Sunshine Coast, like a local

Noosa National Park. Photo // supplied.

Sunshine is guaranteed, now take the locals' advice on what to do on the Sunshine Coast.

1.For Instagram shots, head to Noosa National Park. Explore it with a loop walk from Hastings Street to Hell's Gates and back. Tracking along the coastline, you won't be able to resist the pull of the ocean at Little Cove or Tea Tree Bay. Take your togs…

2.Shop along the waterfront at Bulcock Beach in Caloundra. You'll see kite surfers and it's a great spot for a post-picnic dip. It's patrolled and there are few waves so it's good for the little ones.

3.Carlo Sand Blow is an iconic sand mass providing great views of the coloured sands, Double Island Lighthouse and Inskip Peninsula. Visit at sunrise or sunset to capture some amazing photographs.

4.Experience something unique – ride a horse along Rainbow Beach. All riding experience levels can be catered for and you can choose between a beach ride, country ride – even a full moon ride!

5.For the best local fresh fruit, go to Rainbow Beach Fruit Shop. For delicious deli items, small goods and high quality meats, head to Rainbow Beach Meats. Ocean Breeze Seafoods is also worth mentioning.

6.Noosa is all about coffee. Clandestino Roasters is great for groups or, if you're wanting something to eat, Costa Noosa at Sunshine Beach is the spot for morning hangs on a sprawling deck; Padre Coffee is straight out of a magazine – sleek, minimal and photo-worthy.

7.Eumundi Markets has something for everyone. Come with an appetite (and a hat) and explore the huge market set on a gentle sloping hill. You'll find everything from craft and art to skin care and massage, to food and wine, clothing and jewellery.

8.The adventurous can hire a 4WD and drive the Great Beach Drive all the way to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, just a few hours north.

9.Cocktails, sunsets and tunes sums up what it's like to spend the afternoon cruising on board the beautifully-refurbished M.V. Catalina. Their Saltwater Sundays are a sell-out every week, so book ahead to ensure you don't miss out.

10.Winter is an ideal time to explore Noosa and Rainbow Beach – not only because temperatures are more forgiving but humpback whales are also on their annual holiday, making their migration along the coast. You might see them jumping and playing offshore along the way.