Whether you’re a Queenslander looking for a luxe staycation or a tourist seeking to enjoy the spoils of the Sunshine State, the stretch of coast from Caloundra to Cooloola has plenty to offer. Come for the vast surf beaches, quaint hinterland towns and thriving food and drink scene, and stay for the relaxed lifestyle. These Airbnbs will help you feel like a local as you explore the region.

Eh Frame, Sunshine Beach

Exposed timber beams and vintage finds bring character to this mid-century modern-inspired A-frame nestled on the edge of Noosa National Park. Two bedrooms feature queen-sized beds. The patio is the perfect place to sip your morning coffee and say hello to the local wildlife. There is an outdoor shower for post-beach trips and a firepit for cosy nights under the stars. The modern kitchen comes equipped with pantry basics, but you’re only a short walk into town for anything more.

Montville Estate, Montville

Montville Estate is home to two charming stays: Eastnor House and the Postman’s Cottage . The former is a three-bed, two-bath homestead that has been lovingly restored and equipped with modern amenities. On the same one-and-a-half-acre property, the cottage is a cute abode for two. Both feature lush linens and towels from Cultiver and pared-back furnishings. And there’s a magnesium pool and access to plenty of garden nooks on the shared grounds. The romantic location is a favourite for elopements and intimate nuptials.

Into the Woods, Palmwoods

With room for just two, this cottage is perfectly suited for those looking to switch off. Set on a six-and-a-half-acre property, the one-bedroom stay features an outdoor bath, woodfire pizza oven and firepit (with plenty of firewood and marshmallows to go round). The queen-sized bed is dressed in linen and overlooks a lush canopy of gardens. A 25-minute drive from both Maleny and Mooloolaba, it’s a prime position to explore the best of the region.

Shack Palace, Noosa Heads

This moody beachside stay was designed by Frank Macchia with sanctuary appeal. The home is split into three separate areas connected by an external deck: living, kitchen and dining; sleeping; bathroom and dressing. The outdoor shower-over-bath offers views of the surrounding mountains. The king-sized bed is complete with organic cotton and hemp bed linens. And the lounge features a record player, books, games and a relaxing-ready daybed.

Soul Beach House, Alexandra Headland

Sleeping up to six guests (with access to an additional one-bedroom bungalow on the same property), Soul Beach House gives you a taste of local life. It’s a short (flat) stroll to the beach past a French bakery for your morning swim. Back at the house, there’s an outdoor shower, magnesium plunge pool (heated to 29 degrees in the winter) and daybeds made for lounging. The open-plan living set-up includes a well-equipped kitchen, which spills onto the outdoor entertaining area.

Hale Douglas, Sunshine Beach

A retro Hawaiian surf theme brings the vibe to this green tiny home. Built from mostly reclaimed and recycled materials, the stay for two features a loft bed (with a rolling access ladder), kitchenette and full bathroom. Curl up in the hammock with a good book after a morning at the beach. Resident labradoodles Eddie Vedder and Stevie Nicks might pop by to say hello during your stay.

Gracie Cottage, Mapleton

Retreat from the world at this 110-year-old Mapleton cottage. Local artworks, vintage finds and plenty of books adorn the homely two-bedroom stay. An outdoor bath and firepit offer views over the Obi Valley, as well as the property’s rose beds and olive trees. Guests enjoy a breakfast platter that includes homegrown eggs and local produce as part of the rural escape, which offers easy access to the nearby Great Walks and charming hinterland towns.

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