The Sunshine Coast is the lowrise alternative to the Gold Coast and has many unspoilt, secluded beaches. Maroochydore is the Sunshine Coast's booming commercial centre on the mouth of the Maroochy River. It is the air gateway to the wonders of the Sunshine Coast. The Glass House Mountains are a great Queensland landmark. The rough volcanic peaks are scattered across the coastal plain and rise 300 metres or more.

Caloundra boasts 15km of beaches, estuaries and waterways. The headland and rocky foreshore are lined with Norfolk pines and offer stunning views along the coast and across Moreton Bay. Opposite Caloundra is Bribie Island, a largely undeveloped island which is mainly a wildlife sanctuary.

Noosa has a unique combination of sophisticated charm, excellent climate and breathtaking scenery. As well as great surf beaches there are also picturesque bays and coves. Noosaville lies along the Noosa River and is the areas main township area.

The Bunya Mountains National Park offers natural rainforest and stunning views over the Darling Downs. The mountains are part of the Great Dividing Range and the national park protects a majestic forest of bunya pines.

Maryborough is Queensland's Heritage City. Much of the city's character has been preserved in its cottages and buildings, and the city today is charming and serene.

Hervey Bay is one of Australia's best natural holiday destinations. Between August and October the area is the departure point for whale-watching cruises. Hervey Bay is the gateway to Fraser Island.

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world at 163,000 hectares. It is a world heritage area with surf beaches, coloured sand dunes, dense rainforests and clear freshwater lakes. The centre of the island is a rainforest - growing out of the sand.

Fact Summary

The Sunshine Coast stretches for more than 100 kilometres from Bribie Island to Rainbow Beach.

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