3. Sunshine Beach
Sunshine Beach, just around the Noosa National Park headland from Noosa Heads is the wilder, less touristy cousin to Noosa’s Main Beach. This beach marks the beginning of 15 kilometers of wide-open, surf-washed coast that stretches south to Castaways, Marcus Beach, and Peregian Beach. You’ll find plenty of room to spread out and claim your own little patch of paradise.
Surfing is excellent, especially in the winter, with an open beach break that tends to be bigger than most others on the Sunshine Coast. But summer’s cross and onshore winds can whip up some choppy surf.
Keep an eye out for wildlife. Humpback whales are often spotted offshore from June through October, and dolphins swim these waters year-round. If you brought your own wildlife of the four-legged variety, you can let them roam free in the off-leash area at the northern end of the beach.
Need a caffeine fix? Dog-friendly cafés and hip restaurants await across the road at the stylish little Sunshine Coast Village. Pick up everything from fresh-cooked fish and chips to cold-pressed juices and organic food. Alternatively, Sunshine Beach Surf Club is right on the beach with stunning ocean views.
Insider’s Tip: If you’re looking for a workout, try jogging up the steep flight of steps at the northern end of the beach. Stunning views of the entire coast are your reward once you reach the top.
4. Peregian Beach
Pining for your very own patch of sand and sea? You might find it at long and lovely Peregian Beach. This typically wind-whipped stretch of sand and sea stretches north from Stumers Creek at Coolum Beach. It’s a lovely spot to bask on the powder-soft shores and paddle in the ocean – but only between the flags. Rips can be an issue here.
Cute shops, cafés, and popular restaurants await steps from the sand in the salty little village of Peregian Beach. Grab a surfside coffee, a fresh-squeezed juice, or a tasty meal when you feel like a snack. Kids love the large playground and skate park behind the beach.
And if you happen to be in town at the right time, you can browse the stalls at popular Peregian Beach Markets. You’ll find them on the first and third Sunday morning of every month, as well as the fifth Sunday in December and January.
