It’s a no-brainer how the Sunshine Coast of Australia got its name; full of beautiful beaches and practically never-ending sunny weather, this stretch of coast in southern Queensland is considered one of the best places for a beach holiday in the world!

Even though there are plenty of resorts and hotels to choose from, these places tend to be overrated, not to mention over-priced! If you’re on a budget or just looking for something new and different, you can change it up by staying in one of the best cabins on the Sunshine Coast. It’s a unique experience that allows you to have more freedom than you’d have in a typical hotel room.

Finding a place to stay can be a bit overwhelming, so we’ve taken the first step for you and compiled this list of cool options for unique and charming cabins. All these options give you maximum access to the beach as well as the cool city life the Sunshine Coast is famous for!

In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Sunshine Coast for One Night

FIRST TIME IN SUNSHINE COAST

Dream Pine Cabin

The great thing about the Dream Pine Cabin is how close you are to all the popular spots of the Sunshine Coast, yet it’s still easy to take a break from it all. Thanks to the peaceful and private setting of the cabin, you can enjoy the best of both worlds during your trip!

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS:
  • Eumundi Conservation Park
  • Mount Ninderry
  • Coolum Beach

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    Staying in a Cabin in Sunshine Coast

    Staying in a Cabin in Sunshine Coast
    Look at these stunning views!

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    Being such a popular Australian place to visit, you can count on lots of choices for cabins on the Sunshine Coast. In general, cabins are great options for people who want more peace and privacy than you’d get staying at a hotel or resort.

    Since the Sunshine Coast encompasses a large area of coast and several unique diverse habitats, you’ll also have your pick of scenery from beachside properties to incredible mangrove forest. This is why backpacking on the Sunshine Coast is so popular. No matter where you stay, you’ll still be a short driving distance from nearby towns and conveniences so you can pick up supplies or visit local shops.

    Cabins range in size from little studio properties better suited for solo travelers or couples to larger house-sized cabins perfect for big families or groups of friends. Either way, you can count on great modern amenities to make you feel right at home.

    The best form of transportation around the Sunshine Coast is by car, so it’s a good idea to have your own vehicle. Cabins usually have free parking available onsite, and often are perfectly situated to visit beaches, hiking trails, parks, and other tourist sites.

    Sunshine Coast Australia

    What to Look for in a Cabin

    Thanks to their location and cozy charm, cabins are great for outdoor adventures, backpacking, or relaxing retreats. Depending on what brings you to the Sunshine Coast, there are some things you should take into consideration when finding a cabin to stay in.

    Everyone has a different price range when it comes to travel, and thankfully there are lots of budget-friendly cabins that still provide excellent amenities without an exorbitant price. If money isn’t an issue, there are also some super cool luxury cabins for an exceptionally relaxing vacation!

    Since the beaches are one of the top attractions of the Sunshine Coast, many cabins are close to the beach or even have private beachfront access. There are also plenty of options a bit more removed from the beaches so you can still be within easy driving distance of the sandy coast but also enjoy a more secluded atmosphere away from the tourist crowds.

    To compare location, price, and amenities, it’s helpful to use search platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com. This way you can narrow your results to reflect properties, which are available during your travel dates and also have your preferred amenities and features!

    OVERALL BEST VALUE CABIN IN THE SUNSHINE COAST
    Dream Pine Cabin
    OVERALL BEST VALUE CABIN IN THE SUNSHINE COAST

    Dream Pine Cabin

    • > $
    • > 2 Guests
    • > Kitchenette
    • > BBQ
    BEST BUDGET CABIN IN THE SUNSHINE COAST
    Idyllic Yandina Creek Cabin
    BEST BUDGET CABIN IN THE SUNSHINE COAST

    Idyllic Yandina Creek Cabin

    • > $
    • > 2 Guests
    • > Kitchenette
    • > Air conditioning
    BEST CABIN FOR COUPLES
    Stringybark Gardens Cottage
    BEST CABIN FOR COUPLES

    Stringybark Gardens Cottage

    • > $$
    • > 2 Guests
    • > Equipped kitchen
    • > Swimming pool
    BEST CABIN FOR A GROUP OF FRIENDS
    Rainforest Cabin by the Beach
    BEST CABIN FOR A GROUP OF FRIENDS

    Rainforest Cabin by the Beach

    • > $
    • > 4 Guests
    • > Pool & sauna
    • > BBQ
    OVER-THE-TOP LUXURY CABIN
    The African Rainforest Cottages  
    OVER-THE-TOP LUXURY CABIN

    The African Rainforest Cottages

    • > $$$$
    • > 2-4 Guests
    • > Private patio
    • > Large garden
    BEST CABIN FOR FAMILIES VISITING THE SUNSHINE COAST
    Cool and Quiet Caloundra Cabin
    BEST CABIN FOR FAMILIES VISITING THE SUNSHINE COAST

    Cool & Quiet Caloundra Cabin

    • > $
    • > 4 Guests
    • > Equipped kitchen
    • > BBQ and picnic area
    BEST CABIN FOR BACKPACKERS
    Cotton Tree Beach Cottage
    BEST CABIN FOR BACKPACKERS

    Cotton Tree Beach Cottage

    • > $
    • > 2 Guests
    • > Kitchen and laundry
    • > Beach towels provided

    The 10 Top Cabins in Sunshine Coast

    Sunny, relaxing days are in your near future when you book a stay at one of these excellent cabins! Not only can you soak up the best of the Sunshine Coast, but you’ll also have the chance for a unique, local experience that you’d probably miss if you stayed in a standard hotel.

    The Overall Best Value Cabin in the Sunshine Coast – Dream Pine Cabin

    Dream Pine Cabin
    Clean, tidy and welcoming.

    Centrally located on the Sunshine Coast, this beautiful pine cabin really is a dream come true! You’ll have a super unique experience since the cabin is located on a farm property with alpacas and horses, plus you’ll be moments away from beaches, markets, and other fun activities.

    If you want to go out and explore there’s lots to see and do like Coolum Beach, Eumundi Markets, and the Ginger Factory, or you can just relax at the cabin, cook a meal on the outdoor BBQ or simply chill on the large deck and watch the day go by.


    Want to save money on accommodation?

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    The Best Budget Cabin in the Sunshine Coast – Idyllic Yandina Creek Cabin

    Idyllic Yandina Creek Cabin
    Enjoy your morning coffee on the patio.

    Comfort and convenience doesn’t have to come at a ridiculous price on the Sunshine Coast! This cozy studio cabin has great views thanks to the location on a ridge overlooking the trees, plus easy access to top sites like Coolum Beach and Noosa.

    There’s air conditioning, a small kitchenette, and a large private deck, but no Wi-fi or TV so you can really unplug and take a break from the outside world! You can park your car for free on-site, and there are shops and dining options like the famous Spirit House restaurant within a 10-minute walk.

    Budget Tip: Dorms in Sunshine Coast start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!

    The Best Cabin for Couples – Stringybark Gardens Cottage

    Stringybark Gardens Cottage
    Designed in a unique and charming style.

    Cozy, romantic, and perfectly located to enjoy all the best parts of the Sunshine Coast, the Stringybark cabin has a beautiful location on a wooded area, plus a private swimming pool onsite. The hosts live right next door in the main house, so in case you have any questions, help is close at hand.

    You can park your vehicle securely onsite, and it’s only a 25-minute ride to Noosa, and less than 10 minutes to Eumundi and the popular markets found there. If you don’t feel like going out, you can relax in the garden, splash in the pool, or cozy up by the fire in the winter!

    The Best Cabin for a Group of Friends – Rainforest Cabin by the Beach

    Rainforest Cabin by the Beach
    The perfect spot for you and your friends.

    Just a few minutes away from the beach, all your friends will love staying together at this little rainforest-view cabin. You can enjoy resort-style luxuries like a swimming pool, sauna, grill, kitchenette, and air conditioning.

    If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent snorkeling equipment, bikes, and surfboards onsite for a fun day on the beach. Even though the cabin has a very peaceful location, you’ll still be within easy walking distance to great local restaurants, a golf resort, and the popular Yaroomba Beach!

    Over-the-Top Luxury Cabin – The African Rainforest Cottages

    The African Rainforest Cottages  
    Not for budget backpacker, but incredibly welcoming and comfy.

    Located in Bald Knob, the luxury cabins at The African Village is a great place to spend a vacation and appreciate the natural beauty of Australia. As the name suggests, you’ll feel like you’re staying in the heart of the jungle, but without needing to give up any modern comforts.

    You can choose from several different cabins depending on your group size, each one featuring a private patio, a kitchenette, a living area, and a TV. The cabins are still within easy driving distance of beaches, markets, and other attractions, or you can just relax and enjoy the beautiful garden and surrounding wildlife!

    The Best Cabin for Families Visiting the Sunshine Coast – Cool & Quiet Caloundra Cabin

    Cool and Quiet Caloundra Cabin
    Perfect to cool off during hot summer days.

    Instead of crowding your family into a stuffy hotel room, you can enjoy peace and privacy at this great little cabin. Located just on the outskirts of Caloundra, it only takes 5 minutes to reach the beach and other fun activities like the Australia Zoo is 15 minutes away by the local free bus service.

    You can cook meals for the pickiest of eaters in the equipped kitchen, or have a fun family BBQ night on the outdoor grill. The cabin also has a cable TV so kids can watch their favorite shows, and parents will love relaxing on the outdoor verandah at the end of the day.

    Another Great Cabin for Families Visiting the Sunshine Coast – Forestwood Guesthouse

    Forestwood Guesthouse 
    Stylish and modern.

    The Forestwood Guesthouse certainly isn’t your standard family accommodation, but it certainly is one of the best! With two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full living area, equipped kitchen, and even a great outdoor porch, your entire family can find a perfect home-away-from-home during your trip.

    It’s also conveniently located close to Noosa and Caloundra so there are plenty of beaches nearby! If your family enjoys hiking, you can head west toward the mountains where there are cool paths and waterfalls to explore.

    The Best Cabin for Backpackers – Cotton Tree Beach Cottage

    Cotton Tree Beach Cottage
    A little home away from home.

    It’s no secret that Australia is an awesome place for backpackers, and the Sunshine Coast is no exception to the rule! At the Cotton Tree Beach Cottage, not only can you take advantage of great budget accommodation, but also a central location so it’s no problem if you don’t have a vehicle.

    Cool places to visit like the Maroochy Surf Club, Ocean St. Dining, and the Cotton Tree Esplanade are within a 10-minute walk of the cabin, so there’s plenty of see and do. Plus, you’ll have all the comforts of home like a kitchenette, beach chairs, TV, and seating area.

    The Best Cabin for a Weekend in the Sunshine Coast – Sunshine Valley Cottages

    Sunshine Valley Cottages
    With your own little garden, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend.

    Enjoy a private and secluded setting while still being just a short drive away from top beaches and tourist attractions of the Sunshine Coast! It’s a great chance to relax and unwind while still being close to the action during a weekend getaway.

    Each cabin is air-conditioned and comes with its own fully equipped kitchen and private balcony. You’ll also have access to a swimming pool, BBQ and picnic area, and a large garden area where you can relax and unwind at the end of the day.

    Cabin with an Epic Location – Tranquil Cabin on Lake Weyba

    Tranquil Cabin on Lake Weyba
    If you love kayaking, this cabin is for you.

    Even by Sunshine Coast standards, this cabin really has a unique and awesome location! The cozy little space has views of Lake Weyba, and there’s even a double kayak you can use freely to explore the lake during your stay.

    All the top attractions of the Sunshine Coast like the Eumundi markets and Noosa Beach are just a 10 or 15-minute drive from the property. When you get back after a day of exploring, there’s a swimming pool where you can splash around, or have fun with a cook-out BBQ on the cabin patio!

    Check out these other great resources

    We have loads more information to help you plan your trip.

    FAQ about Cabins in Sunshine Coast

    Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation homes in Sunshine Coast.

    Don’t Forget Your Sunshine Coast Travel Insurance

    ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

    They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

    SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

    Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

    Final Thoughts on Cabins in Sunshine Coast

    Backpacking Sunshine Coast Tips and Travel Guide, Remnants of the Wreck, Sunshine Coast
    No words needed

    Whether you’re on a long backpacking adventure or just a brief summer family vacation, finding unique accommodation in the Sunshine Coast is one of the best ways you can ensure you’ll be able to live each moment of your trip to the fullest!

    From awesome beaches to stunning rainforest scenery, there’s a lot to see and do in this popular region of Australia. Now that you have some ideas about where to stay from our picks of the best cabins in the Sunshine Coast, all that’s left to do is make reservations and you’re set to head out on your adventure.


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