Keep the family grinning with the things to do in Noosa with kids

It’s renowned for sophisticated dining and chic shopping but exploring Noosa with kids is a family holiday dream come true.

Picturesque beaches, fresh coastal air and killer kids’ menus at the region’s best restaurants – there are plenty of reasons to bring little ones to Noosa for a much-needed escape. I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Noosa with kids to help you and the clan stay busy and keep meltdowns at bay.

In short

If you’ve only got time for one thing to do in Noosa with kids, make it a day out at Australia Zoo. Home to more than 1,200 animals, and less than an hour away from central Hastings Street, it offers non-stop kid-friendly wonderment.

1. Cut loose at Hinterland Adventure Playground

a giant slide in Hinterland Adventure Playground — Hinterland Adventure Playground has a gigantic slide for kids.

After journeying into the Sunshine Coast, I’m always keen to help my beyond-bored kids get their sillies out. Enter the Hinterland Adventure Playground , the ultimate present to gift children after a morning spent in the car or on a plane. Located in Cooroy, a 30-minute drive from bustling Hastings Street, this all-abilities slice of outdoor heaven was built on a former timber mill site and features a bunch of swings, a flying fox, a splash zone, a sand pit, a rock play area, tunnels, a sensory garden, a giant slide, a sensory garden and plenty of nets to climb and tumble down from. Toddlers will also love running away from you as they trot along small-scale nature trails. Best of all, there’s ample shade, plus barbecue areas to lure in too-cool teens, too. An always happy pit-stop to kick start your adventure in Noosa with kids.

2. Learn how to catch a wave

surfing in Noosa Heads — Hit the waves at one of the best Noosa beaches. (Image: Dave Wilcock/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Boasting 300-odd days of sunshine a year, Noosa is a magnet for beach hangs, especially at Main Beach, which is a hop, skip and jump from Hastings Street. So much more than just white sand and cerulean water, the hot spot offers ample water activity whenever I’m in Noosa with kids, including surfing on foam boards, much to the delight of my wannabe grommets. Book a lesson with Merrick’s Noosa Learn to Surf , the longest running surf school in Noosa, for expert guidance. Have teenagers keen to sharpen their skills? There’s also the Australian Surf Bus which was renowned for its national multi-day surf camps before launching on the Sunshine Coast in 2025 (you’ll need to check the website for dates as they run sporadically). Patrolled year-round, Noosa Main Beach is one of the best Noosa beaches, always safe for swimming with moderate waves and epic beginner conditions.

3. Ride a horse along the beach

an aerial view of people riding horses along Rainbow Beach — Hop on and enjoy the view.

We swapped the surfboard for a steed during a recent Noosa escape. Meandering along the stunning coastline on horseback with Equathon Horse Riding Adventures , our private tour swept in Teewah Beach on Noosa’s North Shore. Designed for groups and families with kids aged seven years and older, the tour even takes your four-legged beauty into the surf for a shallow dip if the conditions are favourable. An unforgettable thing to do in Noosa with kids.

4. Get messy with arts and craft at Noosa Regional Gallery

art displays inside the Noosa Regional Gallery — Be inspired to create your own art at Noosa Regional Gallery.

In town on the third Sunday of the month? Break up beach action with a visit to the Noosa Regional Gallery as ArtPlay Sunday attracts kid-heavy crowds. The free program runs from 11am to 1pm and stages activities inspired by current gallery exhibitions, so expect far more enthralling stuff than stock-standard colouring-in. Perfect for primary school-aged children, the initiative is set up just outside the gallery, weather permitting, so parents also score epic Noosa River views while chaperoning giddy kids.

5. Visit The Ginger Factory

an old couple holding ice cream cones alongside their dog at The Ginger Factory, Noosa — Grab a cone from The Ginger Factory. (Image: PixelFrame/Tourism and Events Queensland)

I’m not the biggest fan of ginger but I kept The Ginger Factory on my Noosa-with-kids to-do list because friends raved about it. They were right. Located just 30 minutes south-west of Noosa at Yandina, the very eclectic amusement park is set among subtropical gardens, and the attractions are amusingly random, entirely kid-centric and totally wonderful. We jumped aboard the 100-year-old sugar cane train ride that circles the property, but were far more impressed by Overboard, the indoor boat ride that travels like Disneyland’s ‘It’s a Small World’ to explore gingerbread man puppets travelling the globe. It’s plenty kitsch but my kids and I ooh-ed and ahh-ed at every turn. There’s also a small petting zoo, several play areas, a toy store, a nature trail inspired by the 2018 short film “Zog," ginger factory tours and, of course, shops selling Buderim Ginger products – think ginger beer, gingerbread, chocolate, honey and more. A gift that keeps on giving if you’re in Noosa with kids, especially if they’re little.

6. Explore Noosa by bike

bikers stopping by in Noosa to admire the view — Book your own two wheels from Bike On. (Image: Krista Epplstun/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Ditch the car and get around this scenic region on two wheels thanks to several easy cycle paths for families. The best ones include the flat 6.5-kilometre ride from Noosa Marina to Hastings Street, which passes the Pirate Playground along Noosa River, some of the region’s best cafes and coffee, and Main Beach; an 11.5-kilometre section of the Noosa Coastal Walk from Noosa Junction to Peregian Beach; the 2.5-kilometre loop around the Noosa River and a six-kilometre circuit from Weyba Creek to Noosa Farmers Market and Mangrove Boardwalk. Bike On offers hire with standard baby seats, shotgun child seats and child chariots starting from around $33.75 a day and older kids can book out their own mountain bike and BMX from about $18.75 a day.

7. Make furry new friends at Australia Zoo

rhinos at Australia Zoo, Noosa — Enjoy close encounters with exotic creatures. (Image: Jesse Lindemann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

It would be remiss not to mention Australia’s most famous zoo when it comes to visiting Noosa with kids, plus it’s one of the country’s best. Located less than an hour south of Noosa, Australia Zoo has been operating since the 1990s and is home to more than a thousand native and exotic animals. My family and I have visited several times in the past three years, and my kids love it more each time. During our most recent trip, where we stayed inside one of The Crocodile Hunter Lodge’s ultra-luxe Crocodile Cabins, we even caught Robert Irwin feeding saltwater snappers in the gigantic Crocoseum. Unreal. Elsewhere, I guarantee your little ones will love feeding the kangaroos and stickybeaking through enclosures with far more exotic creatures including lemurs, red pandas, elephants, zebras, meerkats, sea otters, giraffes and cheetahs. Kids from four years of age can also partake in the zoo’s Zookeeper for a Day program, which involves helping the team feed animals and clean enclosures.

8. Kayak through the Noosa Everglades

kayaking along the Noosa Everglades — Paddle down the enchanting Everglades. (Image: Mark Fitz/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Ready for more outdoor awe? Noosa’s Everglades is one of just two everglades in the world (the other is in America’s Florida) and boasts thousands of plant species and more than 40 per cent of Australia’s birdlife. I love how tranquil and soothing a kayak along its eerily still waters prove, while my kids love keeping their eyes peeled for critters of all sorts. Explore this natural wonder in Noosa with kids thanks to the award-winning Kanu Kapers , a tour company that runs self-guided and guided kayak tours throughout. The Young Family Guided Tour is perfect for kiddos up to 10 years old and includes all your gear and brunch. Prices start from $95 for kids and $155 for grown-ups.

9. Hike the Noosa National Park

a couple standing at the peak of Emu Mountain, Noosa National Park — Climb up to the peak of Emu Mountain to witness breathtaking views.

Home to Noosa Headland, soaring eucalypt forest, lush rainforest, quiet beaches and a walk that captures incredible views of the coast, Noosa National Park is a natural family family-friendly wonderland. There are several walking tracks, ranging from an easy one-kilometre trail through palm groves to an epic coastal climb that rewards you with panoramic views (you can do just part of this if your kids are itty bitty). My children love trying to spot vivid wildflowers, kookaburras, koalas and lace monitors, and if you’re there between June and November, humpback whales join the hit list. Meanwhile, dolphins and turtles are most often sighted at Dolphins Point and Hell’s Gates.

10. Paddle, fly and cycle Noosa River

stand-up paddling on Noosa River — Noosa River is a laid-back spot for stand-up paddling. (Image: Manuel Freudenmann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

I love Noosaville’s riverside sleepiness just as much as the all-day hum of Noosa Heads, and I’m not alone. Noosa River boasts all the aquatic sports. Noosa Stand Up Paddle offers SUP lessons and hire, while Fliteschool Noosa unleashes a more unique experience via an electric surfboard–snowboard hybrid that gives the sensation of flying over water. If it’s lazy exploration you’re craving, Noosa River is also home to an abundance of birdlife including pelicans, white-bellied sea eagles and the striking great egret.

11. Board a classic Noosa River ferry

the Noosa Ferry & Cruise Company — Cruise down the scenic waterway aboard the Noosa Ferry. (Image: Manuel Freudenmann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Soak up chilled holiday vibes with a cruise down Noosa River aboard the local vintage ferry. Noosa Ferry & Cruise Co. offers rides aboard a 1960s vessel that connects Hastings Street and Noosa Marina, plus multiple scenic stops between. All-day passes for adults cost $28 while children cost $14, and this allows the clan to hop on and off as much as you like. The tour company also offers cruises aboard its HV Stillwater, a more contemporary hybrid-powered vessel famed for its sunset sail over the glistening waterways. In great news for parents? There’s a licensed bar and nibbles. Sold.

12. Ride the Noosa Wave

Noosa Wave Boating Adventures Swim with the Whales — Spot majestic humpbacks in the pristine waters off Noosa. (Image: Mark Fitz/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Little ones love wildlife and speed, so why not combine them the next time you’re visiting Noosa with kids? Spot the abundant marine life that call this Queensland corner home – think dolphins, turtles and manta rays – on a thrilling zero-gravity-feeling ocean ride with Noosa Wave Boating Adventures . Kids from five years old can join the team’s 1.5-hour Thrilling Dolphin Adventure tour, which glides over waves without any hard bumps. It’s the fastest (and safest) adventure boat you’ll find in the area. Expect tickets from $59 per child and $79 per adult.

13. Get silly in a giant inflatable fun park

Just over a half-hour drive south of Noosa, the Coolum Aqua Park is the region’s largest water park, sure to tire even the most energetic of kids aged six and over. The inflatable obstacle course comprises slides, trampolines, swings, wobble pads and more to slip and slide across. There are barbecue areas right nearby, so consider bringing lunch to enjoy under the park’s shaded structures. Prices start from $30 per person for a single session but you can go all day with a $70 pass if everyone’s super keen.

14. Noosa Aquatic Centre

Take a break from chasing your toddler away from Main Beach’s waves by visiting Noosa Aquatic Centre ’s kid-friendly pools. Choose from a heated toddler pool and heated bubble pool for even smaller bubs, plus giant inflatables for kids aged six and over during the school holidays. The long-serving attraction, situated away from the centre of tourist town in beautiful Sunshine Beach, is a local’s secret. There’s also a gym and cafe on site, and a creche if you’re desperate for a very virtuous holiday swim or sweat session.

Hungry? Discover the best restaurants in Noosa

This new, family-friendly Hamilton Island resort embraces life in the slow lane.

White sand beaches, gentle waves and getting on ‘island time’ have always made Hamilton Island the first spot that comes to mind when thinking of Queensland’s Whitsundays. Always a place to recharge and relax, modern wellness travel here means so much more than a spa treatment or green juice. And a new kind of tropical island stay has now arrived on Hamilton Island.

pool at The Sundays Hamilton Island — Learn to slow down and rejuvinate. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

The Sundays reimagines laid-back luxury, combining boutique, beachfront accommodation with an encouragement to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures so every day feels like Sunday.

Laid-back luxury

The Sundays is nestled into the picturesque gardens on the northern end of Catseye Beach. Despite a feeling of being away from it all, the resort is a conveniently short walk from Hamilton Island’s main resort centre and restaurants, so guests can have the best of both worlds.

This new boutique stay is all about savouring the now. From complimentary sunrise yoga to moonlight movies for kids and a daily sundae ritual by the beachside pool, it makes a compelling case for doing less, better.

Even the architecture is designed to harmonise with the surrounding tropical landscape, pairing soft curves with a grounded coastal style that shows off the panoramic Coral Sea views and adds to the hotel’s calm aesthetic.

Plus, with direct flights to Hamilton Island from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in under two and a half hours, as well as complimentary hotel transfers from the airport or marina, getting here is as easy as the vacation itself.

balcony view from room at The Sundays — Enjoy fantastic views from your balcony or terrace. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Perfectly designed rooms with amazing views

Every small detail has been considered in the creation of the 59 guest rooms and suites, from in-room amenities by LEIF to walls adorned with custom artworks by First Nations andHungarian artist Tiarna Herczeg. There’s even a signature in-room scent by The Raconteur.

Designed by Hamilton Island’s own designer, Carrie Williams, the result is relaxed Australian style using natural textures and soft hues to lull guests into a mellow state. This soothing palette runs throughout the resort, from its sun lounges to the shaded cabanas.

Every room and suite has been built with a balcony or terrace, perfectly framing postcard-perfect views of the surrounding reef and lush greenery.

inside a room at The Sundays — Stylish rooms feature natural, soothing tones. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Excellent activities and amenities

Each day has been planned with a relaxed structure, so guests can get involved in as much or as little as they wish.

Greet each day with morning yoga, pilates and island walks. Recharge with daily (and deliciously complimentary) sundaes by the pool. Wind down with moonlight movies twice a week and take advantage of family-focused features.

Guests have complimentary access to a range of water sports – from stand-up paddle boards to catamarans – so they can get their blood pumping before relaxing by the resort pool.

Or take a few extra steps to set up for a day on the sand without any crowds at the exclusive, guest-only beach. Settle in with a poolside aperitif for a front-row view of the stunning Catseye Bay.

aerial shot of The Sundays pool and catseye beach — Find picturesque Catseye Beach on your doorstep. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Delectable dining

What is rejuvenation if not a hearty choice of fresh, delectable dishes? That’s what guests will discover at The Sundays’s onsite restaurant, Catseye Pool Club .

Open all day for hotel guests and lunch and dinner for island diners, this relaxed yet elevated menu was created by acclaimed culinary duo, Josh and Julie Niland. It celebrates that community feeling of mealtimes while championing seasonal Australian produce.

“The vision behind [Catseye Pool Club] reflects so much of what I value – bringing people together to create memories in beautiful surroundings,” explains Josh.

table spread including a lobster dish from Catseye Pool Club, The Sundays — Enjoy classic Aussie meals with a twist at Catseye Pool Club. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Based on elevated versions of classic Aussie family dinners, expect refined simplicity. Think roasted Sun Farms Sommerlad chicken with sides like chicken fat roast potatoes, gravy and tomato and grilled bread salad, or barbecued line-caught Bowen coral trout with garlic saltbush and Warrigal greens.

A day spent by the pool can be complemented by a dedicated poolside menu, featuring wood-fired souvas. Don’t want to leave the room? Kick back and soak in the views with tasty treats delivered straight to your door, whether you’re after a full breakfast or late night snack.

view from catseye pool club at The Sundays hamilton island — Enjoy dinner and a view. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Exploring the island

While daily life at The Sundays is very much about the art of staying still, guests who seek more can explore the island with ease.

Take a day trip to the striking Whitehaven Beach, or see the iconic Heart Reef from above on a helicopter tour. Pop over to Hamilton Island’s championship golf course for a hit, or explore over 12 kilometres of the island’s stunning nature and wildlife. Later, slow the pace back down with a visit to Spa wumurdaylin .

Looking for more tasty treats? Visit one of the island’s restaurants – there are more than 20 to choose from.

Hikers on passage peak hike on hamilton island — Take on the beautiful hikes of Hamilton Island. (Image: Nick Leary)

Book your stay at The Sundays through hamiltonisland.com.au.

A parent’s survival guide to the best things to do in Noosa with kids