Exploring local gems: Sunshine Coast’s most picturesque parks

Spring on the Sunshine Coast offers the perfect time for locals and visitors to soak up the natural beauty our region is known for.

The Sunshine Coast boasts an array of parks that offer not only lush greenery but also breathtaking vistas and Insta-worthy scenes. From tranquil lilyponds to vibrant beachside enclaves, pack a picnic, fire-up a barbecue or take a stroll through some of the most picturesque parks the Coast has to offer.

For an aerial view or to locate park facilities, visit Sunshine Coast Council’s website and search “Beaches and Park Directory” which includes an interactive map.

Mapleton Lilyponds Park, Mapleton

Located in the charming town of Mapleton, the Lilyponds Park is a hidden hinterland gem. It features a network of walking trails that meander through a landscape adorned with serene lily-covered ponds, creating a picturesque setting for picnics and relaxation. The park's rich biodiversity, including native birdlife and unique plant species, provides nature enthusiasts with an opportunity for delightful exploration.

This park includes a playground, flying fox, fenced off-leash dog park, barbecue facilities and a large, grassed area so is sure to be the perfect place for the whole family.

Amenities: toilets, barbecues, shelter, picnic tables, playground and dog off-leash area.
Location: Delicia Road, Mapleton.

Buderim Village Park, Buderim

Perched atop the Buderim plateau, this park offers sweeping views of our coastline, making it a favorited spot for both locals and visitors. The gardens are vibrant and lush, changing with the seasons. A central pavilion provides a shaded space for gatherings and events, while children can experience adventure in the playground. Time to pack a picnic and enjoy the open green, play ball, fly a kite, or just take in the expansive south-easterly vistas.

Amenities: scenic viewpoint, toilets, barbecues, shelter, picnic tables, playground.
Location: 2 King Street, Buderim.  

Fraser Park, Golden Beach

Nestled along the shores of the Pumicestone Passage, Fraser Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With its inviting calm waters, it's a haven for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. The park also features barbecue facilities, making it an ideal spot for a seaside picnic followed by a stroll along the wide Coastal Pathway hugging the coastline.

With plenty of shade from a mature trees the playground offers climbing adventures, swings and a slide.

Amenities: toilets, barbecues, shelter, picnic tables, playground and beach shower.
Location: Esplanade, Golden Beach.

Bokarina Boulevard Park

Situated in close proximity to one of the Coast’s most popular surf beaches, Bokarina Park is a tranquil oasis that beckons visitors seeking respite from the urban hustle and bustle. The play space provides adventurous play elements such as climbing walls, slides and swings, as well as a lounge net connected by a rope bridge. Extending from the playground area is the parkland – an expansive green area with large boulders as well as shaded space suitable for a range of community activities from family picnics to social sporting matches. The area is connected by the Coastal Pathway network, perfect for a bike ride or stroll.

Amenities: toilets, barbecues, shelter, picnic tables and playground.
Location: 41 Bokarina Boulevard, Bokarina

Tickle Park, Coolum Beach 

With stunning uninterrupted views of Coolum Beach, Tickle Park is a family-friendly haven that combines ocean views with recreational facilities. The sprawling grassy areas are perfect for a game of frisbee or a leisurely picnic. A well-equipped playground keeps young ones entertained, while the nearby beach offers excellent surfing conditions. Nearby, the popular skate park boasts plenty of shade and is the perfect place to skate all year round and offers junior halfpipe, grind block, slide rail and vertical wall drops.

Tickle Park seamlessly blends the natural beauty of the coastline with the amenities needed for a day of leisure and enjoyment. Walk or cycle to Tickle Park via the Coolum Connection section of the Coastal Pathway.

Amenities: toilets, drinking fountains, playground, barbecues, shelter and picnic tables.
Location: 1775-1779 David Low Way, Coolum Beach.

Discover more of the Sunshine Coast’s parks via the Beaches and Parks Directory.

Our Sunshine Coast community has access to:

• 1180 recreation parks and open spaces
• 374 playgrounds
• 74 basketball courts
• 55 exercise equipment nodes in parks
• 46 dog exercise areas
• 28 skate parks
• 1,338 shelters
• 370 drinking fountains
• 324 barbecues
• 196 public amenities.
• 178 showers