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Looking for things to do in Noosa, Queensland? You’ve come to the right place!
Noosa was my favourite town I visited during my backpacking trip to Australia. With all that golden sand, tropical weather and sparkling blue ocean, Noosa will have you head over heels in a matter of minutes!
I spent 4 days in Noosa, shopping to my heart’s content on Hastings Street, hitting the waves for some surfing, hiking my rear end off in its epic National Park, and being a lazy beach bum for a few days. Who could blame me?
It’s safe to say I know a thing or two about what to do in and around Noosa. Being a backpacker, I was also on a mission to save money, so I have some great recommendations for the best free things to do in Noosa too.
Tired of the usual cookie-cutter suggestions? I got you – in this post I’ll also share a few slightly more unusual things to do in Noosa.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Top tip: The Australian currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). All prices listed in this post are in AUD.
Table of Contents
The Best Things to Do in Noosa
Hikes in Noosa
Let’s be real – the world-famous hiking trails are probably what drew you to Noosa. If they didn’t then you’re in for one hell of a good surprise!
Noosa National Park is the most popular national park in the whole of Australia, racking up over one million visitors every year!
There are 5 main hiking tracks in the park, which vary greatly in length. The majority of visitors hike the Noosa Headland coastal track, but you can’t go wrong with any of them!
1. Noosa Coastal Track
The Noosa Coastal Track is the most popular hiking route in Noosa by far since it’s so darn gorgeous!
Taking in hidden beaches and non-stop coastline, this 5.4km track is a must-do if you’re in Noosa, and is my top recommendation for free things to do in Noosa.
Although there’s plenty of visitors, I never felt like the hike was crowded – and I was there in peak season! It’s really important you start the hike either super early in the morning or later in the afternoon, as the sun is merciless in Noosa in the afternoon!
If you need more persuading, or just want to know more about hiking the coastal track, you can check out my blog post dedicated to just that here!
2. Hike the Tanglewood Track
For a more isolated walk, you have to check out the 3.8km Tanglewood track.
Although it also starts in central Noosa and ends at Hell’s Point, a stop you’ll have already seen on the coastal track, the Tanglewood track offers a totally different experience.
If you’re not a beach person then this is the Noosa hike for you! Meandering through the lush rainforest to the sound of birdsong. The walk is fairly easy for people with a normal level of fitness, although there are some steep sections.
Since the majority of the Tanglewood track is underneath thick canopies it’s the perfect activity to do in the afternoon when the strong sun in Noosa makes almost everything else feel impossible!
3. Hike the Emu Mountain Summit Trail
In the Emu Mountain section of Noosa National Park you’ll find the Emu Mountain Summit walk, a very short but steep trek to the top of the mountain to see incredible panoramic views of the coastline.
Despite being only 1.1 km long it’ll take you longer than you might expect to complete this trail. The National Park website recommends setting aside around 45 minutes to 1 hour to hike to the top and back due to the steep incline.
On the other hand most people on the Aussie Bushwalking forum agree that if you’re in good fitness you can get to the top in 10-15 minutes.
4. Hike the Alexandria Bay Trail
Starting at Alexandria Bay, this 4.2 km round trip hike takes you along the southern edge of Noosa National Park’s Headland section. This is the hike for you if you love nothing more than being surrounded by greenery.
The Alexandria Bay trail has it in droves!
Since this is an inland route, the only coastal stop you’ll have on this hike is at Alexandria Bay. The walk takes around 90 minutes to complete.
5. Hike The Noosa Hill Walk
Discover Noosa’s unspoilt forests on this 2.8km circuit hike, which is usually pretty quiet. It’s ideal if you’re looking to spend some quality alone time without sharing the hiking path with the tourist crowds.
The route climbs the northern side of Noosa Hill, and you can take a short detour from the track (just 150 metres) to summit the hill, before continuing on your hike.
6. Hike Mount Tinbeerwah
Inland in Tewantin National Park you’ll find the majestic Mount Tinbeerwah, where you can embark on the fairly easy 1km trail to the Mount Tinbeerwah lookout point.
From here, you’ll get panoramic views of the gorgeous Noosa hinterland and feel like you’re standing on top of the world!
There are so many different routes that you could easily spend 3 days just hiking in Noosa if you fancied it!
Beaches in Noosa
As well as the world-famous National Park, Noosa is also known for its stunning sandy beaches. What really makes the beaches in Noosa stand out, though, is the sheer variety!
From small coves to huge beaches, calm seas to giant waves, there’s a beach for everyone in Noosa. I guess you’ll have to try them all to find out which is your favourite…
7. Chill at Sunshine Beach
My favourite beach in Noosa by far was Sunshine Beach. This slice of heaven is exactly where you need to go to spend the afternoon lounging, cooling off in the sea, and taking some much needed “me time”.
The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, so you’re safe to swim or surf to your heart’s content. The reason I love Sunshine Beach so much is that it’s away from central Noosa. This means it’s generally quiet, and there’s a tonne of space to spread out.
There is pretty much no shade on Sunshine Beach and the sun is vicious in summer. Just be suuuuuper careful and make sure you are ON. IT. when it comes to sun cream at Sunshine Beach.
I recommend packing a cover-up, a sun hat, high SPF sun cream and a whole lot of water.
Near the beach you’ll find a few hip cafes and bars, and the restaurant Sum Yung Guys (my favourite of all the restaurants in Noosa)! This place is super hyped by locals and both the quality and the quantity of food is second to none.
8. Hang out at Noosa Main Beach
Another free thing to do in Noosa (Noosa is full of ‘em!) is hanging out at Noosa Main Beach. Located just off Hastings Street and right by the town centre, it’s incredibly easy to break up a shopping trip with a stop at Noosa Main Beach.
Or, you could do what I did and get a delicious take-out poke from Raw + Rice and have a picnic on the beach. This beach gets very busy so you may have to walk a while to snag a good spot.
Lifeguards patrol the beach, and there are plenty of nearby shops and stalls where you can hire sun loungers, surfboards and paddleboards. Its location is really convenient as you’ll find all the amenities you’ll need nearby.
9. Sunbathe at Tea Tree Bay
This small paradise is the place to be when the sun is beating down but you still want to head to the beach.
Since it’s surrounded by palm trees and the rainforest of Noosa National Park there are plenty of shaded areas where you can take a respite from the sun.
Tea Tree Bay feels unspoilt since it’s completely undeveloped and has no facilities nearby. This makes it feel wonderfully relaxing, but make sure you pack everything you need before you get there.
10. Go Nude at Alexandria Bay
I had the shock of my life when I stepped on to Alexandria Bay and saw a man standing completely starkers! Yup, turns out Alexandria Bay is Noosa’s nudist beach, so if that’s what you’re into this is the place to go to let it all hang out.
Alexandria Bay is a large and spacious beach, so you’ll have plenty of space to spread out and enjoy.
These are just a few of the wonderful beaches in Noosa. If you’re a true beach bum and want to find a few more epic beaches in Noosa to add to your itinerary, look no further – my Noosa beach guide is the post you should read next!
Shopping in Noosa
Since Noosa is all about outdoor and healthy living, you’ll find an exciting array of beautiful clothing boutiques, health stores, independent surf shops and plenty of boho chic vibes.
Shopping in Noosa is a unique experience because there aren’t a load of chain stores here. Instead, shopping in Noosa is all about hand-picked, and often handmade, pieces.
11. Go Shopping on Hastings Street
Hastings Street is the heart of Noosa, and you’ll find it buzzing with excitement at any time of day. There are plenty of accommodation options nearby, so you can stay close to all the action.
My favourite thing to do on Hastings Street would be to start the day off right with a croissant and a coffee at Aromas. I snagged an outdoor table each morning to watch the world go by and plan my day. And their iced coffee is excellent!
From here, I recommend taking a leisurely stroll along Hastings Street, and around the centre of town more generally. There are so many charming gift shops, independent clothing boutiques and fitness stores.
I bought my favourite sports leggings of all time at Hastings Street, so shopping here has a special place in my heart.
There are plenty of poke and acai bowls on Hastings Street, so if you’re anything like me and can’t resist them then come with an empty stomach!
12. Browse the Noosa Farmers Market
Make sure you’re in Noosa on Sunday so you don’t miss the beloved Noosa Farmers Market!
The farmers market is hugely popular with locals and tourists alike, and the range of fresh produce on offer is staggering! Not only that, but there’s plenty of local arts and crafts if you’re needing to buy last-minute souvenirs or want a special memento from your trip.
My favourite part about Noosa farmers market is being able to try a whole load of weird and wonderful things you’d never find at a farmers market here in the UK. Sugar cane juice, anyone?
There are so many mouth-watering foods on offer here, so come with an empty belly and prepare to leave very full!
Some of the stalls are cash-only, so come with cash at the ready.
Activities to Do in Noosa
13. Try Surfing or Stand up Paddleboarding
Noosa is a surfer’s paradise, so if you’ve never tried surfing out before now is the time!
There are loads of packages you can book which include surf lessons and equipment hire, so if you have no idea what you’re doing I recommend (for your own safety!) to take a lesson or two.
You’re looking at around AUD 75 for all equipment hire and a 2-hour lesson. That’s pretty cheap in comparison to lessons back here in the UK! You can check availability and the latest prices using the tool below!
If you’ve surfed before and feel confident, there’s a place you can rent equipment from next to the surf club on Noosa Main Beach.
If you’re looking to surf at Sunshine Beach, you might struggle unless you have your own equipment. I didn’t see any hire places nearby as the beach is a lot more isolated than Noosa Main Beach.
If you’re staying at this hostel, like I did, they’ll let you use their boards for free. Score!
Of course, good surf conditions are never guaranteed. The surf was irritatingly calm when I was in Noosa! If this is the case, you can still get out on the water on a paddleboard.
14. Go on a Dolphin Safari
If you love nothing more than the idea of seeing dolphins swimming in the wild then get yourself booked onto this Noosa Dolphin tour asap!
Jump on a small boat and float down the Noosa River on the lookout for the beautiful creatures who call this place home.
On your tour, your guide will teach you all about the local wildlife, keep their eyes peeled for dolphins and guide you to some of the most beautiful points of the Noosa River, such as Hell’s Gate.
Click here to check availability & book!
15. Find the Noosa Fairy Pools
Although they’re on the Noosa National Park coastal track, the Noosa Fairy Pools deserve an entry just on their own because they’re one of Noosa’s most famous tourist attractions!
It all started on Instagram when someone decided this shallow rockpool would be the perfect place to get an is-this-even-place-even-real? shot of them sprawled out in the water.
The Noosa Fairy Pools quickly became a sensation. Nowadays, Instagram girls from all over the world head to Noosa to get their shot here. I’m absolutely not an Instagrammer, but I visited to see what all the fuss is about.
But Ella, what are the fairy pools?!
I’m glad you asked, because the name certainly makes them sound exciting. Unfortunately, there are no actual fairies there.
I know, bummer.
Instead, the Noosa fairy pools are natural rock pools just off the coastal path which fill with seawater.
If you don’t fancy hiking, the fairy pools are towards the end of the coastal hike, so you can easily walk here in your flip flops from Hastings Street or Noosa Main Beach.
A word of warning – it could have just been the time of day I visited but the waves rolling into the pools were pretty ferocious when I was there. Be careful!
16. Go on an Adventure Boat Tour
If you’re a thrill seeker there’s no better way to explore Noosa than on a high-speed boat tour as you zoom along the beautiful coastline.
This is definitely one of the more unusual things to do in Noosa because so much of Noosa is about kicking back and relaxing. It’s hardly an adrenaline capital!
From the Noosa River, to Laguna Bay, to the Noosa National Park coastline, this boat tour includes all of Noosa’s nautical highlights, and is the perfect way to see Noosa from another perspective.
17. Take a Noosa Everglades Tour
Noosa really is jam-packed full of natural beauty, and the Noosa Everglades are one of the top things to do around Noosa.
Located about a 20-minute’s drive away from central Noosa, the Everglades, also known as the “river of mirrors” is one of only two everglades systems on the entire planet!
The Noosa Everglades is also, obviously, one of the most gorgeous areas in Queensland.
A visit here is a total “must do” for your trip to Noosa. This is coming from someone who couldn’t decide whether to splash the cash to go or not then ultimately ran out of time and has regretted it ever since!
Learn from my mistakes – get yourself to the Noosa Everglades!
The easiest and most common way to explore the Noosa Everglades is on this guided boat tour.
The benefit of this is that you’ll get a knowledgeable guide to teach you everything there is to know about the area and take you to all the best spots.
Click here to find out more and book your place!
18. Do Yoga on the Beach
What’s better than doing yoga? Doing yoga on the beach! Luckily, the guys over at Noosa Beach Yoga have already thought of this, holding outdoor yoga daily for just 20 AUD per class.
Classes take place at 9.20am every morning in Noosa Woods, right by the ocean. Classes are suitable for all bodies and all levels of yoga experience, including complete beginners.
There’s no better way to start the day in Noosa.
19. Laze by the Noosa River
The Noosa river is more of a local’s hangout spot, which means it’s less crowded than Noosa Main Beach but just as fabulous. Visiting the Noosa river is another totally free thing to do in Noosa, and one of the best day trips!
To get here from Hastings Street, the quickest option is to catch the 631 or 620 bus for 6 minutes. Alternatively, it’s about a 50-minute walk from town.
Remember to pack a towel as there are lots of places to sunbathe by the water. It’s also a great idea to bring a picnic lunch, as there are communal picnic tables and BBQs you can use by the river.
This is no swampy river – the Noosa River is safe to swim in, and with crystal clear waters, is pretty irresistible!
Around the river you’ll also find plenty of activities you can do such as hiking, kayaking and cycling, so there is something here to suit pretty much everybody!
20. Walk up to the Laguna Lookout
Tucked away just off Hastings Street and Noosa Main Beach is a steep but short path to the Laguna Lookout. If you have a car you can drive up here, and there’s parking right by the lookout. If you’re on foot get ready to sweat!
It’s absolutely worth making the climb up though, as the views from the Laguna Lookout are beautiful. Those swirly sandbanks make the ocean look out-of-this-world, and the panoramic views will really remind you how dreamy Noosa is.
Lots of people head up to the Laguna Lookout for sunset, but if you climb up during the afternoon you may well have it all to yourself! Visiting the Laguna Lookout absolutely deserves the title of one of the best free things to do in Noosa!
21. Visit Noosa Botanic Gardens
On the shores of Lake McDonald you’ll find the tranquil Noosa Botanic Gardens, one of Noosa’s hidden gems. They’re one of the more unusual things to do in Noosa on this list purely because not a lot of tourists know about them!
Here you’ll find exotic and native trees, plants and fauna, as well as gardens and numerous walking pathways. What’s more, entry is free!
Things to Do Near Noosa
If you’re using Noosa as your base to explore other nearby destinations in Queensland you’re definitely making the right decision!
As well as the many thing to do in Noosa there are plenty of options of things to do further afield if you fancy going on a day trip.
Here are my picks for the best things to do around Noosa!
22. Take a Day Trip to Fraser Island
Ah, Fraser Island. It’s my favourite place in Australia and the land of true adventure. Legit – if you get the opportunity, you HAVE to go here. You’ll have no regrets.
Most tours to Fraser Island last two or three days, but luckily for you, there is actually a one day Fraser Island tour from Noosa!
On your epic day trip, you’ll get to explore the awesome 75-mile Beach, swim in the glorious Lake McKenzie, and explore the Central Park Rainforest.
If you’re looking for a sign, this is it – book this tour!
23. Explore Mount Coolum National Park
Mount Coolum is just 20km from Noosa, so if you have your own car this is the perfect day trip from Noosa.
Outdoors enthusiasts, hikers, and people desperate to escape the beach will find a trip here to be one of the best things to do near Noosa.
You can hike to the top of Mount Coolum along the 800 metre track to reach the 208 metre summit. It shouldn’t take you much more than an hour to walk up. Fancy a challenge?
Try trail-running up Mount Coolum to get your heart racing!
24. Go Wild Swimming at Gardners Falls
Gardners Falls is one of the most unusual things to do near Noosa because it’s a true hidden gem to tourists!
Nestled inside the abundant Queensland rainforest, this beautiful waterfall is a must-visit destination for nature-lovers.
You’ll need a car to get here, but the waterfall is just a short walk from the visitor car park. The falls themselves are something to behold, with the water cascading down rocks to reach a delightfully chilly pool for visitors to cool off in.
If you visit Gardners Falls, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!
25. Visit the Eumundi Markets
Located in the tiny art town of Eumundi, around 20km west of Noosa, the Eumundi Markets are one of the most popular things to do near Noosa!
Eumundi Markets are known as the best markets in Australia when it comes to artisan crafts and it runs every Wednesday and Sunday. There’s a whole host of musicians and street performers who entertain market visitors, and the vibe overall here is every hippie’s dream.
Without your own vehicle, you’ll need to book a bus transfer there and back.
Luckily, visiting the Eumundi Markets is a very popular thing to do with both locals and tourists alike from Noosa, so this is easy to do. This Eumundi Markets bus takes you there and back to Noosa for around $40 AUD.
26. Embark on the Great Beach Drive
The Great Beach Drive is a must-do road trip for anybody visiting Noosa with a car. Stretching over 60 kilometres, this jaw-dropping drive takes you along the most beautiful parts of the coastline around Noosa.
Starting in the town of Caloundra, the road trip passes plenty of other towns such as Currimundi, Golden Beach and Wurtulla, as well as countless gorgeous beaches.
The road trip is short enough to complete in one day, making it the perfect self-guided excursion from Noosa.
Where to Stay in Noosa
Budget Hotel
This top-rated motel offers the best private budget accommodation in Noosa, and is just a stone’s throw away from the beach!
Here, you can expect surprisingly modern hotel rooms for rock-bottom prices, making a stay in central Noosa affordable for everybody!
Click here to check availability & latest prices!
Mid-Range Hotel
This affordable-luxury hotel is located in Hastings Street, the very centre of Noosa and offers spacious, modern apartments fully-equipped kitchens, private balconies and stunning views.
It also has two swimming pools, a spa, and hotel gardens! The hotel’s 4-star rating speaks for itself!
Click here to check availability & latest prices!
Hostels in Noosa
Since I’m a hardcore budget traveller, and I was travelling by myself in Australia, I actually stayed at this hostel.
It was a wonderful place to stay in Noosa, just a short walk away from Sunshine Beach, and they held a tonne of fun events like pizza night to keep everybody entertained!
Click here to check availability and latest prices!
How Many Days to Spend in Noosa?
Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Noosa.
With three days you can spend plenty of time relaxing on Noosa’s many scenic beaches, head out on a few hikes in Noosa National Park, and try your hand at surfing.
If you have less time, two full days in Noosa is also enough time to spend in Noosa to get a flavour for the town. One day is definitely not enough!
Is Noosa Worth Visiting?
Yup – Noosa is a gorgeous coastal town, and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit on the Sunshine Coast.
All of this is to say that Noosa is absolutely worth visiting. I can’t really imagine a type of traveller that wouldn’t enjoy Noosa, since there’s something for every type of traveller here!
Hopefully after reading this you’ll be frantically planning your next trip to Noosa. And who could blame you?
Noosa is such a dreamy beach town, and with so many free things to do here it’s easy to visit on a budget! I had an amazing time here, and I’m sure you will too.
What’s your favourite thing to do in Noosa?
