Even a rainy day is no excuse to stay indoors on the Sunshine Coast. Whether your children are begging to stay home and play Minecraft or just want to catch the next episode of that cartoon you can never remember the name of (Squarebob Spongehead?), there is simply nothing better than getting out of the house and spending some quality time together as a family. We have a jam packed day full of family fun on the Sunshine Coast.
Once you’ve managed to drag the kids out of bed or pry them away from whichever screen was in front of them, your first stop is in Maroochydore.
Flags Bistro
Located inside the Maroochy Surf Club, Flags Bistro has been labelled the best buffet on the coast by locals. Kick start your Saturday morning with a breakfast that will fill up mum, dad and the kids. Available from 7:30am through to 10:00am, so you don’t have to stress if you decided to have a little sleep-in. With a wide selection of cereals, fruits, toasts, pancakes, eggs and bacon, this buffet has everything you would expect and it all tastes great. Complete with as many coffees as mum and dad will need and a view of the beach that would make any morning amazing, this buffet breakfast is a no brainer.
Where: 34-36 Alexandra Parade, Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast, QLD.
After you’ve finished making the most of everything the buffet had on offer, it’s time to unpack the car and head to the beach. Whether you are swimming, playing a game of beach cricket or creating masterpieces in the sand, there is no better way to spend a weekend morning than being lathered in sunscreen and breathing in the fresh ocean air.
After a few hours of fun in the sun, a quick snack might be in order to top off those buffet bellies.
Harvest Breads
This cafe meet bake house has an extensive menu for breakfast and lunch. But if you can’t fit too much more in the tank, grab a few of their freshly baked pastries and a coffee to go. If you or the kids have specific dietary requirements, don’t worry; Harvest Breads offers gluten free, dairy free and vegan alternatives. With such a wide range of lunch options to choose from, you’ll spend more time looking at the menu then you will actually eating their delicious creations. Don’t stay too long; your kids will want to spend as much time as possible at our next stop.
Where: 1/13 The Esplanade, Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast, QLD.
Unless you need to nap off all the delicious food you’ve eaten today, it’s time to jump in the car and get ready to meet some sea-life.
Underwater World
This award-winning aquarium is one of the Sunshine Coast’s biggest tourist attractions. With 16 themed zones, and more being created all the time, your kids will be able to see all types of ocean life. From touching starfish through to watching seals show us just how smart they can be, this is one event that is sure to keep the whole family entertained. Open until 4pm, your kids will be begging you to grab the annual passes so they can keep coming back and exploring. Book in advance to receive an online discount, or check out if you’re eligible for the family passes for added savings.
Where: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast, QLD.
There is no doubt that the whole tribe will be ready for a feed right about now (as long as it isn’t seafood).
Sizzler Maroochydore
You will find your next feast just a short 10 minute drive from Underwater World. Get ready to chow down on Australia’s favourite cheese toast while you decide what you’re going to start your meal with. Endless salads, pasta, nachos, soup, potato wedges and more, you will be bringing back plate after plate of heaven. The ongoing struggle of Sizzler visitors is trying to leave room for dessert, we recommend fitting it in first to avoid any heartache.
Where: Cnr Fifth Ave and Aerodrome Rd, Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast, QLD.
Looking for some more ideas, check out this blog to make your family day out on the Sunshine Coast the best yet!