Planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast? These 3 budget-friendly spots should be first on your list.

Thanks to our brand partner, Big4 Holiday Parks

I don't know about you, but these days, my ideal holiday spot is one that ticks three essential boxes: a stunning location, activities that won't break the bank and just a few of those unforgettable moments that stay with you long after the holiday ends.

But before you go rummaging around for your passport, just remember — while it can be wonderful, overseas travel can also be low-key exhausting. I'm talking about long airport waits and dragging overtired toddlers through customs lines. Yeah. That's not a recipe for chill. 

What if I told you the Sunshine Coast offers that perfect holiday alchemy right here at home? No long-haul flights or currency conversion needed.

With beautiful beaches, lush hinterlands and affordable accommodation options, the Sunny Coast has become my top recommendation for families and couples.

These are the three spots that deliver a resort-style holiday without the eye-watering price tag.

Noosa North Shore

The ferry crossing to Noosa North Shore feels like entering another world (one where the kids actually look up from their devices). This stretch of pristine coastline offers that increasingly rare combination of untouched natural beauty and family-friendly amenities.

For families wanting to maximise their holiday budget without sacrificing comfort, BIG4 Noosa North Shore has become something of a local legend. Forget expensive hotel rooms where you're all crammed together — here, you can spread out in cabins that give you that precious bit of separation (and sanity).

For those seeking a touch of adventure, their glamping options are such a vibe, offering the ultimate camping experience for the kids, minus the set-up.

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And you might not expect it from a holiday park, but the three (yes, I said three) resort-style pools rival what you'd expect in Bali or Fiji (without the spendy airfare).

But if a swim isn't your thing, try the bouldering cave, Jumping Pillow, putt-putt or laser tag. The kids can go wild with adventure while you enjoy that rarest of parental luxuries: sitting down with a book for more than five consecutive minutes.

Once you've explored the holiday park (and let's be honest, the kids would happily never leave), the Noosa North Shore beach walk is a must — and it's absolutely free. The expansive beaches make for Instagram-worthy family photos and if you're up for some kayaking, you might even spot some dolphins playing in the surf.

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When hunger strikes, pack a picnic for the beach or head to the Getaway Bar and Bistro for casual dining with an 18-hole putt-putt course and rock climbing wall — another small win for parents wanting to relax.

Maroochy River

There's just something romantic about riverside locations — the sound of the water, spectacular sunsets and a vibe that lends itself to long conversations over unhurried meals. Maroochy River delivers all this and more, making it ideal for couples looking for a break.

BIG4 Maroochy River offers gorgeous waterfront accommodation — the perfect backdrop for rekindling romance or just escaping the grind together. Watching the sunset over the river with a glass of local wine feels genuinely luxurious, and the riverside walkways are perfect for morning strolls hand-in-hand.

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Beyond unwinding at the holiday park with live music and poolside lounging, Chambers Island sits in the middle of the Maroochy River like a secret waiting to be discovered. The island's calm waters and stunning views make it ideal for couples seeking tranquillity without spending a cent.

For a special dinner, The Boat Shed overlooks the river and offers fresh seafood in a setting that rivals any international destination. Indulge in their full menu or just stop for tapas — either way, this place absolutely delivers on atmosphere. 

Rainbow Beach

Can't stand the thought of leaving your fur-baby behind? Forget the exorbitant kennel fees or that friend you're forever indebted to for pet-sitting — BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks — Rainbow Beach is a pet-lovers haven with their open-door policy for all doggos, big or small. 

Rainbow Beach itself is a natural wonder with its multi-coloured sand cliffs stretching along the coastline. The Carlo Sandblow feels otherworldly, especially at night, and plenty of pet-friendly beach areas mean your dog can experience the joy of beach zoomies without restriction.

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If you can bear to part from your pup for a few hours, a guided kayak tour exploring Rainbow Beach and Double Island Point will only set you back around $99, and you're likely to run into dolphins and turtles, right in their element!

After working up an appetite, Arcobaleno on the Beach welcomes well-behaved pets in their outdoor dining area. Their reasonably priced Italian cuisine provides the perfect end to a day of exploration.

Visit the BIG4 website to find more holiday parks along the Sunshine Coast.

Feature Image: Instagram/@big4maroochyriver/@breezeholidayparks.

At BIG4, they're all about the ultimate Aussie break! With over 290 parks across this great land, they've got great parks in great locations, near you and further afield. They offer accommodation for every price-point from powered and unpowered sites to comfortable cabins and luxe glamping. They're family-friendly, and many parks are pet-friendly too – so you can bring the kids and the dog along too. Their parks have so many fantastic facilities and attractions for young and old, you don't even need to leave the park to find fun! GO BIG with BIG4 by booking your next holiday at BIG4.com.au.