Sunshine Way Escape

Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia and is the capital of Queensland, the "Sunshine State". It is set along the Brisbane River and was the traditional home to the Jagera and Turrbal Aboriginal mobs before Europeans founded a convict colony in what is now the central business district in 1824.
Modern-day Brisbane is one of the fastest-growing cities in Australia and has a rich, culturally diverse population. There is no shortage of attractions to visit and explore. Across the river from the CBD, South Bank is home to the city's Cultural Centre with world-class galleries and entertainment. Just an hour from the city, discover Brisbane’s stunning natural surrounds including the Scenic Rim and Somerset World Heritage rainforests, lookouts and majestic mountain peaks, while Moreton Island and Redlands Coast offer pristine waters, wildlife experiences, diving and snorkelling.

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Brisbane accommodation.

Experience Brisbane like no other than climbing the Story Bridge during twilight. As the sun begins its descent, the sky is painted with vibrant colors, the city lights are sparkling and the city is beginning to undertake the transition from day to night. As you reach the summit you will be greeted with stunning views of the CBD, as you are climbing around, your guide will provide knowledgeable information about the bridge and the surroundings.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.

Head north out of Brisbane and through the Glass House Mountains. Passing through Beerburrum State Forest you can take a detour to Beerwah, home of Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, where you can see over one hundred different species including crocodiles, Tasmanian devils, koalas, wombats and dingoes.
Continuing north through the Sunshine Coast, you will turn towards the coast at Eumundi - if you are driving through on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, stop in at the Eumundi markets for local food, arts and crafts.
From Eumundi, it's just 25 minutes to your destination, the beautiful coastal town of Noosa.

Explore deep into the tranquil waters of Australia's only everglades in the Noosa River system, within the sand dunes of the Cooloola National Park. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this diverse ecosystem which showcases ancient landscapes and spectacular photo opportunities. The cruise will take you on a journey through the southern end of the everglades system whilst your guides provide expert commentary on the fauna, flora and rich history of the region. Throughout the afternoon you will also get to enjoy a glass of beer or bubbles whilst gliding through the reflective waterways as the sun begins to set.

Noosa is one of the most popular beachside holiday destinations in Australia for local and international tourists alike. You can spend your days relaxing on one of many local beaches or travel a little further to explore the stunning national parks. There are plenty of beautiful walking trails and bike paths and plenty of spots for you to have your own Aussie-style picnic by the beach.
After a long day of relaxing or exploring, Noosa has no shortage of great local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood (local Maroochydore prawns and Moreton Bay bugs are highly recommended) and lots of delicious locally grown produce.

Unveil the magic of Noosa on a private 30 minute helicopter tour! Get guaranteed window seats for unparalleled views as you depart Sunshine Coast Airport. Before liftoff, a comprehensive passenger safety briefing will ensure your comfort. With Bose noise-canceling headsets, you'll hear fascinating pilot commentary throughout the flight.  Soar past Mount Coolum, pristine beaches like Coolum and Sunshine, and Noosa National Park with a thrilling glimpse of "Hells Gate". Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles, or even whales (seasonal) dancing in the ocean below. Cruise over Noosa's main beach and up the river, revealing the hidden gems of the hinterland - Eumundi, Cooroy Mountain, and Nindery. Capture unforgettable memories with photos taken in front of the helicopter before your return flight. This private adventure offers a breathtaking perspective of Maroochydore and its river before landing back at the airport.

Hosted by one of our mixologists, using our beautiful Sunshine & Sons Spirits and Nil Desperandum Rum, enjoy an immersive hands-on class teaching you the fundamental basics of how to mix, shake, strain and pour three delicious
cocktails. Located in lush Sunshine Coast hinterland rainforest, neighbouring and just a short drive from Queensland’s iconic and much loved Big Pineapple. It is here Sunshine & Sons create and share there Premium Spirits, pot-distilled with a carefully curated mix of local and traditional botanicals.

Adventure Tour to Fraser Island takes you into the best areas of this environmentally sensitive region. You will get the chance to discover its precious eco-systems, abundant wildlife and natural paradise. Seemingly endless golden beaches encompass towering forests, pristine rainforests, mosaic coloured sands, crystal clear freshwater lakes, gurgling red streams and prehistoric ferns.

Begin the journey by travelling towards Eumundi, famous for its markets which operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays. From here, you will head North West on a ride through Queensland inland. First stop could be Gympie, the small town known for its gold field. Here you will find a number of historic buildings and the vintage Mary Valley Rattler Train to explore the area. Continue through towards the Fraser Coast and make another stop in Maryborough. The Longtime Botanic Garden by the river with its flower beds and grassy laws is a perfect place to have a snack or if time allows you can head towards the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary before heading to the coast and Hervey Bay. Your final stop is a perfect place for whale watching and boating, but also the perfect gateway to the "well worth a visit"-Island K'gari.

Escape to paradise on a luxurious 90-minute sail! Picture this: Queensland's pink skies melt into the crystal-clear waters of Hervey Bay as you sip champagne on a sleek yacht. The Blue Dolphin Marine Tours' Champagne Sunset Sail lets you soak up panoramic views of Hervey Bay and World Heritage-listed K'gari (Fraser Island). Watch the fiery sunset paint the sky with amber and gold, then gaze at the emerging stars as night falls. Savor delicious canapés, finger foods, and your choice of sparkling wine, beer, or soft drinks – all included! Simply relax and let the magic of Hervey Bay unfold.

Head south on the Bruce Highway passing through Maryborough and Gympie as you head towards the Glass House Mountains. Stop in at the Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre to learn about the history of the 11 ranges of the Glass House Mountains, and maybe even find some inspiration for a short walk or longer hike on your way back to Brisbane.
Once you're done exploring the Glass House Mountains, jump onto the Bruce Highway and follow it all the way to Brisbane.

Only 42km from Sunshine Coast Airport and 72km from Brisbane airport sits the stunning Glass House Mountains.
With 11 peaks this playground of walking tracks, water holes and foodie haunts offers a family-friendly escape.
This area is of spiritual significance to the Gubbi Gubbi and Jinibara Aboriginal people. Learn The Dreamtime story passed down through the generations of how these mountains were created 25 million years ago.
If hiking isn't for you take a short drive to Maleny Botanic Gardens. Offering a spectacular view of the Glass House Mountains and surrounded by rainforest, discover manicured gardens, waterfalls and bird aviaries home to over 700 native and exotic birds.

Embark on the ultimate Brisbane Craft Beer Trail, starting at Green Beacon Brewing Co. in Newstead, where you can savor their tropical "Windjammer" IPA or crisp "3 Bolt" Pale Ale. A short stroll takes you to Newstead Brewing Co., offering a variety of brews like the malty "Two to the Valley" Amber Ale and refreshing "Out and a Bout" Lager, perfect with some tasty pub fare. Continue to Range Brewing, where small-batch, ever-changing beers like IPAs, sours, and stouts await in a chic, industrial setting. Next, head to Felons Brewing Co. under the Story Bridge, where you can sip a "Crisp Lager" or "Australian Pale Ale" while soaking in the Brisbane River views. Venture north to All Inn Brewing Co. in Banyo, a hidden gem known for experimental brews like the "Stronghold" Imperial IPA and "Pineapple Punch" Sour. Finally, conclude your trail at Ballistic Beer Co. in Salisbury, a local favorite with must-try options like the "Pale Ale" and "Hawaiian Haze" IPA, all enjoyed in their laid-back beer garden. Remember to pace yourself with some delicious food offerings along the way and consider using rideshare services to navigate between these top-notch breweries.

Explore more of Brisbane before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Farewell Brisbane today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!