Discover the Sunshine Coast: A Paradise for Beer and Food Lovers
If you’re thinking fondly of this year’s Beervana and getting thirsty for your next taste adventure, we’ve got the perfect place for you: the Sunshine Coast in Australia. This destination is more than just stunning beaches and warm sunshine; it's a paradise for those who love craft beer and great food. And judging by the public praise heaped on the Sunshine Coast brews at Beervana, we think you’ll agree!
With easy direct flights from Wellington and Auckland to Sunshine Coast with Air New Zealand and Qantas (and with Jetstar from December), your next culinary and craft beer adventure is just a few hours away.
The Craft Beer Capital of Australia
Did you know that the Sunshine Coast has been dubbed Australia's craft beer capital? With a buzzing craft beer scene and a growing number of breweries, it’s the place to be for beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, pastry stouts, or refreshing lagers, you’ll find something to love here.
The Sunshine Coast boasts 24 independent breweries (and 11 distilleries), each bringing their own unique flavour and character to the table. You’ll find brewers experimenting with everything from native Australian botanicals to tropical fruit blends. This innovative approach makes the Sunshine Coast an exciting destination for anyone who appreciates a good brew.
Must-visit spots include Beervana attendees Brouhaha Brewery, Black Flag Brewing, Moffat Beach Brewing Co. and newcomers Coolum Beer Company. You can also call in on Your Mates and have a game of lawn bowls, sample the Migaloo White Ale at Sunshine Brewery, and taste some ever-changing experimental brews at Land and Sea. Besides Coolum, three new breweries have opened in the last year: Wild Barrel is in the Noosa Hinterland, 10 Toes Brewing has a new production site in North Buderim, and Matso’s is famous for its ginger beer.
Tasty Pairings: Beer and Food Festivals
Food and beer pairings reach new heights on the Sunshine Coast, thanks to its incredible local produce and fresh seafood. It’s a place where you can enjoy a mouth-watering seafood platter paired with a crisp pale ale, or a wood-fired pizza with a locally brewed lager.
One of the best ways to experience this fusion of flavours is at the region’s food and drink events, like Brew Fest, The Curated Plate or the Noosa Eat & Drink Festival. These gatherings are the perfect opportunity to sample the best brews, meet local artisans, and enjoy live music in a relaxed, coastal setting. Check out the food and drink guide for more details on events and the best places to sip and savour your way through the Sunshine Coast.
A Food Lover's Dream
The Sunshine Coast is a treasure trove of fresh, local produce and innovative cuisine. It’s where foodies come to play, with farmers markets, artisan producers, and award-winning restaurants all vying for your taste buds’ attention. Imagine starting your day with fresh strawberries straight from the farm or enjoying a platter of locally sourced cheeses, olives, and honey while soaking up the laid-back vibe.
A great way to dive into the local food scene is by exploring the Queensland Sunshine Pantry, where you’ll discover an array of Sunshine Coast specialities. From rich macadamia nuts to local cheeses and fresh seafood, this region is a haven for gourmands.
Getting There and Making the Most of It
With direct flights available from Wellington to Sunshine Coast, planning your trip has never been easier. Once you’re there, getting around is a breeze, with plenty of local tours and transportation options to help you explore the region’s breweries and eateries. Visit Sunshine Coast has created a Craft Beer Capital Brewery Trail to help you plan your trip. Download the map here or check out the locations of more than 24 breweries on the Sunshine Coast on Google Maps here.
Want someone else to do the driving? Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours will take you on a curated tour of the region’s breweries, where you can meet the brewers and taste locally crafted beverages.
For those who love a good road trip, consider hiring a car and taking a scenic drive through the hinterlands. You’ll pass by charming villages, lush landscapes, and hidden foodie gems. Don’t forget to make a stop at one of the local farmer's markets for some picnic essentials before heading to a beachside spot to enjoy your spread.
So why wait? Pack your bags, grab your passport, and treat yourself to a Sunshine Coast experience that’s full of flavour, fun, and fantastic brews. You won’t regret raising your glass in this Australian paradise!