LOWLIGHT

Bedrooms are at the back of the unit, away from the lapping of the ocean.

THE PLACE

Fairshore Beachfront Apartments, Noosa Heads, Queensland.

THE LOCATION

Just a couple of hundred metres from the back gate of the apartments, a sand sculptor completes his day's work, a castle. It's not the type we built as children, by turning a bucket of wet sand on its head. This one's done with a knife, slicing blocks of sand to reveal intricate design. The only bucket in sight is one labelled "tips", for he is the beach version of a busker. Beside the architect is his mate, drinking a beer and solving the world's problems. There was a time when Hastings Street seemed only accessible to the elite, but that seems to be changing. On the beach it's hard to tell. And granted, the busker and his mate might be property baron millionaires – not ageing surfers – simply taking tourists for an amusing ride. But on the boutique-laden street behind, the eclectic group of people walking the streets is a sign that Noosa's tourist strip has opened itself for a revival geared towards all types of domestic traveller. And with it comes a fresh, pleasant, family vibe.

THE SPACE

There are almost two distinct aspects to this property – two places for the price of one. Open the sliding doors to a pool and spa. There might be something nice about sand in the toes, but other personal crevices are protected if you're lying in a deckchair by the pool, still able to watch and hear the waves rolling in. On the other side of the building, a rooftop terrace has a barbecue and cushioned outdoor settings which overlook the bustling shopping district below. If people watching isn't your thing, look up to catch glimpses of the national park which nestles so close to the populace. Fairshore is built with families in mind. Apartments are all two-bedroom, two-bathroom, and there's a games room and gym on-site.

THE ROOM

Ah, look. It's me. The first stark feature of the apartment is that the side wall is a mirror, giving the impression of maximum space. Be sure to check the website though, because all apartments have been designed differently. Importantly, they've all got a fully equipped kitchen, lounge with cable television, outdoor setting and balcony, and if you're on the bottom floor, direct access to the pool and beach. Once the large sliding doors are open, it's a reminder of what beach living is all about – the sea breezes, salt air, and soothing crashing of waves.

THE FOOD

There is no shortage of food. Hastings Street has developed a little bit of Paris about it, alfresco seating facing the street for the latte-sipping set to observe an eclectic parade which passes. But there's also a wide selection of restaurants. Remembering that the room beckons, it might also be worth exploring some takeaway options. A shopping arcade almost directly opposite the hotel has been given a recent revamp and mixes healthier made-to-order options with deep-fried central. Other places along the strip offer fresh prawns and salad, if you really must keep up the non-holiday diet.

STEPPING OUT

Getting out of the room requires effort. No doubt. But it's worth it to make the trek from Noosa, along the boardwalk south, through the national park to Alexandria Bay. Apart from the odd jogger and fellow bushwalker, it's a peaceful passage with stunning views, secluded beaches and lush forest. It's not a difficult walk and many will argue it's one of the most beautiful walks along the Sunshine Coast.

THE VERDICT

Fairshore is best suited for an upmarket family holiday. It's got everything to keep the children entertained, and allows families the option of eating in or hosting a barbecue if that's the way they want to roll. And it's central to all the action – beach on one side, shopping district on the other. Park the car, and forget about life for a while.

ESSENTIALS

41 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads. Two-bedroom apartments usually require a minimum two-night stay at about $500/night. Cheaper rates are for longer stays, including midweek nights. Phone (07) 5449 4500, see fairshorenoosa.com.au.