Yandina is a town in a time warp — but in a good way! Whether you’re holidaying in Yandina or just visiting for a day, you’ll find the place relaxed and the people friendly.
One of the oldest towns on the Sunshine Coast, European settlement began in the 1850s and the town of Yandina was surveyed in 1870. It was the first town in the Maroochy district. Many of the original buildings and the heritage streetscape of Stevens Street have been preserved.
Today, Yandina is famous for its pub dating back to 1889, being a ginger town and home to the Ginger Factory, Yandina Station and its sleepy little subtropical town centre full of heritage-listed buildings. For example, the Anglican church, built initially as a community church and opened in 1880, is the oldest on the Sunshine Coast.
The fertile land around Yandina has been used for beef and dairy cattle, fruit growing, sugar cane and ginger and the curious traveller will be well-rewarded with surprises like natural swimming holes, abundant wildlife, one of the Sunshine Coast’s best weekend markets and one of Australia’s most famous restaurants and cooking schools – The Spirit House
Things to do
Visit the old-fashioned stores and page through fascinating old photographs of the region at the Historic House museum, before heading off on a scenic drive to Wappa Dam — it’s a lovely picnic spot under the shade of pine trees, overlooking the lake.
If you love exotic foods and sweets, you must explore Nutworks and the Chocolate Factory, with its Australian-owned and harvested macadamia nuts and handmade confectionary, as well as the Ginger Factory with rides for the kids, a café, lush subtropical landscaping and the world’s largest selection of ginger products.
Book in advance if you’re keen on the sensory delights of lunch or dinner at The Spirit House , one of Yandina’s major highlights. Stunning Thai and Asian meals are created in this Balinese-style haven that have critics raving, and there’s also a highly popular cooking school that attracts participants from around the country.
Accommodation
The historic Yandina Station, established in 1853 has luxurious cottages set amongst one of the region’s oldest working cattle farms. Other Yandina accommodation includes the Red Ginger Bungalow, Yandina Hotel and B&Bs.
Events
Discover the Ginger Factory in bloom and ginger inspired food in abundance at the annual Ginger Flower and Food Festival.
Yandina Hotel hosts local music nights and wine tasting during the week and Yandina Station is a venue with a difference for any function or event. Other events include the farmer’s markets every Saturday at the sports ground, where you can pick up some fresh local produce. If you’re on a roll and want a unique shopping experience, one of the largest markets in Queensland, the Original Eumundi Markets is just 10 minutes away.
