When the opportunity came about to take a three-night getaway to Peregian Beach, my answer was naturally, "Hell yes!" Followed by, "When?" Then followed by, "Where is Peregian Beach?" Even with a recent visit to Noosa, the name Peregian Beach rang no bells. 

Jumping on Bonza’s direct flight out of Newcastle Airport, we were landing at the Sunshine Coast in hardly any time at all – half an hour thanks to the daylight savings time difference. Only 20 minutes later we were checking in, and I start to understand why there’s a bit of a Peregian fuss. 

If you’re like me and your holiday destinations need to have a nice mix of relaxed coastal energy, with a quality shopping scene, and an outstanding eats and drinks lineup, then Peregian Beach is for you.

One of the Sunny Coast’s younger townships, Peregian Beach has carved out an identity all of its own, thanks to the local community who have fought hard to keep over-development at bay, allowing the town to hold onto its genuine village-style feel. 

We had no problems deciding where to stay – once we saw Essence Peregian Beach there wasn’t any competition. 

Launched in July 2023, the newly-built complex of 22 luxurious hotel suites and architecturally-designed holiday homes offers accommodation options which are perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples.

The surrounds of the gated complex are manicured to absolute perfection, with the crisp lawns leading you to your home away from home. I loved the luxe coastal interior style which flowed throughout each of the generous sized rooms. The beds were super comfy, and the oversized lounges meant there was no need to squish.

My favourite space was however the balcony which connected to the fully-equipped kitchen via the servery windows, and was the perfect spot for cheese and beers of an afternoon.

We were lucky enough to have one of the UNESCO Noosa Biosphere Reserve rooms, which had us feeling a little David Attenborough-like, sitting unobtrusively amongst the leafy forest treetop, catching all the happenings of the chirping locals.

Outside of the apartment, it’s all about the two magnesium pools, one for families, and the other for the grown ups, although not exclusively. Complete with deck chairs, high tables and its very own pool bar, which opens Friday and Saturday afternoons, it’s hard to say no to a cocktail, or two, poolside.

The convenience box gets a big tick, with Essence Peregian located directly next to the local IGA and bottle shop, handy when you’re in need of some supplies. Equally important is its easy access to Peregian Beach, the skate park, and playground area. 

The short stroll does have you passing through The Village at Peregian Beach, which will have you distracted for hours.

Whether it’s a caffeine hit from Skål Coffee, gelato from Peregian Pantry, or afternoon beers and wine at the Peregian Beach Hotel, you’ll be weaving your way through The Village to discover what’s next.

Then there’s the shopping! Shopping never looked as good as it does at Peregian Beach. The Village has been curated to absolute perfection, with each shop bringing its own unique feel and quality offering. There’s not a tacky souvenir shop in sight, only a smart lineup of boutiques that wouldn’t look out of place in Sydney’s Surry Hills. 

From The Local and its eclectic mix of apparel, homewares, gifts, and retro vinyl, to The Men’s Room, women’s fashion and swimwear to Midmodoz’s stunning antique and mid century furniture, art and lighting. If you love to shop, you’ll be lost for hours.

Dotted amongst the boutiques is a delightful mix of restaurants, my favourite, the incredible BASK which I’d recommend dining at in the PM so you can experience Peregian’s magical evening atmosphere. Owners Jess Coolican and Jack Madden relocated their award-winning BASK Restaurant from the Sunshine Coast hinterland beachside earlier in 2023, and have continued the same approach, that being to be inspired by the region’s hard working growers and producers. It’s a Peregian Beach must!

Wandering around Peregian, a sense of nostalgia can’t help but drift in, reminding me of a slow paced 80s surf town where shoes are optional, and boardies and sun dresses are acceptable all day. It’s old school, but relevant and easy to fall in love with.

A quiet achiever, the secret that was Peregian Beach may well and truly be out, but we get the sense that the locals won’t let this little coastal wonder change in any way.

This article was created in partnership with Visit Sunshine Coast.