Top 5 Things to do in Noosa

Noosa beach,

Noosa is a vibrant seaside town popular with holidaymakers from all walks of life and only two hours north of Brisbane. From hostels to luxury resorts, takeaway to fine dining, Target to Seed, surfing to cruises - Noosa has it all. Soak up some sun, surf a wave or shop till you drop, here’s our pick of the best things to do in Noosa!

1. Take a stroll along Hastings Street

Hastings Street, Noosa

Hastings Street is often referred to as the heart of Noosa. A wonderful mix of luxury and laidback beachside vibes, Hastings Street has something for everyone from resorts to cafes, bars and restaurants, gift shops, galleries, surf shops and designer boutiques. Voted the ‘Best Main Street in Australia’, Hastings Street is the perfect place for brunch, a quick coffee, a long lunch or sunset cocktails and a must-visit while in town. Keep an eye out for the quirky Noosa memorabilia featuring the crafty bush turkeys!

2. Indulge your sweet tooth

gelato, noosa

“You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy gelato and that’s kind of the same thing.” Halfway down Hastings Street, you will find artisan gelato makers, Gelatissimo, churning award-winning gelato flavours in-store with no artificial colours or flavours. Deciding between your favourite old-school classics and quirky flavours such as fairy bread, chocolate crackle and Weetabix with honey and banana is quite a challenge but no matter which flavour combo you choose, trust us when we say your tastebuds will not be disappointed!

3. Catch a wave

noosa surfing,

Noosa is one of the best places in Australia to learn to surf. The protected beach offers perfect conditions year-round with warm gentle waves in waist-deep water ideal for beginners. There are many surf schools in Noosa that offer group or private lessons however the most recognised and longest running is Merrick's Noosa Learn to Surf. A 2-hour lesson including a rash top and a guarantee that you will be able to stand on the board in your first lesson will set you back $70 per person and is suitable for ages 7 and up. If you’re past the beginner stage and just want to get out in the surf, board hire is $25 for 2 hours or $45 for the day from one of the many vendors strategically positioned along the beach.

Cruise the waterways

paddleboarding noosa

The Noosa River is a picturesque haven for watersport lovers and there are endless local companies on the riverbanks where you can hire all the gear. Hiring a stand-up paddleboard starts at $35 for 2 hours and there are also various kayaks, jetskis and speedboats available. Or, for a cruisey day out why not get a group together and hire a BBQ pontoon! These stable boats provide a great platform for endless swimming, fishing and enjoyment and you don’t even need a licence to hire one. Pack all your favourite foods, your swimmers and some bubbly and look forward to a relaxing day on the river.

Stretch your legs

noosa headland, walk

There are not many towns in Australia that can say that their National Park is within walking distance of their CBD but Noosa is one of them. Noosa National Park is only a short 30 minute wander from Hastings Street along the coastal boardwalk. While there is a carpark, it is extremely busy and you will need to get in very early if you wish to nab a spot.

Grab a coffee from the kiosk and map from the info booth in the day-use area before venturing out on one of the many popular walking tracks that will take you to stunning secluded beaches, past koalas snoozing in the treetops, through pristine forest and along coastal tracks where you have the chance to spot dolphins, turtles and even majestic humpback whales (June to September). Remember to pack plenty of water and your camera for some spectacular shots!