Noosa is a hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast of Australia, and one of the most beautiful places to visit. Each year I travel to Noosa with my family for the summer and thought it was worth sharing some of my favourites places to eat, shop, stay and explore. Just under a two hour drive from Brisbane it’s the perfect place to unwind, relax and reset for a weekend.

Explore -

One of the most iconic things to do in Noosa is visit Noosa National Park. This place features the spectacular coastal scenery of Noosa Headland, and nearby areas around Peregian and Coolum and Sunshine beach. You won’t be disappointed along the way with the most amazing views of beaches. This includes Little Cove and Tea Tree Bay. One of my favourite things to do in the early morning is to get up with my dad and run to Hells Gate and back. This run is roughly 10km and you can finish off with an ocean swim. Winning the day all before 9am.

If you have the time you can go explore the beautiful and unique Eumundi Market’s. Located 20 minutes out of Noosa Heads with the most beautiful and calming drive through the rainforest. You can expect to find stalls selling fresh produce, jewellery, delicious food, clothes and so much more. Then on a Sunday the local Noosa Farmers Market is a must. We normally fly in on a Saturday so the Sunday morning I get up early and go brave the crowd with my dad to pick out the best local produce. We stock up on all our favourite fruits, vegetables and can’t go past the homemade falafels.

Stay -

There’s so many places to stay up here whether you want to be on Hastings Street, Little Cove, Noosa Junction or Noosaville it all depends on your budget. This year we stayed at Noosa Crest which is on the hill overlooking Hastings Street and Laguna Bay. Home to over 37 apartments this complex has a tennis court, spa and 2 pools. This year we stayed in a Penthouse which had it’s own rooftop pool. Such a welcome thing to come home to after spending a hot day on the beach.

A perfect end to most days was sitting up on our balcony, to have a few drinks and watch the sunset. As you may or may not know I’m from Melbourne so escaping to Noosa every summer with my family is just what I need. You’ll find most people are up early either going for a walk or a run in the National Park, having beachside coffees or breakfast all before 9am.

Shop -

The iconic Hastings street which is located in the heart of Noosa Heads is ideal for shopping and experiencing some of Noosa’s finest restaurants.

If you love shopping then Hastings Street is where you’ll find all your favourite brands in a range of shops. Two of my favourite small boutiques stock some small business products as well as designer pieces that are carefully curated and made. My personal favourites and places that I highly recommend going to Alterior Motif, Kavala Collective, Bow and Arrow, Tigerlily, Country Road and Seed.

Just 5 minutes behind Hastings street you’ll find Noosa Junction. Home to some beautiful restaurants, cafes and homeware stores. On our last day we were having breakfast and discovered Clo Studios next door. As soon as I walked in I was in heaven. The store layout is simply beautiful and a must see. If you or a looking for a beachy Byron Bay vibe type of interior for your home or friends this is the place for you.

Eat -

There are so many wonderful restaurants, cafes and eateries in Noosa you will be spoilt for choice. Hastings Street is more fine dining some of my favourites being Bistro C and Bang Bang. The front bar at The Sofitel is the place to begin for a pre dinner cocktail or sundowner. Aromas is a family favourite with something for everyone. Our first night in Noosa this year we dined there, I got the special which was a piece of Salmon on a bed of confit garlic with honey roasted carrots, it did not disappoint and I highly recommend booking a table outside to enjoy the beautiful scenery and lights of Hastings Street at night.

On our third night we went to Bistro C for dinner. This beautiful restaurant is located right on Noosa main beach and looks out onto the beautiful ocean, they are open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. I got the vegan whole roasted cauliflower with eggplant masala, naan bread and a coconut yogurt dressing that paired really nicely with their fresh cocktails.

A highlight was our last dinner at Sum Yung Guys in Noosaville (a short drive or Uber from Noosa Heads). This exciting new restaurant owned by MasterChef’s 2016 runner-up Matt Sinclair and three of his mates, Sum Yung Guys serves up incredible pan-Asian fare. Focussing on share-style plates, it’s the perfect place to go with a group of friends or family. The roast pumpkin massaman curry and the miang rice cakes were amazing. So many beautiful fresh flavours that combined nicely.

As you head further away from Noosa, Noosa Junction is home to some beatiful cafes. One of my favourities in particular called Vanilla Food. Owned by Nilla Tomkins who also now has her own cookbook which you can purchase in store. Nilla has created the most peaceful and welcoming environment. Not only does it have the most beautiful interior and layout but the menu is built on produce that is grown organically and locally in season when possible. They care about good food, health and the environment.

Through their menu they embrace the power of food as medicine and its ability to bring and connect people within the cafe. Vanilla Food’s style is flavour first but always with health in mind. A squeeze of fresh citrus and the use of fresh herbs and edible flowers keeps the dishes bright and lively.

We decided to visit this on our last morning before heading to the airport. Being the health enthusiast I am, this place was heaven. I got the avocado on charcoal sourdough with a homemade turmeric and cashew cream spread alongside a golden milk made from their very own cashew and almond milk.

Places mentioned -

Shops -

Alterior motif - @alteriormotif

Clo studios - @clo_studios

Kivari - @kivari_the_label

Bow and Arrow Trading - @bowandarrowtrading

Food -

Vanillafood - @vanillafood

Bistro C - @bistroc

Aromas - @aromasnoosa

Sum Yung Guys - @sumyungguys

More recommendations -

Light Years - @lightyearsasiandiner

Sails - @sailsbeachnoosa

Canteen - @canteennoosa

Seasons - @seasonrestaurantnoosa

Rococo - @rococonoosa

El Capitano - @elcapitanonoosa

Raw and Rice - @rawandrice

Blended HealthBar - @blendedhealthbar

Flos Creperie - @flos_creperie

Weekend Guide; Noosa