Nestled on Australia’s stunning East Coast, Noosa offers unforgettable experiences on the Sunshine Coast, just north of Brisbane. This popular spot is known for its vibrant surf culture, lush Noosa National Park, and beautiful beaches like Noosa Main Beach and Rainbow Beach.
With a warm, sunny climate and a lively local scene filled with farmers’ markets, cafes, and music, Noosa is a cultural gem of Queensland. From natural beauty to local delights, this beachside town has endless activities for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s a list of must-try activities in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast
Stroll Through the Eumundi Markets
Visiting the Eumundi markets was a real highlight during my time in Noosa. Running every Wednesday and Saturday from 7:30 AM since 1979, it’s packed with local artisans, food stalls, and fresh produce. I loved exploring handcrafted pottery at Art in Clay by Kiki and sipping on delicious coffee from Bean and Gone.
I even treated myself to a schnitzel from Nimo’s for lunch. From hand-blown glass jewelry to relaxing massages at David’s Divine Expressions, it’s a perfect spot for shopping, eating, and unwinding. The live music just added to the vibrant atmosphere!
Explore Noosa National Park
Visiting Noosa National Parkwas a highlight of our time in Noosa. Spanning over 4,000 hectares, this park has four unique sections, each with its own charm. We started with the Boiling Pot trail, a walk that offered stunning beach views all the way to Tea Tree Bay.
Dolphin Point was a great stop for dolphin and whale watching during the season, from June to November. For more challenging trails, Tanglewood Walk and Emu Mountain rewarded us with amazing Sunshine Coast views. Wildlife was everywhere—spotting koalas was a treat!
Google Maps Directions to Noosa National Park carpark
Take Surfing Lessons
Noosa is truly a top destination for surfing, whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out. My favorite spot to warm up is Noosa Main Beach—it’s a beginner-friendly beach with stunning white sand and gentle waves. The local instructors here know every inch of these waters, making for excellent lessons.
For longboard fans, First Point near the Life Savers tower is the place to be, and the view is unbeatable. Experienced surfers can head to Nationals for a challenge, but caution is key with the rocky terrain. Sunshine Beach, just nearby, is also fantastic and has waves for all skill levels. There’s nothing like experiencing Noosa’s incredible beaches from out on the waves!
Scenic Bushwalk with Stunning Views
From Noosa I made a quick 15-minute drive to explore Mt. Tinbeerwah. It was perfect for a short bushwalk with amazing views! The trail is mostly easy, with a paved start that makes it accessible for everyone, even families with strollers.
The final stretch is rockier, but the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast hinterland. I climbed up to the fire tower for even better sights! For adventure-seekers, Mt. Tinbeerwah also offers great spots for rock climbing and abseiling.
Take a dip at the Fairy Pools
Exploring the Fairy Pools in Noosa National Park was an unforgettable adventure. Nestled near Granite Bay, these natural rock pools are carved by the ocean’s waves, creating unique spots for a saltwater soak. The Coastal Track leads there in about 45 minutes from the park entrance.
The trek is rocky, so sturdy shoes are a must, along with water, snacks, and sunscreen. I found early morning at low tide perfect for relaxing, though high tide brings a splash of wave action. Keep an eye on the tides and enjoy this magical spot!
Enjoy the view from Laguna Lookout
Perched on Noosa Hill, this spot offers a 360-degree view over the town, Noosa River, and ocean, all from a circular concrete platform by a grassy hill that’s perfect for a little picnic.
Sadly no benches to sit and relax but it’s a true, laid-back spot to enjoy the surroundings. As the sun set, casting vibrant colors across the sky.
Have kayaking fun at The Noosa Everglades
When we ventured to the Noosa River system in South East Queensland, we found a network of tranquil lakes and winding waterways that eventually meet the ocean. Nestled within the Great Sandy National Park, the Noosa Everglades was a hidden gem worth exploring.
We joined a kayaking tour, eager to get close to this rare wetland ecosystem, one of only two like it in the world. Gliding through the peaceful waters, we spotted a remarkable variety of bird species and felt truly immersed in nature. A swim made the experience even more memorable.
For anyone heading to Noosa, I’d say exploring the Everglades by kayak or canoe is a must!
Hid off to the Great Beach Drive
One of the highlights of our trip to the Sunshine Coast was a day spent on The Great Beach Drive starting from Noosa. We packed the car with snacks and our favorite playlist, ready to explore this stunning stretch of Australia’s coastline.
The drive connects the Gympie Region to Fraser Island and takes you along over 200 kilometers of breathtaking scenery. What makes this adventure unique is that we could drive right on the beach for much of the route, offering an experience unlike any other.
We began our journey at Cooloola Beach, making our way to Double Island Point and Rainbow Beach. The thrill of dodging motorway traffic was refreshing, and we even caught glimpses of dolphins playing in the waves.
Along the way, we found plenty of options for accommodations, from cozy hotels to beautiful campgrounds for those who love the outdoors. Each stop allowed us to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets with hardly anyone around, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty.
Whether we chose to drive back from Noosa North Shore to Rainbow Beach or tackle the full route, the views were absolutely worth it. This unforgettable road trip gave us a new perspective on the Sunshine Coast, and we can’t wait to do it again!
Enjoy chilled beer at Land & Sea Brewery
Our visit to Land & Sea Brewery was an inspiring mix of great flavors and eco-friendly practices! The owners have crafted a welcoming space powered by 80 solar panels, with a water system that sustainably irrigates their grounds. Their dedication to using fresh, local ingredients really shines through in every sip and bite.
We joined a 90-minute tour, which came with a tasting paddle of their unique beers and spirits from their own distillery. Whether you’re in for the tour or just want to relax with a beer and snack, it’s a Noosa must-do!
Cruise Along the Noosa River
The other favorite experience in Noosa was cruising along the Noosa River. There’s a range of cruise options, from budget-friendly daytime tours to private charters. We chose the daytime river cruise, which took us past beautiful islands, wildlife, and eucalyptus trees.
It was surreal! For something special, there’s a sunset cruise that lets you watch the sky change colors over the water—perfect for a relaxed night out. A Noosa River cruise is a unique, scenic way to enjoy the area.
