Joanna James
Tipped to be one of Australia's most popular beach hotspots, the Sunshine Coast welcome countless visitors each year. From spending time on the beach to making the most of local markets, here are five free things to do during a holiday on the coast.
As the main reason why most visitors head to the Sunshine Coast in the first place, no trip to this part of Australia would be complete without spending time in some of its finest beaches. Free to access, the top beaches on the Sunshine Coast include the Noosa Main Beach which is also ideal for surfing while Moffat Beach and Alexandra Bay are both white, sandy tropical havens suitable for families and couples. Other beaches worthy of exploration include Mooloolaba Beach, First Beach and the breathtaking Shelly Beach which is ideal for swimming activities and afternoon strolls.
Nature lovers heading to the coast should make the time to spend at least a day exploring the vast Noosa National Park. In addition to captivating beaches, this protected area is where some of the most dramatic headlands and rock formations are found. The main highlights include Hell's Gate where dolphins, whales and turtles are also known to frequent while Dolphin Point and the Boiling Pot are equally impressive. Open to visitors free of charge, visitors need to carry a few dollars to pay for refreshments if any.
Avid hikers and bushwalkers will relish the chance to discover some of the region's wildest terrains on a mountain climbing adventure in Mount Coolum. Ideal for beginners, trekking up this mountain is a sort of rite of passage for first-time visitors. Other mountains ideal for bushwalking includes Mount Beerburrum and Mount Ngungun which are decidedly more challenging while those based at Oaks Seaforth Resort or any other nearby hotel should also head down to Mount Beerwah. As a harder trek than Mount Beerburrum and Mount Ngungun, Mount Tibrogargan is more adept for those who love to scale in the near-vertical section of the climb.
Those who are in the area due to Sunshine Coast hotel deals should also take advantage of their good fortune by travelling to see the Kondalilla Falls Circuit. As a majestic cascade occupying the hinterlands of the Sunshine Coast, this awe-inspiring waterfall is a free-access attraction that's hard to forget. The rock pool at the base of the falls is also perfect for those who wish to cool off on a summer's day.
The entrance free farmer's markets and artisan markets in the Sunshine Coast offer tourists the chance to not only stock up on supplies and local goodies but also meet the locals. The Fishermans Road Markets, the Kawana Farmers Market, the Noosa Farmers Markets and the Twilight Markets Caloundra are just some of the best local thoroughfares in the area and are known throughout the region for their quality products which range from food items, homemade goods to handicrafts and accessories.
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