The Sunshine Coast lives up to its name: In the subtropical climate of Queensland, the sun shines almost year round. Set along an exquisite private beach at the base of Mount Coolum, this hotel allows guests to indulge in Australia’s relaxing beach life, whether they choose to surf, snorkel, or kiteboard. Those who prefer a birds-eye view can climb Mount Coolum, an extinct volcano whose altitude of 680 feet shouldn’t seriously frighten any climbers. The hotel’s rooms and suites are located in many smaller buildings which are tucked into the lush, naturalistic grounds of the resort. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the golf course here is known for one thing in particular: numerous water hazards in the middle of the bush. The left side of the very first hole is completely wet, and players will find holes 9 to 15 quite challenging as well since they appear to have more water hazards than land.
