While Maroochydore is famous for its beautiful river and vibrant town centre, it’s also the perfect gateway to some of the most spectacular natural scenery in Queensland. From windswept coastal headlands to ancient volcanic peaks and hidden rainforests with cascading waterfalls, there’s a trail for every fitness level and mood just a short drive away.
Lace-up your walking shoes and get ready to explore. We’ve curated the definitive list of the 9 best hikes and nature walks near Maroochydore.
Top 9 Hikes Near Maroochydore: At a Glance
| Hike / Walk | Distance | Time | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Mount Coolum Summit | 1.6km return | 1-1.5 hrs | Grade 4 (Hard) | 360° Coastal Views |
| 2. Buderim Forest Park | 4km loop | 1-2 hrs | Grade 3 (Moderate) | Waterfalls & Rainforest |
| 3. Point Cartwright Loop | 2.5km loop | 45 mins | Grade 2 (Easy) | Sunrises & Dog Walkers |
| 4. Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary | 2km return | 45-60 mins | Grade 1 (Very Easy) | Families & Birdwatching |
| 5. Alex Forest Conservation Area | 1.5km of trails | 30 mins | Grade 2 (Easy) | A Hidden Bush Escape |
| 6. Noosa National Park: Coastal | 10.8km return | 3-4 hrs | Grade 3 (Moderate) | Iconic Ocean Scenery |
| 7. Mount Ngungun Summit | 2.8km return | 1.5-2 hrs | Grade 4 (Hard) | Epic Mountain Vistas |
| 8. Kondalilla Falls Circuit | 4.7km loop | 2-3 hrs | Grade 3 (Moderate) | Hinterland Waterfalls |
| 9. Maroochy River CP Walk | 2.5km return | 45-60 mins | Grade 2 (Easy) | Peaceful Bushland Stroll |
1. Mount Coolum Summit Track
Best for: An Epic Workout and 360° Coastal Panoramas
No list of local hikes is complete without the iconic Mount Coolum. This 25-million-year-old volcanic dome rises dramatically from the coastal plain. The hike is essentially a giant stone staircase, a heart-pumping 800m climb to the 208m summit. Your reward is one of the most breathtaking, unobstructed views on the entire Sunshine Coast, stretching from Noosa to Caloundra.
- Distance: 1.6km return
- Difficulty: Grade 4 (Hard due to steepness)
- Good to Know: Go early to beat the heat and the crowds. There is very little shade. Not suitable for wet weather as the rocks become extremely slippery.
2. Buderim Forest Park (Serenity Falls)
Best for: Waterfalls and a Magical Rainforest Oasis
Just a 10-minute drive from Maroochydore, Buderim Forest Park is a stunning 45-hectare subtropical paradise. The main trail leads you through towering trees and lush ferns to the beautiful Serenity Falls and its picturesque arched bridge. The walk includes an elevated boardwalk, making the first section accessible for prams and wheelchairs.
- Distance: Approx. 4km loop (shorter options available)
- Difficulty: Grade 3 (Moderate, with some rocky sections and steps)
- Good to Know: There are two entry points. For the easiest access to the falls, start from the Quorn Close entrance. For the scenic boardwalk, start from Harry’s Lane.
3. Point Cartwright Loop
Best for: Stunning Sunrises and Happy Dog Walkers
This paved coastal path offers spectacular views for minimal effort. The loop takes you around the headland at the mouth of the Mooloolah River, past the iconic lighthouse and a beautifully painted water tower. You’ll get sweeping views north towards Maroochydore and south along the Kawana coastline. It’s a hugely popular spot for sunrise and a designated off-leash area for dogs in the morning and late afternoon.
- Distance: 2.5km loop
- Difficulty: Grade 2 (Easy)
- Good to Know: The path is pram and wheelchair friendly. Keep an eye out for turtles and dolphins in the channel.
4. Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary Boardwalk
Best for: Easy Family Strolls and Birdwatching
Escape to another world at this hidden gem in Bli Bli. A magnificent 2km boardwalk meanders through diverse habitats, including mangrove forests, casuarina woodlands, and melaleuca wetlands. It’s an incredibly important habitat for over 200 species of birds. The flat, wide boardwalk is perfect for all ages and abilities.
- Distance: 2km return
- Difficulty: Grade 1 (Very Easy)
- Good to Know: This walk is fully accessible for wheelchairs and prams. Bring insect repellent, especially in the warmer months.
5. Alex Forest Conservation Area
Best for: A Quick, Hidden Bush Escape
Tucked away just behind the bustling Alexandra Headland beach, this small reserve is a true local’s secret. A network of trails winds through 5.7 hectares of remnant forest, offering a peaceful escape just metres from the ocean. It’s a fantastic spot for a quick dose of nature.
- Distance: Approx. 1.5km of trails
- Difficulty: Grade 2 (Easy)
- Good to Know: Dogs are welcome on a leash. The entrance is at the top of Mari Street.
6. Noosa National Park: Coastal Walk
Best for: World-Famous Scenery and Koala Spotting
While a slightly longer drive (around 30-40 minutes), no Sunshine Coast visit is complete without experiencing the Noosa National Park. The Coastal Walk is the most famous for good reason. Starting from Noosa Main Beach, the trail winds past stunning bays like Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay, offering incredible ocean vistas and chances to spot dolphins, turtles, and even koalas in the treetops.
- Distance: 10.8km return to Hell’s Gates
- Difficulty: Grade 3 (Moderate, with some uneven surfaces)
- Good to Know: The first section to Dolphin Point is paved and accessible. You don’t have to do the whole walk; a shorter walk to Tea Tree Bay is a fantastic experience in itself.
7. Mount Ngungun Summit Walk
Best for: The Most Rewarding Glass House Mountains View
Located about a 35-minute drive south, Mount Ngungun is the most accessible and popular summit walk in the spectacular Glass House Mountains. The well-maintained trail winds through beautiful open forest before a final, steeper section to the rocky summit. The 360-degree views of the surrounding volcanic plugs, including Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah, are simply unforgettable.
- Distance: 2.8km return
- Difficulty: Grade 4 (Hard, with steep sections and some scrambling)
- Good to Know: This is the best choice for a first-time Glass House Mountains climb. It’s a fantastic spot for sunrise or sunset photography.
8. Kondalilla Falls Circuit
Best for: A Grand Hinterland Waterfall Adventure
Journey into the lush Sunshine Coast Hinterland (approx. 30-minute drive) to Kondalilla National Park. The main circuit takes you from a scenic lookout down into the valley, past rock pools and a lookout over the stunning 90m Kondalilla Falls, before looping back up. It involves over 300 stairs, so be prepared for a workout on the return journey!
- Distance: 4.7km loop
- Difficulty: Grade 3 (Moderate)
- Good to Know: In summer, you can cool off with a swim in the rock pool at the top of the falls (no access to the bottom).
9. Maroochy River Conservation Park Walk
Best for: A Peaceful Bushland Stroll
Not to be confused with the Wetlands Sanctuary, this lovely flat trail runs through the conservation park connecting Twin Waters to Mudjimba Beach. It’s a quiet, shady walk through paperbark and eucalypt forest, offering a great alternative to the busier coastal paths.
- Distance: 2.5km return
- Difficulty: Grade 2 (Easy)
- Good to Know: The path is mostly flat but unpaved, making it unsuitable for prams or wheelchairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I pack for a hike on the Sunshine Coast? A: Always take water, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Wear sturdy, enclosed shoes. For longer hikes, pack snacks and a small first-aid kit.
Q: Are there any dog-friendly hikes near Maroochydore? A: Yes! Point Cartwright and Alex Forest Conservation Area are both great options for walking with your dog on a leash. Most national parks, however, do not permit dogs.
Q: Which is the best walk for families with small children? A: The Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary Boardwalk is the top choice. It’s flat, fully accessible for prams, and the changing scenery and wildlife keep kids engaged. The Buderim Forest Park boardwalk section is also excellent.
