Get the latest news to your email inbox FREE!

REGISTER

Get the latest news to your email inbox FREE!

REGISTER
HomeEntertainmentNeed a staycation? Here's 6 top beachside holiday parks

Need a staycation? Here’s 6 top beachside holiday parks

Beautiful beaches, scenic coastal pathways and a variety of local attractions – there’s no better time to experience a Sunshine Coast staycation.

Sunshine Coast Holiday Parks offer a unique opportunity to explore local treasures right in your backyard.

With six stunning beachside parks at Cotton Tree, Coolum, Dicky Beach, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, and Mudjimba, you’ll find the perfect spot for everyone.

Sunshine Coast Council Resilient Economy Portfolio Councillor Joe Natoli said locals and visitors from all over loved these parks for their direct access to sun, sand and surf.

“Our holiday parks have so much to offer for all types of budgets,” Cr Natoli said.

“With facilities like swimming pools, powered sites, free Wi-Fi and some dog-friendly options, there’s something for everyone.

“Our holiday parks are the perfect place to gather with family and friends, old and new, for lawn games, picnics and beach activities.

“Explore the local area, discover new pathways, parks and waterways and enjoy local attractions.”

Here’s a guide to the best things to do and places to eat near each of six beachside parks.

1. Cotton Tree Holiday Park

Perfect for water sports, family adventures and riverside relaxation.

Things to do:

Maroochy River: Ideal for kayaking, fishing and riverside picnics.

Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre: Enjoy a swim in the 50m and 25m pools.

Visit local boutiques or wander over to the major shopping centre.

Food:

Close to many cafes and restaurants overlooking the water along The Esplanade.

Stroll to the local RSL or into the heart of town for fish and chips, cafés and bakery treats.

2. Coolum Beach Holiday Park

Known for its stunning coastal views and hiking trails.

Things to do:

Mount Coolum: Hike up for breathtaking views of the coast.

Coolum Beach: Perfect for surfing, swimming and sandcastles.

Salty Saturdays: Join the local community event every second Saturday.

Food:

Cafés, fish-n-chips, Thai and more all within walking distance.

Head to the local surf club for ocean views.

3. Dicky Beach Holiday Park

A family-friendly spot with a rich history and relaxed vibes.

Things to do:

Dicky Beach: Swim, surf, or relax on the patrolled beach.

Coastal Pathway: Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride over the stunning Moffat Beach Headland and beyond.

Caloundra markets: Explore local crafts and produce every Sunday.

Food:

Enjoy a cozy local cafe with great coffee all within walking distance from the park or try a relaxed meal at the local surf club.

4. Maroochydore Beach Holiday Park

Ideal for beach activities, shopping and dining by the water.

Things to do:

Coastal pathway and beach walk: Enjoy an early morning walk along the picturesque Maroochydore and Alexandra Headland beaches or venture a little further afield over Alexandra Headland to the beautiful coastal town of Mooloolaba

Nelson Park, Alexandra: Fully fenced and has many accessible play opportunities. Perfect for family picnics and explore the community garden.

Mooloolaba Beach: Just a short drive, ride or walk away for more beach fun.

Food:

Surrounded by bustling cafés, Asian restaurants and walking distance from two popular surf clubs.

5. Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park

Famous for its vibrant esplanade, marine life and bustling dining options.

Things to do:

Mooloolaba Esplanade: Stroll along the esplanade and enjoy the coastal views and beachfront Northern Parkland that includes an adventure playground, sheltered barbecues and ocean viewing deck.

Aquarium: Explore marine life at this popular attraction.

Mooloolah River: Cruise the waters with an eco-tour, dive the local reef or walk the Coastal Pathway to capture stunning views of the river mouth and ocean.

Food:

From casual cafés, fish-n-chips, ice cream to fine dining and bars, Mooloolaba has no shortage of food options for all.

6. Mudjimba Beach Holiday Park

A tranquil retreat with pristine beaches and lush greenery.

Things to do:

Mudjimba Beach: Enjoy the uncrowded, patrolled beach, popular for surfers.

Mudjimba Island: Perfect for snorkelling and diving adventures.

Mount Coolum: Perfect for bushwalkers and hikers, Mount Coolum offers incredible views of the coast and hinterland.

Food:

Close to local bar, grill and café as well a local-favourite coffee shop.

A short drive to dining options in Maroochydore or Coolum.

Book now

For more information about Council’s holiday parks and to check availability visit www.sunshinecoastholidayparks.com.au

Holidaying with your furry friend? Maroochydore, Coolum and Mudjimba Holiday Parks are dog-friendly upon application.

Digital Edition
Subscribe

Get an all ACCESS PASS to the News and your Digital Edition with an online subscription

Australia Day 2026 message

On Monday, 26 January 2026 we mark Australia Day, a day where we acknowledge our country’s past, recognise our achievements, and look forward to...

Tie at the Gabba

More News

Noosa agents finalists in 2026 REB Awards

The Real Estate Business (REB) Awards are back for their 14th year and are once again bringing an unparalleled awards program that identifies the...

Learn some new tricks

Why do people play bridge? Bridge is an exciting, social, and fun card game played throughout the world by over 60 million people. It can...

Cooroy man charged over South Burnett corpse

A near-Gympie man was arrested on Friday 23 January and charged with torture, deprivation of liberty and extortion, following the discovery of a man's...

Long term view drives STA data

Noosa Council's latest quarterly data reveals further inroads made into protecting neighbourhoods from the impacts of short-term accommodation (STA) - a key action of...

Hinterland horse-riding accident prompts Lifeflight rescue

The Sunshine Coast-based LifeFlight aeromedical crew airlifted a woman to hospital on Thursday, following a horse-riding incident in the hinterland. The LifeFlight helicopter was tasked...

Community awards celebrate quiet achievers

The Sunshine Coast Australia Day Community Awards have honoured a remarkable group of local heroes, whose dedication, creativity and compassion strengthen our community every...

Original Sunshine beach house brings crowd

It was like old times at Sunshine Beach on Saturday as neighbours and old friends chatted while making the most of the shade and...

40 under 40 in Cooroy

The Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre (CBFAC) is turning up the heat with its biennial 40 under 40 exhibition. This is a great opportunity...

A life with horses

PRECEDE Tom Thomsen came to Australia from Denmark at the age of seven. ERLE LEVEY finds out about a life in the bush that has...

Cancer increases leads. Bloomhill to seek more funds

Each year, around 4,000 Sunshine Coast residents are diagnosed with cancer, and among the local healthcare support providers is Buderim-based Bloomhill, which has seen...