10 Things To Do in Noosa That Are Actually Worth It (From People Who Lived There)
- Manta Ray Cove
- Apr 3
- 5 min read
Noosa is one of those places that looks like it’s going to be overrated…and then completely proves you wrong.
Located on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland Australia, Noosa has everything - beaches, national parks, good food, slightly chaotic nightlife, and just enough boujee energy to make you feel like you should probably have your life together a bit more.
We actually lived in Noosa for the best part of a year (yes, we’re still not over it), so this isn’t just a random list pulled from Google. These are the things we genuinely loved, did multiple times, and would 100% recommend if you’re visiting.
Tip: If you can, stay at least 4 nights - anything less and you’ll be rushing.
1. Spend time on Hastings Street (you literally can’t avoid it)
Hastings Street is the main hub of Noosa, and honestly, it lives up to the hype.
You’ve got:
shops
restaurants
bars
and Noosa Main Beach right there
It’s one of those places where you can grab frozen yoghurt (We highly recommend Yo-Chi…yes, it’s worth it.), browse the shops, have a cocktail or oysters at happy hour, and end up at the beach without really planning to. It's also gorgeous.
At night it's arguably even better. Fairy lights cover the trees, bustling restaurants and busy bars and even live music in a handful of places.
You physically cannot go to Noosa and skip this.
2. Explore the Noosa Everglades (and try not to lose your glasses)
Yes - Noosa has Everglades. One of only two Everglade systems in the world (the other being in Florida).
Unlike Florida, there are no alligators (or crocs!) here and it's one of the most peaceful places we've ever been.
We did a mix of a guided boat tour and self-guided kayaking - which we’d 100% recommend - best of both worlds.
Also, quick story: We “saw” a koala. By which we mean…everyone else saw it, and one of us saw it through a zoomed-in camera because she didn’t wear her glasses in case she fell out of the kayak (don't worry about that. It's the calmest water ever - you'll be fine).
Moral of the story: wear your glasses, you might see a koala, you probably won’t fall in...but if you do, sorry.
Tip: if you're not a fan of flies, you probably won't want to use the bathroom at the break stop. So just keep that in mind. Also keep in mind, that the flies loooooove black. We learned the hard way, dressed head to toe in black. We got home absolutely covered in bites. Would not recommend.
3. Do the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk (free + unreal views)
This is one of the best free things to do in Noosa. And actually, just one of the best things to do in Noosa - free or otherwise.
The Coastal Walk has insane ocean views, hidden beaches along the way and potential dolphin/koala/turtle/whale sightings. It’s also suitable for most fitness levels.
Bring:
water
swimmers
patience (you will want to stop constantly)
We think this is the most beautiful coastal walk in Australia (big statement, but we stand by it).
The Fairy Pools (honest review)
We’re going to say it…
They’re… fine.
Nice? Yes.
Worth scrambling down rocks and fighting influencers for a photo? Debatable.
Honestly, just look at them from the main walking path. We don't think they're worth climbing down (and then back up!) the rocks to join the queue of influencers. Unless you're an influencer, in which case go for it!
4. Chill at Noosa Main Beach (with better equipment than us)
Noosa Main Beach is beautiful, swimmable and, conveniently, right next to everything
Perfect for:
relaxing
swimming
pretending you can surf
Now - important note.
Everyone here has a CoolCabana.
We did not.
We had a Kmart umbrella that would not stay upright, fell on us repeatedly (we're not over it) and caused public embarrassment.
Would not recommend.
Pro tip: Rent gear from the beach truck if you’re not prepared - it’s actually really affordable.
Swim between the flags, wear your suncream and don't be the guys getting knocked out by their cheap umbrella. (It could have been a user issue, we'll admit that).
5. Go out in Noosa Junction (good vibes, lower prices)
If Hastings Street feels a bit too polished, or you want to stay out later, head to Noosa Junction.
It’s less touristy, more affordable and still very fun.
Some of our favourites:
4 Pines Brewery (turns into a piano bar three nights a week)
Mr Drifter
Light Years
Someday’s Pizza
There’s also - live music, quiz nights, a cinema and a great lunch deal at Monkey Punch!
6. Spend an afternoon at Gympie Terrace (river views + chill vibes)
Gympie Terrace is perfect when you want to slow things down. River views, picnic spots and pelicans casually walking around like they own the place
The Boathouse is a must for their Sunset Bar and we also love Luuna for Mexican food and Depot for breakfast.
Gympie Terrace is also home to one of Australia's 'Big Things' - The Big Pelican. (We've honestly not made that up, go and see for yourself).
7. Hire a boat on the Noosa River (fan favourite for a reason)
This is one of the best things to do in Noosa. Cruise around looking at all of the amazing houses with the Noosa River as their back garden (and come up with a plan of how you might be able to own one, one day). Take a few drinks, put some music on and have a lovely afternoon.
Most boats come with a BBQ, Bluetooth speaker and optional fishing gear.
We tried fishing. We snapped the line immediately.
Then we tried fishing again. Caught a puffer fish. Lived to tell the story.
Anyway, hiring a boat and spending a few hours on the river is something you simpley have to do in Noosa!
8. Try a jet ski tour (if you’re braver than us)
This one is for the adventurous.
The jet ski tours take you from the river out into the ocean, And if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins.
Now…honest review:
We fell off. We couldn’t get back on. It was not our finest moment.
BUT - everyone else loved it!
9. Watch a Noosa sunset (non-negotiable)
Noosa sunsets are ridiculous. In a good way.
Best spots:
Noosa Spit
Laguna Lookout
Noosa River
Culgoa Point
Whether you’re on the beach, at a bar or pretending to be outdoorsy, you need to see at least one.
10. Visit the Eumundi Markets (worth leaving Noosa for)
Technically not Noosa itself, but we’re including it anyway.
Held every Wednesday & Saturday, these markets are huge.
You’ll find:
food
handmade goods
live music
random things you didn’t plan to buy
Oh, and the BEST doughnuts we've found yet!
Go early if you’re driving, parking can be chaos.
Final Thoughts
Noosa is one of those places that’s very easy to fall in love with.
It’s got the perfect mix of:
relaxation
adventure
good food
and slightly chaotic memories
And whether you’re there for a few days or a full week, these are the things we’d prioritise every time.
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you book or purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Read more here. – Privacy/Disclosure
Comments