Nambour has been quietly transforming into the Sunshine Coast’s “West End” since property prices began rapidly gentrifying the suburb in recent years.
Dripping with old-time charm and modern flair, the vibrant town offers an eclectic mix of Queenslander homes, mid-century modern architecture, and colourful local characters, with a thriving arts scene like no other.
Taking its Indigenous name from the red-flowering tea-tree, “Naamba” is a drawcard for creatives, artists, foodies, and vintage enthusiasts alike.
Whether it’s food, shopping, culture, creativity, or a touch of nostalgia you’re seeking, the good vibes pump hard on the daily in Nambour.
Pictured: Restrictions by Fuzeilear is a jaw-dropping mural at Nambour Train Station, and forms part of the Nambour Public Art Trail.
10 Things To Do In Nambour (Naamba):
1. Indulge in the creative arts scene at “Old Ambo”
Address: 80 Howard Street, Nambour
The Old Ambulance Station or “Old Ambo” is where artists, musicians, beatniks, punks, writers, poets, and freaks converge in this lively town.
The venue is the Coast’s only multi-arts facility, and home of the famous Black Box Theatre. It houses an art gallery, 80-seat theatre, dedicated meeting spaces, a sloped ramp space, and studios occupied by creative tenants.
Don’t have time for a show? This artsy hangout also serves up great coffee at Muffin Whole (they do a mean iced almond latte!) or simply flick through some old vinyl at Bad Habit Record Store. High aura-count guaranteed here.
Pictured: Samhain is coming to Black Box Theatre this Halloween.
Website: Old Ambulance Station
2. Shop for mid-century-modern finds at Saint Atlas
Address: 10 Bury Street, Nambour
Nambour is renowned for its op shops and vintage shops with fan-favourites such as Mr Beesley and Circa 70. But it’s newcomer Saint Atlas – purveyors of antique, vintage, and hard-to-find pieces – which has local enthusiasts talking.
Owner Zoe is open about her “battle scars” which left her with PTSD after serving in the police force for many years. She says her shop has become her “anchor” and given her a slower, softer lens of the world.
Check out Visit Sunshine Coast’s Nambour Vintage & Retro Trail.
3. Go on a friendship speed-date at Let’s Dilly Dally
Address: Shop 2/6–22, Currie Street, Nambour
Let’s Dilly Dally is a creative clubhouse offering arts and crafts sessions such as Make & Mingle, a monthly night of wine, creativity, and connection. Sip, craft, and giggle your way through a mix of hands-on art activities while meeting like-minded people.
The place touts itself on “no awkward vibes” and is a great meeting spot to find your new bestie (or boyfie?). Whether you’re fresh out of a break-up, new to the Coast, or just in desperate need of some new mates, the door is always open here.
4. Record a song at Easy Tape Studios
Address: 15 Windsor Rd, Nambour
Easy Tape Studios is a new state-of-the-art boutique studio, led by owner Phil Ballantyne (ex-Intercooler) and local singer/songwriter and audio engineer Billy Howler.
This hidden gem has opened its doors up for live music events like a recent Sofar Sounds gig, where Dellacoma Rio from Dellacoma and his brother John Justus of The Justus Trio, both performed an acoustic set.
5. Enjoy a cocktail and some live music at The Presynct
Address: 15 Ann Street, Nambour
The Presynct is a live music venue and cocktail bar, mixing steampunk and art deco in the heart of downtown Nambour. Expect retro regal aesthetics, sensory delights, and a cocktail list to drool over.
Founded by dynamic mother-daughter duo, Rusty and Cherry, the venue transcends genres, providing an immersive experience in a uniquely designed space.
As pioneers of Nambour’s Special Entertainment Precinct, these guys are leading the live music scene here.
6. Smash a famous pretzel bun burger at Downtown Burgers
Address: 113 Currie St, Nambour
If you’ve ever driven into town and seen the giant billboard saying “Welcome to Namburger”, well this is them!
Home of the famous soft pretzel buns, which they bake in-house to perfection, Downtown Burgers is on a mission “to become Nambour’s most iconic burger bar“. Well, we reckon they’ve achieved that!
If you’re in town be sure to stop for lunch here — you won’t walk out hungry.
7. Walk the vibrant Nambour Public Art Trail through town
Address: Bury Street, Nambour
You will be excused for thinking you’re in Melbourne when you set off on the Nambour Public Art Trail. With stunning artworks and murals dotted throughout the CBD’s laneways and streets, these dynamic, thought-provoking pieces are a mix of commissions and collaborations with Sunshine Coast Council, community groups, businesses, and local artists.
Around 3km long, the trail is perfect for a leisurely walk, with plenty of colourful cafés and shops along the way. Each mural and art-piece brings to life a piece of local history and its stories.
Website: Nambour Public Art Trail
Simply save the Nambour Public Art Trail to your phone and follow along.
8. Catch a cheap flick in luxury at Nambour Cinema
Address: 52-64 Currie St Nambour
Stretch out on leather recliners in the newly refurbished Nambour Cinema & Events Centre – and it’s all for $15!
Formerly the Majestic Theatre, the 300-capacity space has rebranded into a million-dollar culture and entertainment hub, bringing world-class film festivals and live performance to the suburb.
Locals say the cinema boasts the best popcorn on the Coast, with patrons from neighbouring suburbs also making it their preferred viewing spot. And with prices this good you won’t have to hold back at the candy bar!
Website: Nambour Cinema & Events Centre
9. Indulge in a 72-hour fermented Italian pizza at Maori Pizza
Address: 8 Bury St, Nambour
People drive from across the Coast to try the famous 72-hour fermented pizza bases at Maiori Pizzeria, famous for their soft, airy texture, and delicate char from the wood-fired oven.
Sardinian owners Sarah and Antonio Masella came here for a visit and stayed, opening the Nambour pizza shop, with a second one now at Peregian Springs. The pizzas are authentically Italian, made from scratch with fresh ingredients.
Be sure to book a pizza-making masterclass with pizza chef Antonio!
10. Take a pottery class at The Pottery Studio
Address: Shed 4/ 20 Brookes St, Nambour
Think of it like a 24-hour gym membership but with unlimited access to your local girl/boy gang and all your creative supplies (swoon!).
The Pottery Studio is the ultimate way to unwind and express yourself – no matter your skill level. This community is brought together by a shared love for pottery, art, creativity, and connection.
They welcome you to slow down, be present, and simply create.
