Stretching from Gympie in the north to Beerwah in the south, this area conjures up the promise of languid days at the beach, the smell of sunscreen, the calming sounds of waterfalls and the flap of thongs (that’s footwear in Queensland!)

So what do you want to do and where do you want to go? Let me show you around…

Most Australians have heard of Noosa... It is the place people go when they want to be seen. Bordering beautiful Main Beach, Hastings Street is boutique, gallery and café heaven. Just around the corner the Noosa National Park offers the possibility of seeing koalas in the wild, while Gympie Terrace, along the Noosa River, is lined with self-contained apartments away from the maddening crowd, but closer to family friendly activities. From here, join a tour of the river and everglades, hire a canoe or jump on the Noosa ferry for a ride into the heart of the action.

To the north, the gold rush town of Gympie offers an insight into days gone by, while to the south the central Sunshine Coast radiates from Maroochydore and includes areas like Cotton Tree, Alexandra Headland and Mooloolaba. It’s a happening place with numerous patrolled surf beaches, plenty of shopping and eating options, cinemas and attractions and it’s only 15 minutes from the Sunshine Coast airport with flights direct from capital cities south.

Then there’s Caloundra. Protected by the calm waters of the Pumicestone Passage between the mainland and Bribie Island, Caloundra provides a wealth of calm water options for young families. With a laid-back, country style feel, Caloundra people will warm your hearts. Less than an hour from Brisbane airport and only minutes from Australia Zoo, Caloundra is the nearest coastal area to the Blackall Ranges making it a convenient family destination.

When you need a break from sand and surf the Sunshine Coast hinterland beckons. Dotted through the Blackall Ranges are quaint villages, rainforest walking trails and waterfall swimming holes. Drink in breathtaking views of the Glasshouse Mountains to the south or immerse yourself in Eumundi markets to the north.

Whichever town you choose as your temporary home, Tourism Queensland report that the number of family groups visiting the region has never been higher and with 28% of visitors to the region travelling in family groups, the region is a family destination equalled only by the Gold Coast.