91. Coolum Beach and Yandina, Sunshine Coast, Queensland

This week we went somewhere on the Sunshine Coast where neither of us had been before. We visited the little historic town of Yandina. We have both passed through Yandina before, but never stopped to have a look around. It is home to one of Queensland’s oldest pubs and railway stations.  You can also find some funky cafes, restaurants and some gorgeous shops in the small main street area.  In Yandina you will also find -  as one reviewer says - “the finest restaurant in the world”.  They are talking about the well loved Spirit House. After we filled up at one of the popular cafes, we headed to the famous Ginger Factory.  It is one of the most visited attractions on the Sunshine Coast.  We wander around, find the Gruffalo, sit under 1000 rainbow umbrellas and tell you all about the gardens, Morton the original steam train, the indoor boat ride, plus heaps more. Unfortunately we weren’t hungry so we didn’t enjoy a ginger scone or ginger icecream. Maybe next time. Lastly we drive 15 minutes to the popular beachside town of Coolum Beach.  Coolum has the longest, flattest, widest beach on the Sunshine Coast and is very popular for surfing. It is unspoilt and the place to go if you want a relaxing beachside holiday without all the distractions.  We give you all the info from our vantage spot on the balcony of the Coolum Beach Surf Club.  It’s a tough life, but someone has to do it. Stay listening to the end to hear what birthday present I bought for Lyle at Coolum and the popular mountain that the locals love to climb – but is actually the second biggest rock in the world – after Uluru. If you would like to see the one page summary with links and the pictures I took while out and about recording this podcast – then click here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/91/coolum