There’s something to be said for holidaying like a local. There’s no awkward map following, no splashing cash on dud-cafes—everything is as perfect as if you were heading out for coffee at your local. That’s why we’ve teamed up with uber-locals, Visit Sunshine Coast, to bring you this delightful local’s guide to every nook and cranny of the region. Bliss!
Plus, you can win a trip there at the bottom of the article—so keep reading!
We’ve broken it up by region to make everything easier on you because there’s seriously SO much to explore, but just a bit of a spoiler: they’re all kind of ridic.
We've teamed up with Visit Sunshine Coast to do just that, including: a luxe stay at Oceans Mooloolaba, meal for two at Pocket Beach Espresso, a Caloundra Jet Skiing session, and a cooking lesson at Spirit House!
https://www.theurbanlist.com/brisbane/a-list/the-locals-guide-to-the-sunshine-coast1CALOUNDRA
Caloundra has it all, tbh. Mega-stunning azure waters, white sand beaches…it’s like a tropical paradise, except it’s less than two hours from Brisbane. When you’re in town, you’d be a fool not to stop by The Pocket Espresso Bar for some pretty ridiculous beach front eats spanning across breakfast and aaalll the way through to rosè and cheese boards. If you’ve got nothing but beer on your mind, head to Moffat Beach Brewer for a local drink or two, or 26 Degrees Bar at Rumba Resort. There is also a whole heap to do in Caloundra that doesn’t ~gasp~ involve eating, like spending the day lazing around King’s Beach or getting your DJ Khalid on and hitting up Caloundra Jet Ski.
EUMUNDI
Eumundi may not have a beach to dip your toes in, but boy oh boy does it have a bunch to do. First of all, there’s the—dare we say—iconic Eumundi Markets for all your vintage, craft, and potato slinky needs. Food wise, we can’t get enough of Bohemian Bungalow for it’s hinterland vibes (there’s a garden bar!) and delicious menu. Imperial Hotel is another unmissable spot for sundowners with your bestest pals. If you’re more of a George Calombaris than a Matt Preston, head straight to Spirit Kitchen for a cooking lesson. The space is reminiscent of a luxe Balinese getaway, and is a seriously well-kept secret.
THE HINTERLAND
The hinterland is an often-overlooked part of the Sunshine Coast. Personally, we don’t get it: there’s the stunning Gardeners Falls, Mapleton Falls, and the actual-jaw-dropping Mary Cairncross Reserve. When your stomach inevitably starts to grumble, make a beeline for Maleny Food Co for drool-worthy gelato, cheeses, and our personal fave, the roasted field mushrooms on sourdough. The Basement is bar with Melbourne levels of cool hidden away in Nambour, so add it your list already.
MOOLOOLABA
First things first, you’re going to want to find some accommodation because you’re not going to be able to leave Mooloolaba after only a few hours. So, dump your bags at the ridiculously stunning Oceans Mooloolaba—every room has an ocean view and there’s even a private cinema. When it comes to food, you’re going to want to stop by Spice Bar and order the Mooloolaba prawn bete leaf immediately. For after dinner drinks, make your way to Taps and order their Tzatziki Teapot cocktail—for real. Oh, and you obviously can’t visit Mooloolaba without hitting the beach.
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