The Best Things to Do in Noosa: Where to Eat, Stay & Play

Ahh, Noosa. It doesn't matter how many places you visit, there's always one destination your heart will long for. And for many of us, that place sits at the top of Queensland's idyllic Sunshine Coast. 

Noosa is the sought-after destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty, stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle. With its lush hinterland, pristine shorelines, amazing foodie scene and a curated offering of local shops and boutiques, Noosa has something for every kind of holidaymaker. 

So whether you're longing for another visit, or it's still on your bucket list, keep reading as we break down the best things to do in Noosa. 

Bistro C

This perfectly polished beachside restaurant and bar is a must-visit venue. Enjoy their award-winning menu that heroes regional flavours and local produce as you gaze out over Laguna Bay. You can expect plenty of locally caught seafood, seared steaks, oysters and other fun and fresh dishes. 

On The Beach, 49 Hastings Street, Noosa

Locale Noosa

Located on Hastings Street, Locale is a much-loved fine dining destination in Noosa. Traditional Italian antipasti, handmade pasta and an extensive beverage list are just a few things that make a long lunch at Locale one of our favourite things to do in Noosa.

Their squid ink Tagliatelle is to die for, plated with Fraser Isle spanner crab, basil, chilli, butter and lemon Pangrattato. Is anyone else’s mouth watering? Pass the chianti, please. 

62 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads 

Sum Yung Guys

Housed in a curated space that pays homage to their love and passion for Asian culture and cuisine, Sum Yung Guys is a crowd-pleaser.

Transport your tastebuds with the innovative and incredible menu of modern Asian Fusion fare. With 14 Chefs Hats under their belt, it’s the perfect spot for gluten-free diners, with most of the menu items marked as “GF”. If you’re struggling to decide, 'Feed Me' does all the hard work for you.

1/205 Weyba Road, Noosaville 

Ricky’s 

Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant is one of Noosa’s best restaurants, with seasonal menus highlighting the best local produce in the region. The views overlooking the Noosa riverfront are unparalleled, making the dining experience extra special. Noosa's chic yet laidback energy is captured in the crisp, white decor and the natural light that pours in. 

2 Quamby Place, Noosa Heads

Light Years

Originating in Byron Bay, Light Years now has four restaurants across the East Coast of Australia. The relaxed, modern eatery serves flavour-packed Asian-inspired share plates, inventive cocktails and jazzy interiors.

With dumplings, bao, curries and larger plates all up for grabs, it's best to opt for one of the 'feed me' menus for a sample of Light Years' punchy offering. 

1 Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa Heads 

Theo's Social Club

If you're meeting a friend for an aperitif and a bite to eat or looking for a post-beach bev at an intimate wine bar, Theo's Social Club is the coolest spot in town.

Stop in for a light supper of fresh, upscale bites ranging from peckish bites to more substantial meals like bowls of pasta, made in-store daily. Sip on classic cocktails or choose from the extensive wine list and enjoy the leisurely vibes. 

2 Arcadia Street, Noosa Heads

Atelier

Perhaps one of the most aesthetically pleasing establishments in Noosa (no small feat), Atelier is the stunning wine bar serving premium wines by the glass and the bottle.

While the space is small, the team have a mighty selection of wines to have you feeling like a sommelier by the end of the evening, which pair perfectly with the small plates and large dishes on offer.

3/9 Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa

Moonstruck 

Cafe by day, gin-slinging bar by night, Moonstruck is always a delight. After a long day at the beach, it's the perfect place to wind down with seating sprawling out across the pavement.

Enjoy the curated Australian small-batch gin collection (go for a gin flight!) and a cheeseboard and soak up the last of the day's sunshine.

5 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads 

Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort

If five-star luxury is your love language, set a date with Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort. Blending coastal chic and Parisian elegance, there’s no shortage of fun events, seasonal menu updates and luxurious treatments to indulge in at the Aqua Day Spa.

If you’re looking for a White Lotus-inspired experience, book some time at the poolside cabanas, or make the most of the swim-up bar.

14-16 Hastings Street (vehicular entrance off Noosa Parade), Noosa

Netanya 

If laid-back luxe is your vibe of choice, head straight to Netanya. Located ideally on Noosa Main Beach and a short walk from the eateries of Hastings Street, you'll be in the thick of the action while feeling a world away.

Choose from one-bedroom studios to spacious three-bedroom apartments with direct access to the sparkling beachfront pool. 

71 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads

Tingirana

Tingirana is your little piece of heaven, tucked into the heart of Noosa. Situated between Hastings Street and Noosa Beach, you’re a short walk from the best bars, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shopping.

If you’re keen on a nature walk, you’ll only be a quick drive from the National Park. With a Hamptons-style aesthetic and feel, you’ll be comfortable, relaxed and carefree with each blissful minute at your base. 

25 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads QLD 

Cruise the Noosa Everglades

Proving Noosa is much more than luxury hotels and boutique shopping, Everglades Eco Safaris take you on a serene cruise through the untouched Noosa Everglades - which happen to be the only Everglades in Australia.

Home to 44% of Australia's native birdlife, the vessel will glide through the calm and quiet waters, purposely designed for prime viewing while being eco-friendly. This is nature at its best.

Departs from Elanda Point Road, Elanda Point

Explore Noosa's Famous Coastline

Undoubtedly the single biggest drawcard of the region is Noosa’s stretch of beautiful coastline and the bounty of beaches that reel in international surfers and beach lovers alike.

Whilst scattered surf breaks host festivals and competitions year-round, the calm, patrolled Laguna Bay is filled with young and old beachgoers searching for a refreshing dip and soft sand underfoot. 

Keen to escape the Noosa hustle for a day? Take a drive to Peregian Beach and experience the laidback holiday vibe, or head inland to stroll through the Noosa Botanic Gardens overlooking Lake Macdonald.

Hop Aboard the Noosa Ferry 

No trip is complete without a cruise on the Noosa Ferry. The ferry departs from Hastings Street and cruises to Tewantin with multiple stops along the Noosa River.

Trips depart approximately every 45 minutes, and you can score a hop and hop off day pass to explore the river at your own pace. Fancy a sunset cruise? They can sort you out for one of those, too! 

For anyone looking for a beach club onboard a boat, Catalina Noosa has you covered!

Noosa Marina, 2 Parkyn Court, Tewantin 

Shop Up A Storm On Hastings Street

Alongside favourites like Country Road and Mecca, Noosa Heads is home to gorgeous designer boutiques. Think chic, minimalist homewares and boho fashion galore. Central Hastings Street is the perfect place for mid-day shopping with plenty of options for a long lunch and mimosa (or two) when you need an energy top-up. 

Hastings Street, Noosa

Visit the Markets

Dubbed one of Australia's best markets and just 15 minutes from Noosa Heads, the iconic Eumundi Markets are buzzing every Wednesday and Saturday. Locals and visitors can explore locally produced goods including fresh produce, artisan homewares and gifts, food trucks and every weird and wonderful thing in between, with live music setting the tone.

The Noosa Farmers Market in Noosaville is closer to town, open every Sunday with an extensive selection of seasonal produce, freshly baked goods and delicious food and drink.

80 Memorial Drive, Eumundi 

Rococco Oval, 155 Weyba Road, Noosaville

Enjoy a Coastal Walk

Noosa is renowned for its coastline and breathtaking scenery, and incredible coastal walks offer visitors the chance to experience its natural beauty. Whatever your fitness level, these picks should be on your list of things to do in Noosa:

Noosa National Park Coastal Track:  This one is a biggy - about four hours as you walk through the headland section of Noosa National Park. But it will be so worth it! Enjoy the lush forests along Noosa National Park, plus incredible views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Hell's Gate Walk: Snaking through the rugged cliffs of Hell's Gates to the tranquil waters of Tea Tree Bay, showcasing the diverse and spectacular beauty of Noosa's coastline, this stroll takes about one hour and 15 minutes, so snacks are a must! 

Beautiful one day, perfect the next. If you loved our edit of the best things to do in Noosa and are looking for more travel inspo, you might also like our guide to the top Aussie destinations, or Australia's coolest motels for luxury on a budget.

Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love, each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.