If beachside living, fine dining or rugged national parks appeal to you; then Noosa will provide the perfect holiday equation for you.
On any given day, watch locals and holiday-goers wander down Hastings Street, moving between beachside living to cafe culture in moments.
Noosa has a unique, cosmopolitan feel, and there is nowhere else quite it along Queensland’s east coast. The town adapts well from a romantic escape to a group vacation or a family holiday. Make the most of your adventure with this first timer’s guide to Noosa.
When to visit?
Plan your holiday to Noosa by first deciding on the ideal time of year to visit. The good news is that most of the year brings beautiful sunshine and idyllic weather.
In Autumn (March to May) or Spring (September to November), the weather conditions are mild with warm sunny days and cooler nights, which make it the ideal time to explore.
Over the summer months (November to February), Easter (March/April) and school holidays, expect crowds to pick up significantly.
Throughout the year, Noosa also plays host to many sporting events like triathlons and festivals like the Noosa Food and Wine Festival, which also bring a surge of crowds.
To reach Noosa:
Fly directly to the Sunshine Coast Airport or drive from Brisbane, which is less than two hours by car.
Accommodation:
When booking your stay in Noosa, if possible, aim to organise your accommodation in advance, as it is a popular holiday destination. Choose from the many beachfront resorts, villas and hotels, or opt to book Airbnb for a more local feel. The heart of town brings higher prices and more demand; however, opt for one of the quieter, surrounding suburbs like Noosaville, Sunshine Beach or Noosa North Shore (to camp at) as an alternative. Each of these suburbs is within a short drive of town and provide a quieter retreat in comparison to Noosa Heads.
Adventures
Beaches
Surrounding Noosa are many golden sandy beaches all within walking distance or a short drive from the town centre. Stretching out from Noosa Heads is Noosa Main Beach, an expansive and pristine beach to relax at, which runs parallel to Hastings Street. Continuing to Noosa National Park, beaches and coves like Tea Tree Bay and Alexandria Bay line the path throughout. At the end of the walk, you will reach Sunshine Beach, which is popular for surfers looking for swell or the perfect place to grab a drink at the surf club with views across the water.
For even more beaches, hop in the car and explore the surrounding coastline from Coolum to Mooloolaba for the complete trail.
Noosa National Park
There are a few must-do adventures when it comes to visiting Noosa, and one would have to be a walk through Noosa National Park. Beyond the bustle of boutiques and restaurants, step away from the town centre, and immediately you will find the lush national park meeting the ocean. Home to quiet coves and gorgeous beaches scattered throughout, walk along the Coastal Track to see wildlife and natural scenery. Stop at the many lookouts throughout for access to magnificent views across the sea too, and pay attention to turtles, dolphins or whales migrating (over the winter months). Along the way, you will also pass by the Noosa Fairly Pools, Laguna Lookout and Hell’s Gate to experience.
Lakes and Everglades
After you have had your beach fix, it is time to explore the gorgeous lakes and hinterland within the Noosa region. To experience just one of two everglades in the world, kayak along the Noosa Everglades, or for a day by the water, visit Lake Weyba or Lake Cootharaba.
Country towns
Throughout the Sunshine Coast, the many beautiful and quaint country towns each bring unique character and charm. Stop in Cooroy, Kin Kin or Pomona for insight on country living or visit Montville and Maleny for a complete day trip.
Dining in Noosa Heads:
When it comes to dining, Noosa and surroundings bring a variety of dining choices; from low budget to fine dining in minutes. Whether you are looking for a cosy cafe or waterfront views, the dining options are endless, and Noosa is often touted for its incredible produce and mix of cuisines.
Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at one of the cafes along Hastings Street with options like Cafe Le Monde, Providore on Hastings or Gaston Bar and Bistro.
Lunch
As the day goes on, stop by for lunch at Bistro C positioned overlooking the water and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, or Noosa Beach House set in a beautifully designed, modern space on Hastings Street.
Dinner
In the evening, step it up a notch with dinner and drinks at Miss Moneypenny’s or Locale, or for waterfront dining; View Restaurant, Sails or Ricky’s on the riverside. For something more casual, yet still delicious, Betty’s Burgers & Concrete Co is a great place to pick up a delightful feast. While of course, a trip to Noosa would not be complete without stopping by Massimo’s Gelateria for dessert.
Must-do activities:
During your visit to Noosa, book surfing lessons to get an authentic understanding of the local surf culture. The many beach breaks and peeling waves make it the perfect place to learn how to surf.
Markets
The Eumundi Markets are held a week on a Wednesday and Saturday morning, showcasing fresh produce, food stalls, art and craft, artisan products, handmade goods and more. Alternatively, every Sunday, the Noosa Farmers Markets are held in Noosaville filled with local produce and food too.
Noosa Ferry
For a scenic adventure outside of Noosa Heads, hop on the Noosa Ferry from Noosa Heads which will take you on to Noosaville. Spend the day relaxing on the riverfront, making the most of the water sports or indulge in the choice of dining options.
Noosa brings an incredible variety of outdoor adventures and natural wonders to explore. Whether you stay in the heart of Noosa Heads, or in one of the surrounding suburbs; the Noosa region brings the perfect mix of entertainment and delicious dining for a memorable holiday.
