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Noosa is well-known and super popular, combining stunning natural beauty, world-class dining and a laid-back, if well-polished, vibe. Regularly voted one of the top beaches in Australia, Noosa Main Beach has crystal clear water for swimming and long clean waves to surf. With Noosa National Park easily accessible and offering stunning views around the coastline, you can explore in the day and kick-back with a sunset beach cocktail to round off the evening.
EXPLORE
Noosa National Park
The winding coastal track around Noosa’s bays is a must when visiting the area. The views are stunning, the terrain is easy and you can stop off for a dip on a nearly secluded beach on a hot day. Dolphins and turtles make regular appearances and if you’re lucky, you might spot a shy koala hiding in the gum trees.
Noosa Fairy Pools
OK, technically these are in Noosa National Park but they are easy to walk past if you don’t know where they are. Walk past Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay until the track begins to bear to the right. There’s a park bench on the bend and just here is where you leave the track to scramble down to the Fairy Pools. The path is rocky and can get busy at weekends plus it’s best to plan a visit at low tide so the pools are full but the waves don’t come crashing in.
Noosa Everglades
One of only two everglade systems in the world (the other is in Florida) these pristine waterways are located inland from Noosa Heads. Over 44% of all Australia’s bird species reside within this spectacular region and 1,365 species of plant, some of them not found anywhere else. You can choose to explore the Everglades by boat, with a relaxing afternoon cruise, or by canoe, if you’re feeling more adventurous and like the idea of slowly taking it all in. There are plenty of operators but we like both the Experience Oz boat cruise that departs from Noosaville and Everglades Eco Safari canoe hire that starts at Habitat Noosa (more on that below).
EAT
10 Hastings Street
If you’re looking for breakfast before you hit the beach, 10 Hastings Street is in a prime location and serves up a delicious breakfast menu alongside great coffee and juices. Any late risers or brunch hunters, know that the menu changes at 11.45 am and breakfast is no longer served – so if it’s eggs you’re after, get there in the AM.
Sum Yung Guys
A mix of Asian cuisines, with mouth-watering dishes ideal for sharing, you can try Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, and Chinese all in one night. A super popular spot, it gets booked up weeks in advance so our only advice is to book ahead!
Bistro C
We can’t write a Noosa guide and not include Bistro C – this is truly beachfront dining and an icon on the Noosa food scene. The vibe is relaxed and it’s great for a simple breakfast or an evening feast. The cocktail menu is eclectic and it has five espresso martinis to choose from – we’re sold.
Betty’s Burgers
The original location of this burger shack chain, Betty’s Burgers offers relaxed dining and it’s easy to head here straight from the beach. You can’t go wrong with a Betty’s Classic and if you’re into veggie burgers, The Shroom Burger oozes with goat’s cheese and is next-level good. Great chips and creamy frozen custard ‘Concretes’ make this place a solid choice.
DRINK
Land & Sea Brewery
With a selection of their own craft beers, wine, and a delicious food menu, Land & Sea is a great place to chill out in the afternoon sun. With live music and laid back vibes, as they say; cheers to no bad days.
Miss Moneypenny’s
Located on an enviable spot on Hastings Street, Miss Moneypenny’s has an epic cocktail menu to drink your way through. Some favourites are LIMONCELLO SPRITZ and VOODOO ZOMBIE or if you’re more of a beer guy, they have a great selection of local brews.
MV Catalina – Saltwater Sundays
Jump onboard the MV Catalina for a Sunday session whilst cruising down the Noosa River. With a DJ providing the soundtrack and sunset views, it doesn’t get much better than this! Bookings essential.
SLEEP
Noosa North Shore Beachfront Campground
To get to the North Shore Campground you take a short ferry ride across the Noosa River at Tewantin and suddenly it feels like you’re miles away from civilisation – in a good way. The campground is truly beachfront and you can park your van with a view better than any 5* hotel. Wake up to the sound of waves or tuck into the bushland behind the beach for a bit more seclusion and the high chance you’ll be neighbours with a friendly Goanna.
Noosa River Holiday Park
On the banks of the beautiful river, Noosa River Holiday Park is in prime position to enjoy everything Noosa has to offer. It’s a popular spot for good reason, with waterfront sites and great facilities. The campground is only two kilometres from Hastings Street and Noosa Main Beach, with gourmet restaurant options and boutique shops. Bookings are essential.
Habitat Noosa – Everglades Ecocamp
Located on the banks of Lake Cootharaba, Habitat Noosa is a sprawling 56-acre site in the National Park. With plenty of space to choose your spot, access to the Noosa Everglades (hire kayaks or hop on a boat trip), a restaurant, and brewery onsite you’ll be pushed to find another campsite like it. The facilities are spotless and well-maintained. The ground still plays host to educational groups (it used to be an Education Centre) so be aware there may be lots of children around at times. If you’re an early bird, the sunrise over the lake will not disappoint!
Ready to explore Noosa?
A great spot to start or end your trip at, Noosa has near-perfect weather all year round. Annual events such as the Noosa Festival of Surfing, Noosa Eat & Drink and the Noosa Triathlon bring many visitors to the area so always check dates. Free camping is strictly prohibited in the Noosa region, so make sure you pre-book your campsite to avoid disappointment.