A local’s guide to the Sunshine Coast

If you have sunshine on your mind, why not holiday in one of Australia’s warmest locations? Sure, you might have swum the beaches of Mooloolaba on a family holiday or walked the main street of Noosa in your youth, but there’s so much more happening on the Sunny Coast.

The problem is, what they have is so good the locals like to keep it a secret. So that’s why I’m here, a Kiwi-turned-Sunny Coaster who’s ready to spill those tasty beans.

Noosa

See and do

Head away from the crowds of Noosa Main Beach and take a short walk to the famous Noosa National Park. You can stop at Tea Tree Bay for some of the best beginner-friendly surf in the region or keep heading around until you reach the magical Fairy Pools to get the iconic shot (check track conditions prior). Just be careful if you end up walking too far; you’ll arrive at Alexandria Bay, the local nudist beach.

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If you’re adventurous, be sure to take a 4WD (and a skilled driver) over the barge to Noosa North Shore. From here, it’s about an hour’s drive up the beach to Double Island Point, a true local’s paradise shared only with dolphins and turtles, and be sure to hop over to Rainbow Beach for the perfect longboard wave.

But Noosa is more than just beautiful beaches; there’s shopping to be done. Head out of town to Thomas Surfboards to explore the gallery, boards, barbershop and gig venue they’ve got in-store, or take a 20-minute trip to nearby Peregian Beach to explore the boutiques, second-hand stores and delicious cafés while you’re there.

Eat and drink

Noosa is the culinary capital of the Coast, and you’ll even catch locals driving from as far as Caloundra to get a taste of what’s on offer. Sum Yung Guys is a Sunshine Coast institution, loved for its inspired Asian-fusion cuisine. If you can’t get a table (and you’ll be hard-pressed to – it books out months in advance), try Light Years. This restaurant in Noosa Junction is always filled with people from across the region enjoying tapas-style dining.

While you’re in the junction, be sure to check out Paradise Arcade for deliciously fresh Mexican and the best espresso martini in town. If you’re craving pizza, head over to Somedays for fermented sourdough bases and authentic wood-fired flavours.

For an afternoon beer, do as the locals do and head to the newly renovated Sunshine Beach Surf Club to enjoy a classic XXXX Gold over the rugged beaches. Or, if you feel like a taste of craft beer, head out to the Land & Sea Brewery for a much loved Sunshine Coast brew.

Then for Sunday brunch, don’t miss out on the famous Noosa Farmers’ Markets, where artisan producers come together with local food trucks for the most authentic Noosa experience yet.

Where to stay

Treat yourself to a Treetop Villa at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas, where the jungle-like surroundings will give you a break from the hustle and bustle of town. By the beach, try Tingirana Noosa, where the infinity pool will make you feel like Main Beach really is your backyard.

Mooloolaba and Maroochydore

See and do

At the heart of the Sunshine Coast, you’ll find it easier to blend in. Start your day off with a visit to Alex Heads, where if the swell is right, you can catch a wave off the bluff with some friendly locals, take a dip in the sea (between the flags) or just enjoy the sunshine on the long strip of beach. If you’re looking to go shopping, head to Alterior Motif’s Cotton Tree flagship, which brings together some of Australia’s (and New Zealand’s) best designers in one beautiful store.

For live music lovers, head to Maroochydore’s Ocean Street in the evening. Solbar has been named Queensland’s best regional music venue – their back room has played host to everyone from Aussie stalwarts to some of Aotearoa’s finest – just in case you’re feeling a little homesick.

Eat and drink

With booming development and a year-round population, a mouthwatering food scene is emerging. Try Rice Boi at the wharf for Asian-fusion or Market Bistro in the new city centre for elegant dining fare (the gnocchi is to die for).

Locals rely on two outposts for brunch options. Velo Project, whose crêpe menu is seasonal and divine, or Glass, the outpost of a famous surfboard shaper serving delicious food and coffee, alongside the occasional footpath gig from local legends, The Dreggs.

Where to stay

Traditionally, this Coast pocket has been home to holiday homes and beachside resorts, but there are new and emerging boutique hotels and beach-inspired Airbnbs to rest your head. Loea is a new hotel that opens onto the Maroochy River. If you’re after a more personalised experience, look no further than the sell-out Airbnb Vacay Co (The Pool House is the perfect place for two).

Caloundra

See and do

You’d be forgiven for spending your time on the Coast up the northern end, but you’ve been missing out on some of the region’s gems. Like anywhere, start your day in the surf – Neill Street waves are friendly, and the locals are even friendlier. For those craving even more adventure, drive out to the beautiful Glass House Mountains.

When you’re back on the Coast, head out to NightQuarter. The venue is an experience in itself; an open-air food market with every cuisine imaginable, bumper cars and carnival attractions. There are also three stages, including a performance venue that has hosted famous Australian acts like Ocean Alley and Jungle Giants.

Eat and drink

The best food in Caloundra is found by the beach. Pick up a vegetarian breakfast and coffee from Ours Cafe or Pocket for an afternoon beer and tacos with views of the ocean sunsets. Clancy’s in Dicky Beach offers the best scoop in town if you’re craving simple fish and chips.

If you want to share a beer with the locals, head to Your Mates Brewing. It’s home to local legends Sally and Larry, two beers named by the punters.

Where to stay

Like Mooloolaba, Caloundra is home to many family-friendly resorts and apartment hotels. But to live as the locals do, you’ll want to make yourself at home in a retro beach shack.

Hinterland

See and do

Start by heading to the gorgeous, hippy town of Maleny (and be sure to stop at Gardners Falls for a swim on the way) to explore the boutiques, galleries and book stores of the main street. Then visit the One Tree Hill Lookout to watch the sunset over the Glass House Mountains. For wildlife lovers who want to see an authentic taste of Australia, visit Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve to be wowed along the way.

Eat and drink

You’ll find the much-loved cafés Monica’s (be sure to get a seat upstairs) and Shotgun Espresso in the heart of Maleny’s township, or explore Maleny Lane for a global food market option. Be sure to call into Flame Hill Vineyard to sample the local wines among the vines, and book yourself a table at The Tamarind, a fine-dining experience at the Spicers Tamarind retreat.

Where to stay

Staying in the Hinterland is a boutique experience, with local couples often rushing up the hills for a romantic getaway. Don’t look past The Postman’s Cottage, a recently renovated historic building in the heart of Montville, or for ultimate luxury, bunk up at either of the nearby Spicers Retreats.