and serious holiday ambience. The busy, patrolled beach has been voted one of the Sunny Coast’s best, boasting not only beautiful blue water and sensational white sand, but also regular visits from dolphins and whales. There’s no shortage of things to do, see and eat, with something to tickle every traveller’s fancy.

jet skiing and skydiving over the water for adrenaline junkies. It’s unpatrolled, but there’s a kids’ playground, plenty of cute cafes (including The Pocket Espresso Bar for your caffeine cravings), a local brewery and a great fish and chip shop, Moffats Beachside Takeaway, on offer.

barbecues and all the necessary family facilities dotted along a grassy foreshore. There’s an abundance of eating options nearby and it’s home to the annual Caloundra Music Festival – a vibrant annual event that brings together musicians and visitors from near and far.

then you’ll be in holiday heaven. Don’t miss a stroll down Hastings Street, which is sure to tempt your boutique shopping and dining desires. It runs parallel with Main Beach, which guides you towards a path that heads to the Noosa National Park, carrying you into natural wonderlands away from the maddening crowds.

Here, you could spend all day discovering tropical treasures, but Tea Tree Bay is a must-see stop on the lush loop. With crystal-clear water and spectacular surf, it’s a favourite among the local surfers who willingly wander the picturesque paths to visit this peaceful patch with world-class waves. It’s about a 30-minute walk from Noosa’s Main Beach, and takes you past the gorgeous Little Cove (which is also great for a swim and a frolic) and the entrance to the National Park where you’ll find a kiosk, eco-friendly toilets and free parking (if you can beat the surfers, which will be near impossible during busy tourist times).

hike, then catch a bus back). A slightly more serene Noosa Heads, you’ll still be spoilt for boutique-shopping-and-dining choice. There’s a hike up the headland at the far end of the beach that will guide you to gorgeous views, or check out the Sunshine Beach Surf Club to enjoy the scenery in style. The beach in front is patrolled year round, and there’s a dog-friendly area and plenty of parking nearby.

One of a string of beautiful beaches between Noosa and Coolum, Peregian Beach is an easy favourite for families and people who like a funky feel without the crazy crowds. There’s easy access to the beach and cafes from the main car park (which won’t leave you on the verge of a nervous breakdown while searching for a spot), perfect picnicking options overlooking the patrolled beach, public toilets and free barbecues to cook up a sunny sizzle. Don’t miss the free live music of Peregian Originals on the second Sunday of every month, and if you’re into cafe culture, you’ll love Skål Coffee – funky, friendly, delicious, and just a stone’s throw from the beach.

The vibe is down to Earth and friendly, inviting holidayers who enjoy all things chilled – from families to surfers, golfers and quiet travellers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the neighbouring towns. There are plenty of amenities, free barbecues by the beach, a skate park for the older kids and a dog beach that boasts expansive coastline views.

unpatrolled beach that sits at the end of Kawana Beach. With views overlooking Mooloolaba from the iconic lighthouse, it’s a popular place for sunset picnics and social media celebs. There’s a car park and facilities close to a grassy area that’s perfect for family picnics (pick up your supplies from nearby Kawana Shoppingworld or the Saturday farmers’ markets), and the beach is dog friendly (and off-leash from 4pm–8am).

There’s little in the way of stimulation, but lots of peace, quiet and natural delights – including a consistent beach break popular with the local surfers.

The lake is perfect for whiling away the hours with your wildlings – you can hire stand-up paddle boards and kayaks, and there’s a barbecue area and car park. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even brave the six-kilometre canoe trail from the lake.