Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations and for good reason, thanks to its incredible beaches, vibrant bars and restaurants, warm climate and natural beauty. Whilst its popular with travellers of all types and ages, it's a particularly great family holiday destination thanks to the number of calm, kid-friendly beaches. Here is our selection of the best beaches for kids on the Sunshine Coast.
1. NOOSA MAIN BEACH, NOOSA HEADS
Why it’s great for kids: As one of the few north facing beaches on the East Coast of Australia, Noosa Main Beach has great protection from the elements meaning there’s almost always a part of the beach without waves. If convenience is what you need, everything you could possibly need for a day at the beach can be found a short walk away on Hastings St.
Patrol: Year round
Where to find it: Hastings Street, Noosa Heads
Where to stay: Noosa River Holiday Park
2. MUDJIMBA BEACH, MUDJIMBA
Why it’s great for kids: The waves here are reliably gentle, particularly when they get to the shallows. It’s a lesser known spot, meaning it doesn’t get as busy as some of the other beaches on this list which can pack out in peak seasons, making it a challenge to find a spacious spot for the kids to run around.
Patrol: Year round
Where to find it: Mudjimba Esplanade, Mudjimba
Where to stay: Mudjimba Beach Holiday Park
3. BULCOCK BEACH, CALOUNDRA
Why it’s great for kids: Located opposite the northern tip of Bribie Island and protected by the sands of the Caloundra Bar, this is the perfect place if your top priority is to find gentle waters. It’s also patrolled seasonally.
Patrol: Seasonal
Where to find it: The Esplanade, Caloundra
Where to stay: BIG4 Caloundra Waterfront Holiday Park
4. COTTON TREE BEACH, MAROOCHYDORE
Why it’s great for kids: Whilst calm waves can roll into this picturesque spot, the shallows are very safe to play in the shallows. Located directly out the front of the Cotton Tree Holiday Park also makes it easy to get back to your accommodation or for kids to enjoy the playground when they feel like staying on dry land.
Patrol: Seasonal
Where to find it: The Esplanade, Maroochydore
Where to stay: Cotton Tree Holiday Park
5. KINGS BEACH, CALOUNDRA
Why it’s great for kids: Whilst the beach itself is great and conditions are generally gentle, kids will love playing in the ocean pool at the northern end of the beach, which also has a water park.
Patrol: Seasonal
Where to find it: The Esplanade, Caloundra
Where to stay: BIG4 Caloundra Waterfront Holiday Park
