Category: Food & Drink
8 Family-Friendly Activities to do in Noosa
Planning a family getaway to Noosa Heads? With stunning beaches, lush national parks, and vibrant atmosphere, Noosa is the perfect destination for a memorable family holiday. Here are 8 family-friendly activities you must do to make the most of your time in Noosa.
Explore Noosa National Park
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Noosa by taking a leisurely stroll or a hike through the stunning Noosa National Park. As you traverse its winding trails, you’ll be treated to breathtaking coastal views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Spot native wildlife along the way, from colorful birds to elusive reptiles, and keep an eye out for the iconic koalas peacefully snoozing in the trees. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins frolicking in the crystal-clear waters just off the coastline. With hidden coves and pristine beaches waiting to be discovered, exploring Noosa National Park is the perfect family adventure that promises endless delights and unforgettable memories.
Relax by the Beach
Noosa is known for its pristine beaches, and Main Beach is a favourite among families. Spend your days building sandcastles, swimming in the gentle waves, or simply soaking up the sun. For a more secluded experience, head around to Little Cove or Sunshine Beach
Go Surfing or Stand-up Paddleboarding
Noosa’s gentle waves and warm waters make it an ideal spot for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Sign up for lessons as a family with Go Ride A Wave and ride the waves together. Alternatively, Main Beach offers opportunities to rent boards, allowing you to explore the coastline at your own pace. Remember to stop by Golden Breed for all your surfboard essentials, effortlessly allowing you to blend in with the locals in no time.
Grab a Delicious Brekky Out
When you visit Noosa, you won’t be disappointed by the food options. It’s essential to have a delicious breakfast and coffee before exploring all that Noosa has to offer. Be sure to stop by Flo’s Creperie for a quick savoury or sweet meal, paired perfectly with your coffee of choice. Exploring Noosa’s beautiful surroundings on a satisfied stomach will make your experience even more memorable.
Family Picnic at Noosa River
Pack a picnic basket with delicious treats and head to the picturesque Noosa River. Find a shady spot along the riverbank and enjoy a relaxing family picnic while taking in the serene views. If you’re looking for a relaxing treat after a full day of activities, this is the perfect way to end it. During the winter months, the Noosa River offers one of the best sunsets in the area. We highly recommend going!Explore Noosa by Ferry
Experience a wholesome adventure aboard the Noosa Ferry, a tug-style vessel that promises excitement for the whole family. Cruise along the picturesque Noosa River, from bustling Hastings Street to the scenic Noosa Marina in Tewantin.
Get Arty!
Delve into the world of art and creativity at the Noosa Regional Gallery. Their excellent kids’ program offers a variety of workshops, from sculpture and painting to Lego building (bookings required). Don’t miss the monthly Art Play Sunday, where little ones can explore their creativity in the inspiring gallery surroundings.
Experience the Hinterland Adventure Playground
Unwind at Noosa Place Resort
Now that you have your five family-friendly activities for your holiday. It’s time to book your next getaway. Noosa Place Resort is the ideal location for your next family holiday in Noosa. Located on the picturesque Gympie Terrace, our one or two-bedroom townhouse-style apartments offer a fully self-contained and comfortable stay for everyone.
11 Best Restaurants along the Noosa River
Noosa is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, upscale boutiques, and world-class surf spots. But what truly sets this beachside paradise apart is its thriving dining scene. In this essential guide we will list our 11 best restaurants along the Noosa River and take you on a culinary journey along the picturesque Noosa River.
Bandita Mexican
Bandita, perched on Gympie Terrace overlooking the picturesque Noosa River, is a contemporary and laid-back Mexican eatery that places a strong emphasis on utilising the abundance of locally sourced ingredients and producers from the Sunny Coast in Queensland.
Their menu, artfully crafted and cooked over locally sourced firewood, is designed with sharing in mind, making it perfect for a casual snack or a communal feast with friends. To complement the culinary delights, the drink list adds an element of fun to the BBQ experience, featuring creative cocktails with subtle fire and smoke elements. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a vibrant dining experience, Bandita welcomes all occasions with its modern Mexican flair.
Ricky’s River & Bar
For a taste of coastal elegance, head to Ricky’s River & Bar. This contemporary Australian restaurant is known for setting the standard in Noosa’s dining scene. With uninterrupted views of the Noosa River and stunning sunsets, Ricky’s provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. Indulge in dishes like whole roasted baby barramundi or ricotta and goats’ cheese gnudi, and savor the essence of Noosa’s culinary excellence.
Lanai Noosa
Lanai offers an intimate dining experience, where every element of the elegant setting is carefully designed to foster both intimacy and engaging conversation. With its tasteful decor featuring dried blooms, opulent gold accents, and luxurious styling, this artfully crafted venue pays homage to the abundance of local and seasonal produce through the sheer simplicity and sophistication of its culinary offerings. From oysters to petite wagyu shoulders, you may want to add this place on to your ‘to do’ list.
Noosa Waterfront Restaurant
Nestled along the serene canal inlet of the Noosa River, Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar exudes an atmosphere of casual elegance, making it the ideal destination for a memorable dining experience. Set amidst lush greenery, the restaurant draws inspiration from its Italian heritage, crafting a menu that evolves with the seasons and showcases the finest locally sourced ingredients.
Here, modern Italian cuisine is thoughtfully paired with a selection of award-winning wines sourced from Australia’s abundant regions and imported from Europe. With a calendar filled with events like degustation dinners, long lunches, and winemaker’s dinners, there’s always something extraordinary happening at this waterfront gem. Come and savour the stunning views and delectable menus at Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar for an unforgettable dining experience.
Noosa Boathouse
Positioned directly over the Noosa River, Noosa Boathouse provides both panoramic river and hinterland views. This restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to fresh local seafood, quality meats, and locally harvested produce. Delight in the taste of fresh oysters and Mooloolaba king prawns while soaking in the stunning vistas. Noosa Boathouse is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. In the mood for a cocktail? Walk on up to their sunset bar upstairs for an incredible view over the river!
Rocksalt
Rocksalt effortlessly combines coastal chic with a stunning riverside view. As you dine in this contemporary Australian restaurant, you’ll be captivated by the Noosa River’s beauty. The menu showcases the best of Sunshine Coast produce, featuring delectable dishes like prawn linguine and Morton Bay bug. Pair your meal with a selection from their award-winning wine list for a truly unforgettable evening.
Gt’s Bar & Grill
For those seeking a more casual dining experience along the Noosa River, Gt’s Bar & Grill is the perfect choice. This eatery offers a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu to please every palate. From delicious wings to fresh fish, Gt’s has something for everyone. Enjoy your meal while taking in the serene riverside ambiance.
Gusto Noosa
Gusto Noosa extends a heartfelt invitation to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of France, all while basking in the enchanting ambiance of the Noosa River. This restaurant masterfully combines the richness of culinary traditions with a contemporary French flair. Savour the exquisite flavours of Barbecued Mooloolaba king prawns, accompanied by sweetcorn puree, toasted almonds, and a zesty lemon dressing. Alternatively, indulge in the Pan-seared, crispy-skinned Knobby snapper, served atop crushed garden peas, confit shallots, roasted kipfler potatoes, and adorned with delicate lemon crumbs.
As for libations, the drinks menu is an equally enchanting affair, boasting a curated selection of over 40 wines available by the glass, along with a captivating array of Australian gins and cocktails, each brimming with irresistible flavours. Gusto Noosa promises an unforgettable culinary experience that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of France, all while you enjoy the mesmerizing backdrop of the Noosa River.
Whisky Boy
Whisky Boy offers a unique twist on your usual dining experience with a focus on whiskey and spirits. This cosy establishment boasts an extensive whiskey selection, perfect for enthusiasts and novices alike. Pair your preferred spirit with a menu of flavourful dishes designed to complement the whiskey experience.
Embracing culinary excellence, their menu showcases an Australian beef, luxuriously aged for 60 days and skilfully seared on our volcanic char grill. Alternatively, immerse yourself in a world of flavours with our daily offerings of fresh seafood, each catch meticulously selected from local waters. For convivial gatherings with friends, indulge in the Churrasco platter, a tantalizing ensemble of char-grilled pork belly, succulent chicken wings, artisanal cured meats, and an array of delectable dips – a true feast that promises an abundance of variety for all discerning palates.
Grenny’s Restaurant
Grenny’s Restaurant is a hidden gem along the Noosa River, offering a taste of the local culinary scene. With an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, Grenny’s crafts dishes that reflect the essence of Noosa’s vibrant food culture. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of hearty, farm-to-table fare, Grenny’s has a dish that will satisfy your cravings.
Noosa’s dining scene along the Noosa River is a testament to the region’s culinary excellence. From a modern Mexican fiesta at Bandita to coastal elegance at Ricky’s, there’s a restaurant to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re seeking a casual riverside retreat or a fine dining experience, Noosa’s restaurants along the river offer a delightful journey for your taste buds. Make it a point to explore these culinary gems on your next visit to our Noosa Place resort, and savour the flavours of this picturesque coastal paradise.
Noosa River Apartments
Seeking the finest Noosa restaurants is a breeze when you stay at the Noosa Place Resort, conveniently located on the Noosa River, and within walking distance to many of the favourites.
Couples Accommodation In Noosa
There’s nothing better than leaving the stress of work, kids and commitments behind to spend a few days away with your special someone. Noosa provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway with your significant other. If you’re looking for couples accommodation in Noosa, Noosa Place Resort offers a convenient location moments from the stunning Noosa River, and walking distance to some of Noosa’s best restaurants, cafes and bars!
If you’re starting to plan your couple’s getaway to Noosa; whether you’re looking to indulge, wanting some adventure or looking to completely relax, here are few ‘must-do’s’ to add to add to your list!
Indulge – for couples who want a luxe experience
Take a river cruise
Gondolas Of Noosa offer a private luxury cruise along the Noosa River. If you’re on a couples holiday in Noosa, this is one experience that is made for you! We recommend booking a sunset cruise to take in the beautiful Noosa River and it’s surrounds.
Experience a romantic dinner
Busy couples don’t often get a chance to have a romantic dinner, so why not book one in your your next couples getaway. Serving authentic Italian on the riverfront, Noosa Waterfront Restaurant is an elegant dining experience set in a secluded and romantic setting. Offering a delicious seasonal menu, including lobster spaghetti and Wagyu beef sirloin, and an extensive wine list, settle in for a luxury dining experience.
Sample specialty cocktails
On your way home stop in at Whisky Boy for a night cap. For the gin lovers, we recommend ‘The 11th Hour’ cocktail’. Or, if you’re a fan of whiskey, take your pick from the extensive list of international and homegrown whisky’s on the menu. Take a leisurely walk home back to your couples’ accommodation at Noosa Place Resort, a short 10 minute stroll away.
Adventure – for couples who want to explore
Grab a delicious breakfast
Fuel up for the day with a delicious coffee and breakfast from Esco, located on Gympie Terrace by the Noosa River. Stick with the classics and try their take on an Eggs Benedict, or branch out with one of their specials, such as a goat’s cheese stuffed house hash brown, with spicy baked beans, chorizo and poached egg…yum!
Go for a paddle
One of the best ways to see Noosa is from the river! Get your morning exercise in by grabbing some Stand Up Paddle boards and cruising down the river. When you book direct with Noosa Place, you’ll receive complimentary SUP board hire! Take in the beautiful scenery and soak up the sunshine.
Get out on the water
After an energetic morning, get your adrenaline fix on the Ocean Rider! Their famous Adventure Tour will get your heart racing with high speeds and quick turns taking you from the Noosa River, out past the river mouth and into the ocean – it’s a great way to see some of Noosa’s iconic sights. If you want to take it easy on the water, they also run fantastic Whale Watching and Dolphin Safari tours.
Relax – for couples who want to chill out
Browse the boutiques
Catch the Noosa Ferry (which conveniently has a pick-up point close to Noosa Place Resort) to Hastings Street and explore the lovely stores and boutiques. Or, stay close to your Noosa accommodation and discover the shopping scene along Gympie Terrace. With a great selection of shops from fashion boutiques to homewares and furniture, relax as you stroll along the beautiful streets.
Enjoy a relaxing spa day
Day Spa Noosa is the perfect place to go for your romantic holiday in Noosa. Book one of their ‘Couple’s Escapes’ packages and choose from Epsom salt baths, customised facials and relaxation massages.
Treat yourselves to a long lunch
One of the best ways to take in the beautiful Noosa River, is by enjoying a long and lazy lunch at Ricky’s. Start with some champagne to toast to your getaway, and sample the infamous menu, including Spanner crab spaghettini, smoked mackerel rillettes and roasted duck breast.
Noosaville Accommodation
Noosa Place Resort is the perfect couple’s accommodation for your Noosa escape. Choose from our selection of classic, deluxe and premium apartments. Our resort conveniently located close to all the best activities Noosa River, Noosaville and Noosa Heads has to offer.
Book your next Noosa couples holiday at Noosa Place Resort, book direct to receive our complimentary services and the best rates.
Gympie Terrace restaurants you need to try!
Can’t decide where to eat from all the fabulous Gympie Terrace restaurants? We’re not surprised. There’s such an excellent range of cuisine from passionate owners and chefs that ideally, you’d eat in them all!
There’s a reason that cosmopolitan Gympie Terrace is known as ‘Eat Street’. So, whether you’ve been to Noosaville before or planning your first trip, we’ve chosen the Gympie Terrace restaurants you NEED to try.
YOYO Bar & Restaurant
Slip into that relaxed Mediterranean dining experience at YOYO Bar & Restaurant. Upbeat music along with the bar-style seating spills onto the timber deck overlooking Noosa River – offering a relaxed and uplifting mood.
Owners Marc Romanella and Lara Graham have created a restaurant that prides itself on quality service and exceptional food and drink with a laid-back and coastal charm.
You’ll enjoy a flavour explosion from Head Chef, Ash Warncken, who creates dishes from a locally sourced, sharing style tapas menu that offers some Spanish favourites with an Australian twist. Some firm favourites are the Pork belly, Basque cider, parsnip puree & torched spring onion, Charred Octopus, kumara, pickled carrot, romesco & chilli oil, and of course, patatas bravas. Get ready for a fine sensory experience!
You’re in safe hands with the knowledgeable and passionate Romanella, who has 35 years’ experience in the industry. You’ll be treated to an exceptional wine list that Lara oversees, liaising with up to 30 suppliers. Or if cocktails are your thing, you might be spending a while choosing from their long and impressive selection.
250 Grammi
Look no further that 250 Grammi for authentic Italian cuisine. Danny Giannarelli, founder and owner and business and life partner Daniela Pellizzato remain true to Italian heritage and flavours, therefore 75% of ingredients are imported from Italy. They are known for their fabulous pizzas, including gluten free, because they import high-quality flour and yeast from Italy. This provides authenticity, their unique selling point in this market. They also respect and love the region’s local produce, so they use locally sourced fresh veggies, fish and seafood.
Lively and atmospheric, this is the type of restaurant where you can let your hair down and have a good time with your friends and family. Designed to share, you’ll get a taste of more dishes – lucky you!
Head Chef, Melvin Benjamin Matos Feliz (Benjo), moved from the Dominican Republic to Italy as a toddler and grew up surrounded by Tuscan culinary culture. He has worked in France, the UK and Canada. Head Chef Pizza Art, Stefano Simoni, is hailed as one of the best Pizzaiolo in Melbourne and works an authentic Marana Forni pizza oven at 250 Grammi. From years of research and studies, pizza is Stefano’s lifelong passion – you’re in for a treat!
Maisie’s Seafood & Steakhouse
Experience classic seafood by the charming Noosa River. Originally built in 1920 and run by the Massoud family as a café, it was the first of its kind in the district. Maisie Massoud, who was known then as ‘The Favourite’ worked as a chef and waitress at her parents’ café and it was eventually named after Maisie to Maisie’s Seafood & Steakhouse. Before her passing in 2005, Maisie would regularly dine here, enjoying oysters for entrée, main and dessert. Photos of Maisie and her family adorn the walls, where you can absorb the history and ambience.
Sit down to a great value meal, offering the firm family favourites, including Fisherman’s Basket, steak with your choice of sauce and fish and chips. Freshly prepared using the finest local produce, when possible, you’ll be served generous portions, so arrive hungry!
Choose to dine inside to soak up the colourful and lively atmosphere or dine outside and enjoy the cool river breeze and a bit of people watching. Keep it casual and bring your own bottle of wine for a moderate corkage $5 per person.
Wanderlust
Embrace the German cuisine at wanderlust – managed by Marc and Val, who relocated to Noosaville from North Lakes in 2019. Experience German Café culture mixed with Noosaville’s laidback lifestyle. So, whether you just want a coffee, a traditional hearty German meal washed down with a classic beer, or more of a classic Aussie breakfast, this is your place.
Warm and welcoming, offering sensational food, full of flavour and perfectly cooked, plus a great selection of German and European beers to accompany your meal. If you’ve never tried German cuisine, then try it at Wanderlust!
The team are friendly and attentive, so kickback with your friends and family and get into the holiday spirit.
Walk to Gympie Terrace restaurants
Stay at Noosa Place Resort and walk to all the amazing Gympie Terrace restaurants!
All our family friendly, 2-bedroom apartments are fully self-contained and feature either a king or queen bed, two single beds and one bathroom, with free WIFI and a smart TV. Some of our Premium and Deluxe apartments have a separate ground floor powder room – super convenient!
Feel right at home in any of our individually styled apartments that offer outdoor seating in your private patio or balcony overlooking the pool and gardens or Noosa River.
Top 7 things to do in Noosaville 2023
Top 7 things to do in Noosaville 2023
Are you looking for the top things to do in Noosaville? Then look no further, as we’ve put together a great selection of activities and places to visit during your Noosa holidays!
Noosa River & Canal Cruises
Take in the immaculate Noosa River on a daytime or sunset cruise with Noosa River & Canal Cruises. You’ll cruise the river downstream from Noosaville to Noosa Heads and explore the beautiful hidden waterways of the Noosa Sound Canals. You’ll also cruise through Woods Bay and out towards the river entrance before entering Weyba Creek.
You can BYO food and drinks and catering is available with notice. This is the ideal activity for groups of friends and family gatherings, or for functions and celebrations. Cruises last from 1 to 2.5 hours.
The Noosa Spa
The Noosa Spa is Noosa’s original custom-built day spa offering the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. You’ll enjoy a boutique spa experience that melts away any tension and leaves you feeling calm. Their long-term team of highly trained professionals will cater to your every need and offer one of the most extensive treatment options on the Sunshine Coast. Choose from customisable massages, facials and body treatments.
They use beautiful Waterlily products that use the purest Aromaceuticals and Phytonutrients to create a performance driven sensory journey. Sound heavenly or what?
Boiling pot Brewing Co
Boiling Pot Brewing Co was founded with the intent to develop beers that pair best with the idyllic sub-tropical climate. They make beers that you can drink at your own pace, no matter the season – sounds good! The boiling pot brewery was inspired by the explosion in craft brew creativity, experimentation and innovation happening around the world.
Founded by Noosa local John Scott Madill, the Boiling Pot brewery looks after the locals and visitors who want to stop by for lunch, a beer or two, or to pick up some of their locally designed tinnies. They brew their beer out the back of their tap room, so you can get it straight from the source!
Noosa Boathouse
Enjoy the spectacular Noosa sunset from one of the best vantage points at the Noosa Boathouse. Floating just offshore in a perfect waterfront location on the Noosa River, the Noosa Boathouse is a well-loved bistro, bar and events destination! So, be a part of the relaxed Noosa lifestyle.
The award-winning bistro is one of the most well-known Noosaville restaurants and is home to Little Boaty coffee bar, and a fish & chips takeaway window on the front deck. The bistro is on the ground level, the River Room function space on the middle level and you guessed it, the Sunset Bar on the top deck.
Enjoy local produce that embraces fresh local seafood, quality beef and locally harvested produce. Our lovely Noosa Place Resort guests can also enjoy 10% off food or get a free ferry ride from Hasting Street when dining at Noosa Boathouse – yah!
Belmondos Organic Market and Yukti Botanicals
Delight yourself in an organic wonderland at Belmondos Organic Market, which is home to the Tanglewood Organic Sourdough Bakery, Noosa Cleanse, Clandestino Roasters Specialty Coffee, Deli, organic pantry and bulk foods, and the cheapest organic fresh produce on the Sunshine Coast.
Yukti Botanicals is located within Belmondos Organic Market and specialises in Ayurveda. Treat yourself to a full Ayurvedic health consultation, traditional massage, or facial and body wrap in their day spa. They also mix a complete range of certified organic, Ayurvedic formulas onsite and stock a range of natural medicine. Check out their handpicked range of skincare, makeup and personal care with a strong focus on local brands.
Noosa Hills Par 3 Golf Course
Fancy a day of golf set with a stunning environment? Then take a look at Noosa Hills Par 3 Golf Course which features 36 holes of varying lengths, set within 74 acres of beautiful bushland that’s home to kangaroos and other native wildlife. This peaceful setting is sure to transport you away from everyday life.
Mix with locals and visitors with the down-to-earth, positive and energetic staff. Then finish your game with a cold one and a chat in the clubhouse. Anyone can play any day, anytime and no bookings are required!
Stay in Noosa River accommodation in Noosaville
Now you know about some of the top things to do in Noosaville, it’s time to decide where to stay! We are conveniently located walking distance, or just a short drive or bus ride away from all the places listed.
Our family friendly, Noosa River accommodation has a great selection of fully self-contained 2-bedroom apartments. Our resort is set within fresh, tropical gardens where you can have fun in one of three heated swimming pools; relax in one of the heated spas; play a spot of tennis and have a slap-up BBQ.
We are moments from Gympie Terrace, which has a fabulous selection of restaurants, bars, cafés and boutiques. You can also start many exploratory day trips from here to the Noosa Everglades or Fraser Island.
If you book direct on our website or by phone, you’ll get free use of our stand-up paddle boards and kayaks during your stay! We have 3 stand-up paddle boards, 1 double kayak and 2 single kayaks. They are available for hire for a small fee if you have booked through another company.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Noosaville!
Pomona gin distillery – Go where the Noosa locals go
Love gin? Then you’ll love the Pomona gin distillery
Located in Pomona and within the Noosa Shire is Pomona Distilling Co. Specialising in small batch production, they pick, select, distil, blend and taste all their gin before bottling and labelling by hand. By allowing their product the time to age, this allows the unique flavours of their organic botanicals to infuse and blend with the pure local spring water. This creates a premium quality gin that reflects their creativity, character and community spirit.
If gin’s not your thing, don’t worry, there’s a mouth-watering selection of cocktails, wine and beer to keep you happy and refreshed.
So, if you fancy something different, why not book a couple of nights with us and head to the Pomona gin distillery and enjoy one of their popular gin tasting paddles!
Earthy food with Thai street food flavours
If it’s scrumptious food you’re after, then the Distillery has got you covered! Set in the original Pomona Bakery, dating back to the early 1900’s, you can indulge in earthy food inspired by Thai street food flavours in the Bistro.
Choose from a great selection of small and large plates including scallops, pork belly and eggplant. With gluten-free and vegan options, there’s something for everyone. Hungry yet?
Next time you’re here, get your taste buds tingling and visit the Pomona gin distillery, the newest gin distillers in Noosa, and go where the locals go!
More than just a distillery
The Pomona Distilling Co is more than just a distillery. It’s about showcasing the charming village of Pomona to the world and unique small-batch spirits focused on quality rather than quantity.
Master Distiller and owner, Robin Yates has been crafting this concept for 40 years. Robin experiments with gin blends using native organic botanicals, some foraged from his Pomona farm.
So why not join the Pomona community and celebrate with great locally produced food and smooth gin?
Stay in Noosaville and see the entire Noosa Shire
Our Noosaville resort is well positioned for you to enjoy the entire Noosa Shire. And Pomona Gin Distillery is a pleasant and easy 30-minute drive from Noosa.
You’ll get the best of both worlds by staying with us, where you’ll be moments from the stunning Noosa River and the glorious beaches.
We offer a range of fully self-contained apartments that are family friendly and all set within picturesque grounds.
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