One of the best things about holidaying on the Sunshine Coast is that there’s always something happening. From world-class sporting events and vibrant festivals to food celebrations and arts experiences, the Sunshine Coast has a year-round events calendar that attracts visitors from across Australia and around the world.

Staying at Coolum Beach Resort places you right in the middle of it all. Coolum offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere, yet it’s within easy reach of major event hubs like Noosa, Mooloolaba and the wider Sunshine Coast region. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family holiday or a midweek escape, there are plenty of exciting events to build into your travel plans in 2026.

Here are some of the top Sunshine Coast events that are all easily accessible from Coolum Beach Resort.

Noosa Festival of Surfing

13–22 March 2026

Each March, surfers and spectators gather for the iconic Noosa Festival of Surfing, one of the most celebrated surf festivals in the world. Held at Noosa’s famous First Point, the festival celebrates the joy and culture of surfing while showcasing some of the world’s best longboard talent.

The event runs for over a week and includes surf competitions, live music, beachside events and community gatherings. One of the most entertaining highlights is the Surfing Dog Championships, where dogs and their owners ride waves together in a light-hearted competition that draws large crowds.

From Coolum Beach Resort, Noosa is only around a 30-minute drive. Many guests enjoy heading up for the day to soak up the vibrant beach atmosphere before returning to the peaceful coastline of Coolum.

Noosa Food & Wine Festival

June 2026

Food lovers should mark their calendars for the renowned Noosa Food & Wine Festival. This culinary celebration brings together leading chefs, winemakers and producers from across Australia for a weekend of unforgettable dining experiences.

Visitors can enjoy long lunches, gourmet tastings, cooking demonstrations and beachfront events that highlight the incredible produce grown across the Sunshine Coast region. The festival has built a strong reputation as one of Australia’s premier food events, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

After a day of sampling incredible food and wine, guests can return to Coolum Beach Resort and relax by the pool or take an evening walk along the beach.

The Curated Plate Food Festival

July–August 2026

Another must-experience event for food enthusiasts is The Curated Plate, a region-wide culinary festival celebrating the Sunshine Coast’s award-winning food scene.

Over ten days, the festival hosts a variety of unique events including paddock-to-plate dinners, seafood feasts, farm tours and chef collaborations. Local restaurants, producers and distilleries all participate, creating an immersive food experience that highlights the region’s fresh local ingredients.

Many events take place within easy driving distance of Coolum, making Coolum Beach Resort an ideal base to explore the Sunshine Coast’s thriving culinary culture.

Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival

August 2026

Fitness enthusiasts and spectators alike will enjoy the Sunshine Coast Marathon. This major sporting event attracts thousands of runners each year and features a range of races including a full marathon, half marathon, 10km and 5km distances.

The scenic course runs along the coastline between Alexandra Headland and Mooloolaba, offering runners spectacular ocean views as they race. The festival atmosphere and supportive crowd make it one of Australia’s most popular running events.

Coolum Beach Resort is a fantastic place to stay for race participants or supporters, providing a peaceful beachside base to relax and recover after the event.

Horizon Festival

August–September 2026

The Horizon Festival celebrates the region’s creative culture through music, art installations, theatre and live performances.

Events are held across the Sunshine Coast, often set in stunning outdoor locations that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can enjoy pop-up performances, exhibitions and community events that highlight both local and international artists.

For guests staying in Coolum, the festival offers a great opportunity to explore different towns and cultural venues across the Sunshine Coast.

Noosa Triathlon

28 October – 1 November 2026

One of the Sunshine Coast’s most famous sporting events is the Noosa Triathlon, widely considered one of the largest triathlon festivals in the world.

The event includes multiple races and activities across several days, culminating in the famous triathlon race featuring a 1.5km swim, 40km bike ride and 10km run through the beautiful coastal landscape of Noosa.

Athletes and spectators travel from across the globe to participate in the festival, creating an exciting atmosphere throughout the region.

Local Markets and Community Events

In addition to the major festivals, the Sunshine Coast hosts many local markets and community events throughout the year. Nearby favourites include artisan markets in Peregian Beach and seasonal celebrations in Coolum.

These smaller events are a wonderful way to experience the region’s relaxed lifestyle, meet local makers and sample fresh local produce.

Stay Close to the Action at Coolum Beach Resort

Coolum Beach Resort offers the perfect balance between event access and coastal relaxation. Situated in the heart of Coolum, the resort places you just steps from the beach and within walking distance of cafes, restaurants and coastal walking tracks.

At the same time, it’s only a short drive to the Sunshine Coast’s major event destinations such as Noosa, Mooloolaba and the hinterland.

After a day enjoying festivals, sporting events or food experiences, you can return to spacious apartments, relax by the pool or unwind on your balcony with a refreshing sea breeze.

Plan Your 2026 Sunshine Coast Escape

With its incredible mix of beach culture, outdoor lifestyle and exciting events, the Sunshine Coast is a fantastic destination throughout the year.

Whether you’re visiting for a surf festival, a gourmet food experience or a major sporting event, Coolum Beach Resort is the perfect place to stay while exploring everything the region has to offer.

Start planning your Sunshine Coast getaway in 2026 and experience the events, beaches and relaxed coastal lifestyle that make this region so special.