How to Spend 3 Days in Noosa

Three days are enough time to take full advantage of the natural attractions and outdoor activities on offer in and around Noosa. Here’s how to make the most of 72 hours in this resort town on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

Day 1: Check out the top sights

Head straight from town into Noosa National Park to start your day with a wilderness walk or a swim at a secluded beach. Then, visit the SEA LIFE® Sunshine Coast Aquarium or the Australia Zoo, former home of the Crocodile Hunter (aka the late Steve Irwin). Alternatively, browse the Eumundi Markets for locally made jewelry, ceramics, art, and more. Admission can be purchased for some attractions in advance, so you don’t have to wait in ticket lines, and round-trip transport from Noosa may be available. Later, dine at an oceanfront eatery on bustling Hastings Street, or watch the sunset from the beachfront Noosa Parade.

Day 2: Enjoy the great outdoors

Discover Noosa’s abundance of outdoor opportunities on a tour that highlights the surrounding lakes, rivers, beaches, and wildlife. Options include whale-watching tours, an eco-cruise in the Noosa Everglades, and kayaking with dolphins. Shorter experiences that leave you time to enjoy other activities are also available, such as surf lessons, stand-up paddleboarding, and a water-bike ride on the Noosa River. Alternatively, take to the sky on a seaplane flight for an aerial perspective of the Sunshine Coast. Finally, sail away on an evening cruise to watch the sunset from the water, feel the cool sea breeze on your face, and admire the coastal scenery as it starts to get dark.

Day 3: Explore natural wonders

Don’t miss the chance to take a journey to Fraser Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest sand island. Tours typically include 4-wheel-drive transportation around the island, with opportunities to swim in a rainwater lake, snorkel, walk through the rain forest, look for native dingoes, and marvel at the pristine beaches and bush landscapes. Or, head into the hinterland on a day trip to the Glass House Mountains, an idyllic area known for hiking, rappelling, mountain lookout points, and gourmet food venues.