eco tours sunshine coast

Creating transformational nature connected experiences on the Sunshine Coast B.C.

Our mission is to enhance your lifestyle through awareness and experiences that we hope

will inspire you to spend more time in the natural world. 

Awaken your true nature in the wild

Rejuvenate yourself among coastal inlets & mountain ranges on the sunshine coast of british columbia. metta eco-experiences offers wellness adventure tourism, including spectacular bioluminescent and dark sky kayaking, wellness kayak adventures, and private powerboat tours  throughout the inlets.  we focus on reconnecting with nature and exploring the beautiful marine and land based environments. our qualified facilitator guides are knowledgeable, insightful and experienced. they will frame your journey based on your comfort zone and introduce you to safe and exciting ways to experience the natural world. book now and have fun, see wildlife, learn about the unseen world of nature, and create lifelong memories .

Metta Eco ~ Offering Sustainable, Inspiring, Wildlife and Wellness based Explorations  since 1993.

Our Journeys & Tours

We are now taking bookings for May 2024, and look forward to sharing this magical experience with you! with Gratitude, Greg and Meriel.

The “Into the Night” Journey presents an opportunity to sea kayak at night, and learn about one of the largest daily mass migrations in the world. It is a surreal experience to open our senses as we discover the nocturnal world.. Living organisms emit light, causing the water to glow and sparkle magically. Any motion in the ocean accents this offering, a dance of light as we paddle in darkness. The night sky is magnificent and the journey offers time for solo reflection in a safe and silent environment.

Experience the ocean in a unique way that few have had the opportunity to enjoy!  Witness the waters and marine life of the Sechelt Inlet awaken with a bioluminescent glow. Your kayak glides as if flying, opening your senses in the silence, inviting you to connect deeply with the life source of our planet and the gifts of the unseen world of nature.

3 Hours | $125 + GST pp

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The Inlet Explorer Journey is a nature connected private tour of the Sunshine Coast with a certified skipper. (For Couples, Families & Friends and their dogs)

A great opportunity to experience the incredible Inlets of this beautiful area with guides that are passionate about nature. Our tours are experiential with great conversation as we journey together. We provide insight into cultural history, nature wellness awareness and wildlife viewing. Tea and muffins included, kids under 10 and dogs ride free.

2 Hours | $125 + GST PP

Book 3 persons/ 20% off ~ book 4-5 persons/ 25% off total order.

Experience a private tour of the Inlets and beaches near Egmont, Sunshine Coast B.C., with certified skippers/eco guides /professional photographer. (For Couples, Families & Friends and their dog’s)

Visit one of the highest waterfalls in North America, and see magestic rock walls that rise vertically out of the ocean.  Enjoy a picnic lunch (included) and l earn about the story of the land. S wimming, snorkelling, photo safari,  or forest-based wellness awareness. options available.  

Our 22-foot watercraft seats 5 and is a solid fiberglass ocean going boat with a canopy. We offer custom marine tours, combined with land options, and welcome dogs and kids under 10 for free. Our focus is on sustainable tourism and wellness.

We provide experiential tours, and enjoy engaging in inspirational conversations with our customers as we journey together. This is a 4-hour journey

4 Hours | $210  + GST pp

An amazing opportunity to kayak into the night and experience the true night sky, as well as learn about light pollution and celestial stories.

Focus: Light pollution is making an immense impact on our planet. In many parts of the developed world 99 percent of the population can’t experience a natural night sky anymore. This is affecting human health as well as life on our planet.

Experience a safe and exciting way to connect with the wonders of the night few people have the opportunity to see, and to open your eyes to the healing power of nature.

The Awake In The Night Celestial Kayak Journey includes: Single or double sea kayak, paddles, safety gear, and comprehensive dry land instruction and safety protocols.

2.5 Hours | $100 + GST pp

AWAKE IN THE NIGHT / BIOLUMINESCENCE COMBO EXPERIENCE

August 12th & August 13th 2024 

Join Metta Eco Experiences for a special edition Perseid Meteor Shower Tour. This experience offers an incredible spiritual connection with our natural world. When viewing conditions are good you may see from 30 to 100 meteors blazing overhead per hour at 133,200 mph. Kayaks and safety gear as well as expert guides, hot beverages and a snack are provided.

3 Hours | $140 + GST pp

Groups & corporate journeys, contact us .

The Ocean Kayak and Forest Wellness Journey is Closed for the 2023 Season. Contact us anytime for 2024 Corporate and group bookings!   With Gratitude, Greg & Meriel 

The beautiful Coast of the Pacific Ocean is so full of wonder and biodiversity. Our journey provides you with the opportunity to explore the coastal waters and forests of Sechelt Inlet with the intent of connecting with nature’s magic and healing properties.

5 – 6 Hours 

Choose your adventure today!

Awaken your true nature in the wild!

We are located in Egmont (2 hours from Vancouver) on the beautiful Sunshine Coast of BC. This area has many beautiful inlets and rainforests to explore.

Metta Eco Experiences recognizes our presence on the traditional territories of the shíshálh (Sechelt), skwxwú7mesh (Squamish ) , and Tla’amin (Sliammon )  Nations.

Base Camp: (604) 399-8191 or [email protected]

16660 Backeddy Rd, Egmont, BC

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THE 5 BEST Sunshine Coast Eco Tours

Eco tours in sunshine coast.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Equipment Hire
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
• Brisbane Nature Tours
• D’Aguilar National Park
• Saltwater Eco Tours
• JPT Tour Group
• Gerrards Lookout
• Coast to Hinterland Tours
• Mapleton Falls National Park
• Australia Zoo
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Bellthorpe Rainforest Private Tour

2. Croc Express to Australia Zoo from Gold Coast

3. Sunshine Coast Hinterland Highlights: Discover Maleny & Montville

4. Mount Glorious to Mount Mee Tour

5. River Cruise on Historical Vessel

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Brisbane River Cruise with entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) frm Brisbane or Gold Coast

K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour

Premium Springbrook Natural Bridge, Glow Worm Cave & Skywalk

Brisbane Story Bridge Adventure Climb

North Stradbroke Island SUNSET Tour

Springbrook andTamborine Rainforest Tour Incl Natural Bridge and Glow Worm Cave

Dingos 3 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) ​4WD Tag-Along Tour

Moreton Island Eco Marine Safari Cruise and Snorkel

K'gari (Fraser Island) Explorer 2-Day Tour

Dingos 2 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag-Along Tour

Epic Rainbow Beach Dolphin Kayak and 4WD Adventure Tour

North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) Day Trip from Brisbane

Daytime Scenic Rim Glow Worm Tour

3-Hour Walking Tour in Brisbane

Abseiling the Kangaroo Point Cliffs in Brisbane

Whale Watching Cruise from Redcliffe, Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast

Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass

Epic Surf Lesson and 4WD Adventure to Australia's Longest Wave Rainbow Beach QLD

Surf Lesson Rainbow Beach 2 Hour

Epic Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson and Coloured Sands 4WD Tour Rainbow Beach

Adventure Moreton Island Wrecks Adventure Package

Day Entry ticket

‘Have a Go’ Clay Target Shooting - Brisbane (Caboolture)

Brisbane Electric Mountain Bike Experience Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Croc Express to Australia Zoo from Gold Coast
• Bellthorpe Rainforest Private Tour
• Sunshine Coast Hinterland Highlights: Discover Maleny & Montville
• River Cruise on Historical Vessel
• Mount Glorious to Mount Mee Tour
• Noosa Ferry & Cruise Company
• Everglades Eco Safaris
• Joel's Journeys
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Saltwater eco tours.

Saltwater Eco Tours is located in the beautiful Sunshine Coast, launched in early 2020, the company realises the vision of Simon Thornalley, a young Indigenous man of Torres Strait Island descent who was born on the Sunshine Coast and introduced to his sailing lifestyle by his parents who were world class sailors and environmentalists themselves.

That vision was to establish an eco-tourism sailing experience that would inspire a deeper connection to Indigenous culture and the ocean. A tour that would highlight the role that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples played in preserving the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the Sunshine Coast, much of which has now been preserved in our National Parks for the enjoyment of locals and visitors.

Collaboration with local Traditional Owners of the Kabi Kabi first nation people ensures that Saltwater Eco Tours delivers an authentic local visitor experience, sharing the timeless wisdom of the world’s oldest continuous living cultures, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Saltwater Cultural Sailing Adventure

Cultural whale watching, private charter – cruise experience, sunset sail.

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Listen to the yidaki, a didgeridoo as you sip on cocktails and sample some delicious bush tucker. With sunset and live music cruises on offer too there is plenty of times to choose from so be sure to fit this soulful short river cruise into your stay on the coast.

CONNECTING CULTURE on the sunny COAST

Just cruise along listening to a song….

This is a magic way to spend a couple of hours on the water. The Salt Water Eco Tours crew will take care of you every step of the way and share stories and music from the time of the dreaming. Sip on a cocktail with a bush twist, take some local bush tucker and just listen to the wind whistle past you. These short cruises leave from Marloolaba and take just a few hours so you have plenty of time to take your holi-day at a nice slow pace.

Operating on the peaceful waterways of the Mooloolah River this company is the first of its kind, combining culture, maritime history, native foods and incredible live music experiences.

So why Salt Water Eco Tours?

Launched in early 2020, Saltwater Eco Tours realises the vision of Simon Thornalley, a young Indigenous man of Torres Strait Island descent who was born on the Sunshine Coast and introduced to his sailing lifestyle by his parents who were world class sailors and environmentalists themselves. That vision was to establish a unique tourism experience that would inspire a deeper connection to Indigenous culture and the ocean. Simon turned that vision into reality by offering unique marine experiences on board a beautifully restored 113-year old timber sailing vessel “Spray of the Coral Coast”. 

Bushtucker Cruise $75 pP

A relaxed yet informative dining experience with delicious native foods, fresh produce and unique cocktails.

• 2hr cruise trough Mooloolaba canals
• 5 courses of canapes
• 1 glass of champagne, beer or non-alcoholic beverage
• Licensed bar with beer, wine, spirits and signature cocktails
• Informed, local commentary

Departure:  Tue-Fr & Sun

Duration: 11.30 am – 1.30 pm

Location: Departing from The Wharf, Mooloolaba.

River Cruise

A peaceful 1-hour cruise aboard heritage-listed vessel Spray of the Coral Coast.

• 1- hour cruise through Mooloolaba canals
• Family friendly
• Access to licensed bar
• BYO food option

Departure: Thursday – Saturday

Duration: 9am – 10am

Sunset Tour & Live Music

Unwind with your friends and family on the ultimate Sunshine Coast Sunset Tour with live acoustic music!

With an ever-changing line up of local and touring musicians, you’ll have an unforgettable time as we soak up the last few hours of sunshine, sip on a locally sourced beverage and listen to the sweet sounds of live music. 

• 2 – hour cruise   through Mooloolaba canals
• Individual Grazing   Box
• Glass of champagne or beer
• Licensed bar with local beers, wine, spirits, and signature native-infused cocktails
• live acoustic music

Departure: Fr, Sat & Sun

Duration: 3.30pm – 5.30 pm (May – August) / 4pm – 6 pm (September – April)

Locations: Departing from The Wharf, Mooloolaba

Saltwater Cultural Tour

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable cultural experience through storytelling and entertainment, as you enjoy a range of bush-tucker inspired canapes served with a refreshing beer, sparkling champagne or our signature lemon myrtle cocktail. all while you are slipping through the mooloolaba canals aboard heritage-listed   spray of the coral coast..

• 2 hr cruise through Mooloolaba canals led by Traditional Owner
• Interactive, informative and educational
• Variety of canapes
• Glass of champagne, beer, or non-alcoholic drink
• Licenced bar with beers, local spirits and delicious cocktails

Departures: Saturdays ( Private Charters available Monday – Friday on request)

Duration:   11.30am – 1.30pm

A truly beautiful experience! I joined in on one of SET’s Sunset cruises with live music and I had a beautiful few hours on the water with Simon and the crew. The weather was amazing and the drinks and food were super tasty! You could choose between a huge selection of softdrinks / beers / cocktails and we were all given a beautifully put together cheese board in a cardboard box with fresh fruit, cheese (obviously haha), meats and chocolate. It was delicious! The LIVE music was brought to us by 2 young musicians – a singer and a guitarist – and made the sunset even prettier than it already is. Such a perfect way to end a beautiful day on the Sunny Coast.

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Saltwater Eco Tours

Saltwater Eco Tour is the first of a kind tour operator combining Indigenous Culture, Maritime history and entertainment on board an authentic timber sailing vessel in Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast.

Unique experiences on board include their flagship Saltwater Cultural Tour led by Traditional Owner Aunty Bridgette Chilli where passengers are taken on a cultural journey and treated to devious bush foods and seafoods, Sunset Tours with Live Music with highly-established acoustic artists, Native Bushfoods and Seafoods Cruise and Cultural Whale Watching.

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Get in touch

Phone: +61 1300 883 431

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Sailing on the Sunshine Coast – Saltwater Eco Tours cultural cruise 

A river cruise is all well and good, but when you leave with an awareness of the culture and history that surrounds a place, it makes your trip significant. That’s what Saltwater Eco Tours in Mooloolaba is all about.

The waterways of Mooloolaba in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast have special meaning for the Kabi Kabi, the traditional custodians of the region.

From the elegant decks of a 115-year-old sailing boat, skipper Simon Thornalley and Kabi Kabi woman ‘Aunty’ Bridgette Chilli paint a picture of what this area represents to a culture that’s tens of thousands of years old.

Check out our video from our time aboard the good ship Spray of The Coral Coast here.

Saltwater Eco Tours—the Cultural Tour on the Mooloolah River

Sailing the Mooloolah River, just beyond the reach of multimillion-dollar waterfront mansions and luxury superyachts, is the Spray of The Coral Coast , a tidy century-old timber boat, its masts reaching for the sky.

Captained by owner Simon Thornalley, who is himself of Indigenous Australian and Torres Strait Islander heritage, the Spray of The Coral Coast is a classic 58ft gaff-rigged Huon-pine ketch.

Built in 1925 to the plans of the original Spray that Joshua Slocum sailed single-handedly around the world between 1895 and 1898, the Spray of The Coral Coast is one of a kind.

And just as Slocum was the first person to circumnavigate the globe on his own, so Simon has created something truly unique; the first of its like.

What to expect on Saltwater Eco Tours’ Cultural Tour

At the Penny Lane Jetty, Bridgette performs a smoke ceremony, welcoming us to her homeland and cleansing us so that we can all “walk on Country with the same footprint.” Her song lets the ancestors, the Old Ones, know we’re here and asks for safe passage up and down the river.

Before we get underway, Simon also plays his didgeridoo for us. Its deep resonating music rings in our ears as the crew cast off and we strike a course along the Mooloolah River.

As we go, Aunty Bridgette tells us the stories she learnt from her grandmother, who raised her the traditional Kabi Kabi ways, passing stories and knowledge down to her the way her grandmother had, so had always been down the millennia.

Her explanations of what the land here means, how it translates and speaks of its own and the Kabi Kabi’s history, is as important as it is fascinating.

Lunch is literally a moveable feast—a never-ending procession of delicious bush-tucker and platters as we sail the river, listening to Aunty Bridgette tell her history.

Deliciously prepared snacks of kangaroo, crocodile, grilled prawns, bunya nut, even a cocktail using Australian botanicals too, come from the galley, as well as a cheese and charcuterie plate.

There’s even a bar set up where you can order more cocktails or beers while you travel.

You’re welcome to go below deck too. Simon is very proud of the renovation—there are some photos of the work that needed to be done and of the Spray of The Coral Coast through its 115-year service.

Before we leave, Aunty Bridgette also performs an ochre ceremony on all of us, protecting us from the world and blessing us.

It’s a remarkable experience from beginning to end.

You can’t help but wonder why there aren’t more experiences like this that teach about the incredible history that run through this land like the rivers themselves.

Perhaps you find some of the answer from how hard it was for Simon to even get approval to start the business and renovate this boat, which is in itself a touchstone of history.

Again and again, Simon had to deal with financiers and councils telling him to just use a regular boat or that his wasn’t a viable business idea. To see Saltwater Eco Tours survive the hardest couple of years for tourism thanks to Covid is sign enough that they were all wrong.

But having sailed with Simon, we can say with authority they were truly blind to the opportunity and ignorant to the significance of this adventure.

Set Sail with Saltwater Eco Tours

We experienced the Saltwater Cultural Tour and there are a range of different tours available to book here .

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Holiday office closure, we are closed for the christmas holidays between december 22 to january 7th. we are reopen for business on january 8th, 2018., forest bathing on the sunshine coast.

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Boost your immune system with Forest Bathing! Tour Description : Forest bathing is a different way of experiencing nature in the outdoors. When you are hiking you have a destination. Whereas forest bathing is about getting out of your head and into your senses and really connecting with yourself, your body and the land around you. It’s a relational experience.  Guiding you to go slow, really seeing the details, smelling and hearing all that is around you, this forest bathing tour is an invitation that will help you reduce stress hormones, increase happy hormones, improve your mental clarity, and focus. It is calming, nurturing and thus “opens the door” to the medicine of the forest, inviting you to interact with nature in various meaningful and healing ways.

Guide:  Haida Bolton - Certified Forest Bathing Therapist.  A proud resident of the Sunshine Coast, Haid deeply values and incorporates the tradition of forest bathing also known as Shinrin-yoku.

Your activity:  Wellness Program

Type of Program:  Forest Bathing

Here are your itinerary details: 

Date of Tour: 

Arrival Time :  11:45 am (Meet at Stanley Park Bus Loop)

Start Time:    12:00 pm

End Time:      2:00 pm

Duration:  90 minutes   2.0 hrs

Location:  Porpoise Bay Provincial Park

Guide:      Talaysay Forest Bathing Guide:  Taylor Mckee

Meeting Location:  Porpoise Bay Provincial Park   

Our guide will be ready 15 minutes prior to the tour start waiting at the Gazebo right in the bus loop.  

Link to our Meeting location : 

Who are we:  Indigenous society approaches life and decisions by evaluating how one’s actions impacts seven generations from now. Our message is Love The Land and our goal is to capacity build the next generation in business, tourism and education employment while we promote and practice wellness and support culture revitalization, land based education and reclamation.

Founded in 2002, Talaysay Tours is owned and operated by Candace and Larry Campo, Shíshálh (Sechelt) and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation members. On behalf of our peoples, our Talaysay family, we ask and invite you to love the land.

?ul nu msh chxw syíyáyá (thank you friend)

TOUR CODE: FTW-PBPP

Talaysay Tours

20 bucket list experiences on the Sunshine Coast

Tick those ‘once-in-a-lifetime' experiences you've always dreamt about off your Bucket List for real on a Sunshine Coast escape.

Saltwater Eco Tours, Mooloolaba

Reinvigorate your love for life as you experience those things you've always wanted to do but wouldn’t normally make time for. All within easy reach, you can pack many of these thrilling experiences into one action-packed escape, or keep coming back until you've completed your wish list - for real! 

1. Forge an ancient connection 

Take to the sea with  Saltwater Eco Tours  to learn about the Sunshine Coast's rich cultural and indigenous heritage. Journey aboard the tradition vessel, Spray of the Coral Coast, with local Indigenous storytellers who share stories, traditions and culture of the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast. 

2. Go deep sea fishing

Fresh fish on a deep sea fishing charter

Replace any talk about "the one that got away" with photographic evidence of the prize catches you'll land on a deep sea fishing excursion with  Sunshine Coast Afloat ,   Deep End Fishing Charters  in Mooloolaba.

3. Climb an iconic Glass House Mountain

Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains

Take your pick of the iconic  Glass House Mountains  that are remnants of volcanic activity that occurred over 25 million years ago. Choose from Instagram favourites Mt Ngungun or Mt Tibrogargan, or keep coming back until you've ticked them all off your list!

4. JetSki on a pristine beach

Looking for some action and adventure? Make memories to last a lifetime by cruising through the pristine Pumicestone Passage with  Caloundra Jetskis . Spot the incredible Glasshouse Mountains from the water, and enjoy an action packed adventure you will not forget!

5. Taste the Sunshine Coast's thriving craft beer scene

Blackflag Brewery and Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours

The  craft beers here on the Sunshine Coast are considered amongst the best in Australia. The craft breweries, found in both obscure and picturesque locations along the coast and in the hinterland, have become destinations worth a visit!  Discover the scene  for yourself on your next visit.

If beer isn't your thing, local gin distilleries and wineries have been popping up all over the place too. Check out Flame Hill Vineyard in the rolling hills of Montville, or visit the newly opened  Sunshine & Sons  at the Big Pineapple.

6. Get involved for real

Step it up a notch by actually taking part in one of the Sunshine Coast's top sporting, arts or cultural events.  Explore the arts on the Sunshine Coast  or let your creative side shine by attending a workshop or  pottery class . Check out our  What’s On page  to find out what is coming up!

7. Learn a new cooking skill

Spirit House Restaurant and Cooking School, Yandina

Up your culinary game by learning from the master chefs at Sunshine Coast's top cooking schools. Add some spice to your life with a Thai cooking lesson at  The Spirit House Restaurant and Cooking School  or  Spicers Tamarind . If you're down Caloundra way, spice things up at a Red Hot Chilli Pepper cooking class.

8. Get back to nature

Set up camp in Conondale National Park where you can bird spot, hike or swim in the crystal clear  waterfalls. Ever tried camping on the beach? The beautiful Kenilworth and Mary Valley are great for exploring natural wonders - even by kayak . 

9. Learn to surf

Have your own Julian Wilson moment and learn to surf at his local beach with  Coolum Surf School . From beginners to those more experienced, a day out surfing at Coolum beach is sure to leave you refreshed and rejuvenated!

10. Walk the Great Walk

Create your own adventure by walking the 58km, four-day Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. You’ll come across some amazing views, creeks and spot native wildlife along the way.

Mapleton Falls National Park - Great Walk

11. Skydive

We won’t call you crazy for jumping out of a perfectly good plane over Coolum Beach with Skydive  Sunshine Coast,  or Currimundi with  Sunshine Coast Skydivers . Be awestruck by the views.

Skydivers landing at Currimundi

12. Hike a national park

Hike the great walks and spot some incredible wildlife, the hinterland has a variety of hikes for beginners taking a leaisurely stroll to those wanting more of a challenge. Head to a  Sunshine Coast Hinterland National Park  featuring  lush green rainforest, waterfalls, rock pools to swim in, and wildlife - it's a nature lovers’ paradise. 

13. Wine and dine

Tantalise your tastebuds and indulge in an award-winning  gourmet meal at one of the Sunshine Coast’s top restaurants. It wouldn’t be called a bucket list if you didn’t take the time to treat yourself.

Lunch at the marina

14. Watch the sunrise and sunset over the water

Rise early and watch the magic of sunrise over the ocean at any of the Sunshine Coast's beautiful beaches. You can also enjoy sunset from a few select spots on the coast, such as Cotton Tree, and Point Cartwright.

sunrise at the beach

15. Enjoy a bit of Sunshine Coast Nightlife

There is always something happening on the Sunshine Coast, from twilight markets to live music and delightful cocktails. Ocean street in Maroochydore and Mooloolaba are always a good option for those partying into the night, or for something more casual you can check out our 7 picks for sunset sips . 

16. Enjoy a relaxing round of golf

Golfers are spoilt for choice on the Sunshine Coast with world-class resort and public access courses set alongside stunning national parks and natural waterways, just minutes from the beach. Explore championship courses at Pelican Waters, Twin Waters or check out one of the local 9 or 18-hole courses at Beerwah, Caloundra, Buderim, Mt Coolum or Maleny. 

17. Enjoy a picnic with a view

Enjoy a day out with your loved ones, with a delicious picnic by the beach or in the Hinterland where you'll be able to enjoy amazing views. If you need a hand with set up Gather by Bonnie do exquisite picnic baskets, heroed by local produce.

18. Make a furry or slick new friend

Koalas at Australia Zoo

Feed a giraffe, get close to a cheetah or pat a rhino with one of the 23 exhilarating animal encounters on offer at  Australia Zoo .  Wildlife HQ  also offers a range of different animal experiences, including popular primate, reptile and meerkat encounters. Or dive in and swim with seals at  Sea Life Sunshine Coast  in Mooloolaba.

19. Try stand-up paddle boarding

BYO SUP craft, or hire from Golden Beach Hire, Experientia Sunshine Coast, Kite Thrills, Ocean Addicts, or  Bills Boat & Bike Hire  and go stand up paddle boarding in Caloundra, Currimundi, or Cotton Tree.

Paddleboard at Cotton Tree

20. Climb Mount Coolum

Tick this massive monolith off your list. Hike the 800m track to the 208m summit of  Mount Coolum 's impressive dome, where you can enjoy 360 degree views of the surrounding coast and Hinterland.

Sunrise at Mount Coolum

Where to stay

The Sunshine Coast boasts a wide choice of accommodation options with everything from 4.5 star resorts to hinterland cottages.  Book your accommodation here. 

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The best way to explore Australia's unique Everglades is through the Everglades Explorer tour. Specially designed vessels will transport you through the sparkling waters of the upper Noosa River and the verdant landscape of the Everglades, which has remained unspoiled for millennia.

The first stop on the tour is Fig Tree Point, where you can take a brief walk along a circuit through lush tropical rainforests. Afterward, you can either reboard the eco-friendly vessel or grab a paddle and canoe along one of the most exciting canoeing routes in Australia (requires moderate fitness as it is a 5km journey).

As you navigate the pristine waterways, you will have the opportunity to witness native flora and fauna as well as colourful bird species. An expert guide will provide commentary throughout the journey, and the expansive viewing windows will offer great photo opportunities.

Explore Harry's Hut, an old logger's camp from the early 1900s, surrounded by gorgeous natural bushland or take a dip in the tea tree-infused water before returning to the mainland aboard the vessel.

Upon returning to Habitat Noosa, you can relax and enjoy lunch at CootharaBAR & Bistro, or sample unique craft beer from Australia's only artesian microbrewery (additional cost).

The Everglades Explorer tour is a fantastic way to experience the wonder of Australia's Everglades and is recognised as one of the most awe-inspiring natural wilderness adventures globally.

Guests are shuttled back to Noosa transit stops at 3 pm.

• Return Shuttle from set Noosa locations
• Light refreshments
• Eco tour guide
• Canoe, paddle and life jackets

Departs : 8.45am daily from Habitat Noosa Returns : 3.00pm approximately

Additional Info

Children : Are charged at the child rate. Children must be 7 years of age to participate in the canoe leg What to Bring : Camera, hat, sunscreen, casual and comfortable clothing Operated By : Everglades Eco Safari Tours

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Embark on a Serene Journey: Discover thIS Unforgettable River Cruise Noosa Experience

everglades eco safaris deliver an unforgettable wilderness experience into one of Australias’ most pristine and untouched regions. Swim in tea tree infused waters, canoe through the mirrored waterways or simply relax in this unique natural environment.

With only two everglades on the planet, everglades eco safaris are the exclusive guided tour operator to Australias’ only everglades. With a range of tours departing daily* from habitat noosa everglades ecocamp and purpose built eco vessels designed with wide open viewing windows to best experience the upper noosa river and abundant wildlife on display.

The vessels gently glide through the tranquil waterways also known as the “river of mirrors” and is home to 44% of native birdlife found in Australia. The flora and fauna throughout the ancient landscapes are truly spectacular and our expert guides provide full commentary throughout the journey, showcasing the rich history of this region.

This is simply Australias’ best accessible wilderness experience and should not to be missed!

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We acknowledge the ongoing connection to country of the traditional custodians of this beautiful region, the Kabi Kabi people.

07 5485 3348 | Elanda Point Road, Elanda Point QLD 4565

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Carbon Off-setting your tickets

"saving the planet one piece of seaweed at a time" - southern ocean carbon company.

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From July, 2021.

Carbon Offset

As an eco-conscious company, we put sustainability at the forefront of our intentions in every aspect of business.

One of the important aspects of our sustainability management is offsetting the very small amounts of carbon emissions produced from our tours to become carbon neutral, in doing so we have chosen to contribute $1.50 from each ticket sold towards the incredible work done at the Southern Ocean Carbon Company ( www.southernoceancarbon.com ) 

Southern Ocean Carbon Company is directly impacting climate change by accurately mitigating carbon emissions in a practical and measurable way, by growing seaweed in southern Tasmania.

We have chosen this method of carbon offsetting because we strongly believe it is the most efficient, accurate and sustainable method of capturing carbon as well as many other additional benefits for the environment that are created throughout the process.

Here is why:

·        Kelp grows extremely quickly, growing up to 30 times faster than any land-based plants and up to 2 feet per day.

·        Kelp has the potential to greatly reduce ocean acidification, it takes up carbon emissions which can exacerbate climate change, as well as excess nitrogen and phosphorus. The seaweed draws in so much carbon dioxide that is helps de-acidify the ocean, providing an ideal environment for shell growth. The CO₂ is taken out of the water in much the same way that land plants take C02 out of the air. Because C02 has an acidifying effect of the seawater, as kelp absorbs the C02 the water becomes less acidic. 

·       Additionally, by taking C02 out of the ocean, it allows the ocean to absorb more C02 from the atmosphere fighting climate change in a greatly efficient way.

·        Seaweed as well as providing many ecological benefits, serves as an ecosystem foundation, providing feeding grounds and safe habitat for a diverse amount of ocean species.

The money we send to the Southern Ocean Carbon Company will be translated into metres of rope, which will be planted out to grow seaweed. A metre of rope will capture 17.84kg Carbon Dioxide equivalent (CO2-e)every year when seeded with Giant Kelp, 9.36kg  CO2-e when seeded with Common or Golden Kelp  and 3.14kg CO2-e when Sea Lettuce is grown.

Not only will you have a unique and enjoyable experience when you join us onboard, you will also directly contribute to the fight against climate change.

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  contact  us, the wharf, mooloolaba 123 parkyn parade, mooloolaba 0447 085 521 booking enquiries: [email protected].

Viking trails to vineyard tours: 10 of the best cycle routes in Denmark

Freewheel around Scandinavia’s capital of cycling and discover the greenest way to see Denmark

Denmark is a haven for cyclists of all abilities, with 11,000km of marked cycle routes to ride. From adventurous cycling on multi-day trips that take in the country’s most varied scenery, to day trips and wine tours, these are the country’s best bike routes for everyone, from hobbyists to expert-level athletes. To make it extra easy, accommodation options line the routes, including simple campsites and shelters , run by the Danish Nature Agency and offered for free or almost free, as well as B&Bs and hotels especially set up for cyclists, with bike rooms, e-bike charging stations and rooms made available for fixing your bike as you go. Aktiv Danmark has a list of bike-friendly accommodation and there is also a group of Danish Bike Hotels that have bike facilities. Bike rental is available in major cities and towns all over the country.

The Harbour Circle Start in Denmark’s capital with this 13km cycling route around the main harbour. It’s easy to fit into a short break, and takes in Copenhagen’s harbour swimming spots, waterside wine bars such as Rosforth & Rosforth , major attractions such as the colourful Nyhavn waterfront, and off-the-beaten-track treasures such as Cafe Slusen , where you can eat sardines from the tin and sip beer with a calm view of the entire harbour.

Bornholm by bike The sunny island of Bornholm has 230km of signposted cycle routes . Follow the dark green signs down quiet lanes to harbours awash with ice-cream shops, and past smokehouses where you can snack on just-smoked fish. Weave in and out of dappled patches of sunshine under the trees, watch out for hares and pheasants in the fields, and enjoy the quieter pace of life.

The Baltic Sea Cycle Route Denmark’s longest cycle route – all 820km of it – encompasses islands and ferries, sheltered bays and seafaring ports as it traces the Baltic Sea coast. It breaks down into 14 stages, the pick of which are sections 10 and 11, which hug the coast. You’ll enjoy views of the islands of southern Funen and – if you’re lucky – the sight of porpoises.

The Rosnæs peninsula wineries Pop your bike on a train and travel roughly two and a half hours west of Copenhagen to find a winery route made for cyclists. On the Rosnæs peninsula, among the driest and sunniest spots in the country, vines grow, grapes are pressed and wine tours by bike are the thing to do. Starting at Stub Vingård , a 16km trail runs to Rosnæs Vingård through a green landscape carved by the last ice age, taking in the Barfod and Dyrehøj wineries along the way.

The Ancient Road This destination is more than a cycle route: it’s a path through Denmark’s history. Also called Hærvejen , it’s one of the most atmospheric trails in the country, taking in heathlands and rivers, along with key Danish historical sites. Discover the Viking Jelling stone and the 3,000-year-old burial site of the Egtved Girl. There are dolmen and further burial mounds on a route that has been used for centuries.

The West Coast Route Running from Skagen all the way down the west coast to Rudbøl, this route offers some of the best views of Denmark’s contrasting scenery. Mostly paved and always signposted, the route skirts the gloriously wild dune landscape of Thy National Park, golden-sand beaches and the bird-filled marshes of the Wadden Sea National Park on its 560km journey.

The Limfjord Route Another long route – this time 610km – the journey around the Limfjord in North Jutland is broken into stages and winds around the fjord from Aalborg, via ferries and bridges. There are plenty of restaurants along the way, giving you the chance to enjoy the region’s local oysters.

Berlin-Copenhagen Two lively cities with a sea between them and a shared love of cycling unite via this 630km route . The tour skirts the white cliffs of Møn and the flower-filled meadows of Falster on the way to the ferry to Germany.

The Fjord Path Half an hour west of Copenhagen, the journey around the Isefjord and Roskilde fjord begins. It’s rich with Viking history, and nature, running through forests and fields as well as on tarmacked roads. Look out for Thomas Dambo’s trolls on the way – there is a hidden one in a quarry nearby – and expect to spend a week or more exploring the full 275km route (or take it in sections). Bike hire is available in Roskilde.

The Border Route Cycle from the North Sea to the Baltic Sea while crisscrossing Denmark’s border with Germany and uncover a world of history along the way. The old marsh town of Højer in Denmark marks the start of the 130km route , with the finish line in Flensburg, Germany. It’s a wonderfully flat journey, with orchards and meadows alongside it. The land on both sides of the border has changed nationalities multiple times in the last few hundred years.

Find out more about cycling adventures in Denmark at VisitDenmark

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