A local’s guide to Noosa – dive a little deeper into all this region has to offer

On the surface, the name ‘Noosa’ instantly conjures up visions of longboards levitating on perfectly formed waves as they casually roll into Noosa Main Beach. Or carefully curated linens hanging in the elegant boutiques of Hastings Street. 

But for those that have the luxury of spending a little longer exploring this region, or those that are lucky enough to put down roots here, the magic of Noosa goes much, much deeper. 

So, if you’re keen to soak up all Noosa has to offer, here’s our deep dive into some of the best bits of Noosa:

Drop into a World Surfing Reserve

There are just 12 opportunities around the globe to surf a World Surfing Reserve. Not surprisingly, three of them are in Australia, two of them are in Queensland, and one of them is, you guessed it, in Noosa. 

Whether you’ve been surfing since you were a grommet or have only recently begun to wax up a board, the chance to sample one of the world’s premier surfing locations is not to be passed up. Even if you’re not a surfer, settling in to enjoy the view and watch the talent carving it up just offshore must be one of the best holiday pastimes there is.  

Top of the list is riding the long waves from First Point into Noosa Main Beach. No doubt, it is an iconic experience not to be missed, but if you do your research and ask around, you’ll discover that there are some lesser known but equally incredible surf breaks in the area that all contribute to Noosa’s World Surfing Reserve status. 

So, grab your board, check the conditions and check out some of region’s finest including Granite Bay, Tea Tree Bay and Alexandria Bay (or ‘A-Bay’ as the locals like to call it) in Noosa National Park.  

The Noosa Coastal Walk is a must-do experience.

Do the Noosa Coastal Walk… backwards

A visit to Noosa wouldn’t be complete without taking in the stunning scenery around Noosa Heads on the Noosa Coastal Walk. But instead of going with the current and starting at the Noosa end, start your journey at Sunshine Beach and head up stream. 

From Noosa, simply jump on the 620 bus to Sunshine Beach or get your Uber to drop you there, and then once you’ve fuelled up with a coffee from Sunshine Social or Jam Café on Duke Street, wander down to the beach and start heading North and begin the climb around the headland. You’ll briefly dip back down to Alexandria Bay before climbing back up to take in the views over the famous Hell’s Gates, the Fairy Pools, and Dolphin Point. Then stop in at the kiosk at the Park entrance before following the path back down to Hastings Street. 

Noosaville’s dining and shopping strip follows the curves of the Noosa River.

Follow the tide to Noosaville

On an incoming tide, the sparkling water of the Noosa River mouth (a.k.a. boaties’ paradise) flows down the Noosa River to Noosaville, where you’ll find a smorgasbord of cruisy cafes and contemporary dining (including local institution, Noosa Boathouse), tracing the curves of the river along Gympie Terrace.  

Further exploration is a must.

From a shopping perspective, the tide is also turning to Noosaville. And while there’s no doubt that Noosaville is home to a long list of boutiques and homewares stores, you may not know that it is also the home of beloved Australian fashion label Boom Shankar, known for its vibrant designs inspired by the colours of India. So, if you find yourself on a Noosa fashion expedition, don’t miss the chance to visit Boom Shankar HQ and pick yourself up a pair of their famous Guru pants. 

The Great Sandy National Park is home to one of only two everglade systems on earth.

Discover another side of Noosa

Head across the river to Tewantin, and you’ll see a different side of Noosa, literally and figuratively. 

The original European settlement of the Noosa region and a key centre of the Noosa Shire, the township of Tewantin has a charm all of its own with a picturesque riverfront, a relaxed café culture and plenty to explore including the Noosa Marina. 

Largely surrounded by protected land including two national parks, Tewantin is a uniquely beautiful destination in its own right, and the launch pad for land-based adventurous activities. Try mountain-biking the Wooroi trails in Tewantin National Park or taking the Tewantin vehicle ferry across the northern reach of the Noosa River to Noosa North Shore for coastal hiking, trail running and beach four-wheel driving in the Great Sandy National Park. 

Given that so much of the land in this area is protected, it makes the bits that can be bought, that much more prized. Which is why Tewantin is the perfect location for Endeavour Foundation’s latest Prize Home of 2025.

Is this the perfect base for the Noosa lifestyle?

Imagine living the Noosa dream

Endeavour Foundation’s $2.9 Million Designer Prize Home in Tewantin, is a picture of designer coastal living and the perfect base for indulging in the Noosa lifestyle. If you’re lucky enough to be in the area, get a taste of the Noosa dream and explore this amazing home in person – you’ll find directions and opening times here. 

Or why not take a break now and let your imagination kick in with a virtual tour. 

If you’re already sold on the Noosa lifestyle, buy your tickets now.

When you purchase lottery tickets from Endeavour Foundation, you help to provide opportunities for people with disability to learn life skills, live independently, find a job they love, and be actively involved in their local communities.