Noosa is undoubtedly Australia’s quintessential holiday destination. With golden sandy beaches, a fringe of lush national parks, balmy year-round climate and world-class culinary options that take advantage of every post card-like view in town — it’s no surprise that hundreds of thousands of local and international tourists flock to the Sunshine Coast hotspot every year. The popular seaside town is brimming top-notch bistros, bars and boutiques so while you’re guaranteed to have a memorable escape no matter your travel itinerary, we’ve curated a list of must-do’s that will ensure it’s one of your most memorable escapes to date. Don’t forget to pack your summer wardrobe, your thirst and your appetite.
STAY
Tingirana
The only thing that rivals Tingirana’s location is its style. The beachfront accommodation offers picture-perfect Hamptons-inspired studios, one and two bedroom apartments that perfectly merge hotel amenities with home-like touches. With Noosa’s main street of Hastings Street on one side, and Noosa Main Beach on the other, Tingirana’s location is unmatched. Dreamy accommodation aside, it’s also home to one of Noosa’s most-loved restaurants — Season Restaurant — which is open all day, plus provides poolside and room service. If you’re dreaming of a relaxing, resort-like holiday, Tingirana has your name on it.
Little Red Barn
Courtesy of Airbnb.
If you like to experience a home away from home, then we highly recommend Airbnb’s Little Red Barn in the Noosa Hinterland. Set on acreage high in the hills behind Noosa, this semi-rural setting in Doonan is only a 15-20 minute drive to Noosa Heads and Noosa Main Beach, and five minutes to the charming market town of Eumundi. As its name suggest, Little Red Barn has a warm, red weatherboard exterior that is upstaged only by the freestanding cast iron bathtub positioned on the verandah overlooking the beautiful countryside, and the heated concrete water tank swimming pool. The effortless-meets elegant interior definitely deserves an honourable mention, too. The only downfall? You may not make it to Noosa as it’s possible you won’t want to leave this haven.
Courtesy of Airbnb.
DINE
Sum Yung Guys
Brand new to the Noosa culinary scene having opened just earlier this year, Sum Yung Guys has already become a must-do Noosa experience. The modern Asian restaurant is a celebration of Asian cuisine and culture which is represented in everything from the menu to the fit-out and the cocktails. With a focus on affordability, local produce and support for local suppliers, it’s easy to see why Sum Yung Guys has the region talking. “We definitely do not want to be your typical Noosa restaurant, catering for one particular main stream market,” co-owner and restaurant manager, Dylan Cambpell told The Cove Noosa. “We cater for all ages — while some clients love the music and cocktail scene, others head straight to the courtyard for a quiet retreat that could be anywhere in the world,” he said.
Courtesy of Instagram user @purcelljesse.
Locale
If you’re an Italian food fan, then no trip to Noosa is complete without a lunch or dinner sitting at this buzzy local institution. Surrounded by verdant gardens, Locale sits in a protected corner of Hastings Street just a few steps from Main Beach and its menu, interior and atmosphere are as impressive as the next. Drawing heavily on Italian tradition, Locale offers a seasonally changing menu using the best in local produce and premium imported ingredients. For the diner who like a lively setting, exceptional service and a menu that will transport them to the cobblestone streets of Italy, then there won’t be much you don’t love about Locale.
DRINK
Ricky’s River Bar
When you envisage an idyllic waterfront spot to pause over a drink post a day of swimming and strolling, it’s highly likely you’d imagine something that looks a little (or a lot) like Ricky’s River Bar. Ricky’s is relaxed, refined and ideal place to retreat to for a casual drink with friends or to unwind after a day of exploring. With its waterfront location and award-winning wine list, we predict you might become acquainted with Ricky’s more than just the once during a jaunt to Noosa.
Whiskey Boy
Whisky Boy is the brainchild of two of Noosa’s longest and most beloved hospitality professionals — Geoffroy Marcq and Jimmy Talve. Nestled peacefully on the shore of the Noosa river, Whisky Boy seeks to be an oasis for both locals and visitors with the best whiskey offering in town. This bar-meets-restaurant is the ultimate combination a premium drinks list, delectable diverse menu and picturesque location. What more could you want? With over 75 whisky’s on offer at any given time, you’re bound to find a whisky you like — whether you’re a whiskey lover or not.
https://whiskyboy.com.au/drinks/
Little Cove Coffee
Image courtesy of Instagram user @dowlingneylanre.
If you prefer coffee over cocktails, pop Little Cove Coffee on your daily to-do list if you require an excellent cup of joe to start your day. This quaint café was named after a local surfing reserve that produces waves of perfection, just like the way they roast their coffee. When other local coffee shops use their coffee beans, you know you’re onto a winner. Coffee lovers, you’re welcome.
https://littlecovecoffee.com.au
DO
Massimo’s Gelateria
Image courtesy of Instagram user @dentonandlou.
Ask anyone who frequents the Queensland hotspot and they will recommend every sweet tooth should pay a visit to Massimo’s Gelateria. Conveniently positioned on the eastern end of Hastings Street, the best gelato flavours in town will be ready, waiting and likely just a short stroll from your dining choice. Whether you’re partial to the creamy flavours like cinnamon and macadamia or the sorbet sorts like mango and passionfruit, Massimo’s is guaranteed to cure any sweet craving.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Massimos-Gelateria-Hastings-St-Noosa/841076619248093
Little Cove Beach
Image courtesy of Instagram user @joshwrightt_.
While all of the Sunshine Coast’s beaches are nothing short of spectacular, Little Cove Beach is arguably the prettiest stretch of beach in the region. Located just a five minute walk north of Noosa’s Main Beach, Little Cove Beach is 100 meters of white sand that laps with pristine waters and is hugged by the Noosa National Park. Post dip, talk a stroll through the national park which is set just behind the beach. The 4,000-hectare reserve has free entry and is home to a population of koalas. Pack your togs, walking shoes and a picnic and experience Noosa’s natural beauty.
