Sure, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is home to some of the world’s best beaches, but for those who consider themselves a lover of ‘a cold one’, it is THE place to fill your schooner.

With more craft breweries per capita than any state or territory in Australia, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is widely regarded as Australia’s Craft Beer Capital.

23 independent brewers have set up shop on the Sunshine Coast, meaning no matter which part of the region you find yourself in, there’s likely to be a crisp IPA or a zesty sour nearby with your name on it. 

What started as a handful of breweries has evolved into a sophisticated craft beer scene, now producing some of Australia’s most highly regarded and awarded beers. 

Moffat Beach Brewing Co, which opened its first venue in the laidback coastal town of Moffat Beach in 2012, is one of Australia’s most awarded breweries.

Other local accolades include Your Mates Brewing Co’s Larry Pale Ale, which was voted fourth favourite beer in Australia in the 2023 GABS Hottest 100 Craft Beers.

Beyond the beaches, the Sunshine Coast’s rich volcanic soil is perfect for growing some of the freshest produce you’ll find, and the brewers here have taken advantage of what’s in their leafy backyard.

Many a brewer on the Sunshine Coast has a focus on going paddock to pint. Finding inspiration in their surroundings and working with local producers to create their award-winning tipples.

Take Brouhaha Brewery in Maleny for example who use local dairy to make their tasty Strawberry Rhubarb Sour, amongst other crowd favourites. 

Not to mention Black Flag Brewery, with two tap rooms and a range of awards, is fast becoming a Sunshine Coast beverage staple.  

You’ll quickly find that behind every great craft beer on the Sunshine Coast is a local brewer with a yarn to share. You can discover the region’s breweries by tuning into Australia’s Craft Beer Capital podcast – In Pursuit of Hoppiness – which celebrates the people behind the pint.

If you’re looking to experience Australia’s Craft Beer Capital firsthand, you can go behind the taps on a craft beer tour where yarns and taste testing aren’t just encouraged, they’re guaranteed. 

To learn more head to visitsunshinecoast.com/craftbeercapital.