There are more than a dozen beaches to choose from in and around Noosa. If you have time, then you might as well visit them all. But, if you’re only in town for a weekend, then it’s helpful to know where to find the best stretches of sand.
Right here, we’ve done the research for you – whether you’re looking for gentle waves or a spot to escape the crowds.
FOR GENTLE WAVES: NOOSA MAIN BEACH
Just a few steps from Noosa is Main Beach. If you’re looking for dreamy, gentle waves, it’s the place to go. Children, novice surfers and lazy swimmers are bound to fall in love. In between swimming, grab a bite to eat or nab a new pair of togs among the cafes, restaurants and boutique shops of Hastings Street. Main Beach is also an excellent starting point for the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk, which takes in dramatic coastal views, pretty beaches and magical rock formations.
FOR KOALAS: LITTLE COVE BEACH
Just five minutes’ stroll along a boardwalk from Main Beach, you’ll come across Little Cove. This pint-sized piece of paradise is another sheltered spot with easy-going waves and stunning views. Plus, it’s surrounded by bushland, so, despite the proximity to town, it feels like it’s a million miles away. In that bushland lives a community of koalas, and spotting them will keep the kids busy for quite a while.
FOR WILD BEAUTY: TEA TREE BAY
Tea Tree Bay is the first beach along the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk. It’s 20 minutes on foot from the car park. Encircled with pandanus trees and flat rocks, it’s an ideal spot for a long, lazy picnic. There are always plenty of surfers to watch, who flock here for the point break. But there aren’t any lifeguards, so do take care if you decide to take a dip. High tide, when the waves roll in nice and slowly, is the best time to swim.
FOR STILL WATER: NOOSA RIVER FORESHORE
Escape the waves with a swim in the still water of the Noosa River. This pretty waterway is flanked with sandy banks, expansive parks and shady trees, so there are plenty of spots to rest in between swims. Plus, on top of swimming, you can try paddling a kayak, riding a stand-up paddle board or working on your fishing skills. Afterwards, take a stroll along the Noosa River Foreshore pathway, which follows the water for 4.2 kilometres.
FOR ESCAPING THE CROWDS: CASTAWAYS BEACH
Noosa is one of Australia’s most popular coastal destinations, so it can get crowded, especially during peak periods. One spot where you can escape the masses is Castaways Beach. You’ll find it backdropped by national park between Sunrise Beach and Peregian Beach – well away from cafes, restaurants and shops. Your pup is welcome to join you, and there are several lovely walking trails through bushland nearby.
GETTING TO NOOSA
Noosa is two hours’ drive north of Brisbane, ten hours’ drive north of Sydney and 18 hours’ drive north of Melbourne. If you’re considering driving from one of these major cities, you might find that our road trip guides for Brisbane to Noosa & Sydney to Brisbane come in handy.
Flying instead? Catch a plane to Maroochydore Airport (Sunshine Coast Airport) and jump in a SIXT car rental. Choose an SUV for extra room, an EV to keep your eco footprint to a minimum or another option from our wide range of vehicles.
Looking for other things to do in Noosa? Try one of these unexpected experiences.
