Dazzling beaches, impressive surf and a serene atmosphere make this seaside town a great place to slow down and let the bustle of daily life fall away.

The small coastal community of Alexandra Headland, locally known as Alex, impresses visitors with its long white beach. Enjoy its relaxing atmosphere, nearby attractions and some of the Sunshine Coast’s best surf.

Beautiful Alex Beach is the headland’s main swimming area, popular with locals and visitors. The serene atmosphere provides a great spot to rest. The patrolled surf is ideal for families. Pack a picnic, beach umbrella, your favourite book and fishing rods and spend a day under the sun. Stroll or bike on paths along the water. Walk out to the sandbar and fish straight off the beach before cooking the catch on a seaside barbecue.

One of the best spots by the water is the grassy headland with its sweeping views of Mount Coolum and the Maroochy River. Watch surfers glide over curling waves before the water breaks onto the rocks. Find some of the Sunshine Coast’s finest surfing here. Rent a board or get lessons and join the locals on the water.

Enjoy a meal at the family-friendly Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club. For additional choices, head to Alexandra Parade, with cafés and alfresco restaurants with ocean views.

Near the surf club is a skate and bike rink. Visit at night when it is lit up. Look out to the sea, breathe the ocean air and listen to the sound of crashing waves.

Find adventures including sky diving and hiking on the wilderness Fraser Island, which starts just north of the Sunshine Coast. At a closer distance, family-friendly attractions include the Australia Zoo, Bellingham Maze, the Big Kart Track and the Eumundi Market. For shopping and indoor entertainment, head to the Sunshine Plaza’s more than 200 specialty stores, cinema complex and nearby tenpin bowling.

Alexandra Headland is located on the Sunshine Coast, between Mooloolaba and Maroochydore. The area is locally known as the Sunshine Strip. It is approximately 60 miles (100 kilometres) from Brisbane, an 80-minute drive.