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16 of the best Noosa accommodation picks for coastal calm

Exploring the chic coastal pearl of the Sunshine Coast requires an epic slice of Noosa accommodation from which to launch off.

Stunning beaches, national park, markets, day spas, golf courses, excellent food – Noosa has it all. To make sure it’s always a great trip, I like to get organised well in advance and luckily, accommodation offerings are abundant. Whether I’m on the hunt for five-star luxury (hello brand-spanking-new Elysium Noosa Resort), self-contained convenience or something in between, my pick of the best Noosa accommodation is here to help you beat the crowds.

In short

If you’ve only got time to stay at one Noosa accommodation, make it Elysium Noosa Resort from December 2025. It’s undoubtedly in the best location, and once doors officially open, its sparkly new rooms will be the most in-demand in town.

1. Culgoa Point Beach Resort

an aerial view of Culgoa Point Beach Resort, Noosa
Be surrounded by tranquil waters and idyllic sands at Culgoa Point Beach Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jesse Lindemann)

I love chilled-out Noosaville as much as I love super-luxe Hastings Street at Noosa Heads, which is why the family-friendly Culgoa Point Beach Resort is such a great choice. Blending quiet self-contained apartments with immediate Noosa River access, the Noosa accommodation standout rivals the region’s glitzier hotel names. If you plan far enough ahead, go for the three-bedroom Premium Beach Front configuration with two bathrooms and a stretch of grass leading onto the resort’s private beach. My children lapped up waterfront magic from morning to sundown. Wherever you drop and flop, however, a 20-metre swimming pool, a pickleball court, a spa, a sauna, beachfront barbecues, kayak and SUP hire, and a kids’ wading pool should keep the clan content.

Price: $$$-$$$$

Address: 5 Quamby Pl, Noosa Heads

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2. Seahaven Noosa

view of the pool and beach from the balcony of Seahaven Noosa
The spacious patio overlooks the pool and the beach.

When I’m keen to stay in the thick of it all, I often come back to Seahaven Noosa on Hastings Street. The studios, one- and two-bedroom stays are right off the beach, each spacious, serviced and spotless. Spend a little extra for a huge front patio that overlooks the pool and spa (plus there’s a penthouse to consider) but do save some pennies for the eateries on your doorstep because they’re literally unavoidable. You’ll count three heated swimming pools in total, plus a spa, barbecue area and a kids’ wading pool. I also love that even though they’re serviced apartments, daily housekeeping dials up the comfort to deluxe hotel standards.

Price: $$$$

Address: 15 Hastings St, Noosa Heads

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3. Elysium Noosa Resort

the Prestige Suite at Elysium Noosa Resort
The luxury Prestige Suite at the pool at Elysium Noosa Resort. (Image: Supplied)

The former five-star Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort provided me with plenty of single gal-good times plus mother-of-two happiness, so I’m the keenest of beans to slink into its 2025 multi-million-dollar refurbishment and rebranding as Elysium Noosa Resort. The highly anticipated project will see the property’s 175 rooms and suites completely overhauled, but I’ve got my eye on the all-new Wellness Suites which come with their own infrared sauna, terrace spa, and a wellness concierge service to sort out private reformer Pilates, Peloton and other stretch-and-strengthen practices. The glittering outdoor pool will no doubt remain the place to be when cocktail o’clock strikes, while every room or suite is fitted with a private balcony or terrace to keep you living your best al fresco lifestyle past sundown. There’s also the Elysium Spa to lose track of time in, plus Cibaria Noosa, an Italian fine dining restaurant from the team behind Sydney’s Cibaria Manly.

Address: 14-16 Hastings St, Noosa Heads

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4. Netanya Noosa

the pool at Netanya Noosa
Swim to your heart’s content at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Jack Gore Photo)

Another Hastings Street highlight, Netanya Noosa is one to consider if you’re planning well ahead (it’s booked solid all year round), as one and two-bedroom stays, plus penthouses, are situated smack-bang on Main Beach. I love how these open-plan rooms are styled, elegantly minimalistic to let the sun and surf shine throughout the day. The gorgeous Luxury Suites are fitted with spacious private balconies while the cream of the crop, the Starlight Penthouse, even has its own rooftop jacuzzi.

Price: $$$$$

Address: 71-79 Hastings St, Noosa Heads

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5. Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort

golfers riding a golf buggy at Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort
The 18-hole championship golf course makes it a dream for golfers. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Krista Eppelstun)

For a heady dose of indulgence just a little drive from the action, Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort provides the goods no matter your vice. I’m no golfer but the Noosa accommodation’s immaculate pastures even tempted me at one stage (several wines deep, I will add). More my speed, however, is the on-site Noosa Springs Spa which serves as one of the most heavenly escapes in the region. Choose from one or two-bedroom self-contained apartments fitted with full kitchens, private balconies, ensuites, smart TVs and laundries. Plus, there’s that 18-hole championship golf course, plus a fitness centre, a heated 25-metre pool, tennis courts and the seasonally charged Relish Restaurant serving a la carte breakfast and lunch daily. If you’re there on a Thursday, you can enjoy dinner at Relish with BYO wine – how good.

Price: $$$

Address: Links Dr, Noosa Heads

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6. The Imperial Hotel

a mineral heated pool and spa at The Imperial Hotel, Noosa
De-stress with a soothing dip in the mineral-heated pool. (Image: Supplied)

If I’m ever in Noosa on a Wednesday or Sunday, I pencil in a trip to the Eumundi Markets for some of the Sunshine Coast’s best produce and crafts. The most ideal digs to launch my adventure? The Imperial Hotel, located right across the road. The boutique Noosa accommodation is elevated via sleek beachy furnishings and ample plant life, transforming it from pub hotel to standalone star. A mineral heated pool and spa with jets are also on-site, as are barbecues, sun lounges, and a firepit during the cooler months.

Price: $$

Address: 1 Etheridge St, Eumundi

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7. RACV Noosa Resort

I scored serious points with the little ones by booking RACV Noosa Resort, one of the resort chain’s most excellent family-friendly locations. The Noosa accommodation offers one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments and villas, with the smaller variety fitted with large TVs and free wi-fi, and the larger rooms offering full kitchens, laundries, and outdoor dining. Plus, there’s the One Spa day spa, two heated waterslides, an infinity pool, a playground, a splash zone, tennis court, kids’ club, gym and two eateries. A pool bar (which opens at 11am daily) offered super convenient afternoon fuel as my kids dunked and dived until dark.

Price: $$$$

Address: 94 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads

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8. The Lodge Noosa

the whitewashed accommodation at The Lodge Noosa
Stay in style in Noosa Heads. (Image: The Lodge Noosa)

It’s hard to put The Lodge into words, but I’m here to try. Put simply, it’s Noosa accommodation with a certain something you don’t even realise you’re longing for. Designed with a heated plunge pool and pool deck, gas fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, huge grassy backyard and complimentary cruiser bicycles, the three-bedroom holiday rental in Noosa Heads is perfect for tired city slickers craving rejuvenation. It made it onto our round-up of the best Noosa Airbnbs for obvious reasons.

Price: $$$

Address: 5 Eugaire St, Noosa Heads

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9. Tingirana Noosa

blue chairs beside a window with beach views at Tingirana Noosa
Soak up the Hamptons vibe at Tingirana Noosa.

Live your ultimate beachfront apartment life at Tingirana Noosa, which oozes Hamptons charm. There are expansive studio rooms or beachfront one- and two-bedroom apartments overlooking Noosa’s Laguna Bay and Main Beach to choose from. Whatever takes your fancy, kitchenettes or full kitchens, flat-screen TVs, and daily housekeeping ensure all-day comfort while the larger rooms also throw in private balconies with barbecues.

Price: $$$$$

Address: 25 Hastings St, Noosa Heads

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10. On The Beach Noosa Resort

the one-bedroom penthouse at On The Beach Noosa Resort
A stay at this dreamy Noosa retreat puts you right on the beach.

Overlooking Main Beach, this Noosa accommodation is a winner for its private access to the sand, keeping lazy beach hangs right on hand. Home to studio, one- or two-bedroom apartments, as well-equipped kitchens and comfortable lounge spaces that create convenient retreats, this spot is perfect for families. The more lavish rooms come with private spa baths, balconies and outdoor dining spaces but whichever you choose, salty air and lashings of sunshine will follow.

Price: $$$$$

Address: 49 Hastings St, Noosa Heads

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11. Noosa Crest

majestic views of Noosa Main Beach and surrounds, Noosa Crest
Enjoy spectacular views of Noosa Main Beach and surrounds.

Head to the hills for epic views across the region from the comfort of your own private sanctuary. Noosa Crest provides one, two or three-bedroom stays on Noosa Hill which overlooks Main Beach and the whole of Noosa Heads, Laguna Bay and the Noosa River. Better still, the Noosa accommodation is stunning to look at with spaces styled to timber-and-white coastal chic perfection and fitted with sophisticated lounge and dining settings. Two swimming pools, a sauna and outdoor spa, poolside barbecues and a tennis court elevate those holiday vibes even further.

Price: $$$-$$$$

Address: 2 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads

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12. Luxury Afloat Noosa

Taking out a houseboat with your favourite people – does holidaying in nature get any more sensational? Luxury Afloat Noosa offers six-, eight- and 10-berth houseboats available for charter to help get you and your clan camping on water. Each charter includes a dinghy, a kitchen, eskies, linens, towels, a TV, a gas barbecue and a crab-pot if you’re good at dropping a line. They’re all family-friendly while ‘Ibis,’ the eight-berther, even welcomes guests with access needs due to zero stairs and plenty of open space.

Price: It depends on the season, the vessel and whether you’re heading out midweek or over a weekend but expect a starting price of about $300 per night for six guests.

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13. Thirlestane Farm Cottage & Barn

an outdoor tub at Thirlestane Farm Cottage & Barn, Noosa
The beautifully restored cottage is set in the lush Noosa hinterland.

Set 20 minutes back from Noosa’s beaches, this 28-acre property is the ultimate hinterland hang. The previous farm workers’ cottage in Cooroy sits amid rolling hills and idyllic bushland, sleeping up to eight guests and featuring a stunning fire pit, a pizza oven, two fireplaces with one leading onto an alfresco dining area, bathrooms with deep-set baths and one particularly beautiful tub situated on an enclosed patio, and another covered patio with a projector and screen. It’s the country escape of your dreams, within driving distance from all the action.

Price: $$$$$

Address: 85 Evans Rd, Cooroy

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14. Mantra French Quarter

an open-plan apartment at Mantra French Quarter, Noosa
Seek refuge in an open-plan accommodation equipped with all the creature comforts. (Image: Mantra French Quarter)

Situated in another dream location just a few steps off Hastings Street, Mantra French Quarter is close enough to the centre without keeping you awake all night. Found at the Noosa National Park end of Hastings Street, the Noosa accommodation offers one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with all the creature comforts. Think open-plan living and ample natural light, plus there’s a heated lagoon swimming pool, children’s wading pool, two heated spas, a sauna and barbecues for extra fun.

Price: $$$$

Address: 1 Halse Ln, Noosa Heads

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15. Fairshore Noosa Main Beach

a woman on the balcony looks out to the pool and Noosa Main Beach at Fairshore Noosa
The pool at Fairshore Noosa Main Beach beckons for a dip. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jesse Lindemann)

Wake up to blue-on-blue vistas at Fairshore Noosa Main Beach, a beachfront block filled with luxurious two-bedroom stays. No matter which room you’re given, sparkling ocean views will greet you, as will spacious balconies fitted with dining tables. The Noosa accommodation also features a heated swimming pool, children’s wading pool, spa, direct beach access, a gym, a games room, an undercover dining area fitted with three individual barbecues and security parking.

Price: $$$$

Address: 41 Hastings St, Noosa Heads

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16. Little Cove Court

a bedroom with surfboards on the wall at Little Cove Court, Noosa
Book a lush stay amongst tropical gardens. (Image: Little Cove Court)

Love Noosa but lukewarm about the crowds? I feel the same, which is why Little Cove Beach, a little past Hastings Street towards Noosa National Park, is just the ticket. It’s home to Little Cove Court’s two-, three- or four-bedroom self-contained apartments with some providing private plunge pools and sprawling balconies to help laze your days away. Sure, you’ll have to navigate the mayhem if you’re cutting loose on Hastings St, but an on-site swimming pool set amongst tropical gardens, a communal entertainment terrace and secure parking will make staying in totally irresistible.

Price: $$$$

Address: 2-4 Pandanus St, Noosa Heads

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

Getting there, and around

Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy
Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

Where to stay

Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel
Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island
Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

Where to eat

coca chu on hamilton island
Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

Catseye Pool Club hamilton island
Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

Where to explore

hamilton island couple running on trail
Explore the island’s walking trails.

There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

E-mountain biking on hamilton island
Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

Where to play

heart reef
Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.