Where to stay in Brisbane/Sunshine Coast area?
 

I had posted before about going to Sydney after Christmas (I'm in the Melbourne area and here from the States). Decided to go to Brisbane after all and stay 4 nights there and 4 nights in the Sunshine Coast area. Have been advised Sunshine Coast is better than Gold Coast as far as not being as touristy. (?)<BR><BR>Please advise of nice places to stay in both areas. Would love to stay on the beach in the Sunshine Coast area. Also would (obviously) love not to spend a fortune. I know I have to move fast to get these accomodations. Have already booked Qantas.<BR><BR>Also any advice of interesting and fun things to do in the areas are appreciated. Will be in Sunshine Coast area for New Year's. Any fun things to do?? Thanks for your help, I love this site.<BR><BR>Regards,<BR>Jennifer

If someone said to you that they prefer Sydney to Melbourne because the Yarra is a dirty colour I would hope that you would question that statement. <BR>Having lived in both the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast I can tell you that there are pros and cons to the two places. Anyone who lives on the GC never goes into Surfer's Paradise because its too touristy however the hinterland of the GC is vast and fantastic with many more things to do than its counterpart - the SC. If you just want to laze on a beach both places will be equally busy. If you wish to combine excellant shopping and dining then the GC is for you because the SC does not have as much as the GC in that respect. <BR>I would probably say that the SC is more of a family beach destination than the GC but from a diverse entertainment point of view then the GC has the most. The GC probably has much more to offer in accommodation as well. BUT stay away from Surfer's Paradise.

We've holidayed on both the Sunshine and Gold Coasts and enjoyed both. The Gold Coast is more touristy and in the summer holidays, I think you would find it busier. The Sunshine Coast has some lovely scenery in the hinterland and some really good beaches. Maroochydore and Noosa are both good places to find accommodation. Make sure you drive to Montville and also visit the ginger factory. The market at Eumundi is great particularly on Saturdays.<BR>Incidentally the cabaret at Jupiters Casino at Broadbeach is good fun.

OK flame me down everyone for saying this but I would re-think your idea of 4 days in Brisbane - what about 4 days in the hinterland of the Gold Coast i.e. Tamborine Mountain and have lovely places to see and things to do before heading to the beach areas. We have 9 National Parks here, beautiful views, 6 wineries, distillery, Australias best BYO restaurant, lovely arts and crafts and a cooler air. <BR>If you would like, I can send you some information from the information bureau and include some about the Gold Coast as well. Email me if you would like that.

I agree with LizF. I would much prefer 4 nights in or around the Gold Coast than in Brisbane. You could visit Brisbane as a day trip, but its just a big town.