Situated on the stunning Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia, Noosa Headland has been a favourite for decades. With its spectacular coastal scenery, beautiful beaches and wildlife, this natural wonder has adventure, relaxation and exploration in spades. Let’s take a look at what makes Noosa Headland so special.
Getting To Noosa Heads
Thankfully, getting to Noosa Headland is easy. If you’re driving, head north from Brisbane on the Bruce Highway (M1) and follow the signs to Noosa Heads. It takes about two hours.
Alternatively, you can fly into the Sunshine Coast Airport which is 30 minutes away. Once you arrive, parking is available at the main entrance to Noosa National Park, where you can start your adventure.
Things to Do: From Hiking to Surfing at Noosa National Park
Noosa Headland has something for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Here are the top things to do:
Visitors can explore Noosa National Park and embark on plenty of different activities, including such as surfing, kayaking, and guided tours to experience its natural beauty, history, and wildlife. For those that want to take the slow and steady route, there are also some awesome walking trails to enjoy.
Source: https://www.budgettraveltalk.com/noosa-national-park-walk-from-sunshine-beach/
Hiking Trails and Walks
The Coastal Walk is a must-do, 5.4km return along the headland. This moderate trail takes 2-3 hours and offers stunning coastline views, including Boiling Pot, Dolphin Point and Hell’s Gates. The trail is wheelchair accessible to Dolphin Point. For a shorter walk, try the Palm Grove Circuit (1km) or the Alexandria Bay Walk (4.6km return).
Meanwhile, the Noosa Hill Walk is a 2.8km return trail that pretzels around the northern face of Noosa Hill, passing through patches of rainforest, blue gums, and black wattles. It’s also a safe option for all fitness levels and can be extended to include other tracks.
Next, the Emu Mountain Summit Walk is a 1.1-kilometre return trek offering unforgettable panoramic views from Noosa to Maroochydore. But if you’re looking for something more relaxed, the Ocean Beach Walk is a leisurely and scenic trail that leads from Peregian to the beach, passing through various natural landscapes, such as swamps, forests, and boardwalks. Finally, the Noosa North Shore is part of the Noosa Coastal Walk, a 10.8-kilometre stretch offering spectacular views and various natural attractions such as beaches, lookouts, and wildlife.
Source: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/noosa/journeys/tanglewood-walk
Beaches and Swimming Spots
Tea Tree Bay is a serene and secluded beach perfect for a swim or a picnic on the sand, while Granite Bay is another hidden gem with clear waters and rocky outcrops.
If you’re looking to take a stroll along the shores’ landscapes, don’t miss the Fairy Pools, a series of natural tidal pools carved into the rocks. Then, head off to Noosa Main Beach, a great starting point for activities. Here, you can enjoy hiking in Noosa National Park and taking surf lessons.
Next, we also recommend Sunshine Beach as a spot for post-walk activities like swimming or surfing, with a laid-back coastline. Remember to always check the surf and swim between the flags, though.
If you’re more adventurous, Noosa Headland is a surfer’s paradise with world-class breaks like First Point, Granite Bay, and Tea Tree Bay. There are waves here for all levels, from beginners to experienced surfers. The best conditions are from December to April, but you can catch good waves year-round.
Finally, keep an eye out for koalas snoozing in the eucalyptus trees along the walking tracks. From June to November, you might spot humpback whales migrating along the coast. Dolphins are often seen in the waves, especially at Dolphin Point (hence the name). Birdwatchers will also love the variety of species, including colourful lorikeets and cheeky brush turkeys that call these sandy beaches home.
When to Visit: Plan Your Trip to This Sunshine Coast Hot Spot
Noosa Headland is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preference. Here’s a quick guide on the average weather you can expect during certain seasons:
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds |
| Summer | Dec-Feb | Hot and humid, 28°C | High |
| Autumn | Mar-May | Mild and pleasant, 25°C | Medium |
| Winter | Jun-Aug | Cool and dry, 22°C | Low |
| Spring | Sep-Nov | Warm and sunny, 26°C | Medium |
Note that school holidays and events like the Noosa Food & Wine Festival (May) and the Noosa Triathlon (November) can bring bigger crowds.
FAQs
Are there lifeguards at the beaches?
Yes, Main Beach and Noosa West Beach are patrolled by lifeguards all year round. Always swim between the flags and follow the signs.
Can I swim year-round?
Yes, you can swim at Noosa Headland all year round, but the water temperature varies. In summer it’s 26°C and in winter 20°C. Wetsuits are recommended for surfing in the cooler months.
How long does the Coastal Walk take?
The Coastal Walk is a 5.4km return trail that takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete depending on your pace and how many times you stop to take in the views. It’s a moderate walk with some steep sections and stairs.
What wildlife can I see?
Noosa Headland is home to a variety of wildlife. Koalas are often seen in the eucalyptus trees along the walking trails. You might also spot dolphins playing in the waves at Dolphin Point. From June to November keep an eye out for humpback whales migrating along the coast. Birdwatchers will see a range of species, including lorikeets, kookaburras and brush turkeys.
What water activities can I do at Noosa Headland?
You can enjoy swimming, surfing, and kayaking along the Noosa River, which flows into Laguna Bay and is significant in the establishment and extension of the Noosa National Park.
