Sunshine Coast - Queensland, Travel Information

Nature on the doorstep at Noosa

The Sunshine Coast is no longer a sleepy collection of coastal villages, but one of Australia’s most popular and ever-evolving holiday destinations. The jewel in the Sunshine Coast crown is Noosa, where careful development control has managed to keep magnificent areas largely unspoilt by unsympathetic holiday accommodation.

Noosa & Sunshine Coast accommodation

Just four minutes from the busy coffee, gallery and souvenir strip of Hastings Street you’ll find yourself staring up at a complacent koala in the Noosa National Park. Walk another 20 minutes along the same path and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were far from any significant town.

Parking during Noosa’s holiday period is, however, becoming difficult, but Noosaville and Tewantin are close by, where the beer is just as cold and the restaurants a few dollars cheaper than their Hastings Street counterparts. Many of the local tour operators offer great off-season rates for activities such as taking a boat out fishing, soaking up the sun on the Noosa River, a day trip down the Noosa Everglades, a camel ride on the North Shore, or a ferry ride with the River Light Ferry.

Noosa, renowned for its fabulous cuisine, boasts over 200 restaurants, cafes and eateries, many of which use the finest local produce. There is an amazing diversity of options, including modern Australian cuisine and international cuisine such as Thai, French, Greek and more. For a gourmet delight of a different kind, experience one of the culinary tours – such as the spice tours at Garnisha Curries in Boreen Point, or sample local produce at the Noosa Farmers Market on the fourth Sunday of every month.

The premier golf course in the area is Noosa Springs, set amidst an upmarket residential development. For those who just want a casual round, head to a friendly par three course just outside town. There are several other championship-standard courses in the area. The hinterland towns of Maleny, Montville and Eumundi are all worth a visit, as are Caloundra and Mooloolaba on the coast.