Dennis and Rosamund Knill explore one of Australia’s most prized holiday destinations and the jewel in Queensland’s crown.
Sitting on the balcony admiring the dazzling blue sea, it could have been out of a painting by one of the world’s great classic artists. It’s a brilliant afternoon and a warm tropical breeze wafts across the beach and onto the Esplanade. We’re staying at the Peninsular Beachfront Resort and in the distance we can see scores of happy swimmers bobbing blissfully up and down in the breakers rolling in from the Pacific Ocean. Welcome to Mooloolaba.
Boasting over 300 days of sunshine a year with temperatures that seldom fall below 20C, the Sunshine Coast is the perfect escape for a retreat-style holiday or a much-needed winter break. Often referred to as ‘the coast with the most’, it’s a marriage of sunshine, beaches and a lifestyle that attracts tourists like magnets.
Its five shires follow a spectacular coastline – Caloundra to the south, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum and Noosa to the north – each with its own fan club and character. Mooloolaba, known for its al fresco dining, is one of the most popular getaways on the coast and our base for the next 10 days.
There was a time when Mooloolaba experienced near isolation. Once a small, sleepy fishing village, the waterfront was dominated by the surf club and weekend batches with nothing on the seafront other than the odd hamburger joint and fast-food merchants. Then they sealed the roads, built apartments, opened up boutiques, cafes and restaurants, and Mooloolaba was never to be the same.
Another perfect sunrise, it’s already 15 degrees and as each day begins, we rise early for our daily caffeine fix at Entice, who has the best coffee along the Esplanade, before taking our daily walk along the beach. Hours earlier, sand grooming machines have manicured the beach in readiness for the early morning joggers, dog walkers, swimmers, fitness freaks, and body beautifuls.
We’re in an adventurous mood so we hire a rental for a visit to the Hinterlands. First stop, Maleny, located on the edge of the Blackall Ranges with views to the Glass House Mountains in the west and all the way to Brisbane to the south. After relaxing at one of the local cellar doors for a wine tasting we head for Montville. As the road winds through the hinterlands and forests, you catch sight of green pastoral landscapes and vineyards. In another sense, this is some of the richest country in the region. Driving into Montville you feel that you have stumbled across a place known to few others. The main street is overflowing with cafes, boutiques, art galleries and specialty shops all begging to be discovered.
Much has been written about Noosa, long regarded as the premier destination in the whole of Queensland. It’s the prettiest shire on the coast, renowned for its wide variety of five-star beach front accommodation and restaurants. For foodies, it’s stacked with some of Australia’s best celebrity chefs serving the finest cuisine. And if you’re looking for some serious retail therapy, Hastings Street is studded with designer label boutiques.
Much has been written about Noosa, long regarded as the premier destination in the whole of Queensland.
Winding our way back to the highway is home of the Ginger Factory, the world’s largest ginger processor in Yardine and a place that is filled with fun and discovery. Across the road is Nutworks, a macadamia and chocolate calorie-driven processing factory that guarantees that you won’t leave without gaining a few extra kilos!
Midway between Mooloolaba and Noosa is Coolum, a classic coastal town famous for its all-year-long patrolled surf beaches. There is a lot that you can say about Coolum and it’s all about contrast. Mount Coolum defines the town with its majestic presence. It’s a huge attraction for those energetic enough and wanting a climb; there are stunning views once on top.
Every Wednesday and Saturday, rain, hail or shine, Coast to Hinterland Tours operates a transfer service to the world famous Enmundi Markets located amongst towering fig trees is Australia’s largest bazaar. Established back in the 70s, there are over 500 open stalls full of real bargains of local arts and crafts, jewellery, original clothing, and fresh produce.
Back in Mooloolaba, the Sea Life Aquarium is an amazing fortress of amazing aquatic sea creatures like man-eating sharks, playful otters, a seal show, and just about every other form of sea life.
The Sunshine Coasts biggest attraction and well worth a visit will always be Australia Zoo in Beerwah. A leisurely 30-minute drive and set on 280 hectares, the wildlife on show is enormous and you will need a full day to take it all in. And no matter what time you arrive, there’s always something happening. Around the corner is The Big Kart Track where petrol heads can experience the thrills and spills of motor racing.
Back in Mooloolaba, for our final adventure before the sun goes down, we take a one-and-a-half-hour cruise on the river and the adjoining canals with Coastal Cruises that house some of the most expensive real estate in Queensland. Included in the price is a fresh seafood meal and a tab from a fully licensed bar.
Ten days have passed quickIy. It’s the end of our stay and we marvel that we have had the best holiday ever, post pandemic. The Sunshine Coast is the perfect antidote to relaxed living and the perfect winter escape. When the sun comes up this is the most amazing place to kick back, relax, and do nothing!
NEED TO KNOW:
Getting There:
From May to October Air New Zealand fly direct into Maroochydore.
Where to Stay:
Peninsular Beachfront Resort.
Best Eats:
Tides (seafood), RB (modern Australian), Yianis (Greek), Sum Yung Guys (Asian), Boat Shed (modern Australian), Entice (Brunch).
Tours:
Coast to Hinterland Tours.
Other Places of Interest:
Aussie World, Noosa Glades, Laguna Lookout, Bli Bli Castle, Glasshouse Mountains, Fraser Island, Great Sandy National Park, Noosa National Park, Queensland Air Museum.
Background Reading:
Sunshine Coast Trail by R E Walz, Lonely Planet Guide by Mark Armstrong.
