Blessed with year-round good weather, an unrivaled coastline, and bountiful outdoor activities, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast merits are well-recognized by locals, many of whom are eager to share their favorites with visitors. Begin your journey in booming Brisbane, enjoying big city action without the usual hassles, then venture to neighboring islands, food enclaves, and spectacular beaches all just a couple of hours away.
Bright Lights, Bris City
The term ‘big country town’ is often used as a playful jab at Brisbane, but it undoubtedly possesses international appeal. Thanks to its exciting new restaurants, a sparkling skyline, and a thriving arts scene, Brisbane remains welcoming and maintains the friendly essence characteristic of a big country town.
The original inhabitants, the Yuggara and Turrbal people, lived on either side of the Maiwar (Brisbane) River. To learn more about their story, consider joining a tour with Black Card Cultural Tours in the South Bank neighborhood. This culturally rich area showcases indigenous art, including remarkable pieces displayed during the 2014 G20 meeting.
For more local insights on delicious street food or the best night view of the iconic Story Bridge, it’s wise to arrange a walk with the Brisbane Greeters, a group of enthusiastic residents who love to showcase their city.
Each neighborhood in the city has its own distinct charm. South Bank offers stunning city views among lush gardens, while the CBD boasts grand colonial-era buildings and beautiful City Botanic Gardens. Fortitude Valley, affectionately called ‘The Valley’, serves as the nightlife hub for locals seeking evening entertainment.
The Valley’s standout destination is trendy James Street, home to Hellenika, where you can enjoy exquisite Greek cuisine beside the pool of the Calile hotel.
For a true taste of local flavor, don’t miss Eat Street, a vibrant food market made from shipping containers that comes alive with live music on weekends. Alternatively, visit the redeveloped Howard Smith Wharves under Story Bridge for excellent dining options, including the popular Felons Brewing Co, known for its delicious food and beer paired with stunning river views.
Hanging Out in the Hinterland
When departing Brisbane, consider taking a detour to the Hinterland, located north of the city. The Glass House Mountains, a series of volcanic plugs, offer breathtaking landscapes and hiking opportunities. Additionally, charming small towns in this area boast a thriving food and drink scene, with local cheese makers and 16 breweries catering to craft beer enthusiasts. To ensure responsible drinking while exploring, Noosa Brewery Trail Tours provide multiple weekly trips.
Accessing the Hinterland makes for an easy day trip from Brisbane, or consider staying in one of its delightful towns. Maleny offers a friendly vibe, while the cool Brouhaha brewery is well-known for its beer and Sunday roasts. Tiny Montville boasts a quaint high street filled with visitor-oriented shops and eateries with mountain views. Eumundi, further to the north, is famed especially on market days (Wednesday and Sunday) where local arts and crafts are available.
For a unique experience, the historic Eumundi Brewery, situated in the Imperial Hotel, brews exceptional small-batch beers and offers tours on market days.
Getting to Know Noosa
Glamorous Noosa takes center stage on the Sunshine Coast. Although upmarket, it retains a relaxed Australian atmosphere. You could easily spend several days lounging on its sheltered, north-facing beach, shopping along Hastings Street, and enjoying sunsets over the lagoon.
If you desire more adventure, explore the pathways through Noosa National Park, where you might spot koalas high in the trees. For a more active outing, consider kayaking along the Noosa River, traversing one of only two Everglades ecosystems globally, part of Great Sandy National Park.
In Noosa National Park, consider embarking on a 4WD adventure along Teewah (also known as 40 Mile) Beach. Epic Ocean Adventures simplifies the process, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Between May and October, you may have a chance to observe humpback whales and, year-round, dolphins swim along the coast. Look inland at the sand dunes spanning 40km for a different perspective of this natural beauty.
For a unique experience on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, venture further north to take a horse ride along Rainbow Beach, known for its stunning multi-colored sands.
After an active day filled with adventure, choosing from the array of dining options back in Noosa becomes your biggest decision. View restaurant at Peppers Resort features TV chef Matt Golinski’s inventive dishes just up the hill from Hastings Street. Alternatively, if you prefer a hands-on culinary experience, Wasabi, one of Noosa’s top restaurants, offers regular cooking classes where you can create your own dishes and then enjoy them in an inviting waterfront setting.
Coastal Capers
Queenslanders are fond of their expansive coastline, particularly in the state’s southeastern region, which hosts a multitude of enticing locations that live up to their captivating names. Whether you wish to embark on a thrilling 4WD tour followed by a hike through the rainforest, or simply relax on a beach with refreshing drinks and delectable food options nearby, Brisbane’s coastal area has something for everyone.
The largest sand island in the world, Fraser, stands out prominently on the horizon off Queensland’s southeast coast. However, it’s not merely an endless stretch of sand; Fraser boasts lush forests, pristine freshwater lakes, and secluded beaches perfect for sunbathing. Visitors can reach the island via barge or plane, and getting around requires either a personal 4WD or joining one of the many local tour companies. Staying overnight is highly recommended, with options available in the main hub of Eurong, or even better, enjoy a unique camping experience at one of Fraser’s 40-plus camping grounds.
For more tips on fully experiencing Fraser Island, consider reading the available resources.
Moreton Island, the third largest sand island in the world, offers visitors similar experiences in a more compact area, conveniently accessible from Brisbane with regular boat services and even helicopter options.
Once a whaling station, Tangalooma has transformed into a popular eco-resort, attracting hundreds of visitors from Brisbane each weekend. Offering accommodation and numerous activities, it invites adventurers to enjoy quad biking, snorkeling around shipwrecks, tobogganing down sand dunes, and seasonal whale watching from May to October.
While many visitors are drawn to the entertaining sunset dolphin feeding on Moreton Island, we recommend considering a different experience — perhaps a 4WD tour around the island, resulting in breathtaking views at photogenic locations like Honeymoon Bay. Keep an eye out for the island’s diverse wildlife, including approximately 195 bird species and turtles, with dugongs also spotted on occasion.
Lastly, Lady Elliot Island, a 3500-year-old coral cay, marks the southernmost end of the Great Barrier Reef. It is that secluded paradise many tourists seek, free from distractions such as phone signals. Easily accessible via flights from Gold Coast, Brisbane, and nearby towns, it ensures visitors can enjoy the reef without extensive travel.
Exploring the Great Barrier Reef is an essential experience. Glass-bottomed boats provide a serene view of the underwater life, while snorkeling offers a chance to connect with the vibrant marine ecosystem. While swimming among turtles and vibrant fish, you’ll appreciate the stunning coral formations. On land, be captivated by migratory birds as they outnumber the human population, drawing attention to their strong presence.
Eager adventurers should consider the option of spending the night; an unforgettable experience awaits, especially if you manage to secure a reservation in one of the resort’s glamping tents. Enjoy stargazing tours and unwind by the ocean, indulging in dreams of becoming one of the fortunate locals in Southeast Queensland.
