1. Sunshine and friendly locals
One of the most distinctive things about the Sunshine Coast is the people. It is a place where you will feel like a local from the moment you arrive. From sun-kissed surfers to bohemian artists, there is no shortage of friendly people with easy smiles. It’s no surprise they’re happy, as the region enjoys a subtropical climate with plenty of warmth – in fact an average of 300 days of sunshine per year – For real!
Sunrise surf at Mudjimba
2. Diversity
The Sunshine Coast is a region rich in diversity, and that is what makes it so special. Enviably positioned, the region is tucked between Brisbane and K'gari (formerly Fraser Island). Here you will find wonders of nature, beaches galore and fresh local food in abundance. From the majestic Glass House Mountains to Noosa and the coloured sands of Rainbow Beach, the region includes over 100 kilometres of pristine sandy beaches, surrounded by the quiet beauty of coastal and hinterland villages.
Rainbow Beach driving
3. Market madness
Nothing compares to the Eumundi Markets, which is definitely one of Queensland’s best markets. The tourist and local hotspot has aisles upon aisles of stalls selling food, handmade clothing, jewellery, artwork and so much more. The markets are open every Wednesday and Saturday. But that’s not all - there’s also the Noosa Farmers Market, with stalls selling the freshest produce from the region and local markets everywhere from Caloundra to Yandina and in between with fantastic food, live music and handcrafted goods.
Family at The Original Eumundi Markets
4. Top restaurants
Quality food is at the top of the list for Sunshine Coast producers and chefs and visitors will be spoiled for choice when it comes to award-winning options.
Rewarded for quality of reviews over the past 12 months, TripAdvisor’s 10 best Australian restaurants for 2020 included Spirit House Restaurant in Yandina. In 2020, the Good Food Guide awarded The Long Apron in the Hinterland Two Chefs Hats.
Don’t even get us started on all that fresh seafood that arrives daily into Mooloolaba…
The Long Apron
5. Breathtaking Hinterland
It’s time to experience the charming country towns like Maleny, Montville and Kenilworth. Go hiking in the Glass House Mountains, where the rocky peaks were formed by volcanic activity some 25 to 27 million years ago. Enjoy a fun family day out at the Ginger Factory in Yandina. Montville has been called the region’s ‘creative soul’, due to its many art galleries, antique shops and pottery studios. Finally, explore the subtropical rainforest and chase waterfalls in Kondalilla National Park.
Hinterland walks
