Easter holidays are nearly upon us! Have you booked your time away yet? If not, I only have a few nights available so get in quick! (Of course, there are more vacancies before and after the holidays.) Easter is the perfect time to get away and spend quality time with family. It’s a chance to reflect on the true meaning of Easter and not to get caught up on all the Easter bunnies and chocolate. Today’s blog is a snapshot of all the things to do on the Sunshine Coast while you base yourself in Noosa.
Coastal Townships
Yes, *sigh* you all know I am biased about Noosa township, but I will admit the coastal towns close by are day-trip (and insta) worthy too. Why not take a drive to Sunshine Beach (only 5 mins from Noosa), or Peregian Beach (only 15 mins via the scenic drive)? Next, visit the Eastern Beaches, where you will find cafes, restaurants and shops all on the beachfront. Peregian Beach also has a great playground and skate park.
Better yet, adventure further to Coolum Beach (only 20 mins from Noosa), where you can check out the surf beach, rock pools, playground, skate park, shops, cafes and scenic boardwalks.
Mountains and Waterfalls
Climb Mount Coolum – There are amazing views up and down the coastline. It’s a steep climb but it only takes about 30-45 mins to reach the top. Parking and start of track: Corner of Jarnahill Drive and Tanan Street West, Mount Coolum. Only a 30 min drive from Noosa.
Buderim Waterfalls – It is a short walk to the falls, and you can swim under the falls. It gets very wet underfoot after the rain, so be prepared. Location: Quorn Close Buderim. Only a 35 min drive from Noosa.
Amusement Parks / Zoos
Aussie World Fun Park – Amusement park for all ages. Guess what? Tiny tot day is back!! The next one is Thursday 1st April 10am - 1pm. It’s only $20 with a free coffee (under 3’s are free). Open Wednesday – Sunday 10am – 3pm. Located in Palmview. Only a 45 min drive from Noosa.
Australia Zoo – The famous Irwin family still run this zoo showcasing Australian animals. It also has a water splash pad area, so remember to bring the kids’ bathers. There is just so much to do here that you will wish you had more than a day. That’s why you should make sure to arrive at opening time to make the most of it. Open daily 9am – 5pm. Located in Beerwah. Only an hour drive from Noosa.
Wildlife HQ Zoo – This zoo is much smaller than Australia Zoo, and has native and exotic animals from around the world. I’ve yet to check it out. It’s on my ‘to do’ list, though, as it is a great outing for those kids who are animal enthusiasts. Located next the Big Pineapple – 78 Nambour Connection Road Woombye. Only 35 mins from Noosa.
Sea Life – It’s so much more than just an aquarium! It has a seal show twice daily, touch and feel sections, interactive sections, an indoor soft-play area, café and shop. Located in Parkyn Parade Mooloolaba. Only a 40 min drive from Noosa.
Further North
Noosa North Shore – Cross by car ferry from Tewantin. You will need a 4WD to drive on the sand (and make sure to let your tyres down just before going on the sand). Noosa North Shore is more than 80km of unspoilt open beach; one of the longest in Australia. You can drive right up to Double Island Point, and beyond to Rainbow beach. The stretch from Double Island point to Rainbow beach is only accessible via low tide and has the most spectacular sand dunes and cliffs of coloured sands. It’s great for fishing, camping, beach horse riding and surfing. The ferry trip is only $8 each way (cash only). The car ferry is 15 min from Noosa.
Rainbow Beach – Here you will see 72 different colours of sand reaching up to 80 meters in height. It’s best to visit Carlo Sand Blow for boarding down the dunes, amazing views and to fully experience all the colours of sand. Only 1 hour and 40 min drive from Noosa via the inland track, otherwise take the beach route in your 4WD (see above).
Fraser Island – World Heritage Listed – Largest Sand Island in the world. You can go on one of the all-day tours, which depart from Noosa, or enjoy a short stay on Fraser Island. When staying on the island, you can access the island by 2WD via Hervey Bay. If you want to see the whole of the island, though, you will have to go on a 4WD tour. If you’re in a 4WD, you can enter via Rainbow Beach. It’s a longer drive to the resort, but it’s a more direct route from Noosa. Fraser Island boasts plenty of accommodation options and prices, yet most people prefer camping. Just be aware of the dingoes and know what to do if you have an encounter.
As you can see, there is plenty to do while you base yourself in Noosa. Make sure you book direct and save on your accommodation.