Just an hour's drive north of Brisbane is the Sunshine Coast, a chain of sandy beaches beginning at Caloundra and including the towns of Noosa Heads, Maroochydore, Moolooaba and the Glasshouse Mountains and Blackall Range hinterlands. Visit the Big Pineapple, the Ginger Factory and Underwater World. Further north is Hervey Bay, a prime whale watching area and Fraser Island, a world heritage-listed area known for its mile long beaches, lakes and wilderness. West of Brisbane are the Darling Downs, an important agricultural area offering farmstays - to the north are the historic outback towns of Blackall, Longreach and Winton.

Why back-track to Brisbane when you can catch the 180 km per hour Tilt Train from the Sunshine Coast to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.

The Sunshine Coast is a golfer's paradise, offering challenges to players of all abilities. From par 3 courses for not-so-serious golfers to championship courses, there's something for every player. You can tee off at the Greg Norman-designed layout at Pelican Waters at Caloundra or test your skills on the courses at Twin Waters, Hyatt Regency Coolum and Noosa Springs.

The Sunshine Coast is more peaceful and tranquil than the bustling Gold Coast. If you prefer a less hectic place, marvellous beaches, great golf courses then the Sunshine Coast is for you