For a charming sight to melt even the sternest heart, head to where the Australian flatback turtle comes to breed and nest.
For a charming sight to melt even the sternest heart, head to Australia’s northern tropical coastline. This is the only place in the world where the Australian flatback turtle (named for its almost completely flattened carapace) comes to breed and nest.
Although the Aussie flatback roams the waters of Indonesia and New Guinea, for some reason it will only breed on Australian shores. And a particularly popular spot is Mon Repos beach, east of Bundaberg, which boasts the largest and most accessible turtle rookery.
From mid November to February, adult turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, which hatch about eight weeks later. The best chance to see the newborns’ wobbly race to sea is between mid January and late March. Baby flatbacks are the largest of all marine turtles, growing up to a metre in length and weighing up to 90kg.
While they’re not listed (yet) as endangered, sharks, crocs, humans and other predators all threaten the survival of this ancient creature. They’re easily disturbed during nesting, so access to Mon Repos is limited during the season. Bookings can be made online at www.bundabergregion.org or by calling (07) 4153 8888.
Where // All around the northern part of Australia, with official nesting season Oct-Feb in north Qld and may extend to the entire year in northwestern Australia.
Did you know? // Flatback turtles lay the fewest and largest eggs of any marine turtle, with around 50 eggs per nest buried under the sand. Only one hatchling in 1000 makes it to adulthood. Alarmingly, in Indian mythology it’s believed that if the sea turtle becomes extinct, the world will end.
As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.
As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?
Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.
Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.
Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.
Where to eat in Noosa
Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.
There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).
There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .
Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)
Where to stay in Noosa
Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.
There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.
For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.
Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)
Things to do on land
There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.
A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.
Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.
Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)
Things to do in the water
Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.
You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.
Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.
For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.
Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)
