What to do with 48 hours on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland

From the sparkling beaches of Noosa to the ancient rainforest in the Hinterland, there's so much beauty to be adored and explored on the Sunshine Coast of Australia.

So it's no wonder the region was recently named the third most-loved global travel destination for 2023, according to an extensive study by the Tourism Sentiment Index – with Noosa also getting a spot on its own at number 14 on the list.

Putting the area even more on the map was the launch of Aussie low-cost airline Bonza last week, with the Sunshine Coast its official base of operations.

So, given more people will likely be heading to and through this beautiful part of the world, we thought we'd round up a few things you can tick off while there.

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THINGS TO DO

Visit Eumundi Markets

Eumundi is the kind of town that oozes Queensland charm. The main village is dotted with palm trees, and the town's historic pub – The Imperial Hotel – is an iconic Queenslander that's stood pride of place since 1911. 

Visiting Eumundi on a market day is like stepping into another world. The vibrant Hinterland village comes alive with talented creatives, free thinkers, musicians, producers and performers, with more than 100 market stalls to explore under the town's heritage-listed fig trees. You'll be thanking the trees for being there (both for the shade on a sweltering sunny day, and the shelter from any tropical downpours).

The Original Eumundi Markets, are held each Wednesday and Saturday morning, having started with just three market stalls in 1979. Fast-track more than 40 years, and the markets have become the biggest and best arts and craft markets in Australia, but the essence of what makes them unique remains the same. "Make it, bake it, sew it, grow it" continues to be at the forefront of the market's ethos.

Here the emphasis is firmly on locally grown and hand-made produce. From produce picked fresh off the farm that morning to mouth-watering street food, local arts and crafts, skincare, clothing, homewares, massage therapists, palm readers and performers, the markets are the heart of what makes Eumundi so special.

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Ikatan Balinese Day Spa

Located down a completely unsuspecting road in the town of Doonan you'll find this virtual oasis of peace and tranquillity. You'll feel like you've been transported to the tropics of Bali from the moment you step inside.

Before your treatment enjoy a welcome drink (we'd recommend the strawberry gut cleanse!) and then prepare to unwind with a selection of massages, facials and more.

You can add a Balinese foot bath of warm water and pure magnesium flakes on to any of your treatments as well.

Noosa Oceanrider – Dolphin Safari

Soak up spectacular scenery and iconic sights that can only be truly appreciated from the water on a trip with Noosa Ocean Rider. Departing from Noosa Marina, your journey will take you through the Noosa River and beyond to Noosa National Park and Sunshine Beach.

But fair warning, this isn't your normal small boat/ferry-type situation where you can walk around and view some marine life over the railing. No this is a jet boat, with seats that you straddle. And you'll need the handles when heading over the waves, or while doing donuts across the water surface.

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But this tour isn't quite as terrying as it may sound. There is a little bit of fun but the key is to make sure to look out for the locals – the dolphins and turtles that is! – as you make your way around the scenic Hells Gates headland.

You can watch the video above to see we succeeded in finding them.

WHERE TO EAT

Spirit House Restaurant

Clustered around a tranquil pond, Spirit House Restaurant & Cooking School specialises in contemporary Asian food set in a temple-style building amongst lush tropical gardens. 

Honestly, for a moment we completely forgot we were still in Australia.

And the food was equally surprising. You have the option to choose the banquet, or you can choose three or four courses from the a la carte menu. We'd definitely recommend the flatbread with Malaysian satay butter (to die for), the 'Gai Ping' grilled chicken satay, Roasted Lamb Backstrap with Massaman curry, smoked potato puree & egg yolk emulsion, and the Vietnamese chocolate tart for dessert.

Spirit House chefs also conduct daily classes every week in the purpose built, 'hands-on' cooking school. These classes demystify Asian ingredients and cooking methods and are a great day out with a group of friends.

Season Restaurant Noosa

So close to the beach you can feel the sand between your toes, Season Beachfront Restaurant & Bar offers casual laid-back dining, great service and a wine list to match.

Located with iconic Hastings Street on one side and Noosa Main Beach on the other, Season is the ideal place for relaxed all day dining or a casual cocktail in the bar. 

They have a fabulous cocktail list (and mocktails!) and you have to try the pizza bread. The fish and chips also came highly recommended, while the potato gnocchi got a big tick from us.

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WHERE TO STAY

Depending on where you'd like to stay along the coast we explored two great options.

Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort

The resort is the heartbeat of the Sunshine Coast and is less than a ten-minute drive from Sunshine Coast Airport, which is perfect if you're getting there late in the afternoon and just want to get straight into relaxing.

It recently underwent a stunning renovation and introduced two new luxury room types – Grand Overwater Bungalows and Deluxe Overwater Bungalows.

Ideal for couples and small families, the resort's new 1.5-bedroom Deluxe Overwater Bungalow (of which only two are available) includes a master bedroom with a luxurious king-sized bed and private ensuite, complete with an indulgent sculptural soaker bathtub. Accommodating up to three adults, or two adults and one child, Deluxe Overwater Bungalows offer the option to have an additional single bed (on request). Other features include a large lounge room overlooking the lagoon, and convenient kitchenette facilities.

For an even more luxurious stay, check out the Grand Overwater Bungalow. It's the resort's only three-bedroom accommodation option, with ample space for the entire family, with three king bedrooms and two full bathrooms.

Mantra French Quarter

If you'd rather head to the hustle and bustle of Noosa, then the Mantra French Quarter is the ideal choice. The resort's prime Hastings Street location is perfect for shopping, dining, sightseeing and activities.

You're also right across the road from Main Beach or if you'd prefer you can relax in the lagoon pool, nestled amidst tropical gardens, or luxuriate in heated spas. Mantra French Quarter also offers complimentary undercover parking, Wi-Fi and 24-hour reception.

The writer was a guest of Sunshine Coast Tourism, Tourism Noosa and Accor.