The 5 Best Sunshine Coast Locations for Family Photography

Beaches, bush tracks, hidden gems & golden light.

The Sunshine Coast is full of magic — golden beaches, peaceful hinterland pockets, wide open skies and endless space for little feet to run free. But when it comes to choosing the right spot for your family photos, a little local insight goes a long way.

As a local photographer and mum, I’ve spent years chasing light and finding those perfect little pockets where everything just clicks. So whether you’re a local or visiting on holiday, here are my 5 favourite Sunshine Coast photo locations — and why they work so beautifully.

The 5 Best Sunshine Coast Locations for Family Photography

Alexandra Headland & Mooloolaba

Alexandra Headland & Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast

Relaxed coastal vibes, rock pools, barefoot wanderers
Two iconic locations that offer a blend of beach and boardwalk, surf and serenity. These spots are ideal for playful beach strolls, candid moments in the rock pools, and sunset shots with cotton-candy skies.
Perfect for: playful kids who want to splash, climb, and explore.

Mudjimba

Mudjimba, Sunshine Coast

A quieter, more laid-back location with wide open beach space, gentle dunes, and a charming, untouched vibe. Mudjimba feels like a local secret — perfect for relaxed, natural family portraits away from the crowds.
Why I love it: It’s peaceful and nostalgic. The kind of place where kids can roam and the session feels like a Sunday afternoon adventure.

Point Cartwright

Buddina, Sunshine Coast

Sunset lovers, glowing cliffs, gentle beach paths
This spot has everything — soft sand, dramatic rock faces, grassy dunes, and panoramic ocean views. It’s ideal for families with young kids, with space to run and explore. Sunset here is nothing short of golden magic.
Bonus: We can start in the bushy track for soft light + privacy, then finish by the ocean for movement and play.

Moffat Beach

Caloundra, Sunshine Coast

Best for: relaxed coastal vibes, rock pools, barefoot wanderers
Tucked away from the busier tourist beaches, Moffat has a beautiful mix of laid-back charm and scenic variety. The rocky ledges and headlands photograph beautifully, and the small beach area feels safe and intimate for young families.
Why I love it: It’s effortlessly pretty, relaxed and filled with sweet little nooks for storytelling.

Your Own Backyard or Holiday Home

Sunshine Coast

Best for: personal meaning, lifestyle feel, relaxed flow
Some of the most beautiful family sessions I’ve ever photographed have taken place right at home — in a backyard, on a balcony, or around the dinner table. If you’re staying on the Coast for holidays, let’s capture the magic of that too — salt in your hair, bare feet, a real-time snapshot of your life right now.
Remember: The best location is the one that feels like you.

FINAL THOUGHTS

How to Choose the Right Spot

The best location is the one that feels like you.

I always guide my families through this decision, balancing beauty with ease — especially when little ones are involved. If you’re unsure, I’m here to help you choose the perfect spot based on your vibe and your family’s rhythm.

LET’S CONNECT

Truly phenomenal! Chelsea made us both feel so incredibly comfortable in front of the camera and captured us so perfectly.

– GEORGIE

Love

SAM

She made us feel so relaxed and it definitely is reflected through the photos as you can see just how much fun we were having. Not once did we feel uncomfortable and this is because of how professional Chelsea is and how fun she is to work with. She has created the most beautiful photos for us and we are forever grateful.

BIANCA

Felt like your best friend was capturing the most important moments of your life. To be so professional and supportive while also creating breath taking images is a true credit to her. We never second guessed our decision and we will forever cherish the memories she helped us create and captured so perfectly.

SHARNIE

Absolutely fantastic! Communicated incredibly – making us feel so comfortable SO quickly. I wouldn’t choose anyone else to capture these memories that are going to last us a life time. Cannot thank, or recommend enough!

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