TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, today announced the winners of its first-ever ‘Best Beach awards’. In a boost for Sunshine Coast tourism, Noosa and Mooloolaba beaches were named in the top 10 best beaches in the South Pacific for 2011. Noosa was voted as the third best beach and Mooloolaba was named as tenth.

“These awards recognise the most popular beaches as decided by millions of TripAdvisor travellers, and the Sunshine Coast should be proud to claim two of the winners for our region”, commented Mr Ian Kean, interim CEO of Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd. “For Noosa and Mooloolaba to be in the top 10 and to beat other well-known beach destinations throughout the Asia Pacific proves that, the Sunshine Coast truly is a fantastic place for a beach holiday.

The TripAdvisor poll was part of the Travellers Choice awards for 2011.

“Noosa, Mooloolaba and the Sunshine Coast’s beautiful beaches are a big draw card for attracting visitors to our region and encourage a love of the outdoors and provide naturally refreshing experiences” said Mr Kean.

Noosa is a world-famous surfing destination, known for its expansive beaches and colourful bays.
Hike across Noosa National Park's cliffs and forests, canoe through the Noosa River Everglades, kayak across the open sea or just bask in the sunshine on golden sand that stretches and sparkles for miles. A day trip to nearby Fraser Island, a World Heritage Site where lush rainforests mingle with dry sand dunes, is a unique experience not to be missed

Magical Mooloolaba is the perfect combination of sophisticated serenity and vibrant energy. The beach gleams under the pulsing sun, and sparkling sapphire water beckons swimmers, surfers, bodyboarders and casual waders alike. Snorkelers and jetskiers will delight in the beautiful waters, while those who prefer even racier adventures can dive with sharks and mingle with undersea creatures. Plus, "Mooloolaba" is awfully fun to say.