We have some exciting news to share! Coolum Beach Resort has officially been recognised as a Best of Queensland Experience for 2026, an award that celebrates tourism operators delivering exceptional guest experiences across Queensland.

While we're incredibly proud of this achievement, what we're most excited about is what it means for our guests—because at the heart of this award is one simple thing: creating memorable holidays that people genuinely love.

So, What Is the Best of Queensland Experience Award?

Presented by Tourism and Events Queensland, the Best of Queensland Experience Program recognises tourism businesses that consistently deliver outstanding visitor experiences.

Unlike many awards that rely solely on judging panels or written submissions, this recognition is based on a combination of real guest feedback, online reviews, business practices, and a demonstrated commitment to quality tourism experiences.

In short, it's one of the strongest indicators that a tourism business is doing the little things—and the big things—really well.

To receive the award, operators must meet strict criteria and maintain high levels of guest satisfaction across multiple review platforms.

That means every glowing review, every returning guest, and every positive holiday memory contributes to the recognition.

What Does It Take to Earn This Award?

The answer is simple—but not always easy.

It takes consistency.

Not just on the busy weekends or during school holidays. Every day.

It means ensuring apartments are spotless, gardens are beautifully maintained, facilities are operating smoothly, and guests feel welcomed from the moment they arrive.

It means responding to feedback, continually improving, and never assuming that "good enough" is enough.

Behind every holiday is a team of people working hard to create a seamless experience.

From housekeeping and maintenance to management and guest services, everyone plays a role in making sure visitors can simply relax and enjoy their time in Coolum.

And if you've stayed with us before, you'll know that it's often the small touches that make the biggest difference.

The helpful local recommendations. The warm welcome at check-in. The perfectly maintained pool after a day at the beach.

The spacious apartment that feels like a home away from home. These are the moments guests remember long after their holiday ends.

Why This Matters for Guests

When you're planning a holiday, there are countless accommodation options available.

Photos can look great online, but it's often hard to know what the actual experience will be like once you arrive.

That's where recognition like the Best of Queensland Experience Award becomes valuable. It provides reassurance that the property has consistently met high standards and delivered experiences that guests have enjoyed enough to recommend.

For travellers, it means greater confidence when booking.

For families, it means knowing the facilities and accommodation are well cared for.

For couples, it means peace of mind that their getaway is in good hands.

And for returning guests, it's confirmation of what they already know - that Coolum Beach Resort is a special place to unwind and reconnect.

The Coolum Difference

Of course, while we're proud of the award, we know that awards alone don't create great holidays. The real magic happens right here in Coolum. Wake up to the sound of the ocean. Take a morning stroll along Coolum Beach. Grab a coffee from one of the local cafés before spending the day exploring the Sunshine Coast. Relax by the resort pool. Watch whales migrate along the coastline during the cooler months. Or simply slow down and enjoy the sunshine from your balcony.

One of the things guests tell us they love most is the relaxed atmosphere.

Coolum has managed to keep its laid-back coastal charm while still offering everything visitors need for a memorable holiday.

There's no rush here.

No crowds competing for space.

Just beautiful beaches, warm sunshine, and plenty of opportunities to unwind.

A Reflection of Our Guests

While this award recognises the efforts of our team, it also belongs to our guests.

Every review shared online, every piece of feedback provided, and every family who chooses to return year after year has helped shape the experience we offer today. Guest feedback is incredibly important to us.

It helps us understand what we're doing well and where we can continue to improve.

The Best of Queensland Experience Award is, in many ways, a reflection of the wonderful guests who take the time to share their experiences with others.

So if you've stayed with us recently, thank you.

Your support genuinely makes a difference.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Receiving the Best of Queensland Experience Award isn't a finish line - it's motivation.

It inspires us to keep raising the bar and continue delivering the exceptional holidays our guests deserve.

As we move through 2026, we'll continue investing in the guest experience, maintaining our facilities, and ensuring every visitor enjoys the relaxed coastal escape that makes Coolum so special.

Whether you're planning a family holiday, a couples' getaway, a weekend escape, or a longer Sunshine Coast adventure, we're honoured to be recognised as one of Queensland's leading tourism experiences.

And we'd love to welcome you to see for yourself what makes Coolum Beach Resort an award-winning destination.

Because while we're proud of the award, we think the real reward is helping guests create holiday memories they'll treasure long after they return home.