7 Best Noosa Places To See – Iconic Destinations & Local Favourites
Noosa is a destination that effortlessly combines natural beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back luxury. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay at The Cove Noosa, there’s no shortage of breathtaking experiences. From pristine beaches to hidden gems, here’s a curated list of the very best Noosa places to see to make your next escape unforgettable.
1. Walk in Noosa National Park
Noosa National Park is one of Australia’s most beautiful natural attractions, with walking trails that wind through lush rainforest and along headlands overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Along the coastal paths you’ll find a variety of lookouts with panoramic views, secluded bays including the sparkling Tea Tree Bay and spectacular Granite Bay and the chance to spot local wildlife such as koalas, dolphins and even whales during migration season. If there’s one thing to do in Noosa, let it be this.
2. Cruise the Noosa River
The calm waters of the Noosa River are perfect for cruising, kayaking or paddleboarding. Local providers including LILO Noosa and Noosa River Cruise offer private cruise options, making it utterly effortless to explore this stunning part of the world. If you want to take the exploration into your own hands, there are also a variety of self-drive boat options along the Noosa River foreshore, including Pelican Boat Hire and Terrace Marina. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or fancy trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, this is a must do when visiting Noosa!
3. Sunbathe on Little Cove Beach
Located directly across the road from The Cove Noosa is the charming Little Cove Beach. Shaded by Pandanus trees, this lovely bay is a peaceful pocket of Noosa perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling and everything in between. If you’re searching for the iconic Queensland beach experience, look no further than Little Cove.
4. Surf at Sunshine Beach
Sunshine Beach caters to a range of surfers, from beginners taking lessons in gentler conditions to experienced surfers chasing consistent breaks. The exposed, east-facing coastline creates reliable waves, while the long stretch of sand means there’s plenty of room to find your own space. After your morning surf, the charming Sunshine Beach village is perfect for refuelling with a coffee from Sunshine Social or a delicious brunch from Mine Sunshine Beach.
5. Stroll Along Hastings Street
The true heart of Noosa is Hastings Street, lined with chic boutiques, charming cafes and bustling restaurants and bars. Whether you’re shopping for resort wear from Alterior Motif, Bow & Arrow and Venroy, enjoying an alfresco coffee at Rococo or Aromas Noosa, or lingering over lunch with a view at Bistro C or Season Restaurant, this vibrant boulevard is the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere.
6. Visit the ‘Golden Triangle’
A term coined by those in the know, the Noosa ‘Golden Triangle’ encompasses the hinterland area of Eumundi, Doonan and Tinbeerwah. Explore the famous Eumundi Markets for handcrafted goods and fresh local produce, then take a scenic drive through Doonan’s rolling hills and enjoy a leisurely long lunch at The Doonan. Continue on to Pomona Distilling Co for a taste of local gin, or head to the summit of Mount Tinbeerwah for panoramic views stretching across the coastline.
7. Kayak the Noosa Everglades
The Noosa Everglades are part of the Great Sandy National Park and are one of only two everglade systems in the world, the other located in Florida. Stretching north from Lake Cootharaba, the system features slow-moving, tea-tree-stained waterways, diverse birdlife, and protected wetlands best explored by kayak or canoe on a guided eco-tour by Kanu Kapers or Habitat Noosa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the top spots include Noosa National Park, Hastings Street, Little Cove Beach, Sunshine Beach, and the Noosa Everglades. Each offers a unique experience, from coastal walks to river adventures.
Noosa enjoys a subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination. The most popular months are from September to November and March to May, when the weather is warm, the sun is often shining and the beaches and national parks are truly sublime.
Noosa is easy to explore by a combination of walking, cycling, public transport and by hiring a car. Many attractions including Hastings Street, Little Cove Beach, Noosa Main Beach, Noosa National Park are all within walking distance from The Cove Noosa.
For panoramic views across the stunning Noosa region and beyond, head to Noosa National Park, Mount Tinbeerwah and Laguna Lookout. Sunrise and sunset provide particularly spectacular scenery over the coastline and hinterland.
Leave a Reply