Things to Do in Noosa Heads (That Only Locals Know About)

If you’re searching for things to do in Noosa Heads, most guides will send you to Main Beach, Hastings Street and the boardwalk through Noosa National Park, and for good reason. If you are looking for things to do in Noosa Heads beyond the well known spots, there are secret corners and local favourites that give Noosa its unique character. From tucked away swimming spots to hidden foodie finds, these insider ideas will help you plan things to do in Noosa Heads like a local.

Whether you are staying in a Noosa Heads apartment or exploring for the day, this guide helps you go beyond the guidebook and discover the real things to do in Noosa Heads.

Hidden Swimming Spots in Noosa National Park

When it comes to things to do in Noosa Heads, exploring the quiet coves inside Noosa National Park is a must. Most visitors head straight for the track toward Hell’s Gates, but locals know there are plenty of secluded beaches if you wander a little further.

Best Things to Do in Noosa Heads for Beach Lovers

• Granite Bay: A favourite for stronger swimmers, Granite Bay has clear water, rocky outcrops and a peaceful vibe away from the crowds.
• Alexandria Bay: Known to locals as “A Bay,” this stunning beach is accessible via a forested track and is often near empty compared to Main Beach.

For trail maps and access details, see the official Queensland Parks guide to Noosa National Park.

Sunset Things to Do in Noosa Heads: Laguna Lookout Views

For a memorable end to your day, locals say one of the best things to do in Noosa Heads is to watch the sunset from Laguna Lookout. Perched high above Noosa, it offers panoramic views over the river, hinterland, and coastline. While many people gather on the beach at sunset, locals know this spot delivers some of the best views with fewer crowds.

Local Tip for the Perfect Sunset Picnic

Pack a picnic or pick up a takeaway platter from Hastings Street and enjoy a quiet evening above the treetops at Laguna Lookout. Bring a rug, some local cheeses, and a bottle of wine, and watch as the sky shifts from soft pinks to deep orange over Noosa River and Main Beach. The gentle breeze, birdsong, and panoramic views create one of the most peaceful things to do in Noosa Heads after a day of exploring.

The Hidden Corners of Noosa Heads

Everyone knows Hastings Street, the lively heart of Noosa Heads, but some of the most memorable finds sit just beyond the main strip. Wander a little further and you will discover calm coffee spots, local boutiques and peaceful beach pockets that give Noosa its relaxed charm.

Start Your Day Near the National Park

At the beach end of Hastings Street, you will find the Sails Coffee Cart, a favourite stop for early risers. It is perfectly positioned for a takeaway coffee before you start the boardwalk walk into Noosa National Park. There is also a small kiosk beside the National Park Information Centre, where visitors can grab a drink before hitting the coastal trails.

From here, the ocean views stretch across Laguna Bay, making it an ideal place to begin your day.

Discover Noosa Junction: Local Things to Do in Noosa Heads

A short walk or bus ride from Hastings Street leads to Noosa Junction, a vibrant local hub filled with cafés, street art and boutique stores. This is where locals go for breakfast away from the crowds. The relaxed streets and laneways have a creative feel and give visitors a glimpse of everyday Noosa life.

Relax by the River at Quamby Place

Between Hastings Street and Gympie Terrace sits a small riverside pocket known as Quamby Place, home to Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant. This area is a great spot for a quiet morning coffee or a sunset drink by the water. It is peaceful, scenic and a short walk from the bustle of Hastings Street.

Local Surf Breaks and Coastal Things to Do in Noosa Heads

Surfing is one of the most iconic things to do in Noosa Heads, but locals often skip Main Beach for smaller, more relaxed breaks.

• First Point: Just around the corner from Main Beach, this break is world famous but best visited early in the morning.
• Little Cove: Between First Point and Tea Tree Bay, this peaceful pocket is loved for its gentle waves, crystal-clear water, and shaded shoreline. It’s also one of the prettiest spots for a swim or paddle.
• Tea Tree Bay: A short walk into the national park, Tea Tree Bay is loved for its long, peeling waves and shady picnic spots.

Tip: Even if you are not surfing, bring a picnic and watch the locals carve up the waves.

Things to Do in Noosa Heads for Food Lovers

If you love food, one of the top things to do in Noosa Heads is to spend your Sunday at the markets.

• Noosa Farmers Market (Sunday mornings, Weyba Road): From fresh local produce to handmade pastries, this market is a must for food lovers.
• Hidden gems off Hastings Street: Hole in the wall coffee roasters and bakeries where you can find some of the best breakfasts without the wait.

Check times and stallholders at the Noosa Farmers Market.

Explore Noosa by Water Like a Local

Exploring by water is one of the most relaxing things to do in Noosa Heads. Instead of the usual ferry, hire a kayak, SUP, or small boat to cruise the Noosa River mouth. Find your own sandbank, enjoy a picnic, and soak up the sunshine.

Early mornings are best for calm water, wildlife spotting, and a true local experience.

More Things to Do in Noosa Heads: Plan It Like a Local

A Noosa holiday is about more than the main attractions. It is about finding the hidden gems that give the region its laid back charm. From secret bays and lookout points to local markets and laneway cafés, these ideas will keep your list of things to do in Noosa Heads feeling fresh and local.

Pair your exploring with a stay in one of Stay Noosa’s waterfront or hillside retreats:

• Noosa Heads accommodation
• Noosaville stays
• Castaways Beach escape

Browse our full collection or contact the Stay Noosa team for personalised recommendations and insider tips to make your Noosa holiday effortless.