Noosa and the Sunshine Coast are not just about stunning beaches and vibrant markets. Behind the coast’s shimmering waters lies a surprisingly rich wine and spirits scene that offers everything from boutique vineyards to craft distilleries—perfect for those who appreciate a good sip and great scenery. Whether you’re after a guided wine tasting, a private gin tour, or a scenic river cruise with Champagne, this region has a tempting array of experiences. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine stunning vistas, local flavors, and relaxed atmospheres—like the Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour that pairs mountain views with gourmet cheeses, or the private Sunshine Coast & Noosa Private Wine Tour that offers a tailored day of tastings with scenic drives.
For an authentic taste of the local drinks scene, you’ll want options that include visits to boutique wineries, distilleries, and breweries. The Sunshine Coast’s quiet hinterland is a highlight, with its small-scale producers and stunning landscapes. Many tours also include delicious lunches featuring local ingredients, making these outings a true feast for the senses. And, of course, with round-trip transport included in most tours, you can indulge without worries.
1. Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour – with 2 course lunch included
At number 1, the Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour combines some of the best local flavors with stunning mountain vistas. This small-group tour takes you through the lush Hinterlands, making stops at a Sunshine Coast winery, distillery, and cheesemaker, all in one memorable day. The day begins with a private wine tasting at Flame Hill Vineyard, where you’ll enjoy a cheese platter alongside your glass of wine. The tour’s highlight is the lunch at Brouhaha Maleny, a brewery and restaurant offering a two-course meal paired with wine or beer. The tour wraps up at Sunshine & Sons Distillery, where you sample craft spirits like gin, vodka, and rum.
This tour scores highly with travelers, earning a perfect 5/5 from 23 reviews. Many appreciate the relaxed pace, quality tastings, and inclusive lunch, which makes it fantastic value at $190.14 per person. It’s ideal for foodies and drink enthusiasts who want an immersive experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The round-trip transportation means you don’t need to worry about driving—just focus on the flavors and views.
Bottom line: This tour offers a rich combination of local beverages, delicious lunch, and scenic stops, making it a top pick for anyone wanting a full day of indulgence in the Hinterlands.
2. Noosa Hinterland Drinks Tour – distillery, winery and brewery
For those seeking a well-balanced 6-hour exploration of Noosa’s hidden drink spots, the Noosa Hinterland Drinks Tour hits the mark. Starting with a scenic drive, you’ll visit a boutique vineyard for a guided wine tasting paired with a local cheese platter. Next, the tour visits a craft brewery in Cooran, where you can sample beer, cider, or a specialty drink. The final stop is an iconic distillery in Pomona, offering a sit-down lunch and a tasting of spirits like gin and organic rum.
Rated 5/5 from 10 reviews, this tour is praised for its relaxed vibe and variety of drinks. At $203.72 per person, it provides a good mix of wine, beer, and spirits, ideal for travelers who want diversity in their tasting experiences. The inclusion of a lunch at a distillery adds to its appeal, and the scenic country drives make it a leisurely way to enjoy the region’s rural beauty.
Bottom line: If you want a balanced day of drinking and dining with a focus on local craft producers, this tour offers excellent value and variety.
3. Noosa Hinterland Tour with Lunch, Wine & Cheese Tasting & more
At number 3, this 7-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Noosa’s countryside, with visits to Kin Kin, Amrita Park Meadery, and Lake Cootharaba. The trip starts with scenic views at Lake Cootharaba, where you can enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee. Then, winding through the Kin Kin region, you’ll visit a historic hotel and sample local wines and beers. The highlight is a gourmet lunch in Pomona, made from fresh local ingredients. The afternoon includes a visit to Amrita Park Meadery, where you can taste unique mead—a honey-based alcoholic beverage.
Rated 5/5 from 9 reviews, travelers love the informative guides and the variety of tastings. The tour’s price of $203.05 includes lunch, wine, cheese, and multiple sample stops, making it strong value given the diversity of experiences. The comfortable tour bus with USB ports adds a touch of comfort for the journey.
Bottom line: This full-day tour provides a well-rounded experience with scenic drives, local drinks, and a tasty lunch—perfect for those wanting an in-depth look at the region’s flavors.
4. Noosa Hinterland Drinks Private Tour with Gin, Beer, Mead & Wine Tastings
For a luxury, personalized experience, the Noosa Hinterland Drinks Private Tour is hard to beat. Starting at 11am or 12:30pm, your group visits several top-tier producers, including Amrita Park Meadery, a gin distillery in Pomona, and Dingo Creek Vineyard for premium wine. The tour is all-inclusive, with tastings of gin, craft beer, mead, and wine, plus a cheese platter at the vineyard.
Rated 5/5 from just 5 reviews, this private tour costs $433.76 per person but offers an exclusive, relaxed experience tailored to your interests. The stop at Dingo Creek Vineyard is a highlight, especially if you enjoy quality wines with serene vineyard views. The tour’s flexibility means you can focus on your preferred drinks or simply soak up the countryside without rushing.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine and spirits connoisseurs or groups seeking an upscale, private day out with all the luxury touches.
5. Morning Champagne River Cruise in Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
If a luxurious river cruise with Champagne sounds appealing, the Morning Champagne River Cruise is a short but sweet option. This 1-hour cruise offers the chance to relax on the water while enjoying complimentary Chandon, Asahi, and soft drinks. For a more indulgent experience, you can upgrade to Moet ICE or Brut Champagne. The cruise departs from Mooloolaba, with a focus on providing a refined and leisurely experience.
Rated 5/5 from a single review, travelers appreciate the attentive service and interesting commentary about the area. At just $66.79 per person, it’s a great choice for a quick upscale treat or a romantic morning activity.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a short, elegant cruise with bubbles and a scenic backdrop—perfect for a special occasion or a relaxing start to the day.
$66.79 per person
6. Sunshine Coast & Noosa Private Wine Tour Inc. Lunch & Tastings
Finally, the Sunshine Coast & Noosa Private Wine Tour is a full-day, 8-hour experience tailored for wine and cider lovers. You’ll visit Sunshine Coast Cider, known for its full Methode Traditionelle, and Clouds Winery for local award-winning wines. The tour includes a delicious 2-course gourmet lunch with drinks, along with visits to other breweries and wineries. It’s a comprehensive, private experience with a focus on quality, scenery, and relaxation.
Rated 4/5 from 3 reviews, it offers a luxurious, private setting for those wanting a more exclusive tour. The comfortable vehicle and scenic views make it a good choice for travelers who want a personalized experience in a relaxed environment.
Bottom line: Excellent for connoisseurs and those celebrating special occasions, who prefer an intimate, all-inclusive day of wine, cider, and scenic Queensland countryside.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour for You
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you want a full-day, all-inclusive adventure with a focus on scenic views and gourmet food, the Sunshine Coast & Noosa Private Wine Tour offers a luxurious experience. For those on a budget, the Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour provides a great mix of wine, spirits, and cheese at a competitive price.
If your priority is private, tailored experiences, then the Noosa Hinterland Drinks Private Tour is ideal, especially for groups. For shorter outings, the Champagne River Cruise offers a luxurious water-based escape with minimal time commitment. Consider your interest in spirits versus wine, and whether a guided group or private tour suits your style best. Booking early is recommended, especially for private or popular tours, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Noosa and the Sunshine Coast present a surprisingly diverse wine and spirits scene that can suit nearly any traveler. From guided group tours with scenic stops to luxury private tastings, you’ll find options that highlight regional specialties, stunning landscapes, and relaxed atmospheres. Two standout choices include the Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour for a well-rounded day of tasting and scenery, and the Sunshine Coast & Noosa Private Wine Tour for those seeking a more exclusive experience.
No matter which you choose, early booking is wise—these tours fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. So, plan ahead, pick the experience that excites you most, and prepare for a delightful taste of the Sunshine Coast’s best drinks and views.