The daily stresses of life can really bog you down – whether it’s with your job, or relationships. But taking a break with a short and quick holiday can help recharge your batteries. As important as school and work are, it’s important to take a step back and just catch your breath - to take in what the world has to offer and explore your surroundings.

On the Sunshine Coast, there are a myriad of weekend drives that are perfect for a quick holiday destination not far from home. Whether you’re looking for a 30-minute weekend drive or several hours away, the Sunshine Coast is exactly what you’re looking for. Let’s take a drive towards your next destination and narrow down the best 5 weekend drives available on the Sunshine Coast!

1. Noosa Everglades

Located just a 30-minute drive outside of town, Noosa Everglades is one of Queensland’s best kept secrets and a stunning place to be. This 60km river and lake system is protected by the Great Sandy National Park and best explored by paddling. Feel free to join a tour on an eco-cruise if you prefer larger crowds or if you prefer something more private, feel free to explore via canoe as well. As one of the only two everglade systems on Earth, this area has an abundance of wildlife unique to the Noosa region. Experience the breath-taking beauty and tranquillity of the Noosa Everglades and escape into another dimension.

2. Bribie Island

Over at Bribie Island, this area is home to many national parks, surf beaches, protected beaches, and fishing spots all for you to explore. This weekend getaway also features a beautiful array of restaurants and accommodation overlooking the sparkling blue waters on the horizon. As Bribie Island is home to the Pumicestone Passage, a protected marine park and haven for wildlife, you might have the opportunity to catch a dugong, turtle, dolphin, or wild bird in their natural habitat. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing or exciting say trip, make Bribie Island your next destination!

3. Double Island Point

A coastal headland in Queenslands, Double Island Point is located in the scenic Great Sandy National Park. The easiest way to get there is by car alongside the Cooloola beach drive between Noosa North Shore and Rainbow Beach. You can do a broad range of activities such as overnight camping, taking a walk along the beach, hiking, swimming, birdwatching, and fishing. Nearby is the Double Island Point lighthouse where you have an overview of the sweeping oceans and coast below. While you’re that high up, you can also peer below and watch other vacationers splashing in the waters below.

4. Rainbow Beach

Located just under two hours from the Sunshine Coast via the Bruce Highway, Rainbow Beach is home to one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Queensland. Known for its Colours Sands with over 72 different hues, Rainbow Beach is a playground for all aquatic lovers. Nearby there are sandy cliffs which reach up to 200 meters in height where you can join Rainbow Beach Horse Rides for a memorable experience with the beautiful sandy beaches all around you. Legends say that Yiningie, the spirit of the gods, often took the form of a rainbow. Killed in a fight, when Yiningie crashes into the cliffs, his spirit coloured the sands.

5. Hervey Bay

Last but not least, Hervey Bay is a 3.5 hour drive north of Brisbane and only a 45 minute plane ride. Easily accessible, this holiday destination is one of the world’s largest sand islands with over 50 underwater sites housing coral-covered reefs and dozens of different fish species. If you’re just travelling for the weekend, feel free to take part in the many activities on the island such as whale watching, skydiving, windsurfing, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing. If your're more of an indoor person, feel free to visit one of the city’s many cafes, clubs, cinemas, and restaurants!

Want to know more?

At Ocean Buyers Agency, we make buying real estate a breeze for all our clients. As one of the most experience and well-connected buyers’ advocate agencies on the Sunshine Coast, we aim to help you avoid the stress and hassle of property searching. By saving time and money, making informed decisions based on expert knowledge, and acting on your behalf to negotiate the best purchase price, we aim to create a memorable buying experience for you and your family.

Feel free to contact us for a quick chat and we’ll be happy to tailor our services according to your needs!

Best 5 Weekend Drives on the Sunshine Coast