Tuesday 11 February 2014

Nirvana in Noosa

                       


After a massive year my soul, body, mind and spirit was in mega need of a big fat break. Two weeks in Noosa ended up being just what the doctor ordered.

A while back I proclaimed that Moolooba was the Queen of South-East Queensland beaches but now I have to swallow my words - Noosa, you have seduced me.

The in-laws booked a pet-friendly house a walk from Sunshine Beach, which is right next to Noosa. We were blessed with perfect, sunny weather and spent most of the time at the beach, eating or sleeping. Here are some of the highlights for this Canberran:

Sunshine Beach
More chilled than its neighbour, Sunshine Beach is a gem surrounded by mansions and apartments tucked between the trees. The best part for animal lovers is the dog friendly section up the North end. Paradise of friendly pooches, families, warm water and happy vibes. Further down the beach is the patrolled area with access from the strip of yummy cafés and restaurants. The Surf Club has a killer view the ocean on the back deck and serves affordable feeds. For a special treat check out Embassy XO for yummy dumplings and Chinese inspired food. Embassy XO's service and interiors are both lovely.

I was lucky enough to catch up with a life long friend during my stay at Sunshine Beach. As our holiday house was packed to the rafters, we escaped for a night down the road to Dolphins Beach House. This is a flashpackers at its best. For $90 a night we got our own private room with ensuite, flat screen tv, air con and balcony. This establishment has a tropical and colourful charm with a killer location. Highly recommend this place if you are after an affordable stay.


Dolphins Beach House
Noosa Main Beach
This is what all the fuss is about. You can spend a whole day here, sun baking, swimming, making sand castles, perving, surfing, eating, drinking milkshakes, shopping Hastings Street and exploring the National Park. Parking can be a nightmare but worth the persistence. It is so darn pretty and full of life. You may come across a celebrity or two and will leave dreaming of lottery wins so you can relocate. I also recommend doing a cruise through the Noosa river to check out the man made beauties competing against nature for the biggest jaw drops. You might even see Richard Branson on his island.

Edmundi Markets
Famous for the huge markets and hippie charm, Eumundi is a short drive from Noosa and the perfect way to spend a morning and lunch. The markets are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Try to get in early because traffic and parking can be hectic. For brunch I recommend Bohemian Bungalow for quirky atmosphere and delicious vegetarian and organic dishes. 

Bohemian Bungalow


Bohemian Bungalow
Nails at Noosa
If you are after some nail love, give the ladies at Nails at Noosa a visit. A girlfriend and I got the deluxe pedicure and my Mother in Law went for an express mani and pedi. The girls were fun, professional and did a killer job, all at reasonable prices.

4WD at Noosa North Shore
For your adventurous types, go 4WD and camping along Noosa North Shore. I had a great time driving along the beach, such a great experience with the stunning ocean on one side and the coloured sands on the other.

So there you have it, some tips if you ever find yourself experiencing Nirvana in Noosa! :)



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