Last Updated on December 14, 2023 by Natalia
If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-track destination to explore, then the idyllic town of Maleny in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland has some great things to do. From exploring the Botanic Gardens and Bird Park to hiking in the Kondalilla National Park. Situated less than an hour drive from Mooloolaba and less than a 2 hour drive from Brisbane, the town is a great spot for a day trip or weekend break. It’s also a worth inclusion on any Australian East Coast itinerary! Here’s a look at the best things to do in Maleny!
Planning to stay in the area? Check out our guide to the best accommodation options in Maleny!
Best Things To Do In Maleny
Visit the Independent Shops
First up on our list of things to do in Maleny is visiting some of the independent shops along Maple Street – the town’s main street such as cheese, fashion and more.
As well as having some interesting shops, there are also a number of nice restaurants and cafes to visit. It’s well worth a visit to Maleny Lane where you will find a number of pop up food stalls in a lovely outdoor setting.
It’s worth setting aside at least an hour to wander along Maple Street to discover the best shops the town has to offer.
Maleny Botantic Gardens and Bird Park
The Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird Park is a great spot for nature lovers and a great thing to do here. This beautiful park covers nearly 18 acres and has something to offer everyone.
You can stroll through tranquil gardens, admire hundreds of species of plants, observe native and exotic birds in their natural habitats, or simply relax under a shady tree on one of the many grassy lawns.
Tickets cost just $22 AUD per person for entry to the Maleny Botanic Gardens, or $42 to visit both the gardens and the bird park. Click here to book tickets in advance via the official website!
Platypus Viewing Platform
One of the most unique things to do in Maleny is to try and see a wild platypus. Seeing a platypus in the wild is normally quite difficult, but you have a good chance of seeing one at the platypus viewing platform at Obi Obi Creek.
We were lucky enough to see a platypus almost as soon as we arrived at the platform, and got some brilliant views as it dived and then resurfaced for around 15 minutes. Unfortunately we didn’t have our zoom lens to get a better picture (as you can tell below!), but with a bit of luck you will also get the chance to see a wild platypus at this spot.
It’s around a 5 minute drive from the centre of Maleny, and there is a free car park just a few minutes walk from the viewing platform. Click here to see the exact location of the viewing platform on Google Maps.
Alternatively, if you’re heading to Far North Queensland then make sure to check out our 3 day Cairns itinerary for another great spot to see a wild platypus!
Kondalilla National Park
Kondalilla National Park is an absolute must-visit when exploring Maleny. This beautiful park offers stunning rainforest scenery as well as a variety of wildlife including wallabies, possums, snakes and more.
There are several walking trails that take you deep into Kondalilla National Park, where you can admire the impressive Kondalilla Falls cascading down steep rocky cliffs and witness an abundance of wildflowers in bloom during springtime.
We recommend doing the Kondalilla Falls Circuit, which gives you amazing views of the waterfall and offers the chance to swim at the top of the falls. The walk takes around 1½-2 hours and involves a fair amount of ascending and descending stairs.
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that visiting Kondalilla National Park is one of the best things to do in Maleny! Make sure to read our guide to the Kondalilla Falls Circuit walk before your visit!
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
For those who enjoy bird watching or just want some time away from it all, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve should definitely be on your list when visiting Maleny. This stunning 55 hectare reserve is home to many species of birds including paradise riflebirds, eastern whipbirds, regent bowerbirds and more!
You can also explore rainforest tracks leading out towards views across the Glass House Mountains or take a guided tour if you prefer – either way it will be an unforgettable experience! Guided walks must be booked in advance via the reserve’s website, at a cost of just $5.50 AUD per person – although there is a minimum charge of $25 so you will need a group of at least 5 people.
Click here to book your guided walk of the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve!
Visit Montville
One of the best things to do in Maleny is to take a trip to the nearby town of Montville. It’s just a 15-minute drive from Maleny to Montville, and it’s worth the journey to enjoy another of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s quaint towns.
There are some great things to do in Montville, including exploring the independent shops along the high street, visiting the art gallery, and hiking in the aforementioned Kondalilla National Park. You should also make sure to visit the Edge restaurant to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and beyond to the sea.
If you have time then it’s worth spending a night or two in Montville during your trip in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. It’s a great alternative to staying in Maleny – so check out our guide to the best accommodation options and places to stay in Montville.
McCarthy’s Lookout
McCarthy’s Lookout is one of the must-see attractions in Maleny, offering visitors stunning views of the Glass House Mountains and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Located just a 5-minute drive from the town, the lookout has free parking available for visitors.
It’s a great spot for taking in the views, snapping some pictures or just enjoying some peace and quiet. The lookout is open all year round, so no matter when you visit Maleny, you’ll be able to take in the gorgeous views.
Looking to discover other up and coming destinations in Australia? Check out the best things to do in Esperance and a day trip itinerary to Rottnest Island.
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