A Guide to Visiting Noosa National Park And Surrounds

Go beyond cafe culture to connect with the natural wonders of Noosa National Park.

Noosa is not just a private playground for the rich. Some of its best assets are free to enjoy, and that includes Noosa National Park.

Here’s our guide to getting the best out of a visit, including information on how to get there (and where to park) and what to conquer. Split into three sections – Noosa Headland, Emu Mountain and Peregian – the park’s magical array of walking trails, ocean lookouts, and golden swimming and surfing spots are calling.

When to visit

Although visitors head to Noosa National Park all year round, there’s certainly a more comfortable time of year to get amongst it. Summer days range from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius and winter days range from 10 to 21 degrees Celsius, so milder climates make spring and autumn prime exploration time. September is also Noosa’s driest month so expect increased foot traffic then, too.

Noosa Heads on a sunny day, Noosa National Park — Bask in the postcard-perfect beach views at Noosa Heads.

Getting there and where to park

Did you know you can walk to Noosa National Park from Hastings Street’s incredible stretch of shops and eateries? The main entrance is just 30 minutes from the action, right along the seaside boardwalk.

people overlooking stunning views at Laguna Lookout, Noosa — Laguna Lookout is one of Noosa’s most picturesque spots.

If you’ve got a set of wheels, you can also drive to many of the park’s highlights including Laguna Lookout in Noosa Heads, at the end of Viewland Drive where there’s a car park.

a couple walking along the seaside boardwalk, Noosa National Park — Opt for a romantic walk along the seaside boardwalk.

The Headland section of Noosa National Park offers sensational ocean views, and you can access it from the end of Park Road where there’s the Noosa Headland day-use area, another car park. This car park is endlessly busy, so factor extra spot-searching time into your itinerary. If you get stuck, there’s another entrance to the Headland section, offering limited parking, at Parkedge Road in Sunshine Beach, so try your luck there.

an aerial view of the Noosa Headland section — The Headland section of Noosa National Park offers sensational ocean views.

If you’re planning to hike, drive to the council car parks located on Belmore Terrace or Seaview Drive to access some of the park’s most popular trails. You can start the Noosa Coastal Track from Sunshine Beach where it’s easier to find parking. You can also use the free bus service which runs to and from Main Beach during school holidays.

an aerial view of Sunshine Beach looking towards Noosa National Park — Sunshine Beach is known for its laid-back coastline.

Hiking in Noosa National Park

Noosa Coastal Walk

Wrap yourself in nature along the Noosa Coastal Walk, a 10.8-kilometre return stretch that offers spectacular views of Noosa North Shore and rocky outlooks where, from June to October, you might be lucky enough to see whales.

The beautiful blue-green waterways are also home to turtles and dolphins, and there are even koalas curled up in the canopy above.

To get there, start at the Noosa Headland day-use area at the end of Park Road in Noosa Heads where you’ll need to walk for 30 minutes along that seaside boardwalk to commence the trail.

trees surrounding the Noosa Boardwalk — Follow the forest trail along the Noosa Boardwalk.

Highlights include Boiling Pot, a lookout where waves dramatically crash onto the rocks, Tea Tree Bay, a picture-perfect beach, and Hell’s Gates, offering views over Alexandria Bay. Allow about four hours to get the entire hike done, or you can wind things up at Sunshine Beach and just catch a bus back to Hastings Street.

an aerial view of Tea Tree Bay, Noosa National Park — Laze on the stunning beach at Tea Tree Bay.

Noosa Hill Walk

Drive to the day-use area car park at the end of Park Road to start the Noosa Hill Walk. The peaceful trail – a safe option for all fitness levels – pretzels around the northern face of Noosa Hill and around open groves of blue gums and black wattles.

You can start and finish at the same point on the 2.8-kilometre stretch or extend your travels and include the Tanglewood Track to Alexandria Bay and Sunshine Beach. Factor in about one to one-and-a-half hours if you’re sticking to the return trail.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Hell’s Gates Walk

Kicking off from Noosa Main Beach, the one-hour Hell’s Gates Walk through Noosa National Park is an easy trek that follows the boardwalk past several beaches that beg to be swum in, including Little Cove and Tea Tree Bay.

The bonus of reaching Hell’s Gates is that you may just see wildlife such as ospreys, koalas, dolphins and whales (in season) below.

an aerial view of Noosa Hell’s Gates — Hike to the scenic cliff for dramatic coastal views at Hell’s Gates.

Emu Mountain Summit Walk

Venture beyond Noosa National Park’s Headland section for some equally memorable hikes including the Emu Mountain Summit Walk, a 1.1-kilometre return trek offering unforgettable views across the coast.

As the name suggests, you’re headed for the top of Emu Mountain, also known as Mount Peregian, a fragment from a giant volcanic mass. Your history lesson is guaranteed to be overshadowed once you reach those panoramic vistas spanning Noosa all the way to Maroochydore. Allow 45 minutes to one hour to get there and back.

two people gazing at incredible sunrise views, Emu Mountain Summit Walk — Catch panoramic sunrise views during the Emu Mountain Summit Walk.

Ocean Beach Walk

Get your sweat on while reserving most of your day for unwinding by opting for the short 30-minute return Ocean Beach Walk in Noosa National Park. Just one kilometre in length, the trail extends along a boardwalk from Peregian swamplands and forest, and towards Peregian beach. To access the entrance, drive three kilometres north of Coolum Beach along David Long Way.

Surfing in Noosa National Park

Noosa World Surfing Reserve

Tune into the rhythm of the sea at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve, which has a smattering of world-class breaks that hug the headland in Noosa National Park. The reserve stretches for five kilometres off the coast and is justifiably famous for its five incredible point breaks and three beach breaks where the waves are consistently good.

Learn to Surf

Beginners can bob around off Noosa Main Beach with Merrick’s Noosa Learn to Surf and Go Ride A Wave where they will be taught to spring to their feet, even on their first lesson. And there’s plenty of pro inspiration in this neck of the woods. If there’s enough swell and conditions allow, you might find World Surf League professional surfer and Noosa local Julian Wilson at First Point, which he professes is his favourite wave.

a female surfer holding her surfboard while walking along Noosa National Park — Get your surfboards ready at Noosa National Park. (Image: @letmesea)

Granite Bay

You have to be committed to get to Granite Bay as the right-hand break is another 20-minute walk along the Noosa Coastal Walk from Tea Tree. But it’ll be worth it: when Granite Bay is firing, this is where you’ll find the biggest, gnarliest waves in Noosa.

Nationals and Tea Tree

Navigate the sea froth like a champion? The break known as Nationals at the start of Noosa National Park is for experienced surfers only.

stand-up paddling at Tea Tree Bay, Noosa National Park — Try stand-up paddling at Tea Tree Bay.

Tea Tree is also a popular surf spot, though it’s a 15-minute trek on foot through the national park.

an aerial shot of a woman surfing at Tea Tree Bay, Noosa National Park — Surf on the endless blues at Tea Tree Bay.

The break is the first bay as you walk around the Noosa Coastal Walk. Again, only experienced surfers need to apply when there’s swell hitting the coastline.

an overhead shot of Tea Tree Bay coastline, Noosa National Park — Meet fellow surfers along the coastline.

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Swimming in Noosa National Park

While there are plenty of waterways to explore, there are no patrolled beaches within Noosa National Park so swimming is not generally recommended.

However, confident swimmers can’t miss Little Cove, located on the outskirts of Noosa National Park and just around the corner from Noosa Main Beach, because it’s one of the prettiest beaches in the region and overlooks Laguna Bay.

an aerial view of the Little Cove, Noosa — Cool off at Little Cove.

Picnic in paradise at the serene spot which is just 100 metres long and popular with families who trolley in with their snorkels, boogie boards, kayaks, and beach toys. Enjoy a dip and then wander down Noosa’s main street to find a stellar feed at one of the town’s top spots to nosh.

an aerial view of the sea at Noosa National Park — Soak up scenic coastal views at Noosa National Park.

Natural wonders near Noosa National Park

Noosa River

You can swim, surf, SUP, kayak, kitesurf, fish, and jet ski along the Noosa River, which is about a 15-minute drive from Noosa National Park. Families enjoy swimming in the waterway, which flows south from the Great Sandy National Park into Laguna Bay. The river foreshore is also perfect for picnics and has free BBQs dotted along its banks. The river winds its way to Noosaville, which is another laidback Sunshine Coast holiday spot.

Noosa Everglades

Known as the ‘River of Mirrors’ due to the still, glassy surface that reflects its electric-green surrounds, the Noosa Everglades – one of only two such systems on Earth – is in the upper reaches of the Noosa River.

Hire a canoe and navigate your way into ‘the Narrows’, embark on a guided kayak tour, enjoy a birdwatching expedition or enjoy a swim in the Everglades.

a woman paddling through the Noosa Everglades — Paddle through the Noosa Everglades. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Harry’s Hut

Located at the Cooloola Recreation Area in Great Sandy National Park, Harry’s Hut is a much-adored local attraction only accessible by high-clearance 4WDs. The track pinballs through pine plantations, scribbly gum woodlands and cool rainforest in the upper reaches of the Noosa River. The 10-kilometre road ends at a camping ground near the old timber getters hut that dates to the mid-1900s. Enjoy a swim in this next-level location.

Where to stay to access Noosa National Park

Camping within the park itself is banned, but there is one accommodation option. Eh Frame is a Mid Century-inspired A Frame Canadian-style log cabin named after the short phrase Canadians are stereotyped for ending their sentences with. The two-bedroom holiday rental is a tight fit, but it still comes complete with a washing machine, a fully equipped kitchen, and a closet for extra storage so families will feel right at home.

Otherwise, there are great sites around Noosa National Park if you’re dreaming of sleeping under the stars. Cooloola Recreation Area in Great Sandy National Park, about two hours north of Noosa National Park, offers extensive facilities while Burrum National Park, another hour north, is another camp-friendly winner.

But the most convenient areas to set up digs and explore Noosa National Park are Noosa, Coolum and Peregian, as each is located within walking distance from the park’s highlights. Our round-up of the region’s best places to stay will offer some great insight, as will our pick of the best holiday rentals in Noosa.

When the winter chill settles in, an escape to Hamilton Island’s year-round tropical shores is the only acceptable coping mechanism.

As a heliophile with the cold tolerance of a Mediterranean house cat, the arrival of winter tends to spark a particular panic. How will I survive? Must I really start layering? What do you mean, Aperol season is over? But there are far better ways to spend the cooler months than sulking in the depths of your doona.

Enter, Hamilton Island. With its year-round sunshine and permanent on-holiday atmosphere, this Whitsundays favourite promises a veritable slice of summer in winter.

Think salt-stiff hair and the smug pleasure of devouring seafood beside the water while friends back home are defogging their windscreens. Here’s why Hamilton Island should figure into your winter plans.

1. Year-round summer weather

A woman hiking along the Passage Peak trail on Hamilton Island. — Hike under sunny winter skies on Hamilton Island. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

In the crisper months, Hamilton Island offers perfectly mild, sunny weather (17-24°C) that lends itself to morning swims and afternoon spritzes. Better still, you can enjoy the island’s outdoor adventures – from hiking to mountain biking – without the humidity or rain you’ll often find in summertime. With direct flights from most major Australian cities offering ease of access, Hamilton Island is the ideal place to flee the cold.

2. Getting active without the humidity

A buggy parked overlooking Hamilton Island’s golf course, with sweeping views of the sea at Whitsundays in winter. — Zip around Hamilton Island by buggy. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Whether you’re hiking up to Passage Peak or exploring the island by buggy, tropical Queensland humidity is nobody’s friend. The one way to guarantee you will avoid the inevitable stickiness and fluffy hair? Visit during winter. There’s plenty to be enjoyed, from sunrise yoga at The Sundays (exclusive to guests of The Sundays) to playing golf on Dent Island.

3. Hamilton Island Race Week

Yachts racing across the sparkling Whitsundays during Hamilton Island Race Week. — Feel the thrill of Hamilton Island Race Week. (Image: Salty Dingo)

Taking place in August, Hamilton Island Race Week is a destination in its own right that attracts spectators and racers from around the globe. Boating enthusiasts and thrill-seeking holidaymakers flock to the island, which is palpably energetic as the first yachts set off for Dent Passage from Hamilton Island Yacht Club. The annual action-packed week, taking place from 15 to 22 August in 2026, offers an exciting calendar of on- and off-water events – spanning everything from celebrity chef dinners to golfing comps and wine tastings.

4. Best time for snorkelling

A woman snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef. — Explore Hamilton Island’s winter waters. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

While the crowds on Hamilton Island may disperse with the cooler weather, the marine life certainly doesn’t. Winter is widely considered one of the best times to snorkel and dive in the Whitsundays.

It’s down to a number of reasons: excellent water visibility, higher chances of seeing whales as they migrate north and – best of all – no nasty stingers. This means no need to wear those notoriously unflattering full-body wetsuits visitors have to wear in warmer months. On top of all this, you’ll find calm seas ideal for sailing and Great Barrier Reef tours.

5. Fewer crowds

People kayaking. — Experience a quieter Hamilton Island on a kayaking adventure. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Winter is often the quietest time to visit Hamilton Island, with the peak season crowds thinned to a relaxed trickle. You can snorkel or dive straight off the reef-laced waters of Catseye Beach, then swap fins for a buggy and zip between One Tree Hill, the marina and sunset cocktails without the usual summer queues. Active days stretch from kayaking, sailing and jet skiing to hopping over to famous Whitehaven Beach to witness those breathtaking white swirls of silica sand. You won’t have to elbow your way to the front of the crowd to get a good snap.

6. Delicious dining

The interiors of Bommie Restaurant, featuring modern coastal design with warm lighting and elegant detailing. — Treat yourself to Bommie Restaurant’s fine dining featuring fresh, seasonal Aussie produce. (Image: Nikki To)

The food on Hamilton Island tastes just as good any time of year, and winter is still perfect weather for sundowners. Start with an iced tea Negroni at harbourside Bommie Deck, before transitioning to Bommie Restaurant for a fine-dining feast centering on seasonal Aussie ingredients. Or perhaps enjoy a more casual poolside evening at Sails Restaurant, where plates of chermoula chicken skewers, baked cauliflower steak and crispy sumac squid come served with ocean views. From family-friendly pub meals to elevated wine tastings, there’s something for everyone.

5. Clear skies for idyllic views

The golden hour across the Whitsundays in winter. — End your day with golden Hamilton Island sunsets over the water. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Never let a cloud rain on the parade of Hamilton Island’s spectacular scenery. Winter brings clearer skies and more stable weather to the Whitsundays, meaning your picture-perfect sunset at One Tree Hill is likely to remain that way. And after putting in the legwork to hike to a scenic lookout, the last thing you want is a vista hidden behind low cloud and haze.

To learn more about travelling to the Whitsundays in winter, visit hamitlonisland.com.au.

A guide to visiting Noosa National Park and surrounds

Go beyond cafe culture to connect with the natural wonders of Noosa National Park.

When to visit

Getting there and where to park