This blog is in dedication to all the dads out there who will be celebrated and loved on Father’s Day coming up on Sunday 5th September, but hopefully not just one day, why not the whole weekend? Here are my tips of what to do and where to eat…..whichever way you want to celebrate.
Adventure Dad
4WD Trip
If you have a dad who likes 4WD driving, I am sure he would be keen to hear you want to join him on one of his trips. If your dad doesn't have a 4WD but has always wanted to explore these 4WD-only tracks, then why not hire a 4WD for the day and go exploring? Here are my suggestions of our adventures in our 4WD.
Noosa Northshore
Enter via Ferry at the end of Moorindil Street, Tewantin
Take a day trip to the Noosa Northshore. It’s always fun driving on the sand, and so close to Noosa! It will only cost you $20 return on the Tewantin Ferry, then drive on the Northshore. It’s so quiet, and a cheap adventure, really. Stop at the end of the Northshore and take a wander to the lighthouse for great family photos, then head on round to Double Island Point for a fish, surf, paddle or relax. If you have timed it well, and happen to be there at low tide, you can drive up the beach to Rainbow Beach. After that, drive on into town and have a bite to eat at one of the local cafes.
Harry's Hut
Harry Hut Rd, Como
This is a place that is on my to-do list. Harry’s Hut is right at the Noosa Everglades, so pack that inflatable kayak (or your real one), as you can launch into the Noosa River. Remember there are only two Everglades in the world, here and Florida. If that isn’t for you, just pack that picnic basket and rug and enjoy the surroundings.
Conondale National Park
Enter via Sunday Creek Road, Kenilworth
The best thing about this adventure to Conondale National Park, is you go through Kenilworth, which means you have the chance to pick up a box of yummy donuts from Kenilworth Country Bakery. To enter Conondale National Park, you cross a creek, which is always a good way to start a true 4WD experience. Take the road up and down on the rocky terrain. This park is huge, and we have only seen a snippet so far. There is a pleasant walk to the waterfalls, and now that the weather is warmer, be sure to bring your bathers and floaties as you can swim at the falls as well as in the creek at the campgrounds.
Tree Top Challenge
76 Nambour Connection Rd, Woombye
Take your adventure up high into the tree tops at Tree Top Challenge. It’s right next to the Big Pineapple in Woombye. Wow! The park is set in 10 acres of rainforest with the highest course at 30m above the ground. They have 120 exciting high ropes challenges, 12 ziplines from 20m to 140m in length. This is an adventure you definitely don't want to miss. Best to book on the website: www.treetopchallenge.com.au
Mini Golf / Golf Session
Maroochy River Golf Club
374-514 David Low Way, Bli Bli
Whether you decide to hit the mini golf course, or the ‘real’ golf course, might just depend on how old your kids are and your golfing ability. In either case, my suggestion is Maroochy River Golf Club. They also have a great clubhouse with yummy food to complete the experience. Also, did I mention the great views across to Mt Ninderry and Mt Coolum? It is best to book a time slot by calling or going on the website: maroochyrivergolfclub.com.au if you want to have a hit of golf (and buggy??), but for mini golf no booking is required.
Sealife
Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
From 3rd Sept to 5th Sept you can take your Dad to Sealife Aquarium for FREE. That's right, FREE when purchased online with a full-price ticket. Make sure you use the promo code: FATHERSDAY. There is lots to see and do at Sealife, and make sure you see one of the two seal shows that run daily. Once you’re done, wander across to Mooloolaba Wharf for a meal on the water.
Eateries
Rick’s Garage
14-16 Margaret St Palmwoods
I can’t make Father’s Day suggestions without mentioning Rick’s Garage Diner in Palmwoods. If your dad loves live music, cars, motorbikes, & collectables, then this is the perfect place to dine on his special day. Rick’s Garage Diner provides authentic diner food, and don't even get me started on the shakes! There is plenty of room both outdoors and indoors, and there is a bar upstairs for those who have kids 18+ years old.
Breweries
Is your dad into beer? If so, head to the breweries of Noosa. You have two great options: Heads of Noosa and Land and Sea.
Heads of Noosa
85 Rene St Noosaville
Heads of Noosa is a family-owned brewery and provides brewery tours every Saturday. You can book by calling or online. There are lots of dishes on the menu to complement their beers, and they even have a kid’s menu. The best part is that all the beer you try is brewed on site; fresh & local!
Land and Sea
19 Venture Drive Noosaville
Land and Sea also offers a tour every Saturday, which lasts for 90 minutes and includes a tasting paddle of both ‘Fortune’s fine spirits’ and ‘Land and Sea craft beers’. There is plenty to choose from on the menu to please everyone in your group.
Of course, this list is not definitive, as there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to pick from in and around Noosa, or even further out to the Sunshine Coast and into the Hinterland. It’s best to check if a booking is required, especially if you have an extra large family group.
Enjoy your time with your dad this Father's Day.