As the crisp days of autumn settle across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a unique charm begins to unfold. Picture clear blue skies over misty valleys, vibrant foliage scattered through village gardens, and golden sunsets dancing across the ridgelines of Montville, Maleny, Mapleton, Kureelpa, Dulong and Flaxton. May is a time when the region comes into its own, inviting visitors, engaging locals and quietly convincing more than a few weekenders to dream about calling it home.
Whether you are planning a Mother’s Day escape, looking to catch a festival or considering a tree change, this guide will walk you through everything worth seeing, tasting and exploring across the Hinterland this May.
Autumn Atmosphere in the Hinterland
May brings the best of both worlds to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. With average daytime temperatures hovering around 22 to 24 degrees and cooler evenings around 13 degrees, it is ideal weather for exploring without the summer heat or school holiday crowds.
Mornings often begin with a gentle mist blanketing the valleys, creating a dreamlike start to the day, especially in towns like Maleny and Mapleton. As the fog lifts, brilliant sunshine reveals vibrant gardens, native bushland and rolling farmland.
While most Australian native trees remain evergreen, exotic trees lining streets in Montville and Flaxton bring splashes of amber and gold. Locals tend to their gardens, enjoy brunches outdoors and sip coffee in the sun with mountain views as their backdrop. Autumn is without doubt one of the most picturesque and peaceful seasons here.
May Events and Festivals Not to Miss
Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival 3 to 5 May
Celebrate stories and creativity across three days of workshops, author talks and performances in Maleny, Montville and Mapleton. The main stage is set at Maleny Showgrounds with intimate sessions dotted across village venues. Now in its second year, this festival is fast becoming a cultural highlight in the Hinterland calendar.
Mother’s Day Sunday 11 May
Treat Mum to something special this year with a high tea in Flaxton, a scenic brunch in Montville or a family picnic with Glass House Mountains views at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Hinterland cafes often offer Mother’s Day menus so booking ahead is recommended.
Open Studios Sunshine Coast 17 to 18 May
Art lovers will relish this weekend event where local artists open their studios to the public. From painters in Maleny to ceramicists in Mapleton, it is a chance to meet the makers, see their workspaces and purchase one of a kind pieces. Ideal for combining art appreciation with a hinterland road trip.
Maleny Agricultural Show 30 and 31 May
A country show with heart and heritage, the Maleny Show brings together everything from livestock competitions and wood chopping events to show rides, fairy floss and market stalls. Perfect for families and visitors wanting a genuine rural Queensland experience.
Regular Markets and Live Events
- Mapleton Country Market Saturday 24 May, held on the fourth Saturday monthly, offering produce, baked goods and handcrafted items
- Montville Growers and Makers Market A Friday morning favourite for locals and travellers
- Maleny Sunday Market A great spot to grab local honey, fresh fruit and artisan gifts
Outdoor Adventures and Sightseeing in May
Top Hikes to Explore
- Kondalilla Falls Circuit Montville A 4.7 km loop through lush rainforest leading to a stunning 90 metre waterfall and rock pools. The walk is more enjoyable in May’s cool temperatures, and the picnic area at the top is a perfect rest stop
- Mapleton Falls Lookout and Wompoo Circuit Short, accessible and packed with scenic punch, this trail includes rainforest birdlife, a spectacular waterfall view and the chance to spot a Wompoo Fruit dove if you listen carefully
- Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk selected sections Longer walks through Mapleton National Park, Flaxton and beyond. May means fewer leeches and mozzies, making it an ideal time to attempt a section
Scenic Lookouts and Drives
- Montville to Mapleton Ridge Drive Stop at Karl Wisely and Mapleton Falls Lookouts for wide views toward the coast
- Dulong Lookout near Kureelpa A lesser known spot with panoramic views from Caloundra to Noosa
- Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Maleny Home to boardwalks, rainforest, a visitor centre and sweeping views of the Glass House Mountains
Wildlife and National Parks
Cooler temperatures make May an excellent time for spotting wildlife. Look for wallabies at dusk, bird species migrating through the region or spend a morning with parrots at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World. For families, Mary Cairncross is both educational and engaging.
Autumn Flavours and Local Life
Taste the Season
May means local citrus is coming into season, avocados are still in abundance and farmers markets are brimming with autumn produce. Stop by Witta Market or Mapleton Country Market for jams, pastries and locally grown ingredients.
Cafes, Fireplaces and Cosy Dinners
Wrap up a day outdoors with a fireside meal at a Hinterland pub or a glass of wine beside a glowing hearth in Montville. Many restaurants across the region light their fireplaces by mid May, making for an unforgettable autumn dining experience.
The Warmth of Community
The Hinterland is not just picturesque, it is deeply connected. Markets, festivals, trivia nights and creative workshops reflect a proud and welcoming community. Whether you are chatting with a stallholder in Mapleton or sharing stories at a poetry reading in Maleny, there is always a sense of belonging here.
A Lifestyle Worth Dreaming About
For many, a May weekend visit is the beginning of a longer journey. The slower pace, friendly faces and access to nature make the Sunshine Coast Hinterland a compelling option for those dreaming of a quieter, more grounded life.
Embrace May in the Hinterland
From arts festivals and country shows to misty morning walks and vineyard lunches, May in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is full of experiences that stay with you long after the leaves fall. Whether you are here for a day, a long weekend or something more permanent, now is the time to see the region at its very best.
If you are dreaming about making this lifestyle your own, reach out to our team at Ottiam Real Estate. We are locals who love what we do, and we would love to help you explore your options in the heart of the Hinterland.
