You don’t just come to Noosa for the beach, even though Hastings Street is one of the Sunshine Coast’s biggest draw cards. You come here for the atmosphere, the vibe and of course the exciting array of activities, adventures, shopping opportunities and delectable dining options. Located at the northern end of the gorgeous strip of Sunshine Coast beaches, the holiday destination of Noosa Heads is perfect for a romanic getaway. So, there’s never been a better time than right now – use our guide to start planning your weekend away.
Friday night
The trees of Hastings Street are festooned with glittering fairy lights, giving a festive sense of arrival lacking in other tourist hubs. Lined with restaurants, boutiques, bars and five-star resorts, Hastings Street is the throbbing heart of Noosa. It’s early evening Friday night so time for the evening passeggiata or “little walk” like the Italians do in every town and city when the sun drops. This is the time to check out what’s on offer for your shopping stops over the weekend and make a mental note of which restaurants to visit. Drop into the Sheraton’s Noosa Beach House to soak up the holiday vibe with a pre-dinner drink. If it’s beachfront dining you’re after, take a stroll along the boardwalk and see what tickles your fancy: Bistro C, Berardos on the Beach, Season and Sails (no bad choices with this lot!) before enjoying an after-dinner cocktail at the buzzy Miss Moneypenny’s.
Related article: A Delicious Escape on the Sunshine Coast
Saturday
9AM: Breakfast is best enjoyed with the sounds and sights of the ocean so the beachfront restaurant Seasons is the place to go. Start your day with a fresh vegetable or fruit juice before enjoying a Light Start or Classic breakfast.
10AM: One does not visit Noosa without checking out the Eumundi Markets. Here you’ll find bespoke fashion, jewellery, homewares, so much food, live music and much more. Plan to spend a couple of hours here and don’t be surprised by the number of hand-made goodies made by local artisans you bring back with you as it’s one of the country’s best!
1PM: On the way back to town, pop into Belmondos Organic Market at 59 Rene Street and grab a selection of treats for a relaxed and romantic picnic lunch. Hit the boardwalk outside Sails Restaurant at the southern end of Hastings Street and head past First Point to Noosa National Park where you’ll enjoy million-dollar views along the way. Either relax with your picnic in the park or continue along the coastal track to find a deserted beach to enjoy some romantic and peaceful alone time together.
4PM: After a day of adventure some pampering time in the comfort of your hotel goes down a treat. There are some very luxe options from Ripple Massage on offer, we had a two-hour treatment of full body exfoliation with walnut, tangerine and lime scrub; full body aromatherapy massage with warmed chocolate oil; a collagen face mask finished with a dreamy head massage – pure magic. No shame in a nana nap afterwards!
8PM: Rickys River Bar & Restaurant situated right on the beautiful Noosa River is one of Noosa’s most popular restaurants and with good reason! The food is “paddock to plate” and the extensive menu includes the signature dish of spanner crab spaghettini with garlic and chili. Is that doesn’t tantalise the tastebuds, try the freshest of local seafood or melt-in-the-mouth lamb and beef accompanied with locally grown vegetables. Don’t forget to make a booking in advance as you won’t get in without one – it’s that popular!
Sunday
Rise and shine early to visit the Noosa Farmers Market on Weyba Road and pick up a variety of locally grown produce to take home. There’s also loads of other beauty and home products you won’t easily find elsewhere so, fill your basket and enjoy a little piece of Noosa at home!
Noon: When it’s lunchtime in Noosa, there’s no better place for a relaxing afternoon of food and wine than Wood Fire Grill right next to Rickys at Quamby Place. There’s an amazing variety of food to choose from and if you’re with friends, try the share plates which offer great value and delicious options. You can walk here and back from your accommodation or catch the Noosa Ferry with Sheraton Noosa as its final stop. Unfortunately it’s time to pack and head home but we know you’ll be back!
Where to stay: The big news on the Noosa accommodation scene is the opening a few months ago of Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas which took over the Outrigger property in September. Situated on a hillside above the town (walk down the steps to Hastings Street) and surrounded by Noosa National Park, it offers a choice of studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments. Lagoon and lap pools, a gym, in-house restaurant, games room, tour desk and Stephanie’s Ocean Spa, plus Peppers’ reputation for offering first-class food and wine make this a great addition to the Noosa scene.
Related article: Noosa Welcomes Peppers to its Range of First Class Accommodation Options, 8 Short Break Locations Under 2 Hours From Brisbane
Find more gorgeous Queensland Getaways at our Queensland Travel Directory.
