If you are looking for some outdoor, nature then Noosa with kids is THE place to go!!
Noosa was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2007. Biosphere Reserves are internationally designated and protected areas that demonstrate a balanced relationship between people and nature.
Anyone who has been to Noosa in Queensland, knows that it is something special in terms of its natural environment. It is green and lush, and its waterways are pristine. It is a perfect family friendly destination with sunny, warm year-round weather.
We went on a Queensland road trip again recently and reckon we know all the best places to take the kids to enjoy the best of Noosa.
Looking for an epic buffet while you’re in Noosa, check out our list of the best seafood buffets on the Sunshine Coast.
- A brief history of Noosa
- Noosa National Park
- Tewantin National Park and the Wooroi Trails
- Little Cove
- Noosa North Shore
- The ancient waterways of the Noosa Everglades
- Investigate the Noosa River with kids
- Bike riding around Noosa with kids
- Eumundi Markets
- Some biosphere facts:
- Looking for more things to do in Queensland with kids?
A brief history of Noosa
Noosa came from the Aboriginal word meaning “shadows” or “shade”. It likely refers to the relief provided by the towering forests in the area from the sun. Before Europeans arrived in the 1800s, the Kabi tribe had been exploring the Noosa region for 40,000 years. The tribe resided at the mouth of the Noosa River in the north, Redcliffe in the south, and Cooroy and Nambour in the west. This region held great spiritual significance for the Aboriginal people, who utilized it as a sacred sanctuary for various celebrations, including the annual Bunya nut festival.
Noosa National Park
Noosa National Park offers families a great opportunity to get some bushwalking done in an easy-to-navigate setting on the coastline. You will be surrounded by wildlife and serenity (until the kids start squealing, obviously). There is plenty of opportunity for bird watching and peaceful reflection while you get those kilometres in. And you might just spot a natural beauty, like the Noosa Fairy Ponds.
Why we love it
There are a range of bushwalking options at different grades of difficulty so make sure you check in and plan accordingly. Take your swimmers just in case you feel like a dip!
Getting there
Follow the coastal boardwalk from Noosa Main Beach to the park entrance.
Tewantin National Park and the Wooroi Trails
The Tewantin National Park encompasses Mt Tinbeerwah and the Wooroi Trails. The Park is home to protected areas of rainforest, open eucalypt forest and remnants of wallum heath that provide refuge for native wildlife including echidnas and koalas. The Park can be found west of the Noosa region and offers the opportunity to see the world from a different angle. Mount Tinbeerwah Lookout provides a spectacular view of the entire region and is well worth the trip.
Why we love it
Birdwatchers will hear the calls of countless species including the characteristic eastern whip bird and vulnerable glossy black cockatoo. This is the perfect outdoor gym and so close to Noosa!
Getting there
Follow Cooroy-Noosa Road to Tewantin to the base of the Tewantin National Park.
Little Cove
Shhh. Little Cove is a secret.
This peaceful inlet is away from the hustle and bustle of the bigger beaches and the always-packed Hastings St. This beach suits all family types, little kids will love the sand play and waters edge, older kids will love the waves for body boarding.
It’s a great spot for surfing, fishing and swimming and has that ‘old school charm.’ Please note, though, that Little Cove is unpatrolled.
Why we love it
As the name suggests, it is a quiet little cove just away from the Noosa main beach. It is perfect for all family types.
Getting there
Little Cove is easy to access now that the boardwalk has been built. You need to walk away from the main beach towards the Noosa National Park. Walk along the boardwalk then head down the stairs.
Noosa North Shore
A 5-minute journey across the Noosa River via the car ferry at Tewantin takes you to Noosa North Shore – more than 80km of unspoilt open beaches, golden sands and forest wilderness.
It’s popular for camping, fishing, beach horse-riding, surfing, 4 wheel driving and more (permits required for most camping and driving – read more at visitnoosa.com.au). It’s also the gateway to the Cooloola Great Walk through the Great Sandy National Park, and to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island (K’Gari). If you are looking for luxury accommodation here, we recommend Beach Road Holiday Homes.
Read our review and watch our video of the Beach Road Holiday Homes here.
Why we love it
The pristine landscape surrounded by beach, lakes and national parks is just beautiful.
Getting there
Take the car ferry to the North Shore but don’t forget to contact Queensland Government Parks & Wildlife Service for vehicle access and camping permits before you head over.
The ancient waterways of the Noosa Everglades
Discover the upper reaches of the Noosa River as it extends into the Noosa Everglades. Known as the River of Mirrors because of the amazing reflections in the water, the Noosa Everglades is a 60km stretch of pristine waters, magnificent flora and fauna and narrow waterways.
One of only two everglade systems in the world, the Everglades stretches across two UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, the Noosa and Great Sandy, and is safe to swim in. If you are looking for a kayaking adventure here, we recommend Kanu Kapers who offer fully escorted or self-guided tours.
Why we love it
This unique environment is relatively untouched and is one of Australia’s most diverse ecosystems. It’s a photographer’s dream, a bird watcher’s paradise and a nature lover’s perfect escape.
Getting there
Although it’s one of Noosa’s hidden spots, it’s easy to get to, can take as little as half a day to explore (or stay longer) and is only about 40 minutes from Noosa Heads.
Investigate the Noosa River with kids
The Noosa River, and its many and varied winding tributaries, offer a fabulous chance to try kayaking, paddle boarding and/or snorkelling. There are a number of places you can hire equipment along the river, so you don’t need to bring your own. If you really want to push the boat out… hire a boat from one of the many locations along the river!
Why we love it
Taking children out on the water is a sure fire way to inspire their creativity, connect them with nature and absolutely exhaust them.
Getting there
There are many places to access the Noosa River. Just drive along Gympie Terrace and park up when you find a place that looks right for your family.
Bike riding around Noosa with kids
Bike riding is a fabulous way to see any new place and we love Ecotekk Electric Bike Hire. They’re a Noosa business who will deliver your bike hire choice to you for use! There are lots of options for the whole family (mountain bikes, urban bikes, folding bikes) and as they are electric you’ll be able to go further faster and have way more fun! Woohoo!
Why we love it
Noosa and surrounds are quiet flat, so a ride is a great way to get the kids out and about and seeing more of the area than you could by walking. A cycle along the Noosa River is a must do family experience.
Getting there
You can have the bikes brought to you almost anywhere in Noosa.
Eumundi Markets
The Eumundi markets our pick of Sunshine coast markets for families. Eumundi Markets are an eclectic mix of art, jewellery, fashion, produce and coffee! Fabulous for an early morning sojourn, a family trip or some time by yourself. Saturday mornings are our favourite time.
Why we love it
The markets are open every Wednesday from 8:00am – 1:30pm and every Saturday from 7.00am – 2:00pm every week of the year – rain, hail or shine! Your leashed dog is welcome here too!
Getting there
Find the markets at 80 Memorial Dr, Eumundi. A mere 15 minutes from Noosa. Find out more about the Eumundi markets here.
Some biosphere facts:
- 35% of Noosa’s land is protected
- 44% of all Australian bird species are found in Noosa
- Noosa is home to 1365 species of plants and 711 species of native fauna
- 60 distinct ecosystems can be found in Noosa
Looking for more things to do in Queensland with kids?
We’ve been everywhere man! ?
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- Things to do in Cairns with kids
- Things to do in Kuranda with kids
- Things to do in Townsville with kids
- Things to do on Magnetic Island with kids
- Things to do in Airlie Beach with kids
- Things to do in Mackay with kids
- Things to do in Rockhampton with kids
- Things to do on Great Keppel Island with kids
- Things to do at Agnes Water & 1770 with kids
- Things to do in Bundaberg with kids
- Things to do at Woodgate Beach with kids
- Things to do on the Sunshine Coast with kids
- Things to do in South Bank, Brisbane with kids
- Things to do in Toowoomba with kids
- Things to do on the Gold Coast with kids
You can find all our Queensland content here.
