The Weekend Edition - Sleep In. Slow Down. Enjoy.

Waterfront hotels, top-notch craft-beer breweries and ninja trampoline courses – discover a bounty of hidden gems in Kawana

Waterfront hotels, top-notch craft-beer breweries and ninja trampoline courses – discover a bounty of hidden gems in Kawana



With secluded beaches, sudsy craft sips and delicious dining destinations, Kawana is the Sunshine Coast's triple-threat – and then some. If you're planning a trip to this pristine beach paradise, have a gander at our round-up of the top places you should tick off your Kawana bucket list. This is one destination worth taking some extra annual leave days to explore.


Dine on sumptuous seafood by the water
Fanging for a feast after your drive up the highway? Alongside the Sunshine Coast’s Mooloolah River is where you will discover Kawana Waters Hotel, a local’s favourite that will fill your belly with tasty nosh and treat your eyes to panoramic river views. Enjoy fresh seafood, wholesome salads, grazing platters and pub-fare staples as you watch boats and birds pass by. If you’ve got the rugrats in tow, they will be entertained for hours in the undercover outdoor kids playground.

Take your brood to these family-friendly attractions
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities then you’re in luck, as Kawana is brimming with fun things to do. The Sunshine Coast’s first indoor trampoline park, Big Boing is one such activity to tick off the ol’ bucket list. There are more than 50 interconnected trampolines at this entertainment oasis, so you can challenge your youngsters on the ninja course, practice your slam dunks and pull some aerial moves. Want to show off your skating skills? Make tracks to Alley Oops Indoor Skatepark, where you and the kids can practise ollies and kickflips to your heart’s content.

Throw back a few frothy ones at these local breweries
If you love a sudsy sip, then you’ll be pleased to hear that the Sunshine Coast is a craft-beer lover’s heaven. Start your beery journey at Your Mates Brewing Co., a local craft brewery in Warana. This boutique-style brewery boasts some superb drops – just look for the big Larry out the front and you’ve arrived at your drinking destination. If you’re still thirsty and searching for another pint-filled pit-stop, Malt Shovel Taphouse in Birtinya is another great venue for sinking some cold ones. This craft-beer tap-house has a bunch of thirst-quenching beers to taste-test as well as rotisserie barbecue bites and live entertainment to enjoy.

Climb for a good time
Looking for a fun way to stay fit while on your holiday? Head to Rockit Climbing Gym in Warana. This next-generation indoor rock climbing, bouldering and fitness gym is specifically designed to accommodate all levels of experience and fitness. Whether you are new to the sport or experienced at indoor climbing, you’ll love having a go at this heart-pumping course.

Head to this brand-new night market
The much-loved street-food night market and entertainment destination, NightQuarter, has moved north from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast. You’ll find this shipping-container playground in Birtinya every Friday and Saturday from 4:00–10:00 pm and every Sunday from 12:00–6:00 pm. There’s plenty to sink your teeth into – think food trucks galore, cultural festivals, interactive installations and live gigs. It’s a guaranteed great night out.

Stay at these luxe locales for the ultimate vacay
If waterfront bliss and relaxing vibes are what you are seeking for your Kawana holiday, then rest your weary head at Mercure Sunshine Coast Kawana Waters. This impressive hotel boasts an in-house restaurant and bar perfect for sunset sipping and snacking and is also just a short stroll to NightQuarter. To stay closer to the surf and sand, head to Surfside on the Beach at Buddina. This oceanfront resort is spread over almost three acres of beach frontage and offers spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments with private beach access.

Head to these fun-filled events
Still need help filling your itinerary? To stock up on fresh fruit, vegetables and good vibes, head to Kawana Waters Farmers Market for the freshest produce the Sunshine Coast has to offer. This much-loved market kicks off every Saturday and runs from 6:00 am to midday. Grab a brew and a bite, stroll through the stalls, listen to live music and let the little ones go wild on the jumping castle. For more family-friendly fun, be dazzled by circus antics at the Circus Rio Christmas & New Year Spectacular. On from Friday December 18, 2020, to Friday January 10, 2021, this circus will see the big top transformed into a Christmas wonderland starring all of your favourite characters – think beautiful aerial angels, jolly jugglers, acrobatic elves and of course, a magical visit from the big man himself, Santa Claus!

Enjoy luxe amenities for less
Nestled in the centre of Birtinya, Aquarius Kawana is an affordable accommodation option for those seeking somewhere to rest and relax after a day spent adventuring around Kawana. This convenient gem offers fully self-contained one- to three-bedroom apartments, free Wi-Fi and parking, and a pool so you can cool off when the mercury rises. Anyone keen for a dip?

This article was created in partnership with our friends at Visit Sunshine Coast. Located less than an hour north of Brisbane, Kawana is the Sunshine Coast’s Southern Gateway – an easy-to-access place where the laid-back charm is ‘too easy’. To plan your ideal escape to Kawana, head to the Visit Sunshine Coast website.



Suggested Destination Reads

The Westin Brisbane

Swim, eat, drink, repeat – escape to paradise with The Westin Brisbane’s Maldivian Moments

… more

Degustation dinners, pool-deck hangs and lazy days – check-in for cheeky staycay at Rydges South Bank

Degustation dinners, pool-deck hangs and lazy days – check-in for cheeky staycay at Rydges South Bank

… more



back to top