Noosa, A Gem Along the Sunshine Coast
Catch a wave in one of Australia’s premier surfing locations. Snorkel along the reef system near Noosa Heads, or seek thrills with jet-skiing, sailing, and deep-sea fishing. Get pampered at a five-star resort, or go for scaled-back simplicity at a beachside campground. Explore the swanky shops and restaurants marked by the area’s unique blend of beachy vibes and upscale glamour, or escape the hustle and bustle by immersing yourself in Queensland’s most popular national park.
Nature Lovers’ Paradise
The city’s premiere destination for outdoor enthusiasts is Noosa National Park, where you can surf the swells alongside locals or fish from a spot on the shoreline. This complex park weaves among diverse sections of land, including areas surrounding Lake Weyba and Hell’s Gates, where you can catch a glimpse of the area’s exquisite birds of prey, including Sea Eagles and Ospreys. The paths can also lead you to Devil’s Kitchen, a rocky headland where turtles and dolphins can be spotted, if you’re lucky. The park spans more than 4,000 hectares and is home to some of Australia’s most distinct wildlife, including koalas, humpback whales, and parrots. It encompasses varied terrain and walking path difficulties, ranging from rainforest territory to the sandy coastline. Certain areas of the park are wheelchair accessible, and public facilities are available at the far end of Tea Tree Bay. A number of hotels are located within just a few miles of the national park, including posh beachfront resorts and apartment-style accommodations.
Laid-Back Luxury At The Beach
If luxury is what you’re after, the hotels in Noosa won’t leave you disappointed. From boutique hotels to sprawling resorts boasting world-class service, you can expect to be spoiled when you choose among the city’s best accommodations. Of course, if an upscale, five-star hotel isn’t your style, there are still countless other ways to enjoy this spot along the Sunshine Coast. From beach campgrounds to holiday parks, budget-friendly, scaled down accommodations are plentiful in this region, too. No matter your personal preference, the scenic beaches are primarily what bring visitors to the area, so glamorous beachgoers and laid-back sun worshipers alike will appreciate the sprawling spans of sand. Take the pooch for a dip at a designated off-leash spot near Castaways Beach, or enjoy the family-friendly gentle waves at Noosa Main Beach. Peregian Beach is known for its nearby shops and eateries, so head there if you’d like to explore some of the area’s best cafes.
Shop & Dine In Style
Should you tire of sipping poolside drinks at your hotel, the area has plenty of other ways to indulge: Noosa is home to a number of designer boutiques, and the Bay Village Shopping Centre at Hastings Street leaves little to be desired. Jewellery collectors will be delighted by the array of nearby jewellers, and anyone seeking a unique souvenir can head to The Original Eumundi Markets, where handmade and specialty items abound. The region also has plenty of options in the way of spas and salons, and the local produce and seafood lends itself to some of Australia’s most fantastic fine dining options. If you’re a restaurant connoisseur, be sure to check out Noosa’s riverfront restaurants as well as the eateries along Hastings Street. Ricky’s River Bar and Restaurant is a favourite among locals and travellers alike and is famous for their delicious tapas, and Gaston is a modern eatery known for its superb value.
Adventures Await
Whether you’re skilled on a surfboard or just learning to stand up, Noosa is perhaps best known for its first-rate surfing. Beginners can enjoy a lesson through Go Ride A Wave, one of Australia’s premier surf schools. Or, take in the wonders of the ocean by snorkelling or scuba diving along the coast. There are plenty of other water sports to be enjoyed, including canoeing at Elanda Point Education Centre and Camping Park, where kangaroos roam freely. You can also try your hand at pulling in a catch of your own through Noosa River Fishing Safaris, or enjoy landlocked adventures, such as a horseback riding excursion. The city is also well-known for its biking and hiking trails, and families can traverse the unfamiliar area under the provision of Bike On, a local bike tour service. Those who can’t get enough on land or at sea can take their thrills a step further by taking flight via a plane tour, and the ultimate adventurers can create unforgettable memories by booking a skydiving trip.