New data reveals that sunshine coast received close to 3.5 million domestic visitors by the end of 2018. The visitors’ spending increased by 18.4 percent to a record total of $2.4 billion.
Where do you plan on going for your vacation? Are you in search of thrilling action, adventurous experiences, glittering beaches, and delicious dining? The sunshine coast Australia has everything you are looking for and more.
This tourist hotspot extends northwards from the beaches of Caloundra to the Great Sandy National Park.
It is a thrilling location for adventurous tourists who want to go hiking into the rainforest or swim with whales. Here are some top attractions you should visit whenever you drop by this tourist haven.
1. The Noosa National Park
The national park is one of the crown jewels of the Sunshine Coast in Australia. It covers 9,800 acres that consist of rainforests, dunes, paperback forests, heathlands, and pristine beaches.
One area of interest is the Noosa Headland that has hiking trails close to 15 kilometers, including a scenic coastal track that helps new visitors get a quick introduction to the park.
As you walk along the coastal track, you may get some few glimpses of whales and dolphins. If you want to set up a picnic date, a good point would be the Tea tree Bay or Granite.
2. Noosa Main Beach and Bars
The main beach is enticing to visit not only to international tourists but also to the residents. The ocean facing the beach has a gentle surf that is popular to beginner surfers and families.
It is an excellent location for a swim as you enjoy the beautiful sights off the Noosa National Park. Hastings Street is just a short distance from the beach. Here, there are a variety of restaurants, galleries, and boutiques.
3. The Eumundi Markets
If you want to engage in the local culture, you should visit the Eumundi markets that are 20 kilometers on the southwest of Noosa. The market is open twice in a week, on Wednesday morning and Saturday.
You can purchase any products from jewelry, skincare products, designer clothes, artisan foods, home goods, and organic produce. There are some food stalls where you can enjoy your lunch as you watch roving performers.
If you have kids, you can engage them in camel rides and other fun kid activities.
4. The Mountain Village of Montville and Maley
The sunshine coast comprises of more than sun-splashed beaches. If you are looking to unwind, you can take a drive up the Blackall Range.
The hinterland on the way to the villages of Montville and Maleny presents a picturesque scenery.
The two towns lie 10 minutes away from each other. Montville is characterized by European-style architecture and cafes that crown along tree-lined streets. There are various art galleries, boutiques, and gift shops in the area.
Maleny also has several galleries, workshops, and studios. Its leading site of attraction is the Maleny Botanical Gardens and Bird world a perfect place for bird watchers to explore.
5. Mooloolaba Beach
Mooloolaba beach is among the best places to visit in Australia. Its beach is far superior and more developed than any other beaches on the Sunshine Coast.
You can take an early morning stroll across the beach as you head towards Alexandra Headland. If you are a lover of art and jewelry, the coastal area has numerous galleries and jewelry stores where you can get some timeless pieces.
Some activities you can engage in on the beach include sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. You can also visit the Underwater World Sea Life, especially if you have a family.
6. Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach is a famous tourist zone due to its beauty and availability of holiday apartments. The most significant pastime activity is surfing, with many beginners taking lessons from a couple of surfing schools in the area.
There are several food joints near the beach where you can acquire items for a picnic setup, or you can have a casual lunch.
The most distinctive feature in Coolum beach is the grand view of Mount Coolum that rises 208 meters above the coastline. If you are a fitness enthusiast, you can join other hikers in the quest for reaching the peak of the mountain and enjoying the aerial view of the coast.
7. The Underwater World Sea Life, Mooloolaba
The underwater world presents a fascinating look at the different organisms living under the Australian waters. It is organized in themes meant to aid in the learning process.
Your children can have fun spending time in the children’s play area as you tour the different exhibits.
8. The Ginger Factory in Yandina
If you want to create a fantastic time for your kids, consider taking them to the Ginger Factory in Yandina.
Your children will enjoy their time as they ride the train through the tropical gardens. They also get to learn more about the coast.
In the meantime, you can also enjoy a tour around the ginger factory and the surrounding beautiful gardens. Afterward, you can buy some souvenirs and local treats from the large gift shop in the area.
9. The Noosa North Shore and Rainbow Beach
The Noosa North Shore is a stretch of gently rolling dunes giving entry to the world renown Fraser Island. This area is familiar with tourists that are looking for an uncrowded area to use as a beachfront camping site.
You can get to see several wild animals such as goannas, Kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets. You can drive along the beach during the low tides to get to the rainbow beach and the Double standard point. Here, you can get into a ferry headed to Fraser Island.
To drive along the beach and in some inland tracks, you need to get a vehicle permit.
10. The Glass House Mountains National Park
If you are a nature enthusiast, you should visit the Glass House Mountains National Park in Queensland. The area is spiritual for the Gubbi Gubbi people that used the site to perform sacred ceremonies and trade.
You can explore Mount Ngungun and Mount Tibrogargan as they have trails that cater to hikers with all abilities. If you are a hiking beginner, there are some easy base trails you can follow, and some challenging hikes for professional hikers.
Some other activities you can engage in include mountain biking, rock climbing, abseiling, and horseback riding. You can end your hike by visiting the famous Lookout Café and enjoy some delights.
Why You Should Visit the Sunshine Coast Australia
If you are looking for an area you can bask in the sunlight throughout the year, you should visit the Sunshine Coast Australia. Its sub-tropical climate and glamorous beaches make it the favorite destination spot to spend your vacation.
The location is also suitable for families to travel to since numerous fun attraction sites can entertain both the parents and the children.
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