MUDJIMBA DOG BEACH, SUNSHINE COAST. QUEENSLAND

Another stunning Queensland winter’s day, another day packed with excitement exploring the markets, shops and beach.

If you asked us to declare what we love most about our neck of the woods, we’d undoubtedly say, with a smoothie in one hand and a basket in the other, that markets are definitely up there.

We headed off early before the sun started rising to an oldie but a goodie, Maroochydore market, which has everything you need, and plenty you don’t, but you want anyway. From fresh fruit and veg’s to plants and, of course, rainbow bagels, we love the no-frills vibe of this weekly gathering. 

After a little look we headed north to the southern tip of Mudjimba, North Shore Off-Leash Beach is arguably the Sunshine Coast’s wildest, most beautiful slice of paradise for dogs. It’s first time checking out this beach, and we were very impressed. Extending from the beach entrance 500m south of the Twin Waters patrolled area all the way to the Maroochy River, not only does it offer a vast expanse of fine white sand but standing sentry at the mouth of the river is the mysterious rocky outcrop Pincushion Island, which itself warrants a visit. 

In stark contrast to the built-up shores of Maroochydore on the other side of the river North Shore is something of an uninhabited wilderness, fringed by dunes and the sandy banks of the pristine river on one side and surf beach along the main stretch. Need to know, North Shore Off-leash Dog Beach can be reached by beach access paths from M64 south. 

Pincushion Island, a giant sandstone protuberance which is currently attached to the beach, has oddly spent much of its life as an island due to the ever-shifting mouth of the Maroochy River and is renowned for its spooky ability to change position. A fantastic exploratory spot for children, it’s climbable by a couple of paths, with a grass patch, banksia trees, ruins of stairs and viewing platform on top, vistas to be had in each direction and some fantastic rock pools to explore below.

We then jumped back in the car and headed north again to Pergian Beach so Kim sould get her shopping fix. Peregian Beach is a truely unique village full of quality speciality shops and unique cafes run by the proprietors. Local's and regular visitors greet shop staff by name and a great deal of trade includes a chat.

Pretty much everything a person may need can be found in one or more of the Shops in Peregian Beach Village. Why go elsewhere.