, and enjoy live commentary from your friendly guide.

  • Get up close to thousands of marine and freshwater animals at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, a multi-award winning aquarium.

  • Marvel at the penguins, sharks, seals, stingrays, tropical fish, and more in the 11 themed zones and interactive exhibits.

  • Did you know that the Aquaduck is Australia's first amphibious tour, operating since 1996? It's a quacker of a ride!

More details

  • Experience the thrill of riding on an amphibious Aquaduck that transforms from a bus to a boat in seconds.

  • Explore the best sights of Mooloolaba by land and sea, and enjoy live commentary from your friendly guide.

  • Get up close to thousands of marine and freshwater animals at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, a multi-award winning aquarium.

  • Marvel at the penguins, sharks, seals, stingrays, tropical fish, and more in the 11 themed zones and interactive exhibits.

  • Did you know that the Aquaduck is Australia's first amphibious tour, operating since 1996? It's a quacker of a ride!

from
AU$88.40
Crocodile leaping from water at Australia Zoo stadium.
Crowd watching a wildlife show at the Crocoseum in Australia Zoo.
Australia Zoo entrance with iconic Crocodile Hunter signage and lush greenery.
Person feeding kangaroo at Australia Zoo.
Baby kangaroo receiving care from staff at Australia Zoo.
Elephant playing in water at Australia Zoo surrounded by lush greenery.
Tourists riding a golf cart through lush greenery at Australia Zoo.
Tourists with a giraffe at Australia Zoo.
Crikey Cafe entrance at Australia Zoo with green plant wall and modern interior.
Tourists observing a zookeeper with a joey at Australia Zoo nursery.
Ring-tailed lemur on a log at Australia Zoo.
Kangaroos resting on grass at Australia Zoo.
Rhinoceros and calf grazing at Australia Zoo.
Pathway through lush greenery at Australia Zoo under a bright sky.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
9 hr
1 more
  • Skip the big coaches and spend the day at Steve Irwin’s legendary Australia Zoo, the real home of the Irwin family, not just any zoo.

  • Terri, Bindi, and Robert live on the zoo grounds; guests often spot them feeding crocs or hosting shows, though sightings aren't guaranteed.

  • Relax on a boutique small-group ride from Noosa and coastal areas, with your guide sharing local legends and Irwin family stories en route.

  • Arrive early and enjoy up to six hours exploring animal encounters, live shows, and themed habitats at your own pace.

  • Ideal for Sunshine Coast visitors and seniors seeking small-group comfort, local storytelling, and extra time with Australia’s wildlife.

More details

  • Skip the big coaches and spend the day at Steve Irwin’s legendary Australia Zoo, the real home of the Irwin family, not just any zoo.

  • Terri, Bindi, and Robert live on the zoo grounds; guests often spot them feeding crocs or hosting shows, though sightings aren't guaranteed.

  • Relax on a boutique small-group ride from Noosa and coastal areas, with your guide sharing local legends and Irwin family stories en route.

  • Arrive early and enjoy up to six hours exploring animal encounters, live shows, and themed habitats at your own pace.

  • Ideal for Sunshine Coast visitors and seniors seeking small-group comfort, local storytelling, and extra time with Australia’s wildlife.

from AU$169
AU$162.24

4% off

Aquaduck vehicle on water and Mary Valley Rattler train in Gympie, Sunshine Coast tour.
Guests boarding Aquaduck vehicle for Sunshine Coast city tour and river cruise.
Aquaduck tour boat sailing near Sunshine Coast skyline.
Mary Valley Rattler steam train departing Gympie station.
Mary Valley Rattler staff greeting a passenger at the booking office.
Child and guide giving thumbs up inside Aquaduck vehicle, Sunshine Coast skyline visible.
Aquaduck tour boat cruising along Sunshine Coast with city skyline in the background.
Cafe interior with pastries and drinks, barista serving a customer, part of Mary Valley Rattler Train Experience from Gympie.
Waffles with ice cream and strawberries at Rusty Rails Cafe, Mary Valley Rattler Train.
Free cancellation
1 hr
  • On the amphibious Aquaduck that transitions from land to water, ride past the golden beaches around the Sunshine Strip.

  • Learn more about the Esplanade with your guide and cruise through the numerous canals and waterways lined with lavish mega-mansions.

  • Hop on the Rattler Steam Train to enjoy the serene view across Mary Valley and quaint life in the countryside of Queensland.

  • Choose the tasting ticket option to enjoy a meal made with local produce featuring delicious pork belly, crispy potatoes, panna cotta, and more.

  • Fun Fact: The Mooloolah River is known for its unique estuary system – a coastal area where freshwater rivers meet and mix with saltwater from the ocean.

More details

  • On the amphibious Aquaduck that transitions from land to water, ride past the golden beaches around the Sunshine Strip.

  • Learn more about the Esplanade with your guide and cruise through the numerous canals and waterways lined with lavish mega-mansions.

  • Hop on the Rattler Steam Train to enjoy the serene view across Mary Valley and quaint life in the countryside of Queensland.

  • Choose the tasting ticket option to enjoy a meal made with local produce featuring delicious pork belly, crispy potatoes, panna cotta, and more.

  • Fun Fact: The Mooloolah River is known for its unique estuary system – a coastal area where freshwater rivers meet and mix with saltwater from the ocean.

from AU$119
AU$113.59

5% off

Family observing octopus at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast and Mary Valley Rattler train in Gympie.
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast entrance with Finding Dory and Seal Island exhibits.
Visitors receiving a map at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast entrance.
Mary Valley Rattler train crew standing beside a red train at Gympie station.
Cafe interior with pastries and drinks, barista serving a customer, part of Mary Valley Rattler Train Experience from Gympie.
Handlers interacting with a sea lion at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Child interacting with a seal at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.
Coffee cup at Rusty Rails Cafe, Mary Valley Rattler Train.
Healthy bowl with avocado, pickled onions, roasted vegetables, and seeds, part of the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast tour.
Flexible duration
  • The award-winning SEA LIFE aquarium has 11 themed zones offering interactions with seals and views of adorable waddling penguins.

  • Walk through an 80m Ocean Tunnel as sharks swim around and above you and high-five starfishes at the interactive Tidal Touchpool.

  • Hop on the Rattler Steam Train and enjoy the serene, delightful view across Mary Valley and the rural life of Queensland.

  • Admire the heritage stations of Gympie and Amamoor, and upgrade your ticket to enjoy some crackling pork, panna cotta, and more on your journey!

  • Fun Fact: The Rattler relies on a traditional steam engine for its power, setting it apart from modern trains that commonly employ diesel or electric propulsion.

More details

  • The award-winning SEA LIFE aquarium has 11 themed zones offering interactions with seals and views of adorable waddling penguins.

  • Walk through an 80m Ocean Tunnel as sharks swim around and above you and high-five starfishes at the interactive Tidal Touchpool.

  • Hop on the Rattler Steam Train and enjoy the serene, delightful view across Mary Valley and the rural life of Queensland.

  • Admire the heritage stations of Gympie and Amamoor, and upgrade your ticket to enjoy some crackling pork, panna cotta, and more on your journey!

  • Fun Fact: The Rattler relies on a traditional steam engine for its power, setting it apart from modern trains that commonly employ diesel or electric propulsion.

from AU$107.40
AU$91.62

15% off

Millions love heading out with us

Leticia Lewis

Leticia

Nov 2025
5/5
Had a fantastic experience on the tour. We chose to celebrate family Christmas with a group of 23 and the children loved being able to drive the aquaduck.

Aquaduck Sunshine Coast: 1 Hour City Tour & River Cruise

Terry Fell
NZ

Terry

New Zealand
Nov 2025
5/5
IT was great to see the mansions down the river and the massive boats outside their premises. Very interesting to Steve Irwin's boat that he actually died one. Also as abus driver over here, getting to drive the Aquaduck.

Aquaduck Sunshine Coast: 1 Hour City Tour & River Cruise

Mattias Lipke
NL

Mattias

Netherlands
Nov 2025
4/5
Its a nice aquarium but a little on the small side. They do have a bunch of very nice and different exibits. The seal show is definitely the highlight of the trip, so don't miss that one. But they also have more than just fish like penguins, frogs and as I mentioned the seals.

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium Tickets

Kimberly Dagan
AU

Kimberly

Australia
Oct 2025
5/5
The day was fantastic we drove for the southside of Brisbane, we got there early and they still let us in. There was 2 bunches of school kids on excursions very well behaved super impressed. My 6 month old loved watching all the animals will definitely come again. Thank you

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium Tickets

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