The Sunshine Coast: Best Places to Stay
Ninety minutes’ drive north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast enjoys an average of 300 sunny days and almost 3.7 million travellers each year. Maybe that’s why the residents are such a happy bunch. But the people and natural wonders aren’t the only drawcard. Local Celeste Mitchell lets us in on some of the best places to stay in the region.
Habitat Noosa
Eco warriors who don’t want to rough it will love Habitat Noosa. Previously known as Elanda Point, the Lake Cootharaba campground is undergoing a refurbishment, with the addition of a bar and restaurant, powered sites and 18 permanent safari-style tents. The Paperbark Tents, with a queen bed and ensuite, are the premium option.
Lake Flat Rd, Elanda Point
The Farmhouse Eumundi
The Farmhouse Eumundi is a beautifully renovated Queenslander with Hamptons-style décor and room for 18 guests, plus another eight in the adjacent guesthouse. Enjoy an organic breakfast on the verandah overlooking nine hectares of manicured grounds then pat the alpacas and take a dip in the pool.
63 Eumundi Range Rd, Eumundi
Malibu
Perched on the dunes at Yaroomba, Malibu (Air Bnb) is the beach house of your dreams, catering for up to eight guests. The architecturally designed home features floor-to-ceiling windows that let you drink in the ocean from a buttery-leather armchair. Push back the bi-folds and you can walk straight onto the sand or take to the outdoor tub to listen to the waves.
Malibu, Yaroomba
Seahaven Noosa
With Noosa Main Beach literally on the doorstep, Seahaven is an easy win for lovers of sun, sand and surf. But location aside, it’s the thoughtful extras that stand out here: umbrellas in the event of a downpour, a guest transit lounge and babysitting services. If, for some reason, the beach doesn’t beckon, the three pools (heated in winter) and spa provide the place to have a dip. While it might seem geared towards families, couples are also well looked after at Seahaven – look out for romance packages, which include champagne and pamper packs.
15 Hastings Street, Noosa
Photo credit: Kara Rosenlund