Noosa is a delightful Queensland destination attracting visitors from all over the world. Stunning natural beauty, wonderful restaurants, pristine beaches, shops, adventure and a wide selection of accommodation make for a perfect Noosa holiday. Noosa is located at the northern end of the Sunshine Coast, 30 minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport and 90 minutes from Brisbane Airport. Noosa guide provides comprehensive Noosa information that is unbiased, factual and regularly updated. Noosa has an excellent year-round climate, have a look at the latest Noosa weather or use the Noosa web camera to view the Noosa beaches. And maybe have a look at the latest Noosa events.
Noosa provides pleasure to all. A north-facing surfing beach, pristine river, fine restaurants, sophistication, national parks, plenty of action and you have the perfect holiday retreat. Visitors flock to Noosa from all over the world, many as frequent visitors and some returning to live in this exceptional coastal village. Described in the New York Times in March 2002 as the place “that appreciates nature and the good life”.
Noosa is the accepted name for a group of villages and enclaves that make up Noosa Shire. The word Noosa is not the correct description for the area although is used to describe the areas and the name known and used by visitors. Noosa Shire was established in 1910.
Noosa Heads is the resort area that contains Hastings Street and the main tourist area behind Hastings Street. The main beach fronts onto Hastings Street. At the end of Hastings Street is the Noosa Woods and Noosa Spit. At the eastern end of Hastings Street is the Noosa National Park. Noosaville the area that borders the Noosa River with its recently upgraded riverfront precinct and street restaurants. Noosa Junction is the central shopping area with cinema and banks and located behind Hastings Street over Noosa Hill.
Tewantin originally a timber town now houses the Council Chambers. A ferry connects Hastings Street with Tewantin reached by a short walk from Noosa Harbour.
South of Noosa Heads is the expansive Sunshine Beach area popular with surfers. To the north across the river is Noosa North Shore a forty mile-long beach that is navigable by four-wheel-drive vehicles. Inland the villages of Cooroy, Eumundi, Boreen Point, Pomona and Kin Kin provide a delightful rural change.
Noosa Shire has a total population of nearly 50,000 people and plans to a cap its population at 56,600.
Noosa climate
Noosa has one of the world’s most perfect climates. The coldest month in Noosa is July where the average daily maximum is 20.9 ºC and the minimum 10.2 ºC. The hottest time in Noosa is January with an average daily maximum of 28.8 ºC and a minimum of 21.3ºC. The wettest period is January to March but rain can be expected all year. Humidity peaks on autumn mornings at around 74 percent and on late summer afternoons at around 66 percent. Cyclones are very rare and Noosa is very well prepared for any such emergency!
Some ideas for a great time in Noosa
- Cruise on the Noosa River down to the Everglades or cruise the Noosa waterways with the multi-million dollar homes
- Visit the shops on Hastings Street.
- Stroll around Noosa marina and enjoy a coffee or meal on the wooden decks or the Sunday markets
- Noosa National Park a must for all this one!
- Use the Noosa Ferry and watch the sunset from the Upper Deck.
- Enjoy the excellent restaurants on Hastings Street or where the locals go on Gympie Terrace.
- Barbeque by the river using the free BBQ facilities
- Have a game of golf at one of the many courses.
- Swim or surf on Noosa Main beach or the beaches facing the Pacific.
- Enjoy the hinterland villages.
- Relax with a massage or spa at one of the many spas.
- If you have a car drive across the ferry to the North Shore and if you have a 4WD drive on the beach
- Take a tour to Fraser Island.. a long day but possible.
Noosa River
The Noosa River system is very much part of Noosa’s life. The Noosa River is one of the most pristine in Australia. It stretches south to Lake Weyba and to the North passes through Lake Cooroibah and Lake Cootharaba to the famous Everglade regions. We can divide the river into seven sections.
Lake Cootharaba
A highly scenic landscape from both land and water. To the east lies the Great Sandy National Park and the high dunes. To the west are little bays and the village of Boreen Point. Lake Cootharaba is a large shallow lake, where sailing. windsurfing, swimming are all popular pastimes. At the end of the lake starts the Everglades with tranquil water and a popular place for visitors.- Between the lakes
Between the lakes, the river flows slowly between forested shores. The edge of the river is marked by the Melaleuca and Casuarina forests. At John’s Landing, there is a campsite and informal boat launching slip. - Lake Cooroibah
This is the smaller of the two lakes and has excellent views of Mount Cooroora and Black Mountain. - Lake Cooroibah to Tewantin
The natural landscape is broken with clearings and a number of houses. Water skiing is possible in this section. In Tewantin is the Noosa Harbour and the terminus for the Noosa ferry. - Noosaville reach
All along this section, the river shores have been developed. The North Shore is mainly private houses and difficult for the public to reach. This creates scenic views from the busy Noosaville side of the river. - Doonella lake
Doonella lake is somewhat isolated from the river by the embankments of the Doonella Bridge. The lake is gradually silting up and very shallow but provides ideal habitats for black swans and other birdlife. - Lake Weyba and Weyba Creek
Lake Weyba is a large shallow lake fringed by natural landscapes. Weyba Creek meanders around and good place to canoe or travel slowly by motorized boat.
Noosa Tours
There are some excellent organized tours originating in Noosa. The Noosa hinterland has some wonderful villages and scenic spots. Most usually involve a trip to Montville and may continue South to the Glasshouse mountains. Some of the tours combine the hinterland trip with visits to some of the main attractions that include the Ginger Factory or the Big Pineapple. Each company operates a different itinerary. A popular one day tour is to the Australia Zoo which is offered as one tour or maybe in combination with a hinterland tour. The longest day tour is to Fraser Island. Most Noosa Tour operators will pick you up from accommodation in Noosa. We would advise that you book direct with the tour company before you arrive as many tours do become full in the high season.
Cruise along Noosa river to the Everglades
Tours depart from Noosa and travel the full length of the Noosa River. This tour takes in Lake Cooroibah and Cootharaba and then enters the Everglades which is part of the Great Sandy National Park. The dark still waters of the upper Noosa river provide stunning mirrored reflections. Most tours involve a BBQ or tea break at Harry’s Hut. All tours are led by enthusiastic guides who will bring to life all the varied wildlife and birds that will be seen. The tour is best done as a day trip but can be done as a half-day tour. A trip to the Everglades is a very popular activity to do whilst staying in Noosa.
Cooloola National Park
Cooloola National Park is the Sunshine Coast’s largest National Park (almost 70,000 hectares). This vast wilderness area forms part of the Great Sandy National Park, which scientists say is the largest vegetated sand dune system in the world. Cooloola Safaris offer a ½ day 4wd beach safari where you can swim in the tranquil waters of Rainbow Beach, famous for its 200-meter high colored sand dunes; drive the length of the 40-mile beach and enjoy breathtaking vistas from Double Island Point lighthouse.
Wildlife and Eco-tours
The stunning unspoiled scenery that surrounds Noosa provides opportunities for a number of wildlife and eco-tours. Most eco-tours involve travel in a 4WD and provide a soft adventure that will give wonderful memories of your time in Noosa.
Wine tasting Tours
In recent years vineyards have started to produce in the hinterland areas. There are wine tours that provide a chance to try some Queensland wines.
Fraser Island
A popular, long day trip is to visit Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island protected as a World Heritage Site. The drive is by driving along with the 40 mile North Shore beach crossing at Inskip Point on special 4WD vehicles. From Noosa, there are a number of tour companies that offer a day trip to Fraser Island. Try Fraser Island Excursions for a tour using Land Cruisers.
Noosa Attractions
Surfing
The Aussie World family fun-park is located behind the iconic Ettamogah Pub on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. With over thirty rides and games, it’s guaranteed to please every one of all ages!
Set in beautiful native Australian gardens Aussie World provides a variety of rides including the Wild Mouse Rollercoaster, Stock shed Speedway Dodgems, the second largest Ferris Wheel in the southern hemisphere, Bizzy Buggies and the classic Swinging Ship and Octopus ride. There is plenty for the little kids including the Tin Lids Tea Party, Tykes Trolley Railway and everyone’s favorite – Side Show Alley! Aussie World and the Ettamogah Pub 73 Frizzo Road Palmview Sunshine Coast Qld 4553 P 07 5494 5444
Australian Nougat Company
View how nougat is made at this small friendly factory located at 4 Tallgum Avenue, Eumundi. Taste some of the many samples which are exported across the world.
Australia Zoo
Crikey! Australia Zoo home of the late world-famous Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, offers visitors wildlife action and entertainment beyond any other, priding itself on promoting hands-on interactive experiences with pythons, koalas, kangaroos, wombats, tigers, elephants, and many more intriguing and awesome animals. The wildlife action is endless with 14 LIVE wildlife shows daily. Set on over 70 acres of Australian bushland with more than 1000 animals, Australia Zoo into your ultimate destination.
Australia Zoo is located an easy one hour drive north of Brisbane or an hour drive south of Noosa along the Glasshouse Mountains Tourist Drive, Beerwah. Australia Zoo is easily accessible by car, coach or train. Catch the FREE Courtesy Coach which can pick up from Noosa, Coolum, Maroochydore, Alex Headlands, Mooloolaba and Caloundra, however bookings are essential. For a full day of action and adventure check out Australia Zoo, it’s the wildest show on earth!
Big Kart Track
Drive around Australia’s fastest and longest go-kart track at 1200m. Big Kart Track has a newly laid Millennium Surface that provides a smooth fast ride. After karting try the Bungy Bullet where you can be shot 50m into the air in just over a second. Located at Old Brisbane Road, Landsborough on the route to Australia zoo, open every day from 9- 5 and until 10pm on Saturday (07 5494 1613).
Big Pineapple Plantation
Take a train ride through this working pineapple farm at which a number of additional tours have been added over the years since it opened in 1971. These include a ride on the Macadamia nut mobile where enthusiastic guides explain how Macadamia nuts are processed, the Harvest Boat ride that educates us on hydroponics, the rainforest walk or visits the wildlife gardens. Located on Old Bruce Highway, Woombye and easy to spot with a 16m high fiberglass pineapple marking the entrance. Open every day 9.30 – 5 with free admission. but with charges for the tours (07 5442 1333).
Botanical Gardens
Work commenced in 1987 to create some magnificent botanic gardens on the site of a rubbish tip at Lake Macdonald. Around 80 percent of the plants in the garden are native species and home to tortoises and 40 varieties of birds make for a very pleasant place to walk around. The gardens are located on Lake Macdonald Drive just before you reach Cooroy from Noosa. Ida Duncan who founded the gardens had a vision that a rubbish tip was not the correct use of land and she planted native trees all over the land.
The gardens cover 20 acres and have an amphitheater in the gardens used for concerts and weddings and other Noosa events. Lake MacDonald is used to breeding fish and is a peaceful lake to enjoy picnics. One every day the Noosa Botanical Gardens are in Lake MacDonald Drive. Cooroy.
Eumundi Market
The famous Eumundi market operates every Saturday and Wednesday morning. Over 250 exciting stores offer handicrafts local produce and many other delights. With careful selection ensures only the best items and crafts are available for purchase. Regular buses operate from Noosa to Eumundi and also many local tour operators offer an excursion. Henry’s (07 5474 0199) offer a shuttle service direct from your accommodation to Eumundi Market. Easy to find in the center of Eumundi with parking signposted. (0419 733 468).
Fairhill Native Plants
Fairhill Native Plants and Botanic Gardens 3ha garden was established in 1974 and aims to show the variety of Australian plants in the hope of encouraging all gardeners to grow some. Pathways lead you through a mix of wildflower and rainforest gardens containing local and north Queensland species. Plants can be purchased at the nursery. There is a gift shop, bookshop, and a restaurant. Located at Fairhill Road, Yandina and open daily from 8.30 – 5 (07 5446 7088).
Garnisha Spice Gardens
Garnisha spice gardens are 20 minutes from Noosa at Boreen Point. Walk around the gardens, view the cooking demonstrations and see the curry factory. Open Friday and Saturday from 10 – 4 pm and Sunday from 10 – 12.30 pm. (07 5485 3386)
Ginger Factory
The world’s largest high tech Ginger processing plant with historic cane train through native rainforest and gardens. The ginger shop sells the biggest selection of ginger produce in the world. The Ginger factory now hosts the Buderim Ginger Cooking School. The seasonal program has something for everyone with hands-on classes and lots of special events. The Ginger Factory is open daily 9 – 5, free admission and located at 50 Pioneer Road, Yandina (07 5446 7096)
Majestic Theatre
Australia’s longest continuously running theatre is located at Pomona – about 30 minutes’ drive from Noosa Heads. The Majestic was built in 1921 and still operates today. The theatre has a pipe organ that accompanies each performance. Evening screenings are shown most Thursdays at 8.30 pm with other shows as arranged. Call 07 5485 2330 for the latest times of shows. Box office hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10am-2pm
Noosa Marina
The views and ambiance of the Noosa Marina is something to be experienced. This complex is a unique destination for both locals and tourists alike. The specialty restaurants overlook a forty berth marina, catering for breakfast, snacks, lunches, and dinner as well as larger functions. The complex also boasts a number of specialty shops, a wine bar & fish & chip shop. Any number of boating activities are available from the Harbour, from deep-sea and river fishing, cruises and self-drive hire boats, even the latest houseboats for the ultimate Noosa Holiday.
Nutworks
The Noosa area has long been known for its Macadamia nuts. You can visit the Macadamia Factory which is located opposite the Ginger Factory in Yandina (07 5472 7777) and experience the nut processing operation and sample the many flavored nuts in the tourist shop.
Sunshine Castle at Bli Bli
The Sunshine Castle Bli Bli opened in 1973 is a mock medieval castle featuring a dungeon, tower block, and collection of 350 dancing dolls representing 57 countries. Located on the David Low Way at Bli Bli. Much in the tradition of Castles all around the world – the Sunshine Castle on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia captures the imagination of old and young alike. A stand out landmark in this location it offers excitement, enchantment, and education as you pass through its doors.
The planning and execution of the Norman style Castle, with medieval additions, complete with moat, turrets, towers, and drawbridge is unique in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere. A visit to the Castle is ideal for a family outing or a fun experience for young and old. 90% undercover it is a great option come rain or shine. Opening hours, are daily from 9.30am – 4.30pm, Late night Cafe & Bistro opening on Thursdays – until 10pm (07 5448 4477).
Superbee
A honey factory open to visitors with daily shows every hour. Call 07 07 5445 3544 for details.
Top Shots
Offers mini golf, rock climbing, blaster boats, and a giant vertical trampoline as well as a water slide, great for kids you can just pay for mini-golf or buy an all-inclusive ticket for everything. They also have family tickets, making it a good value fun activity for all the family. Open all day and until late evening on weekends & holidays. Located at 2 Allora Drive, Maroochydore (07 5442 7007)
Underwater World
The largest oceanarium in the Southern Hemisphere is located at The Wharf, Mooloolaba and has almost 20,000 sea creatures, an 80-meter walk through the tunnel. Shows take place during the day. You can dive with the sharks at Underwater World. Now includes Dinosaur Word with an interactive show. Open every day 9 – 6 (07 5444 8488)
Valley Rattler Railway
A scenic full-day 80km steam rail journey along the Mary Valley departs on Sundays and Wednesdays. This 80km return trip commences at the historic Gympie Station. The first stop is at Kandanga Station where a selection of local produce is available. Then, lunchtime stops at Imbil which is the Valley’s largest town. The journey is not complete without a stop at Dagun Station to savor local wine and cheeses, guaranteed to make the rest of your day a merry one.
On Saturdays, there is a half-day steam tour, this 40km steam train visits Amamoor, Dagun and the historic Gympie Station. Marvel at the splendor of these Stations, restored to capture the original character of the early 1900s. Enjoy arts and crafts, wine and cheese tasting and local produce, experience the friendliness and hospitality of a bygone era. For timetable details and price phone (07 5482 2750).
Woodworks
Wood Works Museum is a Queensland Museum Campus and operates as a joint venture with the Department of Primary Industries. The museum features static displays, working displays and live demonstrations in traditional hand tools, blacksmithing and woodworking. It is located on the Bruce Highway in Gympie which is about 50 minutes’ drive north of Noosa. The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9 – 4 and on Sunday from 1 – 4 . (07 5483 7691).
Noosa Adventure
Surfing
Noosa has some of the best longboarding waves in Australia. With many hidden coves and huge stretches of sandy shores, Noosa is the perfect surf escape. Get a wave all to yourself on the open beaches or surf the sheltered points in the National Park for some of the best waves of your life. When Tea Tree is going off, it really goes off, you won’t be disaapointed. Head to the surfing section on the category page for our favorite picks or check back on the app home page from time to time, we will let you know when it is pumping.
Noosa National Park
Mountain Biking
After a recent overhaul with a whole heap of new trails, obstacles, ramps, and all sorts, the Tewantin State Forest is a must for the biking fans out there. With tonnes of hills and routes to explore you will love it.
Tewantin State Forest
Thriller Speed Boat
All aboard the Thriller speed boat for 500hp of excitement. One of the best ways to experience Noosa from the ocean. Blast around the National Park, jump waves and spot a huge array of wildlife.
Gympie Terrace Noosaville Australia
Skydive
A spectacular thrill awaits you in Coolum if you are up for a serious adrenaline rush and have $400 to blow. From the plane, you can see all the way from Brisbane to Fraser Island, jump out and free fall for 60 seconds and then calmly land right on the sand at Coolum Beach. Hell of a lot of fun.
Skydive Clubhouse/Kittyhawk Close Marcoola QLD Australia
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Fancy something a little different? Stand up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a hoot for everyone, hire a board on the river on a calm day and test out your balance. A really enjoyable way to explore the waterways, or for those that are a little more adventurous head out on the ocean and try catch a few waves.
256 Gympie Terrace Noosaville Australia