Comb the coast’s best bits with our favourite things to do in Noosa

If you thought the best things to do in Noosa involved nothing more than a towel and cozzies, think again. Slurp up that coffee and pop your book down – it’s time to discover this beach town’s magnetism.

From life-changing restaurants and one-of-a-kind handicrafts to world-renowned ecosystems and spectacular coastal walks, the best things to do in Noosa are worth leaving that infinity pool for. Momentarily, anyway. Here’s my pick of the best cup-filling capers in the glittering coastal hot spot.

In short

If you only have time for one of the best things to do in Noosa, make it a shop down Hastings Street. Sure, it’s cluttered with crowds but stickybeaking boutiques with an ice-cream in hand has got to be one of my most cherished Queensland holiday memories.

1. Lose yourself at Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses

a couple relaxing at Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses, Noosa — Soak in rustic indulgence at Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses. (Image: Supplied)

Does lazy nothingness sum up your holiday speed? Cheers to that, and I wholly advise a visit to Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses on your to-do list. Opened in April 2025, this low-key wellness destination is a winner for its stunning hinterland location and chilled vibes. I journey into lush farmland to find my natural spring water-flowing tub overlooking rolling green hills. It’s about 45 minutes from the rush of Hastings Street, so I feel lightyears away from tourist town. Epsom salts melt my limbs for a whopping two hours inside a private shed of my own while coconut water arrives complimentary. If washing down uninterrupted hinterland views with a beer or wine sounds more appealing, BYO drinks as long as they’re in plastic, not glass. A session starts from $129 per person and there are two sheds with two baths in each, inviting remote romance if you’re coupled up.

2. Seize Noosa’s annual whale watching season

Noosa Wave Boating Adventures Swim with the Whales — Spot friendly giants and their playful calves. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

If you’re visiting the Sunshine Coast between June and November, Noosa offers several top-notch whale watching expeditions. I’ve spotted the big friendly giants, and even their playful calves, with Noosa Wave Boating Adventures in the past, and loved every second of the two-hour adventure. If you don’t spot a whale, the team gift you 50 per cent off another trip out, but the odds are typically in your favour given these skippers rub shoulders with the big guys annually. There’s also Whale Songs Noosa , another reputable tour company that runs a two-hour trip with a whale and dolphin researcher, so question time never ends.

3. Soar high above with Skydive Noosa

Tick off your bucket list with a freefall in the capable hands of Skydive Noosa . Flying out of Sunshine Coast Airport, this unforgettable thing to do in Noosa takes you 13,000 feet into that dazzling blue sky to be launched over the coastline with Coolum Beach locked in sight. Stomach-in-throat, you’ll glide down to the sand as views out to K’gari and even Brisbane paint a spectacular scene only few dare to spy.

4. Get dizzy exploring the Noosa cocktail bar scene

the bar interior of Atelier Wine Bar, Noosa — Imbibe refined drops at Atelier Wine Bar.

You’re all over its eateries, but have you ventured into the cocktail and wine bars? Rivalling those found in major cities, Noosa’s fancy tipples scene blends chic interiors with epic drops. Atelier Wine Bar is so sleek it feels like a fashion boutique, Theo’s Social Club offers (oak) barrels of fun and warm hospitality, and Yorkers Bar shakes cocktails so delicious it’s impossible to stop at one (most people, including myself, don’t).

5. Navigate the waterways with a Noosa boat hire

a family fishing in Noosa with Pelican Boat Hire — Book yourself a legendary day out on the Noosa River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

I love getting out on the water to channel the lives of the rich and famous. Pelican Boat Hire has been operating for more than 50 years and provides everything you need (including a detailed map) for a legendary day out on the Noosa River. I chose the Ultimate BBQ Pontoon during a recent Noosa visit for its plush seating and envious stares, and my kids and husband lapped up space as we dipped into the water between languid fishing attempts. An awesome day out as the captain of your own ship.

6. Make time for self-care at a Noosa day spa

guests at Ikatan Day Spa having a full body massage — Indulge in a treatment at Ikatan Day Spa.

One of my favourite things to do in Noosa? Zeroing in on me. Noosa’s best day spas include Stephanies Ocean Spa and Sensaura Day Spa , but my eternal go-to is Ikatan Day Spa in nearby Doonan. I adore the team’s 75-minute Prasanna Massage Package, conducted in an outdoor gazebo immersed in lush tropical gardens and spanning heavenly foot therapy, as well as massages of the head, arms and hands. The day spa is inspired by the tranquillity of Bali, so I find Zen the moment I enter.

7. Soak up the sun at the best Noosa beaches

an aerial of Noosa Heads — Noosa Heads is a dreamy haven for surfers. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Dave Wilcock)

Ditch the pool for Mother Nature’s most sensational sand and surf. Noosa’s best beaches include Main Beach for unrivalled people-watching, while quiet sunbaking is best secured at Sunrise Beach, Alexandria Bay and Little Cove Beach. For less populated surfing, head to Castaways, Marcus and Sunshine Beach (more on standout Sunshine later).

8. Unearth local treasures at Noosa markets

organic farm good stalls at Eumundi Markets — Peruse organic farm goods at Eumundi Markets.

Beach-inspired homewares, fashion and jaw-dropping crafts dominate so many of Noosa’s popular markets. I’ve rounded up the best markets right here, including the overwhelmingly awesome Eumundi Markets and the Peregian Beach Markets . Live music and mouth-watering food always get me out of bed early, too.

9. Be enlightened with the Kabi Kabi Virtual Welcome to Country

Make sure you’re strolling past the Visitor Information Centre on Hastings Street at 7 pm every night because a wonderful six-minute audio-visual presentation celebrates the traditional owners, the Kabi Kabi people, and this magnificent land. Arrive curious and leave utterly humbled — my entire family loved it last visit, and that includes the restless preschooler.

10. Throw a line off a Noosa fishing charter

Catch your dinner from a coastline filled with coral reef, snapper, mackerel and tuna. A Noosa fishing charter from the likes of Deep Sea Fishing Co. , who offer five, seven and nine-hour charters, and Noosa Sport Fishing , offering charters designed to reel you in a win, will sort you out.

11. Splash cash at Hastings Street’s boutiques and eateries

a couple exploring Hastings Street, Noosa — Shop and dine on the famous Hastings Street. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jamie MacFadyen)

The scene to be seen, Hastings Street’s irresistible string of restaurants, retail boutiques and bars is a non-negotiable thing to do in Noosa. Spanning locally produced fashion, homewares, sporting goods and art, plus delicious treats for all tastes, the main strip is a non-stop melting pot of action.

12. Forage fresh produce at the Noosa Farmers Market

a market stall at the Noosa Farmers Market — Find crafts and fresh farm produce at the Noosa Farmers Market. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Tourism Australia)

Sundays in Noosa aren’t complete without dropping into the famous Noosa Farmers Market , located in laid-back Noosaville. It’s a wonderland for freshly sourced produce, excellent coffee, outstanding condiments and a sprinkling of arts and crafts from 7am until midday every Sunday.

13. Connect with nature on a walk through Noosa National Park

the Sunshine Beach, Noosa National Park — Sunshine Beach is tucked away on the southern side of Noosa National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

Escape the crowds and embrace natural wonders by pounding the pavement in Noosa National Park. My comprehensive guide to its walking trails will help you whittle down a walk tailored to what you’re looking for. Enchanting wildlife? Tick. Soaring views? Double tick.

14. Find a new favourite at Noosa’s breweries and distilleries

pouring tap beer into a glass at Heads of Noosa Brewing Co. — Grab yourself a glass of signature tap beer at Heads of Noosa Brewing Co.

Much like its wine and cocktail bar scene, the growing cluster of top-notch Noosa breweries and distilleries is pouring pure genius. My all-time favourite is Seabourne Distillery for its masterful use of native ingredients in well-balanced spirits, while Boiling Pot Brewery Co is epic for too-easy-to-drink brews, and the taproom at Heads of Noosa is always a great vibe.

15. Live like a laidback local at Sunshine Beach

two women admiring ocean views at Sunshine Beach, Noosa — Soak up panoramic views at Sunshine Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The energy of Noosa Heads is intoxicating but Sunshine Beach is the mellow winner of my holiday dreams. It’s much hillier so getting around isn’t as seamless, but a distinct village feel, fantastic coffee and one helluva surf club with sweeping ocean views, steals my heart every revisit.

16. Dine like a celebrity at Noosa’s best restaurants

enjoying pizza and wine at Somedays Pizza, Noosa — Somedays Pizza is one of many top-notch places to drink and dine in Noosa.

Eat, sleep, repeat – it’s a lifestyle holidaymakers travel the world in search of. While my list of best restaurants in Noosa is too long to conquer in one visit, don’t miss Somedays Pizza for a game-changing slice, Rickys River Bar & Restaurant for an ultimate long lunch with the girls, and Bistro C for unbeatable beach party atmosphere.

17. Get active with a range of Noosa water sports

SUPing at Tea Tree Bay — Hop on a SUP and float across the stunning Tea Tree Bay.

Whether your heart races for jet skis, SUPs, kayaks or electric hydrofoils, calm waters and killer surf breaks offer ideal conditions for action-packed things to do in Noosa. Noosa Watersports is a one-stop shop for most options, while Fliteschool Noosa provides guided lessons on those crazy, hovering, electric hydrofoils.

18. Sink a cold one (or few) at Noosa’s best bars

Sunset Bar at the Noosa Boathouse is a picture-perfect spot for sundowners.

Got a spare afternoon? Fill it with discovering mouth-watering concoctions in the most sparkling of spaces. Miss Moneypenny’s on Hastings Street is always pumping, YoYo Bar & Restaurant is a low-key Noosaville superstar, and Sunset Bar at the Noosa Boathouse offers drinks with a side of picture-perfect views.

19. Delight in locally roasted coffee at Noosa’s best cafes

coffee blends at First Batch Coffee Roasters, Noosa — Take your pick of coffee blends at First Batch Coffee Roasters.

But first, coffee. Noosa is filled with incredible blends, boasting several stellar roasters throughout the region. I’ve rounded up the best coffee and cafes for your savouring pleasure, but just head straight to Sunshine Social in Sunshine Beach if you’re staying there, and if you’re in Noosaville, go for the industrial zone’s Clandestino Coffee .

20. Marvel in the beauty of the Noosa Everglades

an aerial of a kayak along Noosa Everglades with Kanu Kapers — Kayak along the Noosa Everglades with Kanu Kapers.

Staggering sights beckon from the top end of the Noosa River where the Noosa Everglades begins. The 60-kilometre stretch of waterways, spellbinding plant life and amazing wildlife is best navigated with an expert tour like Kanu Kapers , who offer kayaks, and Everglades Eco Safaris , who run a 2.5-hour ‘Serenity’ boat tour (with bubbles) that I couldn’t stop (and evidently still can’t) raving about afterwards.

21. Sleep under the stars with Noosa’s best glamping

a kangaroo outside a glamping tent at Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp — Go glamping with resident roos at Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Sacrifice a solid roof for the night in the name of adventure with Noosa’s most luxurious glamping experiences. One of the best things to do in Noosa if it’s once-in-a-lifetime memories you’re chasing, my picks are Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp and Noosa Eco Retreat .

22. Dive into riverside fish and chips in Noosaville

seafood plates on the table at Noosa Boathouse — Feast on freshly cooked seafood by the river. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

It’s often the simple things that make my holiday memories last, like grabbing fish and chips for a riverside picnic with the fam. Embrace quality time with your favourite people over excellent fish and chips from Noosa Boathouse ’s takeaway window. Best of all, there’s ample lawn space for the largest of clans.

23. Stay up all night at Village Bicycle

When a nightcap calls, I never say no to Village Bicycle at Noosa Junction. With one of the latest closing times in Noosa (midnight), this is an unpretentious joint that’s never disappointed. Expect a graffiti-clad beer garden and extensive booze menu, plus delicious burgers, wings and more to line your stomach.

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

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Things to do in Noosa: Bathhouses, whale watching and distilleries