Cherise Vecchio is Mantra Group's in-house digital content creator. Cherise spent two years frolicking through vineyards in Italy, and now spends most of her time discovering hidden gems in sunny Queensland.
The Sunshine Coast brings a diverse range of scenery; from flowing waterfalls to white sand beaches as far as the eye can see. The best part is, no matter how many times you’ve explored the Sunshine Coast, there’s always something more to uncover. If you’re just passing through, I’ve created the perfect itinerary for you so that you can make the most of your time in this holiday hot spot.
Start your day exploring the beautiful Sunshine Coast Hinterland and make your way to Buderim Falls. A great starting point is at Harry's Lane, just off Lindsay Road. Another access point is from lower Lindsay Road, which begins with a park and takes you directly to the boardwalk – a great option for disabled walkers and wheelchairs.
Wander through the Buderim Forest Waterfall Walk and take in the beautiful scenery filled with ferns, tall trees, cascades and native birds. The walk takes about 30 minutes and is relatively easy.
Once you reach the waterfall, enjoy the view from the elevated wooden boardwalk.
Location: Buderim Falls
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sand at Mooloolaba Beach. If hunger prevails, the Mooloolaba Esplanade also has a number of restaurants and cafes, while the boardwalk provides a scenic stroll overlooking the beach.
Location: Mooloolaba Beach
Later on, enjoy a drink at The Surf Club, Mooloolaba, set overlooking the beach.
Location: The Surf Club, Mooloolaba
Before the sunset, walk north on to Alexandra Headlands, pack some snacks, take a seat under a pandanus tree and watch the colours of the sunset fill the sky.
Location: Alexandra Headlands
So close to the beach you can almost feel the sand beneath your shoes! After you've captured your Insta-worthy shot of the sunset, grab dinner at the Bluff Bar; located in the Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club overlooking the beach. Enjoy live entertainment over tapas or mezze platters, then grab a drink in the beer garden with the sound of waves crashing in the background.
Set overlooking the waterfront, Mantra Mooloolaba Beach is almost a doorstep to the ocean. If you opt for a one bedroom ocean view apartment, you’ll have access to an in-room spa bath with a full length glass window looking out to the ocean views.
Mantra Mooloolaba also has an indoor and outdoor pool, cinema room and gymnasium to keep you busy too.
Location: Mantra Mooloolaba
Standing 203ft high and the tallest building in the Sunshine Coast, enjoy breathtaking views from Mantra Mooloolaba’s rooftop deck. Watch the sky light up as the sunrises over the water.
Location: Mantra Mooloolaba Rooftop
While you’re at the Sunshine Coast, a day at Australia Zoo is an experience not to be missed. From the sleepy koalas to the crazy crocodile shows, watch how Australia Zoo are making a positive difference towards wildlife conservation. Make the most of an animal encounter like cuddling a koala, feeding a kangaroo, getting to know the rhinos or capturing a selfie with a giraffe. Zoo tours are available so that you can see the most of the zoo in just one day. With a full performance schedule at the Crocoseum, don’t miss the Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors showing you some serious wildlife action too.
Location: Australia Zoo
Between the cuddly koalas and pristine beaches, the Sunshine Coast is an easy getaway and makes for a great escape from city life. With destinations like Noosa Heads, Coolum, Mooloolaba and more, I could spend every weekend discovering a new part of the Sunshine Coast… Now that’d be my kind of happiness!