THE Sunshine Coast has outshone some of the nation's best-known tourist spots to earn a place on the Australia's Top 10 Destinations to Experience list for 2014.
A poll of almost 2000 holidaymakers ranked the Coast at No.7 nationally in a list that Sydney, Melbourne and Perth all failed to make.
Rottnest Island, in Western Australia, took out the top spot in the consumer poll, which was conducted by travel organiser Experience Oz.
The criteria voters were asked to consider included the overall "Aussie nature" of the destination; the variety of experiences; the destination's unique geographical features, attractions and activities; and the culture or history at or around the destination.
The Whitsundays, Gold Coast and Cairns also made the top 10.
"This year's list would make a great bucket list of places to
experience in Australia," Experience Oz spokesman Matt Hobbs said.
"Locations such as the Sunshine Coast are really leading the way in providing unique experiences for visitors, and it thoroughly deserves to be included.
"There are a significant number of destinations nominated that are considered natural icons, have a wide array of activities available to experience and unique geographical features.
"While it's surprising that iconic destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne and Perth did not make the list, the poll has indicated that a number of Aussies have already experienced these capital cities and are looking towards more regional, escapist destinations to experience."
Australia's Top 10
1. Rottnest Island, WA
2. Whitsundays, Qld
3. Margaret River, WA
4. Gold Coast, Qld
5. Uluru (Ayers Rock) NT
6. Cairns, Qld
7. Sunshine Coast, Qld
8. Barossa Valley, SA
9. Ningaloo Reef, WA
10. Kangaroo Island, SA
Source: Sunshine Coast Daily
