One does not simply walk into the Sunshine Coast without expecting to capture some awesome, Instagram-worthy photos. Whether you’re shooting with a professional camera or you’re using the one built into your phone, you’re guaranteed scenic, one-of-a-kind backdrops and a handful of stunning, soft, sunshine-y selfies to boot.
So put those views to use and start planning your photoshoots. Here are the top five most Instagrammable areas on the Sunshine Coast.
MALENY BOTANIC GARDENS
If your ‘gram is seriously lacking in the lush green, sky blue, and unfiltered, sunshine yellow, then you definitely want to add Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World to your itinerary. A unique, privately owned garden consisting of nearly 18 lovely acres of landscaped greenery and vibrant flowers; this is quite possibly one of the most expansive paradise-on-earth locations ever. And trust us when we say it’ll make for some drop-dead gorgeous photos.
Use it as the backdrop for an “adventurous” or “wanderlust” theme, or go full boho beauty and don a white dress, woven sandals, golden henna tattoos, and a delicate flower crown as you pose alongside the flowers, ponds, and shrubbery.
LIL CANTEEN’S TROPICAL WALL
Lil Canteen in good ol’ Buddina has this incredibly beautiful hand-painted wall that features vibrantly green palm leaves on a background of soothing pastel pink. And the food here – especially the breakfast/brunch options – is excellent.
It’s the perfect two-for-one. Grab some good grub as you snap a great ‘gram photo featuring a backdrop of pretty pink and lively green silhouettes. And while you’re at it, shoot a couple shots of your food and drink against the wall, too. If you get your angles, shadows, and lighting just right, the end result will be artistic as all get out.
MOFFAT BEACH
For some truly stunning surf, sand, and sun shots, take to Caloundra’s Moffat Beach – famous for its surf break, breath-taking coastal views, and lively strip of local, alfresco cafés. If you walk down the coastline, you’ll get some awesome, nature-escape-esque seaside photos. Alternatively, stick to the crowded swimming inlet for some raw, in-the-moment action shots. Or angle your camera just right and sneak the many different (cliff) faces of Mt. Coolum in your background.
HINTERLAND ART TRAIL
What better way to immerse yourself in local colour than to travel the expanse of an art trail? Specifically, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Art Trail. Characterized by sandstone sculptures, oil paintings, haunting abstract pieces, and vibrant, colourful collections, you’ll have your fill of fine art and fine food as you wander the streets of Maleny and Obi Lane.
Take as many photos as you must, but don’t forget to put the camera away and take the art in one-on-one from time to time. It’s the perfect opportunity to just breathe and be. Check out the awesome itinerary here.
COASTAL MURAL BY CASS DELLER IN COTTON TREE NEIGHBOURHOOD
If Lil Canteen’s wall has left you craving for more artsy coastal vibes – which we cannot blame you for in the slightest – then head on over to Cotton Tree, Maroochydore and check out the Coastal Mural by artist Cass Deller. Much like the wall in Lil Canteen, this one features a primarily pastel pink background with palm fronds, palm leaves, surfboard silhouettes, and complementary pink shades all throughout. Inspired by local surrounding and Old Woman Island, this vibrant-yet-soft spread of eye-catching shapes and hues sets the scene for an effortlessly-casual – or artfully unconventional – photo shoot.