Choose from 9 Fun Things to Do in Noosa Sunshine Coast
ShowingFilter 1-9 of 9 listings.
Lake Cootharaba
Lake Cootharaba is the largest of the Noosa Lakes. At about six miles (10 km) long and three miles (5 km) at its widest point, it serves as a popular location for holiday-makers and those on recreational day trips alike. With plenty of places for picnics along its shores, the lake lends itself to family vacations.
The town of Boreen Point is Lake Cootharaba’s activity hub and is the place to start if you're looking for water sports gear. Kayaking, fishing, swimming and sailing are all popular on the water – but there’s much more to Lake Cootharaba than just boats. A number of walks are threaded through the bushland that surrounds the lake, including the 15-mile (25 km) trek around its circumference. There's also a boardwalk through the mangroves on the edge of the lake and a number of campsites within the Great Sandy National Park for those who wish to camp on the lake.
Lake Cootharaba is also known as the gateway to the Noosa Everglades, as the Noosa River passes through the Everglade Wetlands just before spreading into the lake.
Practical Info
The town of Boreen Point is 30 minutes from Noosa Heads by car. It's an easy day trip for visitors to Southern Queensland, as it sits 50 minutes from the Sunshine Coast and two hours from Brisbane.
Address: Noosa, QLD, Australia
From $ 59
Great Sandy National Park
The Great Sandy National Park is a coastal national park and encompasses both part of mainland Queensland and Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island.
On the mainland. the river stretches from Rainbow Beach to Noosa Heads, its eastern border one long unbroken tropical beach paradise. Noosa Heads in the south is a popular holiday destination for Australians and hotels get busy during the peak season. Inland if you’re looking for a more nature-based holiday the Cooloola Wilderness Trail has opportunities for real bush camping at the Neebs and Wandi waterholes.
The Fraser Island section is separated from the mainland by a shallow sand reef which can be crossed by barge. The island has an incredible stretch of white beach running unbroken down its eastern coast while the interior is home to unlikely rainforests, sublime freshwater lakes and remarkable dunes.
On the mainland. the river stretches from Rainbow Beach to Noosa Heads, its eastern border one long unbroken tropical beach paradise. Noosa Heads in the south is a popular holiday destination for Australians and hotels get busy during the peak season. Inland if you’re looking for a more nature-based holiday the Cooloola Wilderness Trail has opportunities for real bush camping at the Neebs and Wandi waterholes.
The Fraser Island section is separated from the mainland by a shallow sand reef which can be crossed by barge. The island has an incredible stretch of white beach running unbroken down its eastern coast while the interior is home to unlikely rainforests, sublime freshwater lakes and remarkable dunes.
Practical Info
The Great Sandy National Park has plenty of buses running up and down the coast; there are a number of bus providers. To get to Fraser Island you will need to either catch an airplane or take a barge from Inskip heads, River Point or Hervey Bay. Travel on the island will require you to hire a 4WD or book with a tour.
Address: Great Sandy National Park, QLD, Australia
From $ 131
Double Island Point Lighthouse
For 108 years, a lightkeeper here at Double Island Point Lighthouse was tasked with the job of keeping ships away from the Great Barrier Reef. Even though the light is now automated, however—having taken the lightkeeper’s place—the timber frame and romantic allure still accompany this historic, stoic tower in Great Sandy National Park. A popular spot with trekkers and sightseers, the lighthouse headland overlooks the coast and the turquoise waters below. White sand shoreline stretches out on both sides of the headland, which is only accessible by hiking trails or a 4x4 road down the beach. Whales and dolphins can be spotted offshore between the months of July–November, and surfers flock to the legendary wave that peels around the point. This is also a very popular stop between Noosa and Fraser Island, and offers one of the best views on Australia’s eastern coast. To see Double Island Point Lighthouse for yourself, embark on a 15-mile 4x4 drive from popular Rainbow Beach, or hike and camp along the coast through Great Sandy National Park.
Practical Info
While the lighthouse site is open to the public, the tower itself is privately operated and isn’t open to visitors.
Address: Queenstown, South Island, New Zealand, Australia
From $ 96
Bribie Island National Park
Even though it’s only an hour from Brisbane’s big city lights, Bribie Island National Park is about as remote as it gets. Only accessible by 4WD (or in some cases, by boat), the park offers coastal scenery looking back towards Queensland’s coast. When looking across the Pumicestone Passage on the island’s western shore, keep an eye out for dolphins and dugongs splashing within the surf. The Glass House Mountains rise in the west to perfectly frame the sunset, and days on the island are spent exploring the wetlands, dunes, and coast. Pack a picnic and go for a bushwalk from the coastal town of Woorim, or bring along some camping gear for a stay at Ocean Beach. Driving along the beach at low tide is a great way of getting around—although just be sure to watch the tide and know how to drive in sand. For birdwatchers, over 300 species of migratory birds have been spotted here on the island, as have dingoes, wild dogs, and even the occasional emu.
Practical Info
Bribie Island National Park is one hour north of Brisbane and connected by bridge to the Mainland. To drive in the park, travelers require a vehicle access permit, which can be either purchased online beforehand or at a local booking office. There are no facilities within the park, so travelers must carry all their own water as well as food, shelter, and supplies. Facilities are available on the southern coast outside the town of Woorim, and even those without 4WD can hike the network of bushwalking trails that lead from the end of the paved road.
Address: Welsby QLD, Australia
From $ 7
Mooloolaba
Surrounded by golden beaches, scenic waterways, and mountainous hinterlands, Mooloolaba enjoys a stunning setting along Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Perched at the mouth of Mooloolaba River, the town has a reputation as one of the coolest on the Sunny Coast, known for its great surf, lively markets, and buzzing nightlife.
The Basics
If you want to hit the beach by day, dine on seafood at sunset, then party all night, Mooloolaba is the place to come. It’s just over an hour from Brisbane, so it makes an easy day trip. Highlights include a canal cruise, browsing the shops along the Esplanade, or a seaplane flight over Mooloolaba and Maroochydore. Mooloolaba Beach is a great spot to swim, learn to surf or scuba dive, or enjoy activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, and skydiving.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All of Mooloolaba’s sights can be reached on foot.
- The Australian sun is strong and it’s worth bringing a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses even if you’re visiting outside of the summer season.
- As with all Australian beaches, only swim at patrolled beaches in the designated areas (between the red and yellow flags).
How to Get There
Mooloolaba is located 61 miles (98 kilometers) north of Brisbane or just over an hour’s drive along the Bruce Highway. Buses run from Brisbane to Mooloolaba via Landsborough and also between Mooloolaba and Sunshine Coast towns such as Noosa Heads and Caloundra.
When to Get There
The busiest time to visit Mooloolaba is during the summer months (December–January), when it’s best to book accommodation and tours in advance. With year-round sunshine, it’s still possible to enjoy outdoor activities in the cooler months, and temperatures rarely fall below 50°F (10°C) even in the middle of winter.
Highlights of the Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba is ideally situated for exploring the rest of the Sunshine Coast. Perhaps head north to Noosa Heads, visit the renowned Eumundi Markets, or explore the magnificent landscapes of Glass House Mountains National Park. Fun family activities include a visit to the famous Australia Zoo, run by the Irwin family; the Ginger Factory theme park; Mooloolaba’s Sea Life Underwater World, one of Australia’s top aquariums; and the Aussie World amusement park.
Address: Mooloolaba, Australia
From $ 110
Noosa Everglades
Known as the “River of Mirrors,” the Noosa Everglades is one of Queensland’s most stunning natural landscapes and one of only two everglades systems on Earth. This stretch of wetlands, mangrove forests, and lakes is part of Cooloola National Park and harbors a rich diversity of flora and birdlife.
The Basics
The everglades’ aquatic landscape is best explored by boat. Cruise up the Noosa River on a guided river cruise or canoe excursion to see wildlife and vegetation up close, learn about the area’s unique ecology, and swim in the reflective waters. A typical Noosa Everglades tour includes a boat cruise along the river, wildlife watching around Lake Cooroibah and Lake Cootharaba, and a barbeque lunch or afternoon tea at one of the area’s scenic campgrounds.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Noosa Everglades are a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Strict conservation rules protect this area and all tours are eco-certified.
- Sections of the river system are unshaded, so remember to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- There are limited visitor facilities within the everglades, but lunch and refreshments are served at the Harry’s Hut and Fig Tree Creek campgrounds.
How to Get There
The Noosa Everglades lie along Australia’s western Sunshine Coast, stretching north from Noosa Heads. The everglades are reachable only by boat or canoe, and tours typically set out from the Noosa Everglades Discovery Centre in Noosaville, which is roughly two hours by road from Brisbane.
When to Get There
Summer (December through January) is the most popular time to visit, although boat cruises are possible year-round as temperatures rarely dip below 68°F (20°C). In summer, opt for an early morning or late afternoon tour to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Wildlife in the Noosa Everglades
The diversity of trees, plants, and wildlife is one of the main attractions of the Noosa Everglades, with big twisting grasses, large swamp banksias, dense reeds, and hundreds of different flower species. As you cruise around the wetlands you can admire tea trees, melaleucas, and water lilies, while keeping a lookout for pelicans, ducks, cormorants, and eagles. You might even spot a rare jabiru swooping overhead, snakes or lizards lazing on the riverbanks, or the odd kangaroo hopping along the shore.
Address: Noosa, Australia
From $ 59
Underwater World Sea Life Aquarium
UnderWater World Sea Life Aquarium is located in Mooloolaba along the Sunshine Coast, just an hour’s drive north of Brisbane. As the name suggests, it’s a marine park, aquarium, and wildlife sanctuary, and is particularly popular with families with children.
A popular attraction at UnderWater World is Sharks Alive, a moving walkway in an 80-meter shark tunnel. This takes visitors past various watery environments, including coral reef, caves, and open ocean habitats. Here you can spot grey nurse sharks, sandbar whalers, whitetip reef sharks, and zebra sharks – along with a whole host other marine life. There’s also a Seal Island Exhibit and a section entitled Crawly Creatures, which features the world’s largest marine and land crab species.
Practical Info
The UnderWater World Sea Life Aquarium is located on Parkyn Parade, just a two-minute walk from the beach at the southern end of the Mooloolaba Esplanade. If traveling by car, follow the Bruce Highway and then follow signs for Mooloolaba. It’s open daily from 9am until 4pm, with last entries at 3pm.
Address: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557, Australia
Admission: Adults: $39; Children: $26
From $ 29
Australia Zoo
Formerly home to Steve Irwin, also known as “the Crocodile Hunter,” the Australia Zoo is one of Australia’s largest and most popular wildlife conservation facilities. Managed by the Irwin family, whose personalities are a major part of its continued success, the zoo has a huge collection of native Aussie animals as well as creatures from around the world.
The Basics
An Australia Zoo entry ticket includes access to the zoo’s many attractions and daily events such as zookeeper talks and animal-feeding demonstrations; additional extras include animal encounters and visits to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. For those without a car, Croc Express day tours from Brisbane or the Gold Coast offer round-trip coach transport, including hotel pickup and drop-off. You can also combine a day trip from Brisbane with a rainforest walk in the Sunshine Coast hinterlands. One- and two-day zoo passes are also available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lines can be long, especially in peak season, so it’s best to buy tickets in advance.
- On-site facilities include paid storage lockers, water fountains, ATMs, picnic areas, and a selection of restaurants, cafés, and gift shops.
- Most of the zoo’s exhibitions are outdoors and you will likely do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle.
- The Australia Zoo is fully wheelchair accessible; wheelchair rentals are also available.
How to Get There
The Australia Zoo is located in Beerwah, Queensland, 37 miles (60 kilometers) north of Brisbane—about an hour drive along the Bruce Highway. On-site parking is free. The QR Citytrain runs to Beerwah from the Gold Coast and Brisbane; from there, free shuttle buses will take you to the zoo. Greyhound Australia buses run from Noosa and Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast.
When to Get There
The Australia Zoo is open daily year-round, but the busiest time is in summer (December and January) or during school holidays. To avoid the crowds, opt for a weekday visit off-season. If traveling by car, arrive early and head straight to the most popular exhibitions before the crowds roll in.
Animal Experiences at the Australia Zoo
In addition to Aussie animals such as kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, and platypus, the Australia Zoo features fauna from other regions: rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs in an African savanna exhibition; Sumatran tigers at the tiger temple (which also includes an incredible underwater observatory); and elephants in the colossal Elephantasia exhibition. There’s also a Wildlife Warriors show held daily at the Crocoseum, a birds of prey display, and various options for supervised animal encounters and zoo tours.
Address: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Queensland 4519, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 46
Lake Cooroibah
Lake Cooroibah is one of the central locations on Noosa’s North Shore, with its local Aboriginal name meaning "places of possums."
The large lake lies just to the north of Tewantin and Sir Richard Branson’s private Makepeace Island in the Noosa River. Relatively shallow, Lake Cooroibah is a popular destination among the locals–the southern entrance to the lake in particular is frequented for fishing. A sandbar at the northern end appears at low tide, offering the perfect place for picnics on the sand. This is a fantastic place to relax in the afternoon with opportunities for swimming and great views of the surrounds. Visitors can see the Noosa hinterland and the nearby Mt Cooroy, Mt Tinbeerwah and Mt Cooroora from the lake, while the Noosa Everglades lie to the north.
Practical Info
Lake Cooroibah is about a 20-minute drive from Noosa Heads, along the Noosa River. There’s also an hourly bus from Noosa Heads that arrives here. The lake lies about 40 minutes north of the Sunshine Coast and a two-hour drive north of Brisbane.
Address: Tewantin, QLD, Australia
From $ 59