The Sunshine Coast, a sublime 70km stretch of pristine coastline north of Brisbane, is a brilliant place to explore on a self-drive day trip from the Gold Coast. As opposed to the latter, the former is a region rather than a bona fide town, and comprises over 20 incredibly picturesque and enticing towns and villages.
Pack your bags for the day, hop into your rental car (which you can easily and conveniently pick up from Gold Coast Airport when you arrive) and come discover this most delightful and stylish part of Queensland.
In Summary:
- The Gold Coast to Noosa drive is 150km (93 miles) and approximately 2—2.5 hours via M1 and Sunshine Motorway.
- A Gold Coast to Sunshine Coast day trip is technically possible, but it’s really worth staying at least one night.
How do I drive from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast?
The Route: 2–2.5 hours, toll-free
- From Gold Coast Airport, head north on the M1 Pacific Motorway toward Brisbane.
- Take Exit 190 for the Sunshine Motorway, following signs to Maroochydore and Noosa Heads.
- The route passes through Brisbane’s outer suburbs before the immaculate coastal scene unfolds before you.
Road conditions are excellent throughout, making it an easy drive that is suitable for all vehicle types.
Can I do the Gold Coast to Sunshine Coast as a day trip?
Yes, but we don’t recommend it. At peak times, the 2.5-hour drive each way leaves only 4–6 hours for exploring. It’s best to depart by 8am and return by 7pm if you’re trying to smash out the region in only a day.
Staying overnight lets you properly experience Noosa’s beaches, the hinterland markets and wildlife attractions without rushing.
- Day Trip Priorities: Noosa National Park, Main Beach & Main Street
- Staying Overnight: Australia Zoo, Eumundi Markets, Mt Coolum hike, SEA LIFE Mooloolaba
When is the best time to visit the Sunshine Coast?
Thanks to its subtropical climate, the Sunshine Coast delivers good weather pretty much all year round. But, spring is a real sweet spot with a golden mix of warm weather, low rainfall and blissfully thinner crowds.
| Season | Temperature | Best For | Crowds |
| Spring (Sep-Nov) | 18-26°C | Hiking, wildlife, perfect weather | Low-Medium |
| Summer (Dec-Feb) | 21-29°C | Beach days, swimming | High |
| Autumn (Mar-May) | 18-26°C | Comfortable exploring | Low |
| Winter (Jun-Aug) | 13-22°C | Whale watching, clear skies | Low |
Our go-to Sunshine Coast itinerary from the Gold Coast
Depart Gold Coast (8am)
Hit the highway early to maximise your time embracing the Sunshine Coast. It should be an easy drive, which is a great way to get into that laidback state of mind that the region is well known for.
1. Noosa Heads – Main Beach & Hastings Street (10.30am-12pm)
The most upmarket and stylish address on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa has gained a healthy reputation as THE Queensland playground of Australia’s rich and famous. Peruse the designer boutiques along Hastings St., splurge on haute cuisine or enjoy a dip on Main Beach, often considered the most beautiful and pristine stretch in the whole Sunshine Coast.
Kite surfing is insanely popular here due to favourable wind conditions, so if you’re keen to give it a go, simply head to Noosa Kiteboarding and book a private lesson as soon as you arrive.
2. Late lunch in Noosa or Eumundi (12pm–2pm)
You’ve got two great late-lunching options:
- Stay in Noosa and take your pick of waterfront dining along Hastings Street or Gympie Terrace.
- Leave a bit earlier to reach Eumundi markets before close. Here you’ll find 600 stall holders spruiking their organic produce, artisan goods or local goodies. It operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7am–2pm.
While you’re browsing the market, good luck resisting the eclectic mix of wares and crafts. You’ll need it.
3. Noosa National Park (2pm–4pm)
Noosa National Park, Park Road, Noosa Heads
One of Queensland’s most spectacular and accessible national parks. Enjoy a 2-hour return walk to Hells Gate and keep your eyes peeled to the tree line so you won’t miss the chance to spot a koala or two. If you’re visiting on a weekend, make this your first port of call…finding a spot for your rental car in the car park can be a challenge then!
What are some of the best activities to add on an extra day in the Sunshine Coast?
1. Australia Zoo
Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah (45 min from Noosa)
This animal sanctuary, set up by the late Steve Irwin, is by far one of the most revered in the whole country. The Crocodile Hunter may have put this zoo on the international tourist map initially, yet it’s the fantastic, world-class enclosures and wildlife variety that continue to ensure its popularity both at home and abroad. Get up, close and personal with crocodiles, snakes, marsupials, elephants, tigers…and more!
The zoo guarantees an absolutely unbeatable and fun experience for the whole family and is especially recommended for anyone travelling with overseas visitors.
2. SEA LIFE Mooloolaba
Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba (30 min from Noosa)
For all those who need a further wildlife fix, a visit to the newly renamed Underwater World in Mooloolaba should definitely do the trick. Home to thousands of underwater creatures, this incredibly beautiful aquarium gifts you unprecedented chances to admire dozens of different species of sharks, rays and an abundance of other endemic sea life.
Walks, shows, behind-the-scenes tours and presentations are offered all day long, so make sure you have plenty of time at your disposal. Don’t miss the seal show, especially if travelling with kids and, for those who want a safe adrenaline thrill, a chance to scuba dive with sharks!
3. Hike up Mt Coolum
Mt Coolum National Park (20 min from Noosa)
For incredibly magical views of the coast and wilderness of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, head up on an invigorating hike in Mt Coolum. The walk is not immensely strenuous, yet good walking shoes and a moderate level of fitness are definitely required. A return hike ought to take about an hour and a half; this will give you plenty of time to stop for photo ops and to catch your breath.
Gold Coast to Sunshine Coast Drive Road Trip Tips:
What car would we recommend for…
- Couples: A comfortable sedan or compact SUV
- Families: Standard or large SUV with luggage space
- Extended stays? If you’re in town for an extended work or play, we’ve got you covered with long-term rentals and commercial vehicles, too.
What should I pack for a day trip to the Sunshine Coast?
- Swimming gear, towels, sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Hiking shoes for national park trails
- Reusable shopping bags for markets
- Camera for koala spotting and coastal views
Plan Your Sunshine Coast Adventure with Bargain Car Rentals
Whether you prefer glitz and glam or reptiles that slam, a hire car from Gold Coast gives you the freedom and flexibility to follow your own trail.
And if you need help with Queensland’s most stylish coastline? We’d be happy to suggest the best beaches and ice-cream shops that are worth pulling over.
Book your Gold Coast hire car and start planning your Sunshine Coast trip today.
How far is the Sunshine Coast from the Gold Coast?
The Sunshine Coast (specifically Noosa Heads) is 150km (93 miles) from the Gold Coast, approximately a 2–2.5 hour drive via the M1 Pacific Motorway and Sunshine Motorway. The route is toll-free and on fully sealed roads, no 4WD required.
Are there tolls between Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast?
No, the M1 and Sunshine Motorway route between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast is completely toll-free.
Is it better to drive or take public transport?
Driving is the most convenient option. Public transport is available but requires multiple train and bus connections and takes significantly longer.
Do you go through Brisbane on the way?
Yes, most direct routes from Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast pass through or around Brisbane, which can impact travel time depending on traffic conditions.
When is the best time to drive from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast?
Early mornings or mid-mornings are ideal to avoid peak commuter traffic in and around Brisbane. As you’d expect, weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
Can I pick up a car in the Gold Coast and drop it off in the Sunshine Coast?
Yes, you most certainly can. To check if one-way rental is available from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast, simply add the locations in our booking tool. Our team will also be able to help with specifics on the route, as well as recommend the best car rental for you.
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