Top 10 Things To Do In Noosa

Gabby Boucher

January 18th, 2024

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6 minute read

Located on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Noosa is a charming and exciting town that draws in international travellers and Aussie locals alike. With pristine beaches and surfing waves lining the coast, lush Everglades and national parks filling the inland areas, and a scenic town centre, you'll find there are so many incredible things to do in Noosa!

Top 10 Things To Do In Noosa

Whether you're doing a massive trip up the East Coast, or you're just stopping by on a quick weekend trip, Noosa has endless wonders that await you. Located just a quick flight away from Aussie hotspots like Cairns, Melbourne, or Sydney, you can find yourself on Noosa's golden shores in no time. You can even drive there from other nearby locations like Brisbane, Gold Coast, or Byron Bay, and Noosa easily fits into any itinerary as you road trip around Australia by campervan.

Whatever your travel plans are, you won't regret adding Noosa to your adventure. Here are the top 10 things to do in Noosa! From exploring the walking tracks of Noosa National Park, to surfing at Noosa Main Beach, to shopping on Hastings Street in the Heart of Noosa, this gem of the Sunshine Coast is packed with activities. 

1. Canoe Through The Noosa Everglades

The Noosa Everglades are a magical natural wonder. Full of tranquil waterways, serene forests, and an abundance of wildlife, this location is a nature lover's dream! The best way to explore the Noosa Everglades is on a canoe tour. On a guided tour, you can learn about the unique flora and fauna from your local guide while drifting down the calm waters on a stable boat. Then hop into a canoe and paddle through the Noosa Everglades, getting an up-close view of the stunning, untouched scenery!

2. Go Surfing

Whether you're a beginner looking to learn, or an advanced wave rider, Noosa is one of the best places to surf in Queensland! There are so many incredible beaches along the this part of the Sunshine Coast, each of which offers its own special surf conditions. Tea Tree Bay is a local favorite, and Noosa Main Beach is a great spot to learn how to surf. So slap on some sunscreen, grab a board, and get in the water!

3. Explore Noosa National Park

Noosa is unique because there is an enchanting patch of protected wilderness located right next to the heart of Noosa! Noosa National Park is within walking distance of downtown, so you can explore this sprawling network of walking trails and forests even if you don't have a car. Noosa National Park is filled with idyllic beaches, picturesque rock pools, and hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. Probably the best activity to tackle in Noosa National Park is the Coastal Walk, a moderate trail that follows the entire beautiful coastline of the park. 

4. Browse A Local Market

Another one of the top things to do in Noosa is check out the local markets. This is the perfect way to mingle with locals and learn about the culture and environment through handicrafts, produce, and whatever other goods are on offer.

If you're in Noosa on a Sunday morning, head to the Noosa Farmers Market to stock up on delicious food. You can also visit the Noosa Marina Markets on Sunday mornings to listen to live music and shop through handmade arts and crafts. Or take a short drive to the Original Eumundi Markets. This famous outdoor market runs every Wednesday and Saturday morning and has over 500 stalls!

5. Stroll Along Noosa Main Beach

The crown jewel of Noosa is its Main Beach. Located just a short walk from the center of town, this beach offers a quintessential Aussie coastal experience. With bustling pubs and cafes right next to the sand, and forest walks trailing right off the sides of the beach, Noosa Main Beach has it all. Swim, paddleboard, kayak, surf, or snorkel in the warm, calm water. Or sunbathe, do yoga, or stroll on the golden sand. Noosa Main Beach is a highlight of the Sunshine Coast!

6. Visit A Lookout

Those looking for an Instagram-worthy view can head to one of Noosa's many lookouts. Laguna Lookout is one of the best options if you don't have a car. It's only a 20-minute walk from downtown Noosa and offers lovely views of the sapphire waters and beautiful landscape. Hell's Gates in Noosa National Park is a dramatic coastal lookout surrounded by rugged sea cliffs and the dazzling Pacific Ocean. And the entire Coastal Walk is packed with picturesque Sunshine Coast views as well!

Or if you have a car and want to take some day trips outside Noosa, there are amazing lookouts in the nearby national parks! Visit Mount Tinbeerwah Lookout for impressive views of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, or visit Twin Hills Lookout for views of the saturated, green rolling hills of rural Queensland. 

7. Check Out The Town Centre and Hastings Street

Definitely make time for exploring downtown while you visit the heart of Noosa! The town centre is very pedestrian-friendly and there is so much to see and do, particularly on Hastings Street which is the main thoroughfare.

Go shopping at one of the trendy boutiques, grab an ice cream or poke bowl at a local eatery, or just wander aimlessly and see where the wind takes you. Noosa is a lively town that has lots of unique local businesses. In the morning there are countless amazing cafes on Hastings Street where you can grab a coffee, and at night the trees light up in twinkling tea lights!

8. Visit The Australia Zoo

Another one of the top things to do in Noosa is visit the Australia Zoo! This iconic location covers 700 acres and is home to a huge range of fascinating Aussie creatures. Founded by the famous "Crocodile Hunter", Steve Irwin and his family, the Australia Zoo focuses on the conservation and protection of Australian wildlife. When you visit this beloved establishment, you can not only see unique animals up close but you can learn about them and the Irwin family's mission. 

 9. Take A Trip To K'gari (Fraser Island)

Noosa is one of the main jumping-off points for a trip to K'gari (Fraser Island), along with Rainbow Beach and Hervey Bay. K'gari (Fraser Island), is the largest sand island in the world! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with ancient sand dunes, towering rainforests, and crystal-clear, freshwater lakes. 

K'gari (Fraser Island) is absolutely one of the coolest places in Australia. So if you have some time to spare while visiting Noosa, a trip to the island is absolutely worth it! You can visit on a day trip, or you can spend a few days on the island and try camping amongst the wilderness. No matter how you choose to visit this magical place, a trip to K'gari (Fraser Island) is one of the top things to do in Noosa. 

10. Enjoy The Nightlife

Last but not least, Noosa has a super fun nightlife! From party hostels like Nomads, to local bars and restaurants, there are nightlife options for everyone. If you're a backpacker looking to party, dance the night away at nightclubs like Rolling Rock, Theo's Social Club, or KB's. Or if you're looking for a more mellow night with good food, cocktails, and maybe some live music, popular venues include Paradise Arcade, The Village Bicycle, and the Noosa Heads Surf Lifesaving Club. 

Add these top 10 things to do in Noosa to your East Coast itinerary!

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