Noosa National Park

With its pockets of palm-fringed coves, sculpted granite headlands and whisper-thin coastal trails, Noosa National Park is one of Queensland’s most accessible wild escapes. Just a short walk from the polished boutiques of Hastings Street, this protected peninsula feels a world apart. The air smells of eucalyptus and salt, and the turquoise water below is often dotted with surfers and sea turtles. It’s the kind of place where you can swim in a hidden cove at noon and spot a koala in a gum tree by midafternoon.

Highlights & What to See

• Coastal Walk from Noosa Heads to Sunshine Beach: This 8 km (return) track is the park’s showpiece. It winds through pandanus and banksia, with lookout points over Tea Tree Bay, Granite Bay and Hell’s Gates. Dolphins and migrating humpback whales (June–November) are common sights.
• Koala spotting on the Tanglewood Track: This short loop off the coastal path is one of the best places in the region to see koalas in the wild. Look up in the eucalypts near the Tanglewood picnic area.
• Alexandria Bay: A clothing-optional beach at the park’s northern end, accessible via a 2 km sandy track from the coastal walk. It’s often quieter than the main beaches and has excellent surf breaks.
• Tea Tree Bay: A sheltered cove with calm waters, perfect for a dip. The surrounding tea trees give the bay its name and a distinctive, earthy scent.
• Hell’s Gates: A dramatic headland where the coastal walk ends. From here, the views stretch along the coastline to Double Island Point. It’s a prime whale-watching spot.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day walking the coastal track and swimming at a cove. If you want to do the full walk to Sunshine Beach and back, allow 3–4 hours. Early morning is best for wildlife (koalas are most active at dawn) and to avoid the heat. For a more relaxed visit, combine a short 1–2 hour walk with a picnic lunch at one of the headlands. The park has limited facilities, so bring water, snacks and sun protection.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Noosa Main Beach & Hastings Street: Just a 10-minute walk from the park entrance, this is the hub of Noosa’s dining and shopping scene. Perfect for a post-walk gelato or seafood lunch.
• Noosa River & Everglades: Hire a kayak or take a guided tour to explore the peaceful waterways and subtropical wilderness of the upper Noosa River, a short drive from the park.
• Australia Zoo: About 45 minutes south, the home of the late Steve Irwin is a world-class wildlife sanctuary. Ideal for families or anyone wanting to see native Australian animals up close.
• Sunshine Beach & National Park: The southern end of the coastal walk leads to this laid-back surf village, with a patrolled beach and a handful of good cafes.

Please check official sources for current details.