Looking to combine the thrill of fishing with the relaxation of camping? The Sunshine Coast has it all. From riverside spots where you can reel in a catch to beachside sites perfect for setting up camp, there’s no shortage of outdoor experiences.
With nearly 300 days of sunshine each year, it absolutely lives up to its name! The coast’s weather is practically an invitation to get outside. Whether you’re after a secluded bush retreat or a family-friendly site loaded with amenities, you’ll find options here that suit every camping style.
We’ll cover everything from hidden gems to well-known favorites, with details on where to set up your tent, launch your boat, and land the best fish. Get ready to plan your next Sunshine Coast fishing and camping escape, because we’re diving into 10 of our top picks.
And, while you’re here, why not join our Queensland Camping Facebook Group to connect with like-minded people in the Sunshine State, ask for advice and share your own outdoor experiences?
Sunshine Coast fishing and camping map
Below is a map of all the best Sunshine Coast fishing and camping spots. Zoom in and out for a better view!
The 10 best Sunshine Coast fishing and camping spots
Let’s get into it and explore our top picks for the perfect Sunshine Coast fishing and camping destinations (in no particular order).
Ingenia Holidays Rivershore
Rivershore Resort on the Maroochy River is perfect for those looking for a glamping experience. As well as fancy safari tents, you can also pitch a tent or bring your van. You’ll also be pleased to know that this is a dog-friendly camping site on the Sunshine Coast.
There’s plenty to do for the kids including waterslides, swimming pools, a jumping pillow, a playground, and mini golf. Other amenities on-site include three camp kitchens, BBQ areas, a restaurant, a bar, a kiosk, fire pits, laundry, toilets, and showers.
The resort has its own pontoon and a boat ramp to launch small to medium boats, kayaks or SUPs. If you have a larger boat, then one minute down the road is the local boat ramp.
There are 15 safari tents on site which are amazing and come highly recommended. These tents offer the 5-star camping experience with a king-size bed, kitchenette, ensuite and river views from private balconies. If glamping isn’t your thing, then there are also plenty of powered sites for vans and tents.
As of November 2024, prices for this pet-friendly Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site start at $47 per night.
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Bli Bli Caravan Park
Located near the Maroochy River, this pet-friendly caravan park is a nice place to relax if you bring your tinny. Plus there is riverbank access for kayaks or opposite the park is a boat ramp that can be accessed by road/pedestrian bridge.
They offer free wifi and hot showers. Opposite the park is an IGA and nearby there is a leash-free area for your dog at Muller Park.
Bli Bli Caravan Park offers the lowest rates on the Sunny Coast and no high season prices. Please note they do not accept any tent bookings.
If you are looking for another option for land-based fishing on the Sunshine Coast then you’ll find the Bli Bli Barra Fishing Park close by.
As of November 2024, the most recent price we’re aware of is $29 per night, although it may pay to inquire directly with them as their rates aren’t listed on their site.
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NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park
There are a few different camping options around Lake Somerset, NRMA Holiday Park being one of them. This 45-hectare campground is on the northern shores of Lake Somerset, just a short drive from the towns of Kilcoy, Esk and Woodford – while just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane City.
Being located on the shores of Lake Somerset, this is a great sport for campers who love water sports such as jet skiing, tubing, swimming as well as fishing. Other things to do include mini golf, basketball, and kids activities during the school holidays.
The holiday park offers both powered and non-powered sites and there are also safari tents and cabins available. Other on-site amenities include a camp kitchen, BBQ areas, boat ramps, fish cleaning station, laundry, playground and a small kiosk.
Lake Somerset is known as the Best Bass fishing in Australia, and the camping grounds include a boat ramp and fish cleaning station.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $36 per night.
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Brooloo Park
Located on 750 acres, Brooloo Park is a pet-friendly, family-owned and operated farm that is just 5 minutes away from the town of Imbil. They offer several exclusive eco-camping spots where you will be able to enjoy your privacy.
There are also a few camping spots alongside the Coonoon Gibber Creek. All sites can accommodate tents right through to caravans.
They are a working farm so the children will be able to experience the number of animals they have on the property. They also offer one-on-one horse rides for children and trail rides for competent riders.
Brooloo Park offers a different type of fishing spots as they have a catch-and-release policy allowing many campers to be able to experience the feeling of catching freshwater fish.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $20 per night.
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Lake Borumba Caravan and Camping Grounds
This campground is located alongside Yabba Creek and is surrounded by Imbil State Forest and Yabba State Forest.
The campground offers sites for both tents and caravans. The facilities include hot showers, a camp kitchen, free kayaks and even a volleyball court. Campfires are permitted but you must bring your own fire pit and they have to be 300mm off the ground.
There are many trails for you to explore either by hiking or mountain biking as well as an abundance of wildlife. While staying at Lake Borumba Camping Grounds and in search of fishing spots then I look no further than 800 metres down the road at Borumba Dam. The dam is stocked with Australian Bass, golden perch, Mary River cod and silver perch.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $10 per night
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Coochin Creek
If you are looking at the best fishing spots near me in the Glasshouse Mountains area, then you need to check out Coochin Creek. This camping spot is on the banks of the creek and caters for tents through to motorhomes.
There are only 21 sites which consist of sandy sites for tents or gravel sites for vans. Open fires are permitted in the fire rings provided in the camping area. There is water available but it is not suitable for drinking.
In the nearby creek, you might throw your line in and catch either a bream, flathead, mangrove jack or catch all three. If you have a small boat there is a boat ramp one kilometre upstream. Mobile phone coverage is poor.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $5.30 per night.
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Poverty Point
When you’re looking for Sunshine Coast fishing and camping, The Cooloola area is one to consider. Located on the Tin Can inlet this small undeveloped coastal camping provides you with a tranquil place to fish or just relax.
It can only be accessed by 4wd, boat, canoe or kayak but it’s the perfect place for fishing, canoeing and yabby pumping. Campfires are allowed in the fire rings provided.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $7.25 per night.
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Coolum Beach Holiday Park
If you’re a north sider and looking for a great beach escape, then Coolum Beach Holiday Park is an easy drive, being just 90 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. This holiday park is in such a great location, located right on the patrolled surf of Coolum Beach and across the road from a range of shops and cafes.
Accommodation options include powered sites as well as 6 cabins. There are also great sites just steps away from the beach, and some sites are dog-friendly. Amenities on-site include a modern camp kitchen, toilets, hot showers, laundry and a kiosk.
For campers after an easy beach camping adventure, Coolum Beach Holiday Park is a great option, one of the best campgrounds around Brisbane. Plus you’ll find excellent fishing all year round.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $68 per night.
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Mudjimba Beach Holiday Park
Nestled between Mudjimba Surf Beach and the Maroochy River in a tranquil setting is this peaceful haven, the Mudjimba Beach Holiday Park. There are excellent local fishing spots Sunshine Coast as well as walking and bike tracks.
Accommodation ranges from unpowered sites to cabins. Amenities include a swimming pool with the beach approximately 200 metres from your site.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $68 per night.
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Big 4 Maroochy River
This caravan park is a fantastic fishing spot in Maroochydore as it’s just across the road from the Maroochy River. They even hold fishing competitions like the Cod Hole Fishing Competition. They offer camping as well as cabins.
The amenities at the Big 4 Maroochy River include a camp kitchen, kids’ school holiday activities, outdoor movies, pedal carts, outdoor fire pit/campfires, pancake mornings, a playground and a pool.
As of November 2024, prices for this Sunshine Coast fishing and camping site begin at $68 per night.
Click here for more information
FAQs about Sunshine Coast fishing
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions related to Sunshine Coast fishing
Is the Sunshine Coast good for fishing?
The Sunshine Coast is a top destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering an impressive variety of fishing environments. With its expansive coastline, rich river systems, and tranquil lakes, the region caters to everyone from beginners to seasoned anglers.
You can target everything from reef fish offshore to bass in freshwater spots or bream and flathead along the rivers and estuaries. Whether you prefer casting off at the beach, riverbank, or on a boat, the Sunshine Coast offers diverse and abundant fishing opportunities.
What fish are biting on the Sunshine Coast?
On the Sunshine Coast, you’ll find fish species biting year-round, though certain species peak at different times. Popular catches include bream, whiting, and flathead in the rivers and estuaries, with snapper, coral trout, and mackerel in the offshore reefs.
During the warmer months, species like mangrove jack and trevally become more active, while the cooler months often see an increase in tailor and jewfish activity. Checking local fishing reports can provide the latest information on what’s biting.
What kind of fish are in the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast is home to a broad spectrum of fish species, both inshore and offshore. In the rivers and estuaries, you’ll commonly find bream, flathead, whiting, mangrove jack, and estuary cod.
Offshore, anglers often catch snapper, mackerel, coral trout, and trevally. Freshwater lakes and dams also house species like Australian bass, saratoga, and golden perch. This variety makes the Sunshine Coast a versatile fishing region, suitable for different styles and preferences.
What fish are in season Sunshine Coast?
When it comes to Sunshine Coast fishing, seasons vary, with different species more active at specific times of the year. For example, mackerel, tuna, and trevally are most commonly caught in the summer, while snapper, tailor, and jewfish are popular catches in winter.
Flathead and bream are usually present all year but may peak in activity during the cooler months. Checking local seasonal guides or fishing reports can help identify which species are in season and where they’re biting.
Can you catch barramundi on the Sunshine Coast?
Yes, you can catch barramundi on the Sunshine Coast, although they aren’t as abundant as in northern Queensland.
The Bli Bli Barra Fishing Park offers a reliable spot to catch barramundi year-round in a stocked environment, and some privately stocked lakes and dams in the area may also contain barramundi. For the best chance at landing a barramundi, it’s recommended to check out these stocked locations.
Do I need a licence to fish in QLD?
In Queensland, you don’t need a licence for recreational fishing in tidal waters, such as rivers, estuaries, or the ocean. However, a permit is required for fishing in some freshwater areas, especially those that are stocked with fish.
This permit, known as a Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP), helps fund the stocking and maintenance of these freshwater environments. You can purchase it online or at local tackle shops.
How many fishing rods per person in QLD?
In Queensland tidal waters, each person can use up to three fishing lines or rods at once. However, in some freshwater environments, the limit is often reduced to one or two lines, depending on the location.
Additionally, any unattended rods need to be within 3 metres of the angler. Checking specific regulations for the area you’re fishing in is recommended to ensure compliance.
Where is the best tailor fishing on the Sunshine Coast?
Some of the best spots for tailor fishing on the Sunshine Coast include Noosa’s North Shore, the mouth of the Maroochy River, and along the beaches around Coolum and Peregian.
These areas are known for tailor, especially in the cooler months when schools move closer to the shore. Casting into the surf at dawn or dusk often yields the best results, as tailor are more active during these times.
Where to catch snapper on the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast offers several prime locations for catching snapper, especially offshore around rocky reefs and ledges. Popular snapper fishing spots include the reefs off Mooloolaba, Caloundra, and the Gneering Shoals.
Early morning and late afternoon are generally the most productive times to target snapper, with larger fish often found at greater depths. For the best results, consider using fresh bait such as pilchards or squid.
Final thoughts on Sunshine Coast fishing
With so many incredible fishing and camping spots along the Sunshine Coast, your next outdoor adventure is just a plan away. Whether you’re setting up a tent by the river or casting a line off the shore, these locations offer everything from family-friendly facilities to quiet, remote escapes.
So pack up your gear, check the weather, and get ready for a trip where fresh air and open water are just the beginning. The Sunshine Coast is waiting, and with so much nice weather on offer, there’s no better place to be!
While you’re here, why not join our Queensland Camping Facebook Group to chat with like-minded people, ask for advice and share your experiences from the great outdoors? You’ll also find more handy resources just like this deep dive into Sunshine Coast fishing at Queensland Camping.
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