Plan Book Travel Australia

North of Brisbane, the 48km coastal stretch bound by Caloundra to the south and Noosa Heads to the north is called the Sunshine Coast. The name conjures vivid images of the region's many surf beaches stretching to the horizon; its pictur-esque lakes; unspoilt rainforests; and cliffs of rainbow coloured sand.

The Sunshine Coast offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative to the Gold Coast's excesses. With an average temperature that does not drop below 20°C year-round and a wide choice of accommodation, the Sunshine Coast invites visitors to experience its balmy, laid-back way of life. The once sleepy coastal villages and modest holiday destinations have become glamorous retreats for the glitterati; others retain the charm of quieter times. Attractions are varied and include theme parks such as Australia Zoo UnderWater World, The Big Pineapple and Aussie World. For a different kind of holiday, there are many national parks and state forests to explore, including Coochin Creek SF, Great Sandy National Park, Mount Coolum National Park and Noosa National Park.

Aboriginal legend of the coloured sands: According to the Kabi Kabi Aboriginal people, the coloured sands at Rainbow Beach were formed when the Rainbow Spirit was shattered by a boomerang in a fight over a woman. The pieces fell onto the sand cliffs, colouring them forever.