Welcome to “A Tale of Two Coasts: Sunshine Coast vs. Gold Coast”! If you’re looking for the perfect coastal destination in Australia, you can’t go wrong with either the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast. Both coasts offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, white-sand beaches, and an array of attractions, restaurants, and activities. But which one is right for you? Read on to learn more about the unique offerings of each coast and to decide which one is best suited to your travel needs.
Location
The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast are located on the East Coast of Australia, between Brisbane and Hervey Bay. The Sunshine Coast lies to the north of Brisbane, stretching from calendar to Noosa, while the Gold Coast lies to the south and runs along the coast from Coolangatta to South Stradbroke Island. The two coasts provide a variety of scenery, attractions and activities that appeal to tourists and locals alike.
The Sunshine Coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia and boasts many scenic national parks such as Lamington National Park and Glass House Mountains National Park. The Gold Coast is home to the world-famous Surfers Paradise and boasts an extensive array of theme parks, restaurants and bars.
For those looking for something more serene,
Both coasts offer endless opportunities to explore the lush hinterland that lies between them. The Sunshine Coast’s hinterland features stunning views of rolling hills, creeks and waterfalls, while the Gold Coast’s hinterland offers rainforest walks, rock pools and breathtaking lookouts.
Whether you’re looking for a lively beach holiday or a peaceful getaway, the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast have something to offer everyone.
Climate
The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast both enjoy a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The Sunshine Coast is generally a few degrees cooler than the Gold Coast due to its distance from the water. During summer months, temperatures reach an average of 25-28°C, while during winter months; temperatures usually stay around 18°C. Both coasts experience periods of heavy rain and humidity during the wet season, usually between December and March. The Gold Coast has an annual rainfall of 1,200mm whereas the Sunshine Coast experiences 1,400mm of rainfall each year.
Whilst both coasts have humid, tropical climates, the Sunshine Coast has a greater average of sunshine hours per day than the Gold Coast. During the summer months, the Sunshine Coast gets around 10 hours of sunshine per day whilst the Gold Coast only receives 8 hours per day on average.
Beaches
The Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast are both known for their beautiful beaches. On the Sunshine Coast, you can find some of the most pristine white sandy beaches in the world, stretching from Noosa to Calendar. These beaches boast spectacular views, clear blue waters, and perfect swimming conditions for families. Meanwhile, the Gold Coast has more than 70 kilometers of beaches to explore. From Rainbow Bay to Burleigh Heads, there’s something for everyone here.
Whether you’re looking to surf some waves, take a stroll along the shoreline, or simply relax in the sun, there are plenty of amazing beaches to choose from. Both coasts are also home to incredible surfing spots – with many of them frequented by pros and beginners alike. Whether you’re looking for a laidback spot to soak up some sunshine or a wild ride with some great waves, both coasts have plenty to offer.
