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Noosa, Queensland - National Parks, Beach Life & Everglade Adventures on the Sunshine Coast
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Dec 7, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Noosa, Queensland - National Parks, Beach Life & Everglade Adventures on the Sunshine Coast
Noosa is one of the Sunshine Coast’s most stylish and popular coastal destinations, perfectly blending stunning natural beauty with laid-back sophistication. Located at the northern end of the Sunshine Coast, around 155 kilometres north of Brisbane, Noosa is known for its pristine beaches, lush national parks, vibrant food scene and relaxed holiday atmosphere.
From coastal walks and hidden swimming spots to river cruises and bustling markets, Noosa offers a diverse mix of experiences that appeal to nature lovers, foodies and beachgoers alike.
The highlights of our recent visit to Noosa were starting the day wandering through the Noosa National Park to the Fairy Pools and exploring Hastings Street and Main Beach in the heart of Noosa. On Sunday morning, we went to the Noosa Farmers Market, we walked along the Noosa River and took a boat ride down the Noosa Everglades.
Walking Noosa National Park to the Fairy Pools
One of the highlights of our visit to Noosa was walking through Noosa National Park to the famous Fairy Pools. We started from the Noosa National Park carpark and followed the coastal walking track, one of the most popular walks in Australia.
The coastal trail winds along the headland and features a mix of boardwalks, dirt tracks, scenic lookouts and sweeping ocean views. Along the way, we passed Tea Tree Bay and Dolphin Point, before continuing towards Granite Bay.
At the far end of Granite Bay, there is a bench seat near where the track curves around a large bend. From here, you leave the main track and carefully climb down over the rocks to reach the Fairy Pools below.
The best time to visit the Fairy Pools is at low tide, when the rock pools are calm and accessible. Take care climbing over the sharp rocks and always be mindful of tides and swell conditions if you plan to swim. The walk to the Fairy Pools is approximately 5 kilometres return and takes around 45 minutes, depending on pace and conditions.
Hastings Street & Noosa Main Beach
After our walk, we headed into the heart of Noosa to explore Hastings Street, the town’s premier shopping and dining strip and home to the Noosa Visitor Information Centre.
This leafy, palm-lined street is packed with fashion boutiques, homeware stores, cafés, restaurants and art galleries. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely wander, indulge in a little shopping or settle in for a long lunch.
Just behind Hastings Street lies Noosa Main Beach, one of the few north-facing beaches on Australia’s east coast. Sheltered from strong winds and swell, the beach is calm on most days and ideal for swimming.
Stretching for 1.2 kilometres, Main Beach is patrolled 365 days a year by surf lifesavers and is consistently ranked as one of Australia’s favourite beaches.
Noosa Farmers Market
On Sunday morning, we visited the Noosa Farmers Market, held every week from 6.00 am to midday at the Noosa AFL Club on Weyba Road in Noosaville.
The market is a fantastic place to experience the region’s local produce, with stalls offering fresh organic fruit and vegetables, artisan bread, homemade sauces and marinades, nuts, olives, fresh flowers, skincare products and much more.
It’s also an excellent spot for breakfast or brunch, with local coffee and a wide range of food vendors serving up fresh and delicious meals under the trees.
Exploring the Noosa River
The Noosa River is a pristine 40-kilometre waterway that winds through the heart of the region and offers a completely different side of Noosa to the beaches.
We enjoyed walking along the riverbank and soaking up the relaxed atmosphere, with waterfront cafés and restaurants dotted along the shore. Popular activities on the river include scenic cruises, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, all set against calm waters and peaceful surroundings.
Cruising the Noosa Everglades
One of the most memorable experiences in the Noosa region is exploring the Noosa Everglades, one of only two Everglades systems in the world — the other located in Florida. This vast waterway is part of the Noosa Biosphere Reserve, with tea-tree tinted waters, ancient rainforest and abundant birdlife creating a peaceful, almost other-worldly landscape.
We started our Everglades adventure from Habitat Noosa, where we hired a small tinny and meandered down the calm waterways. As we glided along the river, the reflections of the surrounding forest created the Everglades’ famous “River of Mirrors,” offering stunning photo opportunities and a truly relaxing experience off the beaten track.
Noosa River & Everglades Afternoon Tea Cruise
For those who prefer a guided experience, the Noosa River and Everglades Afternoon Tea Cruise is a wonderful way to see this unique ecosystem without the hassle of hiring your own boat. This scenic cruise departs from Noosa and travels gently through the river, past riverside homes, birdlife-rich wetlands and into the heart of the Everglades.
Along the way, your knowledgeable guide shares stories of the region’s ecology and history as you sit back and enjoy afternoon tea onboard — often including fresh local treats and refreshing drinks. It’s a relaxed, social way to experience this remarkable environment and ideal for couples, families and anyone who loves nature.
More things to do in Noosa
Learn to Surf at Noosa
Ride your first waves with a guided surf lesson at one of Australia’s most iconic surf destinations. Ideal for beginners and those wanting to improve their skills.
Discover Nearby Beaches
Venture beyond Main Beach to explore Sunshine Beach, Little Cove, Tea Tree Bay, Granite Bay and Alexandria Bay. These beaches offer a quieter, more natural coastal experience and are perfect for walking, surfing or simply relaxing away from the crowds.
Noosa Ocean Adventure & Dolphin Safari
Get your adrenaline pumping with a high-speed water thrill ride experience off Noosa’s coastline and the chance to see some dolphins, perfect for adventure seekers and fun-loving travellers.
Paddle the Noosa River
Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and enjoy the calm waters of the Noosa River at your own pace.
Enjoy Noosa's Dining Scene
Experience Noosa’s renowned food culture, from beachfront cafés and riverside restaurants to fine dining and fresh local seafood. Hastings Street and the Noosa River precinct are standout spots for memorable meals.
Stillwater Luxury Noosa Sunset Cruise
Enjoy a relaxed sunset cruise along the Noosa River with beautiful views and a laid-back atmosphere — perfect for couples and sunset lovers.
Why Visit Noosa?
Noosa offers the perfect balance of nature and lifestyle. Whether you’re hiking coastal trails, swimming at calm beaches, browsing boutique shops, sampling local produce or drifting through the Everglades, Noosa delivers unforgettable experiences at an easy, relaxed pace.
It’s a destination that suits everything from a day trip to a longer Sunshine Coast stay and one that keeps visitors coming back time and time again.
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