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Things to do in Noosa: Bathhouses, whale watching and distilleries

Kristie Lau-Adams Kristie Lau-Adams
If you thought the best things to do in Noosa involved nothing more than a towel and cozzies, think again. Slurp up that coffee and pop your book down – it’s time to discover this beach town’s magnetism.

From life-changing restaurants and one-of-a-kind handicrafts to world-renowned ecosystems and spectacular coastal walks, the best things to do in Noosa are worth leaving that infinity pool for. Momentarily, anyway. Here’s my pick of the best cup-filling capers in the glittering coastal hot spot.

In short

If you only have time for one of the best things to do in Noosa, make it a shop down Hastings Street. Sure, it’s cluttered with crowds but stickybeaking boutiques with an ice-cream in hand has got to be one of my most cherished Queensland holiday memories.

1. Lose yourself at Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses

a couple relaxing at Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses, Noosa
Soak in rustic indulgence at Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses. (Image: Supplied)

Does lazy nothingness sum up your holiday speed? Cheers to that, and I wholly advise a visit to Kin Kin Spring Bathhouses on your to-do list. Opened in April 2025, this low-key wellness destination is a winner for its stunning hinterland location and chilled vibes. I journey into lush farmland to find my natural spring water-flowing tub overlooking rolling green hills. It’s about 45 minutes from the rush of Hastings Street, so I feel lightyears away from tourist town. Epsom salts melt my limbs for a whopping two hours inside a private shed of my own while coconut water arrives complimentary. If washing down uninterrupted hinterland views with a beer or wine sounds more appealing, BYO drinks as long as they’re in plastic, not glass. A session starts from $129 per person and there are two sheds with two baths in each, inviting remote romance if you’re coupled up.

2. Seize Noosa’s annual whale watching season

Noosa Wave Boating Adventures Swim with the Whales
Spot friendly giants and their playful calves. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

If you’re visiting the Sunshine Coast between June and November, Noosa offers several top-notch whale watching expeditions. I’ve spotted the big friendly giants, and even their playful calves, with Noosa Wave Boating Adventures in the past, and loved every second of the two-hour adventure. If you don’t spot a whale, the team gift you 50 per cent off another trip out, but the odds are typically in your favour given these skippers rub shoulders with the big guys annually. There’s also Whale Songs Noosa , another reputable tour company that runs a two-hour trip with a whale and dolphin researcher, so question time never ends.

3. Soar high above with Skydive Noosa

Tick off your bucket list with a freefall in the capable hands of Skydive Noosa . Flying out of Sunshine Coast Airport, this unforgettable thing to do in Noosa takes you 13,000 feet into that dazzling blue sky to be launched over the coastline with Coolum Beach locked in sight. Stomach-in-throat, you’ll glide down to the sand as views out to K’gari and even Brisbane paint a spectacular scene only few dare to spy.

4. Get dizzy exploring the Noosa cocktail bar scene

the bar interior of Atelier Wine Bar, Noosa
Imbibe refined drops at Atelier Wine Bar.

You’re all over its eateries, but have you ventured into the cocktail and wine bars? Rivalling those found in major cities, Noosa’s fancy tipples scene blends chic interiors with epic drops. Atelier Wine Bar is so sleek it feels like a fashion boutique, Theo’s Social Club offers (oak) barrels of fun and warm hospitality, and Yorkers Bar shakes cocktails so delicious it’s impossible to stop at one (most people, including myself, don’t).

5. Navigate the waterways with a Noosa boat hire

a family fishing in Noosa with Pelican Boat Hire
Book yourself a legendary day out on the Noosa River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

I love getting out on the water to channel the lives of the rich and famous. Pelican Boat Hire has been operating for more than 50 years and provides everything you need (including a detailed map) for a legendary day out on the Noosa River. I chose the Ultimate BBQ Pontoon during a recent Noosa visit for its plush seating and envious stares, and my kids and husband lapped up space as we dipped into the water between languid fishing attempts. An awesome day out as the captain of your own ship.

6. Make time for self-care at a Noosa day spa

guests at Ikatan Day Spa having a full body massage
Indulge in a treatment at Ikatan Day Spa.

One of my favourite things to do in Noosa? Zeroing in on me. Noosa’s best day spas include Stephanies Ocean Spa and Sensaura Day Spa , but my eternal go-to is Ikatan Day Spa in nearby Doonan. I adore the team’s 75-minute Prasanna Massage Package, conducted in an outdoor gazebo immersed in lush tropical gardens and spanning heavenly foot therapy, as well as massages of the head, arms and hands. The day spa is inspired by the tranquillity of Bali, so I find Zen the moment I enter.

7. Soak up the sun at the best Noosa beaches

an aerial of Noosa Heads
Noosa Heads is a dreamy haven for surfers. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Dave Wilcock)

Ditch the pool for Mother Nature’s most sensational sand and surf. Noosa’s best beaches include Main Beach for unrivalled people-watching, while quiet sunbaking is best secured at Sunrise Beach, Alexandria Bay and Little Cove Beach. For less populated surfing, head to Castaways, Marcus and Sunshine Beach (more on standout Sunshine later).

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8. Unearth local treasures at Noosa markets

organic farm good stalls at Eumundi Markets
Peruse organic farm goods at Eumundi Markets.

Beach-inspired homewares, fashion and jaw-dropping crafts dominate so many of Noosa’s popular markets. I’ve rounded up the best markets right here, including the overwhelmingly awesome Eumundi Markets and the Peregian Beach Markets . Live music and mouth-watering food always get me out of bed early, too.

9. Be enlightened with the Kabi Kabi Virtual Welcome to Country

Make sure you’re strolling past the Visitor Information Centre on Hastings Street at 7 pm every night because a wonderful six-minute audio-visual presentation celebrates the traditional owners, the Kabi Kabi people, and this magnificent land. Arrive curious and leave utterly humbled — my entire family loved it last visit, and that includes the restless preschooler.

10. Throw a line off a Noosa fishing charter

Catch your dinner from a coastline filled with coral reef, snapper, mackerel and tuna. A Noosa fishing charter from the likes of Deep Sea Fishing Co. , who offer five, seven and nine-hour charters, and Noosa Sport Fishing , offering charters designed to reel you in a win, will sort you out.

11. Splash cash at Hastings Street’s boutiques and eateries

a couple exploring Hastings Street, Noosa
Shop and dine on the famous Hastings Street. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jamie MacFadyen)

The scene to be seen, Hastings Street’s irresistible string of restaurants, retail boutiques and bars is a non-negotiable thing to do in Noosa. Spanning locally produced fashion, homewares, sporting goods and art, plus delicious treats for all tastes, the main strip is a non-stop melting pot of action.

12. Forage fresh produce at the Noosa Farmers Market

a market stall at the Noosa Farmers Market
Find crafts and fresh farm produce at the Noosa Farmers Market. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Tourism Australia)

Sundays in Noosa aren’t complete without dropping into the famous Noosa Farmers Market , located in laid-back Noosaville. It’s a wonderland for freshly sourced produce, excellent coffee, outstanding condiments and a sprinkling of arts and crafts from 7am until midday every Sunday.

13. Connect with nature on a walk through Noosa National Park

the Sunshine Beach, Noosa National Park 
Sunshine Beach is tucked away on the southern side of Noosa National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

Escape the crowds and embrace natural wonders by pounding the pavement in Noosa National Park. My comprehensive guide to its walking trails will help you whittle down a walk tailored to what you’re looking for. Enchanting wildlife? Tick. Soaring views? Double tick.

14. Find a new favourite at Noosa’s breweries and distilleries

pouring tap beer into a glass at Heads of Noosa Brewing Co.
Grab yourself a glass of signature tap beer at Heads of Noosa Brewing Co.

Much like its wine and cocktail bar scene, the growing cluster of top-notch Noosa breweries and distilleries is pouring pure genius. My all-time favourite is Seabourne Distillery for its masterful use of native ingredients in well-balanced spirits, while Boiling Pot Brewery Co is epic for too-easy-to-drink brews, and the taproom at Heads of Noosa is always a great vibe.

15. Live like a laidback local at Sunshine Beach

two women admiring ocean views at Sunshine Beach, Noosa
Soak up panoramic views at Sunshine Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The energy of Noosa Heads is intoxicating but Sunshine Beach is the mellow winner of my holiday dreams. It’s much hillier so getting around isn’t as seamless, but a distinct village feel, fantastic coffee and one helluva surf club with sweeping ocean views, steals my heart every revisit.

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16. Dine like a celebrity at Noosa’s best restaurants

enjoying pizza and wine at Somedays Pizza, Noosa
Somedays Pizza is one of many top-notch places to drink and dine in Noosa.

Eat, sleep, repeat – it’s a lifestyle holidaymakers travel the world in search of. While my list of best restaurants in Noosa is too long to conquer in one visit, don’t miss Somedays Pizza for a game-changing slice, Rickys River Bar & Restaurant for an ultimate long lunch with the girls, and Bistro C for unbeatable beach party atmosphere.

17. Get active with a range of Noosa water sports

SUPing at Tea Tree Bay
Hop on a SUP and float across the stunning Tea Tree Bay.

Whether your heart races for jet skis, SUPs, kayaks or electric hydrofoils, calm waters and killer surf breaks offer ideal conditions for action-packed things to do in Noosa. Noosa Watersports is a one-stop shop for most options, while Fliteschool Noosa provides guided lessons on those crazy, hovering, electric hydrofoils.

18. Sink a cold one (or few) at Noosa’s best bars

Sunset Bar at the Noosa Boathouse
Sunset Bar at the Noosa Boathouse is a picture-perfect spot for sundowners.

Got a spare afternoon? Fill it with discovering mouth-watering concoctions in the most sparkling of spaces. Miss Moneypenny’s on Hastings Street is always pumping, YoYo Bar & Restaurant is a low-key Noosaville superstar, and Sunset Bar at the Noosa Boathouse offers drinks with a side of picture-perfect views.

19. Delight in locally roasted coffee at Noosa’s best cafes

coffee blends at First Batch Coffee Roasters, Noosa
Take your pick of coffee blends at First Batch Coffee Roasters.

But first, coffee. Noosa is filled with incredible blends, boasting several stellar roasters throughout the region. I’ve rounded up the best coffee and cafes for your savouring pleasure, but just head straight to Sunshine Social in Sunshine Beach if you’re staying there, and if you’re in Noosaville, go for the industrial zone’s Clandestino Coffee .

20. Marvel in the beauty of the Noosa Everglades

an aerial of a kayak along Noosa Everglades with Kanu Kapers
Kayak along the Noosa Everglades with Kanu Kapers.

Staggering sights beckon from the top end of the Noosa River where the Noosa Everglades begins. The 60-kilometre stretch of waterways, spellbinding plant life and amazing wildlife is best navigated with an expert tour like Kanu Kapers , who offer kayaks, and Everglades Eco Safaris , who run a 2.5-hour ‘Serenity’ boat tour (with bubbles) that I couldn’t stop (and evidently still can’t) raving about afterwards.

21. Sleep under the stars with Noosa’s best glamping

a kangaroo outside a glamping tent at Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp
Go glamping with resident roos at Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Sacrifice a solid roof for the night in the name of adventure with Noosa’s most luxurious glamping experiences. One of the best things to do in Noosa if it’s once-in-a-lifetime memories you’re chasing, my picks are Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp and Noosa Eco Retreat .

22. Dive into riverside fish and chips in Noosaville

seafood plates on the table at Noosa Boathouse
Feast on freshly cooked seafood by the river. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

It’s often the simple things that make my holiday memories last, like grabbing fish and chips for a riverside picnic with the fam. Embrace quality time with your favourite people over excellent fish and chips from Noosa Boathouse ’s takeaway window. Best of all, there’s ample lawn space for the largest of clans.

23. Stay up all night at Village Bicycle

When a nightcap calls, I never say no to Village Bicycle at Noosa Junction. With one of the latest closing times in Noosa (midnight), this is an unpretentious joint that’s never disappointed. Expect a graffiti-clad beer garden and extensive booze menu, plus delicious burgers, wings and more to line your stomach.

Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Exploding supernovas & gold fever: discover the past at this outback Qld town

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    Under wide-open outback skies, discover a fossicking gem that’s managed to slip under the radar.

    While the name Clermont may feel new to even the most intrepid traveller, its gilded history stretches back centuries. You’ll find it just off the highway, humming quietly under the hazy veil of Queensland’s outback sun. It’s here, hemmed in by mountains and perched atop soil heavy with the earth’s treasures, that one of Australia’s most accessible outback adventures awaits.

    Thanks to deposits of gold, copper and gemstones – souvenirs left by exploding supernovas and the heave of tectonic plates – Clermont became a centre point of Queensland’s Gold Rush. And now? Australia’s fossicking capital is yours to discover.

    Getting there

    car driving along Capricorn Way in queensland
    Take a drive through Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. (Image: Sean Scott/ TEQ)

    You’ll find Clermont in Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. To get here, it’s an easy three-hour drive over sealed roads from Mackay. Or, if you’re heading from the Sapphire Fields of Emerald, the drive will carve out just over an hour from your day.

    Whether you’re road-tripping through outback Queensland or just tracing your way through all that Australia has to offer, Clermont is remote but easily accessible.

    Best accommodation in Clermont

    Theresa CreekDam in clermont
    Camp by Theresa Creek Dam. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    All accommodation comes with a generous helping of country hospitality here. The choice is yours between modern hotels, parking up the camper or pitching a tent.

    Theresa Creek Dam lies just outside town. Begin each day with crisp country air and bright outback sunrises. Spend the night under the sparkling country stars and your days out on the dam fishing or kayaking. Even if you aren’t camping, be sure to save space in your itinerary for an afternoon on the red dirt shore.

    To stay closer to town, opt for a central hotel to base yourself between exploring and fossicking, like Smart Stayzzz Inn and Clermont Country Motor Inn .

    Things to do in Clermont

    three people on a tour with Golden Prospecting
    Join a tour with Golden Prospecting.

    One does not visit Clermont without trying their hand at fossicking. There are strict rules when it comes to fossicking, so stick to areas dedicated for general permission and make sure you obtain your license beforehand. Try your luck at McMasters , Four Mile , Town Desert, McDonald Flat and Flat Diggings . To increase your odds, sign on for a tour with the expert team at Golden Prospecting . They’ll give you access to exclusive plots and expert advice along the way.

    Once you’ve tried your luck on the gold fields, head to the Clermont Township and Historical Museum . Each exhibit works like an archaeologist’s brush to dust away the layers of Clermont’s history. Like the steam engine that painstakingly relocated the entire town inch by inch to higher ground after it was decimated by flooding in 1916. See the tools that helped build the Blair Athol mine, historic fire engines, shearing sheds and all sorts of relics that make up Clermont’s story.

    The historic Copperfield Chimney offers a change of pace. Legend has it that fossickers found a solid wall of copper here, over three metres high, kick-starting Queensland’s first-ever copper mine.

    Bush Heli Services flying over clermont queensland
    See Clermont from above with Bush Heli Services. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    For hiking, nearby Dysart is the best place to access Peak Range National Park. Here, mountainous horizons stretch across the outback as if plucked from another world. Set off for a scenic drive along the Peak Downs Highway for access to countless geological wonders. Like the slanting rockface of Wolfang Peak. Summit it, and you’ll find yourself looking out across a scene surely conjured up by Banjo Paterson. Dry scrub dancing in the warm breeze, grazing cattle, eucalypts and the gentle creak of windmills. Don’t miss visiting Gemini Peaks, either, for one of the park’s best vistas, and a blanket of wild flowers after rain.

    Then, take to the skies with a scenic helicopter tour with Bush Heli-Services . Shift your perspective and cruise above all the sights from your trip. Spots like Lords Table Mountain and Campbell’s Peak are best viewed from the skies.

    Before you head home, be sure to explore the neighbouring townships. Spend a lazy afternoon in the shade of Nebo Hotel’s wrap-around verandahs . The hotel’s 1900s dance hall has since been replaced with one of the area’s biggest rodeo arenas, so consider timing your trip to line up with a boot scootin’ rodeo. Or, stop by a ghost town. Mount Britton was once a thriving town during the 1880s Gold Rush. It’s been totally abandoned and now lies untouched, a perfect relic of the Gold Rush.

    Best restaurants and cafes in Clermont

    meal at Commercial Hotel
    Stop into the Commercial Hotel Clermont.

    Days spent fossicking, bushwalking and cramming on history call for excellent coffee and hearty country meals. Luckily, Clermont delivers in spades.

    Lotta Lattes Cafe is beloved by locals for a reason. Start your days here for the best caffeine fix in town and an impeccable brunch menu.

    For a real country meal, an icy cold beer and that famed country hospitality, head straight to the town’s iconic hotel: the Commercial Hotel (known endearingly to locals as ‘The Commie’). It’s been a staple in Clermont since 1877. The hotel even survived the flood of 1916 when it was sawn in two and moved to higher ground.

    Naturally, time spent in the outback must include calling into the local bakery. For delicious pies and a tantalising array of sweet treats, make Bluemac Bakehouse your go-to while in town.

    Discover more of The Mackay Isaac region, and start planning your trip at mackayisaac.com.