Noosa is perfect for anyone wanting a chic seaside stay, with no shortage of fantastic accommodation, food and stylish bars and cafes. Here is our guide to Noosa things to do for active travellers, with five fun activities that will get your heart racing in the best possible way. If you would like to do more than relax on the beach, Noosa is the perfect holiday spot.

Noosa’s Main Beach

Noosa has some of Australia’s best beaches so you would be crazy not to plunge into the crystal clear waters of Little Cove or Laguna Bay. Go for a swim or take a lesson with former world champion Merrick Watts, who runs the Noosa Learn to Surf surf school. Opt for a group surf lesson or go with a one hour private lesson that will have you hanging ten and looking cool in no time.

Bushwalking trails

Looking for some things to do which involve walking? Noosa has one of Australia’s oldest and most visited national parks, with stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, spectacular scenery and amazing beaches with not a high-rise in sight. There are five walking trails available from Hastings Street, from an easy 30-minute trail to and all day affair. If you want to start off easy, try the boardwalk which takes you along the Noosa National Park Coastal Track, keeping an eye out for dolphins in the ocean below.

SUP in style

Discover the area’s pristine waterways with a SUP (stand up paddleboard) or hit the ocean for an exhilarating ride. SUP is the perfect way to stay fit and try something new and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. While it is possible to ride the waves on a SUP, for your very first lesson it is a much better idea to head to the calm waters of Noosa Sound to build your confidence. Group lessons cost $55 or, if you already know how to SUP, you can hire a board and head off on your own.

Eumundi Markets

Eumundi Markets are a local and tourist favourite and a great spot to experience the region, from fresh produce to local live music and stalls selling locally made arts and crafts. Make sure you allow enough time to grab something to eat so you can enjoy a cheap brunch or lunch under the trees. The nearby galleries and shops are also worth a look, particularly for art lovers.

Explore the Noosa hinterland

Head into the hinterland to discover some amazing places and views. Hike around Mapleton Falls National Park, where Pencil Creek cascades 120m over an escarpment, or tackle the more challenging Kondalilla Falls Circuit which offers stunning views of the falls and tropical canopies. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is spread across 55 hectares of scenic rainforest, with an interesting Ecological Education Centre, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna.

Disclosure: The writer visited as a guest of Tourism Noosa. 

If you’re after some things to see and do in Noosa, you could go dolphin spotting, cruise the Noosa Everglades in a vintage wooden speedboat or on a kayaking trip, get fit with some healthy Noosa activities, go on a Kanu Kapers Everglades Tour, a Noosa helicopter tour, or a dolphin spotting adventure with Noosa Oceanrider. Find out all you need to know with The Ultimate Guide to Noosa.