Noosa, slightly less than two hours' drive from Queensland's capital, Brisbane, is renowned for its luxury resorts and holiday apartments. Cruise or canoe down the Noosa River or hike across the forests of Noosa National Park. Swim in the ocean or relax on the area's golden beaches and spend your downtime perusing stores and shopping on trendy Hastings Street.

Coolum Beach, about 90 minutes from Brisbane, is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes run by locals. This is a great place to stay if you love to shop and dine in, with the added bonus of stunning views of the ocean and majestic Mt Coolum. Enjoy a beautiful coastal town with leafy backstreets and a great sense of serenity.

Drive for an hour and 15 minutes from Brisbane and you'll discover Moffat Beach, a great place for anyone who loves walking. There's also a great coastal path that runs straight to Kings Beach, and the area boasts a strip of restaurants and cafes bustling with both tourists and locals. Moffat Beach has great surf and some beautiful accommodation.

Caloundra, around a 75-minute drive from Brisbane, has a laidback ‘60s feel to it. Laze about by your hotel pool or sit on your balcony or on the beach to spot whales and watch ships go by. Venture out to enjoy the second-hand stores in town, the eateries right by the beach, and the breathtaking views from the headland at sunset.

In the heart of the Sunshine Coast, charming Maroochydore is a pristine place designed for morning strolls, leisurely paddles, and rock pool exploration. When you're tuckered out after an active day in the sun swimming and fishing, wind down with a beer or wine at the surf club or with a meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Peregian Beach, just south of Noosa, is home to beautiful, safe beaches and excellent walking trails. There's a real community feel to Peregian Beach, as it doesn't see as many tourists as some other major towns on the Sunshine Coast. Spend some time in the local park, as well as the many cafes, shops, and markets.