Sunshine Coast Holidays

Overview Tab

Stretching from Bribie Island and Caloundra in the south to Noosa and the Cooloola Coast in the north is an assortment of seaside towns collectively known as the Sunshine Coast or the Sunny Coast to both locals who love their region and holiday makers who can’t wait for a return visit. The development boom throughout the 1960s and 1970s heralded the coast’s popularity and expansion. But luckily, the Sunshine Coast maintains its feeling of tranquillity and serenity, having kept substantial high density dwellings at bay. This is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway to recharge the batteries and restore the soul.

The Fraser Coast is north of the Sunshine Coast and is focused around Hervey Bay and Maryborough. Off the mainland is the famed Fraser Island.

The Sunshine and Fraser Coasts boast beautiful weather year round. In summer the temperatures rise to around 28 degrees, while in winter the mercury peaks at around 12 degrees. Winters are generally drier than summers, with July being the driest month and February the wettest.

Noosa, around two hour’s drive north from Brisbane, is one of Australia’s premiere luxury resort towns. Aside from the five star accommodation options, the surrounding natural beauty makes a visit to Noosa a highly desirable destination. Cruise through the Everglades, stroll through the National Park or cast your line for some quality fishing as the sun sets deep into the horizon. In August, Noosa hosts a Jazz Festival which attracts leading jazz musicians and in May athletes attempt to beat their personal best in a half marathon.

Air

The Sunshine Coast Airport is Located 10km out of Maroochydore. The following airlines fly from New Zealand to the Sunshine Coast:

Flying from New Zealand to the Sunshine Coast takes about four hours flight time, with a stopover in Sydney.

All Inclusive Resorts

For five-star opulence Noosa delivers in spectacular fashion. The Noosa Sheraton is dramatically located on Hastings St overlooking the adjacent waterways. The Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort and Spa and the Emerald are other popular luxury accommodation options to pamper to your every whim.

To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Sights to See

With pristine beaches, the premiere reason for visiting the Sunny Coast is lazing about enjoying the casual, relaxed vibe. Around the towns of Caloundra, Mooloolaba and the famed Noosa there’s a sandy-white coastline eagerly waiting to be introduced to a beach umbrella, towel and a good book.

Located around 30 minutes drive inland near the township of Beerwah, Australia Zoo is one of the country’s major attractions. As a legacy to the environmental conservation work of Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter, the park continues to promote the protection of animals. It’s also heaps of fun for the whole family with regular crocodile shows in the Crocoseum, a Tiger Temple and an Asian-inspired Elephantasia.

To explore the surrounding natural beauty, consider hiking through the Glass House Mountains, kayaking on the peaceful waters of Noosa’s everglades or strolling through the Noosa National Park in the hope of spotting koalas in the trees. A popular organised day tour departs from Noosa to explore the hinterland and may include the Ginger Factory or the Big Pineapple.

From August to October, humpback whales migrate north and the perfect place to gasp at these magnificent creatures is Hervey Bay where they seem to linger for a while. The largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island boasts long uninterrupted white sandy beaches and ancient rainforests defying belief by growing amongst sun dunes.

Don’t Leave Without…

Insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen are essential and you should carry these in your day bag. Aloe Vera gel is good to soothe damaged skin. A kindle or an old-fashioned paperback novel is also imperative.

Things to be careful of…

Sun

Apply plenty of sunscreen when enjoying the plethora of outdoor activities.

Beaches

Be beach smart and swim between the flags. Never swim against a rip but rather signal a lifeguard for assistance.

Dingoes

Dingoes are wild on Fraser Island and are considered dangerous. Never feed the dogs.