Three for the kids: Family-friendly attractions on the Sunshine Coast

The big names like Australia Zoo and Sea Life Mooloolaba aren't the only family-friendly attractions in this Queensland hotspot.

1 Aussie World

Inland from the beautiful beaches, this amusement park is a fun alternative to sand and surf. You'll find everything here from water-play parks to mini golf courses; roller coasters to ferris wheels; a horror-themed maze and an adventure "illusionarium". The grown-ups will appreciate a visit to The Pub, a family-friendly local with daily food specials, live music and an on-site bottle shop. The park also has regular special events — coming up are August Tiny Tots, with special toddler-friendly activities; and a Halloween "FestEvil" — two spooky-themed weekends with mazes, entertainment, live music, a disco, and trick or treating.

Aussie World, Sunshine Coast. Photo / Tourism & Events Queensland

2 Noosa National Park

Family holidays can get expensive, so for a free day out, pack up a picnic and head out for a walk in the Noosa National Park. Covering more than 4000ha, there are many walking trails to choose from, starting at those suitable for pushchairs. All will give you incredible coastal or Aussie bush views, and there's the chance to spot a range of wildlife — if you're there between July and October, look out for humpback whales migrating along the coast and year round you'll be able to spot koalas sleeping in the shady gum trees.

3 Aqua Fun Park, Twin Waters

If your family are fans of the TV show Wipeout, where contestants navigate a giant inflatable obstacle course, you need to book tickets to this park. Situated inside the Novotel Twin Waters Resort's protected lagoon, the inflatable slides, trampolines, swings, climbing walls, balance beams and walkways, are available to the public as well as hotel guests. Suitable for those aged 4 and over (kids from 4 to 6 need to be supervised by an adult), this is fun for all the family — and a great way to cool off on a hot Sunshine Coast day. The park closes for August, but reopens on September 1, operating Fridays to Mondays from 11am to 2pm.