Joanna James
A bountiful landscape laced with contemporary bayside glamour and dreamy heritage hideaways, this artistic Hinterland stretch is ideal for every brand of wanderlust. Here's a comprehensive game plan for sampling the best of this scenic beach destination.
If you crave nature-kissed serenity melded with exhilarating character-enriching adventures in diverse landscapes and among warm-hearted people, South East Queensland's sapphire and sunshine gem is the place to be. While the Gold Coast is more cutting-edge and cosmopolitan, the Sunshine Coast offers a myriad of intimately meaningful experiences in the Great Outdoors and within the local fascinating circles; from wading knee-deep in luscious strawberry paddocks and spying kangas playing hide-and-seek under the mango trees at the Glass House lookout to koala spotting at Noosa beach and admiring curios at the quirky museums.
Vibrant with tropical charms, from rainforest-clad valleys and sunset mountain panoramas to dazzling islands and celebrated wildlife sanctuaries, you can't get to the Sunshine Coast fast enough! Fortunately, few Australian airlines won't take you straight to the Sunshine Coast Airport, regardless of your starting point. You can also opt for a breathtaking drive from Brisbane Airport, 100km away. There are plenty of sophisticated abodes to choose from too. For instance, if you're looking for Caloundra resorts proffering prime access to regional allurements, venture no further than Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort.
One of the must-have spots on your itinerary has to be the serene tourist habitat of Noosa, famed for its dramatically gorgeous seascapes and majestic headland lookouts where you can witness the antics of the local dolphins. The vast National Park presents an unforgettable hiking experience, amidst the fragrant humidity of rainforest dells and wildflower meadows, as well as ruggedly elegant cliffsides and wildlife-rich coastal tracks.
For picturesque artisan stalls cheerily hawking everything from local designer clothes and organic ingredients to natural skincare products and handcrafted jewellery, head over to the Original Eumundi Markets on a fine Wednesday or Saturday morning. There's plenty of family-friendly fun afoot here, whether you fancy authentic multi-cuisine dishes, jaunty camel rides, or chatting with inspiring entrepreneurs.
We've all heard of The Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, and his passion project and home of 110 acres catering to 1200 diverse and fascinating animals. Not only is the Australia Zoo the world's most interactive conservation getaway, but it's also full of pristine habitats, epic Wildlife Warriors shows, and Irwin family monuments like Bindi's treehouse that make the experience all the more special.
For a fairytale combination of artistic enclaves, small-town community spirit, and nature abundant hideouts, take a trip to the Sunshine Coast's storybook upland villages. From Montville with its post-card perfect European-inspired architecture and cosy tree-shaded boutiques to the gardens, aviaries, and miniature farms of Maleny, there's plenty of beauty and stimulation to indulge in.
You don't have to be an outdoorsy person to revel in the treasures of Noosa North Shore and Rainbow Beach. From kayaking alongside friendly dolphins and 4WD races across white dune-clad beaches to camping in starlit coves and horse riding into the waves, there's something to thrill every soul.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
