Nestled on the sandy banks of the Maroochy River, the seaside suburb of Cotton Tree is a watery wonderland worth chucking your togs on for. Wake up before the rest of the world with a sunrise SUP (that’s stand-up paddleboard for the uninitiated!) session along the river, watching the golden rays illuminate the water. As the day rolls on, go for a sail or kayak, or throw a line in to catch your dinner. Here you’ll likely snag ​​Bream, Flathead and Whiting - and trust us, nothing tastes better than a freshly caught fish. Swap your togs for sneakers and stroll the coastal path from Cotton Tree to Alexandra Headland where you’ll score sweeping views of the ocean waves fizzing onto the sand. Do as the locals do and pack some snacks - along the way you’ll find idyllic spots to picnic at and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Feast on drool-worthy eats by the sidewalk, sip a cocktail in a bar, or soak up some live tunes along Ocean Street in Maroochydore. Want to treat yourself? Head over to Sunshine Plaza, the largest shopping centre on the Sunshine Coast, where you will find hundreds of retail stores, restaurants and cinemas.