Go to the Eumundi Markets on Saturday for more stalls and bigger atmosphere. Choose Wednesday for smaller crowds and easier parking.
- Want to skip the explanation? Then book a Eumundi Markets transfer from Noosa or Mooloolaba here. Or a Sunshine Coast day tour from Brisbane, including the Eumundi Markets, here.
What are the Eumundi Markets?
The Eumundi Markets are the biggest weekly markets in Australia. They are held every Wednesday and Sunday in the small town of Eumundi on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
Over time, the Eumundi Markets have grown from one market to several loosely-aligned markets on the same site. There are now over 600 stalls.
What’s so great about the Eumundi Markets?
Aside from the sheer number of stalls, the range and quality is excellent. The emphasis is on arts and crafts, but you’ll also find lots of clothing, soaps, candles and useful things such as locally-made insect repellent.
Locally-made is the key phrase, as most of what’s sold at the Eumundi Markets is made in the Sunshine Coast region. This is an excellent place to buy souvenirs, or just browse.
Musicians, street entertainers and numerous food stalls make the Eumundi Markets an enjoyably atmospheric place to hang out.
A confession: I don’t usually enjoy visiting markets when travelling. But I have been to the Eumundi Markets several times, and adore them. That independent vibe and general atmosphere make the experience rather magical.
What are the Eumundi Markets opening hours?
The Eumundi Markets are open from 7.30am to 2pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays. They open all year round, irrespective of the weather conditions.
Why you should visit the Eumundi Markets on a Saturday
It’s better to visit the Eumundi Markets on a Saturday rather than a Wednesday because:
- More stalls are open.
- There are more entertainers.
- More locals are shopping there, as it’s their day off.
- There’s more atmosphere.
Why you might prefer the Eumundi Markets on Wednesdays
On the flipside, if you don’t like crowds, then Wednesday is a better bet. It also easier to find a parking space on Wednesdays, although the car parks are massive, so it’s not a serious problem on Saturdays.
Getting to the Eumundi Markets
If driving, getting to the Eumundi Markets is relatively simple. Eumundi is a 20km (20 minute) drive from Noosa Heads, a 43km (30 minute drive) from Mooloolaba and a 128km (90 minute) drive from Brisbane.
If you don’t have a car, things are trickier. From Noosa, you can take the 630 or 631 bus.
It is possible to reach Eumundi by train from Brisbane, but the timetable on the Gympie North Line does not match up well for going to the Eumundi Markets.
Eumundi Markets shuttle buses and tours
There are also several Eumundi Markets shuttle transfer services and tours available.
The simplest of these is the return transfer service from either Noosa or Mooloolaba. This service offers hotel pick-ups, and costs $32 at the time of writing.
From Brisbane, the best option is a Noosa and Sunshine Coast hinterland day tour. This full day tour stops at Eumundi Markets as well as the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Montville, Noosa Main Beach and the Ginger Factory. At the time of writing, this Eumundi Markets day tour from Brisbane costs $106.
More Queensland travel
- A practical guide to walking in Auburn River National Park.
- A guide to walking in Bunya Mountains National Park.
- A guide to Cairns for first-time visitors.
- Wildlife encounters on the journey up to Cape Tribulation.
- How worried should I be about crocodiles in Australia?
