RV Travel in Sunshine Coast, Australia – The Complete Guide

RV set up at beachfront campsite on the Sunshine Coast – one of Queensland’s top caravan and motorhome holiday spots

The Sunshine Coast is the kind of destination that feels tailor-made for RV travellers. Stretching from Caloundra in the south to Noosa in the north — and sweeping inland to the lush hinterland towns of Maleny, Montville, and Kenilworth — this region offers a rare mix of golden beaches, rainforest hideaways, and rolling countryside. For vanlifers, grey nomads, families, and overseas adventurers, it’s a choose-your-own-journey kind of place. And with its laid-back vibe, well-spaced towns, and strong local tourism support, it’s incredibly easy to explore by campervan or motorhome.

Whether you’re setting up camp by the ocean, exploring hinterland waterfalls, or driving through avocado orchards and roadside mango stalls, the Sunshine Coast delivers variety without the overwhelm. There’s no need to rush here — the magic lies in slow mornings, scenic drives, and spontaneous stops along winding backroads.

It’s also one of the most RV-friendly regions in Australia, with excellent holiday parks, public dump points, wide roads, and a community that welcomes road trippers with open arms. If you’re looking for that balance between nature and comfort, between freedom and familiarity, then Sunshine Coast might just be the ultimate RV destination.

What Makes Sunshine Coast a Great RV Destination?

A Road-Tripper’s Dream: Beaches, Rainforest, and Country in One Region

Few places in Australia offer such diverse terrain in such an accessible format. The Sunshine Coast isn’t just one place — it’s a tapestry of beach towns, forested hinterlands, freshwater creeks, surf breaks, and quiet country roads. For RV travellers, that means you can stay at a beachfront park one night, then drive 45 minutes inland to camp beneath ancient fig trees the next. The scenery shifts often, and so does the pace.

With low-rise towns, no major toll roads within the region, and a deeply ingrained tourism culture, it’s one of the easiest areas to navigate by campervan or motorhome. You’re rarely far from a grocery store, dump point, fuel station, or surf beach — but you can still go off-grid if that’s your style.

Seasonal Breakdown: When to Visit

  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Arguably the best time to RV the Sunshine Coast. The days are warm but not humid, flowers bloom across the hinterland, and crowds are still manageable.

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): The region comes alive. Perfect for beach lovers, but it’s also the most humid and crowded time. Campgrounds fill quickly — book early.

  • Autumn (Mar–May): Mild temperatures, clear skies, and perfect weather for forest hikes, inland drives, and waterfalls.

  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Dry, sunny, and very popular with southern grey nomads escaping colder weather. Morning temps are crisp inland but comfortable along the coast.

With a subtropical climate, the Sunshine Coast is pleasant year-round. Just be mindful of wet season storms in summer and fire bans in drier months when camping inland.

Local Vibe: Coastal Chill Meets Hinterland Magic

Every town on the Sunshine Coast has its own energy. Noosa is upmarket and polished, perfect for relaxed luxury. Mooloolaba is social and lively, full of cafés and waterfront parks. Caloundra is family-focused and mellow, ideal for beachside caravanning. Inland, towns like Maleny and Montville feel like rainforest retreats, with artisan cheese shops, quirky galleries, and winding mountain roads.

RV travellers will love the flexibility. You can wake up in the rainforest and have lunch by the ocean without breaking a sweat. And thanks to strong council support and a large domestic tourism market, the region is packed with accessible parks, scenic viewpoints, and well-marked amenities.

Where to Rent an RV in Sunshine Coast

Whether you’re flying into the Sunshine Coast, arriving by train or bus, or starting your trip from Brisbane and heading north, there are multiple options for hiring an RV or campervan. From local operators in Maroochydore to nationwide fleets that service the area, renting a van here is convenient and competitive — and there’s something to suit every traveller type, from budget explorers to families or long-haul grey nomads.

Below are five of the best-rated RV rental providers servicing the Sunshine Coast region:

1. Cruisin’ Motorhomes – North Brisbane (Gateway to Sunshine Coast)

  • Location: 47 Frenchs Rd, Petrie QLD (approx. 1 hour south of Maroochydore)

  • Vehicle Types: 2–6 berth campervans and motorhomes, including automatic and family options

  • Why Rent Here: High-quality vehicles with onboard kitchens and bathrooms; great for long-term travel

  • Visit website: https://www.cruisinmotorhomes.com.au

2. Camplify – Peer-to-Peer Rentals Across Sunshine Coast

  • Location: Sunshine Coast-wide; privately owned vehicles listed by locals

  • Vehicle Types: Everything from vintage Kombis and teardrop trailers to luxury Class C motorhomes

  • Why Rent Here: Flexible pick-up/drop-off, often with delivery to your location. Great for budget and unique van experiences.

  • Visit website: https://www.camplify.com.au

3. Motorhome Republic – Aggregator with Sunshine Coast Pickup Options

  • Location: Multiple suppliers serving Sunshine Coast and Brisbane

  • Vehicle Types: Budget 2-berth vans to large 6-berth motorhomes

  • Why Rent Here: Compares major companies like JUCY, Apollo, and Let’s Go — ideal for finding the best deal fast

  • Visit website: https://www.motorhomerepublic.com

4. Sunshine Campervan & RV Hire – Maroochydore Local Operator

  • Location: Maroochydore QLD

  • Vehicle Types: Modern 2–4 berth self-contained vans

  • Why Rent Here: Locally owned, reliable customer service, airport pickup available, transparent pricing

  • Visit website: https://www.sunshinecampervanhire.com.au

5. Apollo Motorhomes – Brisbane Depot (Great for Fly-Drives)

  • Location: 733 Nudgee Rd, Northgate QLD (Brisbane Airport vicinity)

  • Vehicle Types: Large fleet of campervans and motorhomes

  • Why Rent Here: Great for one-way trips or extended east coast road journeys

  • Visit website: https://www.apollocamper.com

Rental Tips for RV Travellers on the Sunshine Coast

  • Licensing: A standard car licence (C-class) is sufficient for most campervans and motorhomes. International travellers should carry a translated licence or International Driving Permit.

  • Tolls: There are no toll roads on the Sunshine Coast, but if you’re collecting or returning a vehicle in Brisbane, you may pass through the Gateway or Logan Motorways — set up an e-Toll pass at https://www.linkt.com.au

  • Before You Book:

    • Confirm the inclusions (linen, cookware, cleaning fees)

    • Check mileage limits — some rentals include unlimited km, others charge per km

    • Ask about roadside assistance and what’s covered

    • Inspect for features like solar panels, water tanks, grey water storage, and awnings if planning to stay off-grid

Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is packed with top-tier RV parks and scenic campgrounds that cater to every type of traveller — from beachfront powered sites to lush rainforest hideaways. Whether you’re staying close to the coast or venturing inland, you’ll find a variety of options with excellent facilities, friendly staff, and access to walking trails, cafés, and coastal lookouts.

Here are six of the best RV-friendly places to stay in the region:

1. Cotton Tree Holiday Park – Maroochydore

2. Noosa North Shore Campground – Noosa North Shore

3. BIG4 Caloundra Holiday Park – Caloundra

4. Bluff Creek Campgrounds – Kenilworth

  • Why Stay Here: A peaceful riverside escape surrounded by forest and farmland. Large grassy sites with plenty of space and stargazing potential.

  • Facilities: Drop toilets, fire pits, no power or showers — bring your own water

  • Pet-Friendly: Yes

  • Visit website: https://www.bluffcreekcampgrounds.com.au

5. Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp – Boreen Point

  • Why Stay Here: Unique campground in a protected eco area by Lake Cootharaba. Great for nature lovers and paddlers. Onsite bistro and brewery.

  • Facilities: Powered/unpowered sites, hot showers, dump point, kayak hire, restaurant

  • Pet-Friendly: No (conservation zone)

  • Visit website: https://www.habitatnoosa.com.au

6. Dicky Beach Family Holiday Park – Dicky Beach

Tips for Booking and Camping Legally

  • Book Ahead: Especially for beachside parks in December–January, Easter, and school holidays. Inland spots may have more flexibility.

  • Free Camping Legality: Overnight camping in public carparks and rest areas is prohibited in most of the Sunshine Coast. However, towns like Kenilworth (showgrounds) and parts of the Conondale National Park offer designated low-cost or permitted freedom camping zones.

  • Public Transport Access: Coastal parks (like Caloundra and Maroochydore) have bus stops nearby, making it easy to get around without moving your RV.

RV Facilities and Essentials in Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast makes it easy for RV travellers to stay self-sufficient and well-supported. Whether you need a dump point, water refill, fuel station with space for long vehicles, or a local RV mechanic, you’re never far from essential services. This section covers everything you need to keep your campervan running smoothly while enjoying the region’s scenic drives and campsites.

Dump Points (Public + Campground)

  • Maroochydore Lions Park
    Centrally located and easy to access. Suitable for large motorhomes.
    Corner of Fishermans Rd and Bradman Ave, Maroochydore

  • Noosa Transit Centre Dump Point
    Useful for travellers heading north from Noosa or returning inland.
    Cooroy-Noosa Rd, Noosa Junction

  • Kenilworth Showgrounds
    Great option for inland travellers exploring the hinterland. Small fee for use.
    Visit website: https://kenilworthshowgrounds.org.au

  • Holiday Parks (Guest-Only Access)
    Most BIG4, council-run, and independent parks have dump points available for paying guests.

Use WikiCamps or CamperMate to verify dump point availability and current access status.

Fresh Water Refill Stations

  • Council-Run Parks and Showgrounds
    Many showgrounds (e.g., Kenilworth, Nambour, Eumundi) offer potable water taps for RVers.

  • Holiday Parks
    Almost all listed campgrounds provide freshwater fill-up points at or near the sites.

  • Day Use Areas
    Some roadside rest stops and park BBQ areas have potable taps, but confirm signage first.

RV-Friendly Fuel Stations

  • BP Forest Glen (Bruce Hwy Exit)
    Large forecourt, high-clearance canopy, easy turn-around space for motorhomes and caravans.

  • Caltex Eumundi (Near Eumundi-Noosa Rd)
    Close to popular tourist areas and hinterland camps.

  • Shell Nambour (On Nambour Connection Rd)
    Handy stopover for those heading into the Blackall Range.

Tip: Use Fuel Map Australia to find the lowest diesel prices and confirm pump access for larger rigs. Visit: https://www.fuelmap.com.au

RV Repairs & Accessory Shops

Recommended Travel & Fuel Apps

Parking, Driving & Local Regulations in Sunshine Coast

Driving and parking your RV across the Sunshine Coast is generally straightforward, thanks to wide roads, low-rise towns, and supportive infrastructure. But knowing where you can (and can’t) park overnight, how to avoid height-restricted zones, and what road rules apply will save you stress and money along the way. Here’s what every RV traveller should know before rolling into the region.

Can You Drive an RV into Town Centres Like Noosa or Caloundra?

Yes, but some areas — particularly Noosa Heads and Hastings Street — can be challenging due to tight parking, one-way lanes, and high pedestrian traffic.
Instead:

  • Use day-use carparks near Noosa Junction or the Noosa Transit Centre, then walk or catch the bus to the beach.

  • Caloundra, Mooloolaba, and Maroochydore are more RV-friendly, with wider streets and council-managed long-vehicle parking zones.

Avoid driving large motorhomes during peak hours (8–10am, 3–6pm), especially on weekends and school holidays.

Day Parking & Overnight Laws

  • Day Parking:
    Most beach towns provide designated day-use areas for larger vehicles, particularly around surf clubs, showgrounds, and parks. Always check for signage related to vehicle length or height.

  • Overnight Parking:
    Council regulations strictly prohibit sleeping in vehicles overnight in most public areas, including carparks, rest stops, and beachfronts.
    Fines can exceed $250 per offence. Enforcement is common in coastal hotspots like Noosa, Coolum, and Alexandra Headland.

  • Where You Can Stay Overnight Legally:

    • Kenilworth Showgrounds (small fee)

    • Bluff Creek Campgrounds

    • Designated campgrounds and holiday parks

    • Check apps like WikiCamps for updated legal free or low-cost spots.

Local Driving Rules & Considerations

  • Toll Roads:
    There are no toll roads on the Sunshine Coast. However, if you’re arriving via Brisbane, tolls apply on Gateway Motorway and Logan Motorway. Set up a pass at: https://www.linkt.com.au

  • Height & Width Restrictions:
    Watch for bridge signage in older inland towns like Nambour and Yandina.
    Most main roads are suitable for rigs up to 3.5m high and 8m long, but avoid narrow scenic side roads unless clearly marked.

  • Fire Bans & Road Closures:
    Inland routes may be affected by seasonal bushfires or flooding. Always check the QLD Parks Alerts before entering national parks.
    Visit: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/alerts

Common Parking Fines & How to Avoid Them

  • Don’t sleep in your RV outside designated areas — even if signage isn’t obvious.

  • Don’t park across multiple bays in town centres — find long-bay or overflow parking areas.

  • Avoid beachfront or headland lookouts for overnight use. Rangers patrol these spots regularly.

  • Never dump grey or black water onto public ground — use designated dump points only.

RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do in Sunshine Coast

Whether you’re travelling with kids, a partner, a furry companion, or flying solo, the Sunshine Coast delivers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventure, local culture, and slow-paced coastal living. Best of all, most of the region’s highlights are easily accessible by RV — with parking, campgrounds, or day-use areas never too far away.

National Parks & Nature Escapes

  • Noosa National Park Coastal Walk
    Iconic 10km return trail from Hastings Street through Tea Tree Bay to Hell’s Gates. Carpark fills early — use Noosa Junction and walk in or take the bus.
    Look for koalas in the treetops and dolphins offshore.

  • Kondalilla National Park
    Inland rainforest retreat with a waterfall-fed rock pool. RV parking at the entrance is limited — best accessed with smaller rigs or from Montville.

  • Glass House Mountains Lookouts
    Dramatic volcanic peaks with panoramic viewpoints. Most suited for day trips from the southern end of the Sunshine Coast.
    Great photo ops at Wild Horse Mountain Lookout or Glass House Mountains Lookout off Old Gympie Rd.

Scenic Drives

  • Blackall Range Tourist Drive (Route 23)
    Winds through Maleny, Montville, and Mapleton — past waterfalls, dairy farms, and artisan shops. Ideal for motorhomes with careful driving on bends.

  • Hinterland Way (Eumundi to Kenilworth)
    Peaceful country roads through green valleys, local cafés, and creeks perfect for swimming or a riverside lunch.

  • Teewah Beach Drive (4WD only)
    From Noosa North Shore through Great Sandy National Park. Requires permit and low tide driving. Not for large RVs — but a thrilling side trip for those with 4WD campers.
    Get permits at: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au

Pet-Friendly Places

  • Coolum Beach Off-Leash Zone
    Dog-friendly and popular with vanlifers staying nearby. Plenty of space and friendly locals.

  • Moffat Beach & Currimundi Lake
    Both have off-leash beach areas and flat trails nearby for walking.

  • Dog-Friendly Cafés
    Try The Velo Project in Mooloolaba or Monica’s Café in Maleny — both welcome dogs in outdoor areas.

Family-Friendly Activities

  • Australia Zoo (Beerwah)
    World-famous wildlife park started by Steve Irwin. RV parking available, with separate section for large vehicles.
    Visit website: https://www.australiazoo.com.au

  • SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast (Mooloolaba)
    Interactive aquarium with seals, penguins, and touch pools. Great wet-day activity.

  • The Ginger Factory (Yandina)
    Quirky stop with tours, rides, and tastings — ideal for young kids and adults alike.

Markets, Local Food & Events

  • Eumundi Markets
    Held Wednesday and Saturday. Handmade goods, street food, and live music. Parking for RVs available nearby but get there early.
    Visit website: https://www.eumundimarkets.com.au

  • Noosa Farmers Market (Sunday)
    Organic produce, fresh juice, and breakfast treats under the trees.

  • Maleny Cheese & Chocolate Factories
    Self-drive tasting tour through the hinterland. Many places have outdoor seating and motorhome parking zones.

Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Sunshine Coast

Whether it’s your first time on the road or you’ve clocked thousands of kilometres already, these localised travel tips will help you make the most of your time RVing around the Sunshine Coast.

  • 1. Avoid Noosa Main Beach Carpark
    It fills up by 8:30am on most days, especially weekends. Park at Noosa Junction or use the transit centre and hop on a local bus.

  • 2. Stay in the Hinterland for Cheaper, Quieter Camping
    Inland towns like Kenilworth, Maleny, and Conondale offer peaceful, spacious campgrounds often at lower rates than coastal spots.

  • 3. Watch for Cane Toads in Summer
    Keep pets leashed and avoid bowls of water being left out overnight — cane toads are toxic and common near rivers and lawns.

  • 4. Use the Noosa North Shore Ferry for Unique Access
    A vehicle ferry (around $10–15) connects Tewantin to Noosa’s North Shore — great for beach access and 4WD adventures. Cash or card accepted.

  • 5. Plan Dump Stops in Advance
    Dump points are not available in every town. Use WikiCamps to locate stations in Maroochydore, Noosa, or showgrounds inland.

  • 6. Grey Water Must Be Stored
    It’s illegal to dump grey water onto the ground in most of the Sunshine Coast — ensure your RV has proper tanks or use approved facilities.

  • 7. Roadside Produce Stalls Are Goldmines
    You’ll find avocados, pineapples, and mangoes sold at small cash-only stalls all over the hinterland — often cheaper and fresher than supermarkets.

  • 8. Coastal Parks Fill Fast During High Surf or Heatwaves
    When beach conditions peak, places like Cotton Tree or Caloundra reach capacity quickly. Plan to arrive early or stay inland until crowds ease.

  • 9. Visit Local Visitor Centres for Free Maps and Local Advice
    Centres in Maleny, Noosa, and Caloundra often have updated road conditions, brochures, and even discounts for attractions or campgrounds.

  • 10. Check National Park Alerts Before Entering Trails
    Fire bans, storm damage, or trail closures are common. Visit: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/alerts before planning any bushwalks or backroad detours.

How Sunshine Coast Compares to Other RV Destinations

The Sunshine Coast offers a balanced and diverse RV experience — coastal enough for beach lovers, rugged enough for adventurers, and relaxed enough for long-term nomads. But how does it stack up against other popular Australian RV destinations? Here’s a side-by-side breakdown:

Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast

  • Vibe: The Sunshine Coast is more laid-back and nature-focused, while the Gold Coast is built-up, fast-paced, and tourism-heavy.

  • RV Facilities: Both have excellent infrastructure, but the Sunshine Coast offers more scenic hinterland camping options.

  • Activities: Sunshine Coast favours national parks and artisan markets; Gold Coast leans into nightlife, theme parks, and high-rises.

  • Best For: Those seeking tranquillity, diversity, and nature without sacrificing convenience.

Sunshine Coast vs Brisbane

  • Parking & Camping: Sunshine Coast is far easier for RVs — Brisbane has limited caravan parks and congested city driving.

  • Nature Access: Sunshine Coast gives you beaches, forests, and farmland within an hour. Brisbane is more urban-centric.

  • Public Transport: Brisbane has better connectivity; Sunshine Coast is better if you want to stay mobile in your own van.

  • Best For: RVers wanting a slower, nature-rich lifestyle without big-city hustle.

Sunshine Coast vs Byron Bay

  • Crowds & Cost: Byron Bay is often more expensive and crowded, especially during festival seasons.

  • Camping Options: Byron is limited in free/low-cost legal camping; Sunshine Coast offers more hinterland showgrounds and eco camps.

  • Scenery: Both offer beautiful coastline and rolling hinterland, but the Sunshine Coast is larger and more varied in terrain.

  • Best For: RVers who want fewer crowds and more options for both wilderness and amenities.

Sunshine Coast vs Cairns

  • Climate: Cairns is tropical year-round, while Sunshine Coast offers milder weather and four distinct seasons.

  • Accessibility: Sunshine Coast is easier to drive and explore in all vehicle sizes. Cairns can be more remote and seasonally affected.

  • Adventure Factor: Cairns has the reef and rainforest, but the Sunshine Coast still offers waterfalls, wildlife, and national parks in a more compact area.

  • Best For: Those who want adventure without the tropical extremes.

Sunshine Coast vs Sydney

  • Ease of Travel: Sunshine Coast roads are less crowded, with easier parking and more freedom camping nearby.

  • Cost: Sydney is more expensive overall — from campsites to fuel to groceries.

  • Scenic Diversity: Sydney has city beaches and nearby bushland, but Sunshine Coast gives you true rainforest and open hinterland drives.

  • Best For: RVers who value simplicity, scenery, and space over iconic landmarks and big-city appeal.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

The Sunshine Coast stands out as one of Australia’s most rewarding RV destinations — not because it tries to impress with glitz or grandeur, but because it delivers consistent, natural, and traveller-friendly experiences day after day. Whether you’re pulling up beside the ocean in Caloundra, exploring rainforest trails behind Maleny, or buying mangoes from a roadside stall in Kenilworth, this region invites you to slow down and soak up the journey.

It’s a place that suits all styles of RV travel — short breaks, extended stays, solo road trips, or full-time vanlife. With a supportive tourism infrastructure, year-round mild weather, and a mix of coastal towns and inland gems, the Sunshine Coast has everything an RVer could want: space, variety, simplicity, and comfort.

Like any RV journey, a little planning goes a long way — especially during peak seasons. Book ahead when needed, respect local camping laws, and make the most of local tips and apps. But once you’re here, relax. Because on the Sunshine Coast, the road always leads somewhere beautiful — and often, unexpectedly memorable.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

Is free camping allowed on the Sunshine Coast?

Free camping on the Sunshine Coast is limited and closely regulated by local councils. It’s illegal to sleep in your vehicle overnight in most coastal carparks, rest areas, or public reserves — particularly near Noosa, Mooloolaba, and Caloundra. Rangers regularly patrol these high-traffic zones, and fines can exceed $250 for non-compliance.

However, there are a few legal and low-cost options if you’re willing to go slightly inland. The Kenilworth Showgrounds offer low-cost camping with access to toilets, dump points, and potable water. Some hinterland areas like Conondale, Imbil, and Belli Park have designated bush campgrounds or state forest zones where overnight stays are permitted.

Use apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate to filter legal freedom camping areas and always check signage before setting up. If in doubt, ask a local visitor centre or opt for low-cost campgrounds instead — they’ll usually offer a better experience with peace of mind.

The Sunshine Coast has several well-placed dump points and water refill stations for RV travellers. Some are publicly accessible, while others are reserved for paying campground guests. The most reliable public dump points are at Maroochydore Lions Park, Noosa Transit Centre, and Kenilworth Showgrounds. These are easy to access, with space for larger motorhomes and clear signage.

If you’re staying in a holiday park or showground, most will provide both potable water and dump access included in your site fee. Always check with staff before using facilities if you’re not a guest.

When refilling water, ensure you’re using taps marked “potable” — some public BBQ areas or beach parks may offer non-drinkable water for cleaning only. If in doubt, stick to refill stations listed in WikiCamps, which includes user reviews and photos to confirm suitability. Carry a food-grade hose and fittings, and always store grey water until you reach a legal dump point.

The Sunshine Coast is a true year-round destination, but some seasons are more RV-friendly than others depending on your preferences. Spring (September to November) is often the ideal time — temperatures are warm but not too hot, and the crowds of summer haven’t arrived yet. This is also a great time for rainforest hikes, wildflower spotting, and relaxed camping.

Autumn (March to May) is another excellent season for motorhome travel. The humidity drops, the skies stay clear, and beach conditions remain excellent. Inland drives through the Blackall Range are especially beautiful with golden foliage and cool mornings.

Summer (December to February) is great for beach lovers but comes with heat, humidity, and higher campsite demand. Book ahead and expect busier towns. Winter (June to August) is mild and dry, with daytime highs in the low 20s°C — perfect for grey nomads and southern travellers chasing the sun.

The cost of renting a campervan on the Sunshine Coast depends on the season, type of vehicle, rental duration, and supplier. On average:

  • Budget campervans (2-berth): $90–$140/day

  • Mid-range motorhomes (3–4 berth): $140–$200/day

  • Luxury motorhomes (5–6 berth): $220–$350/day

These prices often include insurance, kitchenware, bedding, and a daily kilometre allowance (typically unlimited or 250km/day). Add-ons like outdoor furniture, child seats, or GPS may cost extra.

In peak season (Dec–Jan and Easter), rates can increase by 30–50%, so booking early is key. Platforms like Camplify also offer local peer-to-peer RV rentals which may be more affordable or flexible — especially for short-term trips.

Always check what’s included: Are you covered for roadside breakdowns? Is grey water storage required? Do tolls or one-way fees apply? Ask for a full quote with all fees upfront before confirming your booking.

Yes — while some beachside parks have restrictions, several great RV-friendly and pet-welcoming campgrounds exist near Noosa and Caloundra. For those near Caloundra, the BIG4 Caloundra Holiday Park is pet-friendly during off-peak seasons (check ahead), and Aussie RV Tourist Park just inland allows pets year-round with prior approval.

Near Noosa, pet-friendly options are more limited along the coast due to proximity to national parks. However, inland options like Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp (no pets) are not suitable — but bush camps and farm stays around Cooroy and Pomona are often pet-welcoming. Kenilworth Showgrounds is also a great base with spacious grounds, pet access, and proximity to scenic drives.

Make sure your pet stays leashed unless signs say otherwise, and always clean up after them. Coastal areas also have designated off-leash beaches like Coolum, Currimundi, and parts of Moffat Beach for daily dog-friendly outings.

The Sunshine Coast has some of the most picturesque and RV-friendly drives in Queensland — ideal for travellers who enjoy a scenic route over the quickest one.

The Blackall Range Tourist Drive is a must. It loops through Maleny, Montville, and Mapleton along winding forest roads with spectacular hinterland views, boutique cafés, and local markets. Roads are sealed and suitable for most motorhomes, though larger rigs should take turns slowly.

Another excellent route is the Hinterland Way from Eumundi to Kenilworth. This drive passes through rolling farmland, roadside produce stalls, creeks, and charming towns — with plenty of places to stop for cheese, coffee, or a picnic.

Coastal drives like David Low Way (connecting Noosa and Maroochydore) give stunning ocean views and direct access to beach parks. Avoid driving the Teewah Beach 4WD route unless you’re in a suitable off-road setup.

These drives are all accessible in a 2WD campervan and can easily be done over a few days with strategic overnight stops.

You can drive on certain beaches on the Sunshine Coast — but only if your vehicle is a 4WD and you have the correct permit. The most famous drive is along Teewah Beach, which stretches north from Noosa North Shore into the Great Sandy National Park. This route allows 4WD campers and vehicles to access remote beachfront campsites and eventually connect with Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island.

To access Teewah Beach, you’ll need to:

  • Catch the vehicle ferry at Tewantin

  • Purchase a vehicle access permit from QLD Parks: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au

  • Be aware of tide times, as certain stretches become impassable at high tide

  • Ensure your RV has high clearance, beach driving tyres, and off-grid facilities

Standard 2WD campervans or motorhomes should not attempt beach driving — they’ll get bogged quickly and may not be covered by insurance. Instead, park in designated carparks near beach access zones and explore on foot. Or, book a 4WD beach tour if you’re keen to experience the sand without the risk.

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