Step back in time at the Sunshine Castle and explore the relics contained within it. You can even do a spot of shopping at the onsite toy store, Absolut Toys.

A Brief History of Sunshine Castle

Originally built in 1972 by a local Scottish couple to house their fairytale and doll collections, the castle has grown over time and has had three owners and three names – Fairytale Castle, Bli Bli Castle and now Sunshine Castle.

Unfortunately, over time, large parts of the castle have fallen into disrepair, and in 2021 the main area of the original castle had to be closed to the public. As a result, tours of the whole castle are no longer permitted, with only a mini tour of the courtyard available.

Exploring the Sunshine Castle

A visit to the Sunshine Castle can last as long or as short as you like. Explore the castle at your leisure as you investigate, learn and have fun as you go.

All paying guests at the Sunshine Castle can access the treasure hunt for kids. This is a great way to keep the children entertained and engaged during your visit. With three levels available, including one with just pictures, all ages are catered for.

After entering and paying admission, you can follow the clues as you navigate your way around the castle courtyard. At the end of your successful quest, children can choose a treat from the king’s treasure chest.

The castle also offers a self-guided mini tour which covers the following highlights:

The Castle Courtyard
Armour Display
Relics of the Dancing Dolls
Doll Museum
The Fairytale Walk
Model Train Railway
Displays
- Castles of the World
- Siege of a Castle
- James Cooks Travel’s

The Castle Courtyard is the main section of the castle that is still accessible, and it is here you can gaze up at the castle walls and turrets, step over the drawbridge, and peruse the informative signs and historical artefacts displayed on the walls.

Little ones can delve into the dress up box, play one of the games dotted around the courtyard and imagine what it might have been like living in a castle in the olden days.

When you have finished in the courtyard, take a moment to look around the doll museum, Castles of the World photograph display and all the other trinkets and armoury displayed around the castle. Don’t forget there are displays upstairs as well.

And of course, when you are finished you can exit through the gift shop, which is actually a fully stocked toy shop – Absolut Toys.

We must reiterate, you cannot access the main part of the castle due to disrepair, so please manage your expectations accordingly.

Absolut Toys at Sunshine Castle

For a touch of retail therapy, you (and the kids) won’t be able to go past Absolut Toys, which now calls Sunshine Castle home.

Absolut Toys is a family run business which focusses on good old-fashioned toys which spark curiosity, imagination and playfulness. Shop in store (or online) to discover their range of puzzles, wooden toys, figurines, educational toys, collectibles and more.

Note – No admission fee is required to enter Absolut Toys or The Castle Café.

Accessibility at Sunshine Castle

Unfortunately, many areas of the Sunshine Castle are not pram or wheelchair accessible. To discuss your specific accessibility needs, it is best to contact the castle staff directly.

Sunshine Castle features

Castle Courtyard
Dress up box and games to use
Doll Museum
Absolut Toy Shop
Café
Toilets
Free, off-street parking

While You Are in the Area

Before or after your visit to Sunshine Castle why not pop in and experience nature at its finest at the Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary. You can enjoy a gentle stroll along the boardwalk through the forest and wetlands, learning about the environment as you go.