Whether you’re here to live, work, study or just visit, there are few places along Queensland’s shoreline more bright than the Sunshine Coast. This incredibly beautiful part of the country is known for its stunning beaches, sprawling Sunshine Coast hinterland, fantastic café culture and truly relaxed lifestyle.
As a popular destination for tourists and students alike, the Sunshine Coast has everything you want in a place to live – natural beauty, educational excellence and so many outdoor activities to try. Here’s why the Sunshine Coast region is the perfect destination for a fulfilling study experience.
Where is the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast is located in southeastern Queensland, about 100 kilometres north of Brisbane. It’s a picturesque region that stretches from the coastal city of Caloundra in the south to the famous resort town of Noosa in the north, which includes a series of beautiful beaches, charming Sunshine Coast hinterland villages, as well as sprawling national parks. It also boasts a subtropical climate, so you can enjoy warm, sunny weather year-round.
As a popular tourist destination, the Sunshine Coast is easily accessible no matter how you like to travel. The Sunshine Coast Airport in Marcoola (a short drive from Maroochydore and Mooloolaba) has daily domestic flights and some international services, which makes it easy for visitors and residents to travel to and from the area. For those getting on the road, you can take the Bruce Highway for a direct route from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast – with the drive taking just over an hour.
Public transport on the Sunshine Coast includes a large network of buses operated by Translink, which connect key areas across the Sunshine Coast’s many different suburbs. Queensland Rail also services the Sunshine Coast via the North Coast line, with train stations in Nambour, Landsborough and many other towns.
The Sunshine Coast’s proximity to Brisbane means residents get the best of both worlds – the laid-back lifestyle of a coastal paradise combined with all the amenities and opportunities of a major city. This is also a reason why it’s such an attractive option for local and international students who want a balanced lifestyle with easy access to work and study.
Study on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast has a few different educational institutions to choose from, all of which provide high-quality learning opportunities in a supportive environment. The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) is the region’s leading higher education provider. Here, students will find a broad selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines like business, science, health and the arts. The university has plenty of state-of-the-art facilities and emphasises practical experience to make sure its students are well-prepared for their future careers.
In addition to UniSC, the Sunshine Coast also has several TAFE Queensland campuses dotted around the region – including Mooloolaba, Nambour and Maroochydore. If you’re looking for vocational education and training programs, these campuses provide industry-relevant courses in everything from hospitality to tourism to trades to healthcare and more. With TAFE’s hands-on approach to learning, it’s a valuable pathway for those who want practical and technical expertise.
Studying on the Sunshine Coast means students get a fantastic blend of academic excellence and a high quality of life. The region’s educational facilities all have strong support services for students, so you’ll never have to worry about academic assistance or career counselling. The Sunshine Coast community itself is also very welcoming and has plenty of beautiful natural surroundings to get lost in while you achieve your academic goals.
International students on the Sunshine Coast can expect to live in a safe and inclusive environment, with plenty of resources to help you adjust to your new surroundings. From orientation programs to cultural events and more, living and studying on the Sunshine Coast is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle while pursuing your career ambitions.
What to do on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is simply brimming with activities and attractions for everyone. From iconic landmarks to outdoor adventures, there's always something exciting to do and explore around the Sunshine Coast.
Famous attractions
The Sunshine Coast is home to several famous attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Australia Zoo, founded by the late Steve Irwin, will give you up-close encounters with native wildlife. The Ginger Factory in Yandina is a fun and educational experience with tours, rides and tastings. Don't miss Noosa Farmers Market or the vibrant Eumundi Markets, known for their eclectic mix of arts, crafts and local produce.
Nature’s wonders
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore on the Sunshine Coast. Hike the scenic trails of the Glass House Mountains or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Kondalilla Falls. The Noosa Everglades are perfect for kayaking through pristine waterways, while you’ll fall in love with Noosa National Park and Noosa River. Mountain biking in the hinterland or climbing Mount Coolum is ideal for both adventure and spectacular views.
Events and festivals
The Sunshine Coast has plenty of events and festivals throughout the calendar year. The Noosa Eat & Drink Festival celebrates the region’s culinary excellence, while the Caloundra Music Festival brings live performances from local and international artists to the masses. The Sunshine Coast Marathon and the Mooloolaba Triathlon are popular sporting events that set the city abuzz.
Aquatic escapades
For pristine beaches, you can’t go past Noosa Main Beach, Coolum Beach, Sunshine Beach and Rainbow Beach. Surfing at Noosa Heads, paddleboarding in Maroochydore and diving at the HMAS Brisbane wreck should also be on the cards. Or enjoy the sea breeze with excellent fishing, sailing and jet skiing opportunities – there really is something for every water enthusiast.
Dining and nightlife
Enjoy fresh seafood at the beachside restaurants of Mooloolaba or sample gourmet cuisine in the lush hinterland towns of Maleny and Montville. Nightlife here includes numerous lively bars and pubs, especially in areas like Noosa and Maroochydore.
Living on the Sunshine Coast
Expect a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle if you choose to study on the Sunshine Coast. The ideal place for students, you’ll have ample suburbs to explore all sorts of housing options, from modern apartments near the beach to suburban share houses and student accommodation near to university or TAFE.
The community itself is friendly and welcoming, with excellent healthcare, education and recreational facilities. Plus, you can’t go past the Sunshine Coast's natural beauty. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, relaxed beach days or getting into the local dining and arts scene, the Sunshine Coast has something for everyone.