On the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, the town of Noosa Heads is surrounded by stunning beaches, parks, lakes, and the lush hinterland of Noosa National Park. Less than a two-hour drive from Brisbane, Noosa Heads is known for its beaches surrounded by dense tropical forests and remains one of Australia's most popular coastal destinations. There’s plenty on offer for those looking for adventure out on the water, from surf lessons on palm-fringed Main Beach to paddleboarding around the small bays around the head and kayaking the diverse waterways of the Noosa Everglades.

Nature lovers come here to spend a day bushwalking in Tewantin National Park. A leisurely stroll down Hastings Street takes in small boutiques, art galleries, and plenty of places to make a tasty pit stop along the way.

For something handmade in Australia, head to the Original Eumundi Markets on Wednesday or Saturday mornings, where more than 550 stalls showcase local artwork, crafts, and gifts. Noosa Lions Park — an open, grassy area just along the banks of the Noosa River — is used as a staging area for several large community events including the Noosa Winter Festival.

The weather in Noosa Heads is warm and sunny all year round. Spring is the best time to visit, as it sees minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius. Every October, the city hosts a five-day festival celebrating sports, healthy lifestyles, and fun, culminating in the Noosa Triathlon. Things heat up from December to February, making this an ideal time for visiting the beaches. Summer is also the wet season, so expect high humidity and evening thunderstorms. Autumn is a great time to explore the hinterland and enjoy the striking colors and flowers in bloom. With minimal seasonal variations, winters in Noosa are mild and great for heading west into the hinterland. Stay at a Noosa Heads beach house in June to get a taste of the annual Noosa Eat & Drink Festival.

Fraser Island

The World Heritage-listed Fraser Island is the planet’s largest sand island and the only place on earth where tall rainforest grows on sand dunes. Visitors can take a four-wheel drive along white sandy beaches and swim in the idyllic Lake McKenzie, filled with turquoise water and natural tea tree oil. Walk all or a portion of Fraser Island Great Walk to discover pristine lakes, subtropical rainforests, and sweeping lookout points.

Noosa National Park

With towering eucalyptus on one side and the ocean on the other, Noosa National Park is ideal for walks and swimming off of secluded beaches. There are plenty of walking tracks for all skill levels, great for bringing the children along. Take the Coastal Walk from Noosa to Dolphin Point, passing headlands with views over she-oaks and pandanus palms before reaching the rugged Dolphin Point. Bus services are available to transport you back to town.

Noosaville

Noosaville is a picturesque seaside village along the sparkling waters of the Noosa River. It’s two kilometres of grassy parkland is popular for picnics. Ride a bike or scooter along the flat riverfront path for a photo op with the Big Pelican sculpture. A few minutes upstream is Tewantin, with restaurants, shops, a free splash park, boat tours, and a skate ramp.