The Sunshine Coast is at its best right now: here’s where to stay

Best new hotel opening

Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel is the Sunshine Coast’s first new hotel in almost 40 years, sitting sits just 100 metres from Mooloolaba Beach and approximately 15-minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport. Perfectly positioned at the intersection of the ocean and the Esplanade, lounge around the elevated pool deck, explore the rooftop restaurant and enjoy the many amenities available at the wellness spa. The hotels spacious suites and contemporary coastal design are suitable for families and groups seeking a coastal escape.

Address: 10 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

Best for incomparable luxury

Mediterranean elegance awaits at this five-star Noosa hotel, with 175 exquisitely designed rooms and a variety of light-filled suites with private plunge pools. The Italian-inspired restaurant Cibaria Noosa draws on local flavours, complemented by the swim-up bar and Aqua Day Spa for a completely restorative escape. The resort is just steps from Noosa National Park and the golden beaches of Laguna Bay, where you can book a restored Italian speedboat guided by your butler to a secluded picnic of handmade breads, cheeses and a cocktail showcasing native botanicals.

Address: Hotel Entrance Via, 14 16 Hastings Street, Noosa Parade, Noosa Heads QLD 4567

Best for a French provincial retreat in the Hinterland

A reflection of a French countryside within the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Spicers Clovelly Estate offers something unique to what a beachside escape can provide. The opulent guest suites are extravagant, from heated marble bathrooms to the luxurious linens and private hot tubs, all available within the 10 well-appointment rooms. After a day wandering the beautifully manicured grounds or enjoying the full-service spa, dine at two-hatted restaurant The Long Apron, serving hearty modern French bistro cuisine with produce drawn from the estate’s own gardens.

Address: 38-68 Balmoral Rd, Montville QLD 4560

Best for families

This five-star sanctuary by the ocean offers a glimpse into permanent beachside living, with two, three, and four-bedroom apartments and penthouses exuding understated luxury. Each apartment also comes fully self-contained with a kitchen, washer/dryer, espresso maker, minibar and balcony. A heated outdoor pool, sunbathing deck, steam room and gym are available at your leisure. Located directly opposite the beach and just 15-minutes to the airport, you’re within a short distance to everything you could possibly need, from dining to wellness and more.

Address: 101-105 Mooloolaba Espl, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

Best for a boutique rainforest sanctuary

Spicers Tamarind Retreat is designed for relaxation, connection and renewal, offering standalone villas set within a lush rainforest backdrop. The unique stay is designed with nature in mind, from its private outdoor spaces and proximity to a nearby waterfall, to the fresh food incorporating flavours of regional Thailand and imaginative Modern Asian cuisine. The retreat is nestled in the cool, leafy mountains of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, just 70 minutes from Brisbane and 40 minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport.

Address: 88 Obi Ln S, Maleny QLD 4552

Best for private apartment stays

Located in the coastal village of Peregian Beach, this private paradise is one of the most sought-after beachfront stays; offering 22 architecturally designed hotel studios and 10 two-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens. With dedicated spa facilities, a resort pool, well-appointed gym and a pool bar, this stay is suitable for business, pleasure and so much more. Take a short stroll and find yourself by the rolling surf of Peregian Beach and the charming Peregian Village.

Address: 1 Sunset Lane, Peregian Beach QLD 4573

Best for a winter escape

Hand-carved treehouses and penthouses perched above Lake Baroon are what to be expected at Secrets on the Lake, located in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and surrounded by lush rainforest, creating a secluded ambiance not far from Montville. Rejuvenate amongst the rainforest and take in the stunning views of the lake at the award-winning Secrets Dining on the Deck restaurant or from the comfort of your own private accommodation.

Address: 207 Narrows Rd, Montville QLD 4560

Best for families

Surrounded by a conservation sanctuary, this luxury resort brings family-fun, luxurious spa facilities and self-contained apartment living all under one roof. Despite the secluded intimacy of a resort stay, you’ll be surrounded by pristine beaches, rivers, hinterland and national parks; and only three-minute drive from Hastings Street. Acuri restaurant offers poolside alfresco dining, complemented by a sunset bar with a wood-fired pizza oven and limited-hours room service for your leisure.

Address: 94 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads QLD 4567

Best for convenience

Within the serenity of Noosa National Park you’ll find Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas, inviting you to truly rest. From the open free-form swimming pool to the spa and nearby world class shopping and restaurants, everything is nearby for you to barely lift a finger. The resort offers a modern studio, one and two bedroom apartments, as well as three bedroom penthouses with private balconies.

Address: 33A Viewland Dr, Noosa Heads QLD 4567