This blog was written by our Noosa-loving friends at The Weekend Edition.
When you close your eyes and imagine Noosa, you probably dream up an image of crystal-clear waters, picturesque sandy treks and bustling beachside villages. The scenic region lives up to this heavenly vision and then some, offering a spectacular selection of beaches and plenty to do both on and off the shore. So that you can make the most of your Noosa roadtrip, we have collected a bucket-load of activities that will help you discover the dazzling beaches, beautiful bays and hidden coves that line the Noosa coast. Now all you have to do is choose – swim, surf or laze on the sand?
There’s no better way to take in some salt, sun and surf than at Noosa Main Beach. Wake up bright and early and head to Coconut Head Superfood Bar for a refreshing smoothie before making tracks to the beach for a dip. Slap on some sunscreen then dive into the rolling turquoise waters, relax on the sand or take a long beach walk to reenergise your senses. Afterwards, stroll through Hastings Street’s selection of boutique shops or stop in at one of the many cute cafes for brunch.
Take a scenic beachside cycling trip with help from EcoTekk Noosa Bike Hire – electric bikes that provide a fun and easy alternative to regular cycling (no sore calves caused by these bad boys). The bikes are powered by pedal-assisted electric motors that take the hard work out of cycling and their batteries last up to 80 km, so you can make the most of your time spent outdoors. Plus, you can ride them on the sand at the beach all the way along the coast or along the road – whatever floats your boat!
Pack your bags and head to Hastings Street as Noosa’s beachfront haven for laid-back luxury, Netanya, is waiting. Perfect for holidaymakers of all kinds, Netanya offers a range of beachfront accommodation options to make your holiday the most memorable and comfortable one yet – from studio apartments right through to three-bedroom villas. With views out to Noosa’s Main Beach, world-class facilities (including a heated pool) and a breathtaking location just footsteps from the beach, this lavish locale is one to add to the itinerary.
Follow the boardwalk from Noosa Main Beach and within a ten-minute stroll you’ll arrive at Noosa National Park. Explore the 10.8-km Coastal Track and pass by must-see gems such as Boiling Pot, Tea Tree Bay, Granite Bay and Hell’s Gates – all perfect places to watch the waves roll (or crash!) in. Keep an eye out for wildlife amongst the greenery (you may see a koala or two) or out to sea there are turtles, dolphins and even whales during migration season.
If you’ve always wanted to learn to surf, Noosa’s beautiful blue beaches are the perfect place to start! Take a beginner’s surfing lesson from Go Ride a Wave, where the friendly crew will have you standing up on a surfboard in no time. There are group lessons designed for little ones and adults, as well as private classes. You’ll go from a Barney to a pro in no time!
Just a five-minute drive south of Noosa Heads is Sunshine Beach, a quaint coastal village just waiting to be explored. After you’ve checked out the beach, stroll along Duke Street and get acquainted with its array of cafes, drinking dens and enchanting shops. Feel like some fish and chips? Tuck into a feast at Sunshine Beach Surf Club – the ideal spot for surf gazing and food grazing.
Rally the crew, jump in the car and drive south of Noosa Heads for a scenic coastal drive passing through Sunshine Beach, Sunrise Beach, Castaways Beach and Marcus Beach. If you can surf barrels like Mick Fanning, the eastern beaches provide waves perfect for advanced surfers, or Castaways Beach is a prime spot for hang gliding on windy afternoons. At Sunrise Beach, make a pit stop at caffeination station Chalet & Co for a brew and a mouth-watering marinated tempeh bowl. If you want to lock in a chariot for your escape, browse the range of vehicles from JUCY Car and Campervan Hire before embarking on your road trip.
A prime place to relax and make memories, The Retreat Beach Houses is a slice of paradise in Peregian Beach. The resort is close to shops, dining spots and adventure opportunities at Noosa National Park, Lake Weyba and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Within the resort, you’ll find everything you need for an enjoyable stay including fully equipped rooms, a climate-controlled swimming pool, a full-size tennis court, beach equipment and much more.
