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Noosa is often known for it's laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches, but it also offers some of the best adventure activities on the Sunshine Coast.
From swimming in hidden fairy pools and kayaking through the Noosa Everglades, to 4WD beach drives and epic mountain viewpoints, this guide covers 12 of the best outdoor activities that can't be missed on trip to Noosa.
Chloe Butcher
1. Hike the Noosa National Park Coastal Track
One of Noosa’s most iconic activities is hiking the Coastal Track through Noosa National Park. The walk winds along clifftops, past turquoise coves and secluded beaches, and you might even spot dolphins, whales or turtles.
You can start the trail from Main Beach or the National Park Car Park and follow it all the way to Sunshine Beach, stopping at scenic spots like Tea Tree Bay, Granite Bay and Hell’s Gates. The full walk is about 10.8 km return, but you can turn back at any point, we chose to walk to Hell's Gates and back which was roughly 5 km!
2. Swim at the Noosa Fairy Pools
Tucked away off the Coastal Track near Granite Bay, the Fairy Pools are natural rock pools filled with clear seawater when the tide is out. They're the perfect spot for a refreshing dip, especially after a warm coastal hike!
To find them, follow the track from the National Park Car Park towards Hell’s Gates. Just before you reach the viewpoint, keep an eye out for a small unmarked trail that leads down to the rocks (there’s usually a few people around the area). The climb down is a little rocky, so wear good footwear, and it’s best to go at low tide when the pools are calm and safest to swim in.
3. Cruise, Kayak or Canoe the Noosa Everglades
The Noosa Everglades are one of only two Everglade systems in the world, so it's worth a visit while you're here. You can do cruises, kayaking or canoeing in the Everglades, perfect for exploring the unique waterways, mangroves and wildlife in an adventurous way.
You can choose between a guided tour or a self-guided journey, with half-day and full-day options available. We'd suggest booking in advance as we tried to book a few days before but everything was sold out! If we visit again, we'd definitely book this cruise and canoe tour by Everglades Eco Safari, it has great reviews!
4. Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding on the Noosa River
The Noosa River is a great spot to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) as it has calm, wide and scenic waters. You'll have views of waterfront homes, boats drifting by and lush greenery lining the banks; its a peaceful but active way to explore the area. There are plenty of rental spots along Gympie Terrace in Noosaville where you can hire a board by the hour or join a guided session.
5. Climb Mt Tinbeerwah
If you’re after panoramic views without a full-on hike, Mt Tinbeerwah is the perfect mini-adventure. Just a short 15 minute drive from Noosa, this short 1km return walk leads you to a lookout with beautiful views over the Noosa Hinterland, Lake Cootharaba and even the coastline.
The walk is mostly paved and takes less than 10 minutes to reach the first viewpoint, so its accessible for most people. This is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Noosa, so make sure to visit at golden hour.
6. Learn to surf at Noosa Main Beach
Noosa is a world-class surf destination, so whether you've tried surfing before or a total beginner, it's an activity you should try. Noosa Main Beach is one of the most popular spots because it has gentle, beginner-friendly waves, protected conditions and is patrolled.
There are plenty of surf schools along the beach offering group and private lessons, or you can just rent a board by the hour. If you're an experienced surfer, you can take on the bigger waves further around the headland, at spots like First Point, Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay.
7. Visit the Eumundi Markets
If your visit lines up with a Wednesday or Saturday morning, make sure to check out the Eumundi Markets, just a 20-minute drive from Noosa. This market is one of the biggest and best in Queensland, and is packed with artisan stalls, handmade crafts, boutique fashion, fresh produce, street food and live music.
8. Jet Ski Adventure on Laguna Bay
If you're up for an adrenaline filled activity, try jet skiing on Laguna Bay! Guided jet ski tours operate right off Main Beach and take you skimming across the water to Granite Bay, with views of the national park, Noosa River mouth, and if you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins.
9. Whale or Dolphin Watching (Seasonal)
From July to October, Humpback whales migrate along the Queensland coast and Noosa offers incredible opportunities to see them up close, along with pods of dolphins all year.
You can join a guided whale-watching tour that departs from Noosa Marina or Gympie Terrace, where experienced crews take you into the deeper waters of Laguna Bay to see Whales up close.
You can also usually spot them from the land at good vantage points like the National Park Coastal Walk and along the eastern beaches.
10. 4WD Along Teewah Beach & The Great Beach Drive
The beaches around Noosa and the sunshine coast are some of the best stretches of sand to experience 4WD adventure journeys. Head to Teewah Beach, part of the iconic Great Beach Drive, a stretch of untouched coastline running between Noosa and Rainbow Beach.
You can join a guided tour or, if you’ve got a 4WD and a beach driving permit, set out on your own. You'll be able to see the colourful cliffs of the Red Canyon, stunning coastal lookouts and the chance to spot wildlife like kangaroos, sea birds, and maybe even dolphins offshore.
11. Skydive Over Noosa
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, a Tandem Skydive over Noosa is an absolute must-do. It's one of the most epic adventure experiences you can have on the Sunshine Coast, and you'll have incredible views of Noosa’s beaches, national parks, and hinterland as you freefall from above.
12. Mountain Biking in Tewantin National Park
Just a short drive from central Noosa, Tewantin National Park is a hidden gem for mountain biking, the park is home to a variety of trails that wind through dense forest, over rocky terrain and up to scenic viewpoints.
You can bring your own gear or hire a bike in town, with some local operators offering guided rides too. It’s a great way to experience Noosa’s hinterland while doing a fun activity!
13. Noosa River Sunset Cruise
One of the best ways to spend an evening in Noosa is with a peaceful sunset cruise along the Noosa River. These laid-back cruises are the perfect way to admire golden hour, with panoramic views of the riverbanks, luxury waterfront homes and mangroves.
Most cruises depart from Noosa Marina or Gympie Terrace and often have a bar onboard so you can pair the sunset cruise with a sunset drink! This sunset cruise lasts for 2.5 hours which is a great amount of time to relax and have a drink onboard.
14. Noosa: Sunset Abseiling Tour
If you’re after something a little more adventurous at golden hour, this Sunset Abseiling Tour is an unforgettable way to experience Noosa. Led by experienced guides, you’ll descend 40-50m cliffs at Mt Tinbeerwah, overlooking the hinterland and coastline as the sun sets.
15. Rent a Boat on the Noosa River
For a day on the water, renting a boat on the Noosa River is a must. You don’t need a license and it’s one of the most fun ways to explore the river at your own pace. Cruise past waterfront homes, stop at riverside beaches or anchor up for a picnic on the water (some boats come with BBQ's!).
We rented a boat from Gympie Terrace and spent a couple of hours cruising the river at our own pace. We bought some drinks and explored different riverways, passed stunning waterfront homes and soaked up the sun, it was such a memorable afternoon on the water!
Useful resources for planning your trip to Noosa 👇
Chloe Butcher
Rory Watson
