Visit Sunshine Coast has launched Sunny Staycation, a new campaign offering exclusive deals on experiences, dining and accommodation across the region.
The locals-only initiative is a way for the tourism industry to give back to the community that supports it, inviting Sunshine Coast residents to enjoy the perks of living in a world-class destination at mates’ rates.
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said Sunny Staycation runs throughout February and March, which is the off-peak period for the tourism industry.
“The Sunny Staycation is made by locals, for locals,” Mr Stoeckel said.
“It’s all about the tourism industry sharing with locals what makes this region so special.
“We hope the community jump at the chance to enjoy our great attractions, tours, dining and accommodation at mates’ rates.
“Not everyone realises that the tourism industry supports 29,700 local jobs. That’s around one in every seven jobs on the Sunshine Coast.
“Sunny Staycation has been enthusiastically supported by a wide range of operators, including so many of our wonderful small, family-owned businesses, who wanted to say thank you to the community for its ongoing support.”
The campaign comes off the back of the summer tourism period, making it the perfect time for locals to reset and reconnect with the region.
“We know how popular the region can be during peak holiday times, so this is your chance to take advantage of some great deals and visit the attractions you always drive past or the restaurant you’ve always wanted to try,” Mr Stoeckel said.
More than 40 deals are available from Caloundra to Tin Can Bay, spanning the coast, hinterland and everywhere in between.
Deals range from 25 to 50 per cent off some of the Sunshine Coast’s most-loved offerings, including discounted Aussie World annual passes for $109.
Aussie World’s Sebastian Hahn said the family-owned theme park has been part of the Sunshine Coast community for more than 30 years.
“Feeling the support from our community means knowing people genuinely value what we do, and it gives our team pride, motivation, and a strong sense of belonging,” Mr Hahn said.
“It reminds us that we’re trusted and valued, and we are immensely proud to be part of the region’s story and future development.”
Other epic deals include half-price Noosa Ferry day passes and two-for-one entry to the Africa Adventure experience at Hologram Zoo Sunshine Coast.
Adventure seekers can enjoy 30 per cent off experiences with Sunreef and Sunny Jeeps, while those keen to take things to new heights can tackle Treetop Challenge with 25 per cent off.
“We love our Sunny Coast community, and this campaign is a great way for us to show our appreciation,” Sunreef’s Jonny Fell said.
“It’s such an awesome place to live and work and we are stoked to meet a few locals during the Sunny Staycation.”
There are not-to-miss dining offers on the menu, including 25 per cent off seafood lunches with Coastal Cruises Mooloolaba and on-tap beer at Brouhaha Brewery, reflecting the region’s seafood credentials and its reputation as the Craft Beer Capital of Australia.
10 Toes Brewery venue manager Paul Crozier said its Maroochydore and Buderim venues were offering 30 per cent off tasting paddles, while kids eat free on Saturdays at Buderim throughout the campaign.
“We are so grateful to our locals who keep the Coast tourism industry thriving long after the visitors go home and everyone gets back into routine,” Mr Crozier said.
“Sunny Staycation is an opportunity for businesses like ours to thank the community and give them a tasty reason to holiday in their hometown outside of peak times.”
A range of accommodation providers are also offering stay three, pay two deals, including Glen Eden Resort, Senses Noosa North Shore and Thirlstane Farm.
Visit Sunshine Coast is the peak tourism body for the Sunshine Coast region, covering the Sunshine Coast, Gympie and Noosa local government areas.
For the full list of Sunny Staycation deals, how to redeem and for terms and conditions, visit visitsunshinecoast.com/locals.
