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This Sunshine Coast travel tips and FAQ covers the practical side: which airport to fly into, what transport costs, tipping customs, water safety, and the answers travelers search for most. Prices are in Australian dollars and were current in 2025. For the climate and best season, start with the best time to visit the Sunshine Coast guide.
Sunshine Coast Travel Tips: Airports and Getting There
Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) at Marcoola is the closest airport, about 10 to 30 minutes by car from most beach towns, with domestic flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Auckland. Brisbane Airport (BNE) is 90 minutes south by car and handles international arrivals. A shuttle from MCY to Mooloolaba costs around AU$25 to AU$40, and a taxi to Noosa is about AU$45 to AU$60. Renting a car is the most practical option because buses between towns are infrequent. For the monthly temperature and rainfall numbers, see our Sunshine Coast weather by month guide.
Sunshine Coast Travel Tips: Getting Around
Translink runs bus services across the coast, but headways can be 30 to 60 minutes, and some hinterland routes run only a few times a day. A single adult fare within a zone costs about AU$4 to AU$6 with a go card, and the airport bus 622 connects Marcoola to Maroochydore. For Noosa National Park and Hastings Street, the free Noosa shuttle helps avoid paid parking. A rental car is the easiest way to reach the hinterland towns and Australia Zoo. For attractions and beaches, see the things to do on the Sunshine Coast guide.
Sunshine Coast Travel Tips: Money, Tipping and Cards
Australia is card-first, and most Sunshine Coast cafes and markets take contactless payment, though some market stalls still prefer cash. Tipping is not expected; a tip of 5 to 10 percent at a sit-down restaurant is a bonus for good service, not a requirement. There are no compulsory service charges, and tax is included in displayed prices. ATMs are common in all four main towns. For event dates, see the Sunshine Coast events and festivals calendar.
Sunshine Coast Travel Tips: Safety and Swimming
Swim only between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches, and never at dusk. Stinger season runs from November to May, so check the daily stinger and surf report at the lifeguard tower before entering the water. Rips are the main risk at open beaches like Coolum and Maroochydore. Tap water is safe to drink across the region. The Sunshine Coast is generally a low-crime area; the usual precautions with valuables in cars apply at beach car parks. For the full overview, see the Sunshine Coast hub.
Sunshine Coast Travel Tips: Common Questions
Do I need a visa for the Sunshine Coast?
Most visitors to Australia need either an eVisitor (subclass 651) or an Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601), both applied for online before travel. New Zealand citizens travel on a Special Category Visa. Check the Department of Home Affairs site for your passport, and apply at least a few weeks ahead.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink across the Sunshine Coast. Carry a refillable bottle; beachside parks and surf clubs usually have water fountains.
How much is a taxi from Sunshine Coast Airport?
A taxi from Sunshine Coast Airport to Mooloolaba costs about AU$35 to AU$50, and to Noosa about AU$45 to AU$60 depending on traffic. Rideshare pickups operate from a designated zone outside the terminal.
Suggested Hotels on the Sunshine Coast
Elysium Noosa Resort (MGallery)
Elysium Noosa Resort is a full-service property on Hastings Street with a restaurant, day spa, and heated pool. Best for couples who want a premium stay in the walkable heart of Noosa. Check rates and availability
Beach Club Resort Mooloolaba
Beach Club Resort Mooloolaba has apartments with balconies, a heated pool, and a rooftop deck, 400 metres from the beach. Best for families who want the central coast location. Check rates and availability
Caloundra Central Apartment Hotel
Caloundra Central Apartment Hotel offers self-contained rooms with kitchens at the budget end of the coast. Best for travelers who want apartment space and the lowest rates. Check rates and availability
For a full area-by-area breakdown of the best places to stay, see where to stay on the Sunshine Coast, and for neighborhood character see Sunshine Coast neighborhoods.
