Car Rental Sunshine Coast Airport

Land at Sunshine Coast Airport and step straight into the laidback beach life. This handy guide will take you from one picture perfect place to another, giving you the insider information you need to enjoy this region to the fullest. 

Welcome to the Sunshine Coast, where the weather is always warm and the beaches are always beautiful. With a Thrifty rental car, you can surf, hike, shop or relax to your heart’s content, and we’re here to show you how. Let’s go! 

The Jewels of the Sunshine Coast 

Noosa Heads 

A 30-minute drive north of the airport takes you to Noosa Heads, one of Australia’s most iconic coastal towns. Hit the waves at Noosa Main beach, immerse yourself in Noosa National Park, or get amongst the liveliness of Hastings Street. 

Mooloolaba 

Just a 15-minute drive south from the airport, Mooloolaba is a little beachside spot that’s packed with adventure. Splay out on the sands at Mooloolaba Beach and watch the gentle waves, see some ocean life up close at SEAL LIFE Sunshine Coast, or venture out for a whale-watching cruise from June to November. 

Maroochydore 

An easy 10 minutes from the airport, Maroochydore is the bustling cultural and business capital of the area. Explore the Maroochy River by kayak, paddleboard, or boat, shop till you drop at Sunshine Plaza, the region’s largest shopping centre or catch live music at Ocean Street. 

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland 

Beyond the beaches, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a world of rolling hills, charming villages, and breathtaking lookouts. A 45-minute drive inland will take you to some of the most picturesque spots in Queensland. Check out the galleries and boutique shops at Montville, sample local produce at Maleny, or catch the jaw-dropping lookout at Glass House Mountains. 

Sunshine Coast’s Best Beaches 

With over 100km of coastline, your Sunshine Coast adventure is sure to involve plenty of beach time. Coolum Beach is a local favourite for surfing and coastal walks, Alexandra Headland is perfect for a relaxed day by the water, and Sunshine Beach is a place to beat the crowds. 

Beyond the Coast: Roadtrip Destinations 

Once you’ve soaked up the best of the Sunshine Coast, why not extend your adventure? Jump in your rental car and explore these incredible destinations just a short drive away. 

The Great Beach Drive 

For the ultimate coastal adventure, take your 4WD onto the famous Great Beach Drive, a breathtaking route stretching from Noosa to Rainbow Beach. This journey takes you past Teewah Beach, where endless golden sands meet the sparkling Pacific, and Double Island Point, a hidden gem known for its striking lighthouse views and excellent surf. 

Brisbane: A Big City Escape 

Just 1.5 hours south of the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane offers a refreshing mix of big-city energy and riverside charm. Stroll through South Bank, home to lush parklands, riverside dining, and the iconic Streets Beach—Australia’s only man-made inner-city beach. Explore the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) or explore the eclectic inner-city vibes of Fortitude Valley. 

Hervey Bay & Fraser Island (K’gari) 

Head 2.5 hours north to Hervey Bay, the launching point for one of Australia’s most spectacular natural wonders, Fraser Island (K’gari). Known for its crystal-clear lakes, ancient rainforests, and towering sand cliffs, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed island is best explored by 4WD. Swim in the turquoise waters of Lake McKenzie, float down the serene Eli Creek, or spot wild dingoes roaming the sands. If you’re here between July and November, don’t miss the opportunity for whale watching! 

Discover the Sunshine Coast with Thrifty 

In the Sunshine Coast, you can travel in any direction and be sure to come across an unforgettable adventure. And, with a Thrifty rental car, you’ll have easy access to a great range of cars at prices that won’t break the bank. Check out our fleet, find the perfect car for your trip, and get ready to experience Queensland’s Sunshine Coast like a local!