We are always on the lookout for a fab family escape in southeast Queensland. One that has the perfect balance of family-friendly facilities but with a bit of luxury and good food we grown-ups want. This is why we were super-excited to whisk the kids away for a weekend at the newly unveiled and incredibly stylish essence Peregian Beach. As soon as we set foot on the premises, it became abundantly clear that we were in for an extraordinary experience.

The resort pool at essence Peregian is heavenly
What’s at essence Peregian Beach?
essence Peregian Beach is a luxury resort with architecturally designed beach houses, a boutique hotel and a conference centre. With the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve as a backdrop and moments from the white sandy beaches and clear blue ocean waves, it is the only luxury resort in the charming, unspoilt coastal village of Peregian Beach.
Peregian Beach is one of those lesser-known yet incredible gems of the Sunshine Coast. With a patrolled beach, cute village square, fantastic park and fabulous dining, it’s the more laid-back and chic sibling to Noosa and a favourite for local families in the know.
essence boasts stunning, spacious houses beautifully equipped with everything a family could desire. We were fortunate to have our own private pool in the well-appointed, immaculate four-bedroom house. The resort has a family-friendly pool for all guests and a pool with a bar serving delicious cocktails for those looking for a more adult-oriented setting.
The beach houses are beautiful and spacious; ours had two main bedrooms, each with ensuite bathrooms and four bedrooms, comfortably sleeping eight people. And the kitchen has everything you could need for a family.
essence’s location is nothing short of amazing, allowing us to leave our car in the huge double garage and enjoy the local area by foot.
The high-end finishes throughout the resort are outstanding. From the beautiful bathrooms to the overall aesthetics, the quality shines through. Moreover, the resort is set against a backdrop of lush bushland, offering scenic views that add to the sense of serenity. Cleanliness was top-notch, making our stay even more comfortable.

The 4-bedroom beach house comes with its own private pool
Dining at essence
Another highlight of the stay at essence is the cafe attached to the resort. A fresh addition to the Peregian Beach culinary scene, Outer Square is truly amazing! We had breakfast there each day, and it was, honestly, one of the best on the Sunshine Coast. As a family-run cafe, it was super welcoming, very kid-friendly and offers a perfect balance of a relaxed vibe and exceptional food. We will certainly head back to Peregian Beach just for the Outer Square coffee and breakfast!

Outer Square cafe in Peregian Beach
This cafe will be bustling as word gets out and essence fills up. So we recommend booking ahead in busy times such as school holidays.
As Sunny Coast locals, we found essence to be the perfect place to relax, and unwind for families. And for our Brisbane, Gold Coast and interstate readers – bookmark this for your next Sunshine Coast holiday, you won’t be disappointed!
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