The Sunshine Coast boasts an economic powerhouse that outstrips most other regions across Australia, driven in large part by tourism which attracts over 3.2 million visitors per year.

From Noosa and Maroochydore, coastal regions provide an array of natural delights ranging from seaside villages such as Noosa to bustling shopping centres such as Maroochydore. Enjoy visiting pristine beaches, traversing lush hinterlands or exploring the stunning peaks of Glass House Mountains.

1. Mooloolaba Spit

Mooloolaba Spit is one of Australia’s most spectacular beach destinations, boasting everything from breathtaking sand dunes and rock pools to an exciting surf. Here, visitors can relax on its gorgeous beach sands or stroll its picturesque waterfront promenade, take a dip into the ocean or simply stroll along its esplanade and waterfront promenade for some fresh ocean air or take part in fun aquatic activities or enjoy a delicious picnic under the sunshine.

Strolling along the Mooloolaba Spit at sunrise or sunset is particularly breathtaking. Additionally, this is where Sunreef Mooloolaba departs for its day trips as well as fishing charters; furthermore there are numerous eateries specializing in seafood nearby.

Upgrades to the Spit Foreshore Park will bring additional shade, picnic areas and amenities for locals and holiday makers alike. In addition, more sand than before will make walking between one end of the Spit to HMAS Brisbane Lookout easier than before.

2. Eumundi Markets

Eumundi Markets, located just 15 minutes away from Noosa, provide an idyllic backdrop to take in some local culture. This sprawling old-fashioned market serves as an epicenter of creativity, innovation and community spirit; stroll along streets dotted with stalls selling everything from didgeridoos to unique hats; sample ethnic cuisine or shop hand-made trinkets!

Original Eumundi Markets have an unparalleled appeal because each item sold here is created locally; be it baked, sewn or grown. At each stall there’s a sense of community as everyone here takes great pride in what they produce while being mindful of the environment.

For travel between Sunshine Coast Region and Eumundi Markets, options include flying into Sunshine Coast Airport located approximately 10 kilometres (6 miles). Or taking either train (Nambour) and bus routes directly. Rome2Rio can help plan your route from Sunshine Coast (Region) to Eumundi Markets with all relevant transport options displayed clearly in one place.

3. Lake Currimundi

Currimundi Lake is one of the Sunshine Coast’s best-kept coastal secrets, where visitors can enjoy relaxing lake swims in protected waters, walk along picturesque coastal pathways or picnic by its shores. Additionally, this scenic spot is home to native wildlife including Kathleen McArthur Conservation Park named in memory of an artist who was passionate about conserving wallum heathlands on this coast.

Wander over the dunes and you’ll reach Currimundi Surf Beach – a lovely family destination with shady trees that cover it (don’t worry if you forget your umbrella!), calm water to splash around in, and long stretches of golden sand to sink your feet into. Weekends and school holidays see lifesavers patrolling it to keep things safe!

4. Noosa Heads

Noosa’s picturesque beaches, clear waters and lush national park have earned it the reputation as one of Australia’s premier holiday spots. Relax by the beach, spot koalas in its eucalypt forests or take part in activities such as fishing, kayaking or surfing at its World Surf Reserve – there’s plenty to see and do here.

Noosa National Park’s coastal tracks offer excellent whale-watching during migration season and dolphin and sea turtle sightings year-round. Walk the Coastal Track through lush rainforest of Queensland brush box trees, banksias and she-oaks surrounded by carpets of brilliant green coastal boobialla.

Noosa Heads offers many high end boutiques and alfresco restaurants on Hastings Street, as well as the Noosa Farmers Market or Noosa Marina Market offering fresh local produce and handmade items.