For many Easter conjures up warm memories of early-morning Easter egg hunts, time with family and importantly, a blissful four days off work.

With that in mind, why not make the most of your annual leave this Easter with a trip to the Sunshine Coast, where Autumn days average 25 degrees and warm sandy beaches are never far away.

There are plenty on Sunshine Coast tours available from visiting the Mary Valley for the annual Imbil Easter Carnival to camping by the sea, the Sunshine Coast is perfect for a long weekend or extended school holiday break with the family.

Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Simon Latchford said now was the perfect time to book a Sunshine Coast escape.

“Traditionally we see an influx of last-minute bookings, so I encourage holiday-makers to make plans now while there are still accommodation options available,” he said.

“With the cold weather already starting to creep up on our southern states, what better motivation to plan a Sunshine Coast getaway.”

 

1. Food and wine (and cheese and chocolate)

 

Fancy spending Easter sampling cheese, drinking wine and enjoying 'slow food' in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?

At the Imbil Easter Carnival you can do just that.

The annual event, held from 20-21 April, brings this quant Hinterland town to life with country hospitality.

While there, why not turn your Easter break in to a food and wine escape with a visit to Kenilworth Dairies, home of delicious cheese, Brouhaha Brewery in Maleny, Maleny Food Co and Flamehill Vineyard in Montville.

The Sunshine Coast will also hold the King of Craft Beer Fest on April 27 overlooking Kings Beach in Caloundra for a celebration of beer, cider, spirits and good food.

If chocolate is what you're craving, head to The Original Eumundi Markets with the kids this Easter Saturday for a free treasure hunt from 8am.

Simply follow the clues through the colourful stalls, a sweet treat is waiting to be found at the end.

 

2. Events for all the family

 

Surfing competitions entrenched in history, wholesome country fairs and art festivals – there's never a shortage of things to do on the Sunshine Coast over Easter.

For an event steeped in tradition why not head down to Moffat Beach on the southern-end of the Sunshine Coast for the 45th Annual Ma and Pa Bendall Memorial Surfing Contest, held from 19-21 April.

The family-friendly event brings the beachside town to life, with plenty of cafes nearby to explore.

For something a little different, the Australian Body Art Festival will be held in Cooroy from 6-7 April.

Watch as talented artists use the human body as a blank canvas, using paint, sponges and special effects to transform people in to works of art.

Other must-see events include the round-five clash between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and New Zealand Warriors at Sunshine Coast Stadium on April 13, the Sunshine Coast Ukulele Festival from 11-14 April at Kenilworth and Spartan Race Sunshine Coast on 6 April in Maleny.

 

3. Warm weather means outdoor adventure

 

Autumn on the Sunshine Coast means 25-degree days, and with year-round warm sea temperatures, it's just as nice in the ocean.

This Easter get outdoors on the Sunshine Coast for an adventure on land or sea, with plenty of untouched places to explore.

If you're after a challenge, the ancient Glass House Mountains offer awe-inspiring landscape and views across the entire region.

Simply pick one of the many walking tracks and make sure to pack a camera, the view is worth every step.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is also packed with places to explore, including Mapleton Falls National Park, Ewen Maddock Dam, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reverse and Mount Beerburrum.

For a seaside adventure for all the family, hire a kayak, jetski or boat on Maroochy River or simply pack an esky of local produce for a day spent on the sand with loved ones.

 

To plan your ultimate Easter escape to the Sunshine Coast, visit visitsunshinecoast.com/cometolife.