Noosa Heads National Park
Noosa Heads National Park is a national park located in Noosa Heads, Queensland, Australia. The park covers an area of approximately 4,000 hectares and features a diverse range of habitats, including rainforest, heathlands, and eucalypt forests.
The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, and various species of birds. Visitors to the park can explore its many walking trails, including the Coastal Track, which offers stunning views of the ocean and is a popular spot for whale watching during the annual migration season.
Parking:
Noosa Heads National Park has several parking areas that provide easy access to the park’s walking tracks, beaches, and lookout points. Here are some of the main parking areas in the park:
Noosa Heads Main Beach car park: This is the largest car park in the park and provides access to the Coastal Track, Tanglewood Track, and Palm Grove Circuit. It can get very busy during peak periods, so it’s recommended to arrive early.
Noosa National Park Information Centre car park: This car park is located near the park’s entrance and provides access to the Tanglewood Track and other short walks. It’s a good alternative to the main beach car park during busy periods.
Sunshine Beach car park: This car park is located at the southern end of the park and provides access to the Alexandria Bay Track and the Hell’s Gates hike.
Visitor Center:
The Noosa National Park Information Centre is the main visitor center for Noosa Heads National Park. It is located near the park’s entrance on Park Road and provides visitors with information about the park’s facilities, walking tracks, and natural attractions.
At the information center, you can pick up maps and brochures about the park, as well as get advice from the knowledgeable staff on the best hiking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife viewing areas. The center also has restroom facilities and a water refill station.
In addition to providing information, the Noosa National Park Information Centre also hosts educational exhibits about the park’s unique flora and fauna, as well as the history of the area. There are interactive displays, wildlife models, and information panels that provide insights into the park’s ecological significance.
The information center is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm every day except for Christmas Day. Admission to the park is free, but there is a fee for parking at the various car parks throughout the park.
Things to do:
Beaches
Noosa Heads, located in the Sunshine Coast region of Queensland, Australia, is known for its beautiful beaches. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Noosa Heads:
- Noosa Main Beach: This is the most popular beach in Noosa Heads and is located just a short walk from the town’s main street. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Sunshine Beach: This is a quieter and more secluded beach than Noosa Main Beach. It’s popular with surfers and has a range of cafes and restaurants nearby.
- Alexandria Bay: This is a beautiful and secluded beach that can only be accessed by foot via the Alexandria Bay Track in Noosa National Park. It’s a popular spot for surfing and is also known for being a clothing-optional beach.
- Little Cove Beach: This small and sheltered beach is located just a short walk from Noosa Main Beach. It’s a popular spot for families with young children due to its calm waters.
- Tea Tree Bay: This picturesque beach is located within Noosa National Park and is a popular spot for swimming and surfing. It’s also a great spot to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Noosa Heads’ beaches are known for their crystal clear waters and stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking to swim, surf, or simply relax on the sand, there’s a beach in Noosa Heads that’s perfect for you.
Hiking
Noosa Heads National Park offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels and interests. Here are some popular hikes in the park:
- Coastal Track: This 10.8km hike is one of the most popular in the park, offering stunning coastal views, secluded beaches, and the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales (in season). The track starts from the Noosa Heads Main Beach and ends at Sunshine Beach.
- Tanglewood Track: This 3km hike takes you through a eucalypt forest and offers views of the Noosa River and Lake Weyba. It starts from the park’s information center and ends at the Noosa Heads Lions Park.
- Hell’s Gates: This 4km hike takes you to the southern tip of the park, where you’ll be rewarded with views of the ocean and the impressive Hell’s Gates rock formation. For more information visit our blog post… Hell’s Gates hike – Noosa Heads National Park
- Palm Grove Circuit: This 2.4km hike takes you through a rainforest and past the park’s famous koala habitat. The circuit starts and ends at the Noosa Heads Main Beach car park.
- Alexandria Bay Track: This 4.2km hike takes you to Alexandria Bay, a secluded beach that’s popular with surfers and nudists. The track starts from the Sunshine Beach car park.
No matter which hike you choose, make sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and stay on the designated trails to protect the park’s fragile ecosystem.
Cafe’s
Noosa Heads has a wide variety of cafes and restaurants on Hastings Street to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some popular options:
- Aromas Noosa: This cafe is located on Hastings Street and is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. They serve a range of dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, and have a great selection of coffee and tea.
- Betty’s Burgers & Concrete Co.: This casual eatery on Hastings Street is famous for its burgers and frozen custard desserts. They also have a great selection of milkshakes and craft beers.
- Padstow’s: This beachfront cafe serves up fresh, healthy dishes with a focus on local ingredients. They have a great selection of smoothies and juices, as well as coffee and tea.
- Cafe Le Monde: This iconic cafe on Hastings Street has been serving up great food and drinks since 1986. They have a lively atmosphere and a great selection of cocktails, as well as coffee and food.
- Providore on Hastings: This cafe and gourmet deli serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and other light meals. They also have a great selection of gourmet products, including cheese, chocolate, and wine.
These are just a few of the many great cafes and restaurants in Noosa Heads. Be sure to explore the area to find your own favourites!
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Noosa Heads National Park also has cultural significance. The traditional owners of the land are the Gubbi Gubbi people, who have a deep spiritual and cultural connection to the area. Visitors can learn more about the traditional culture and history of the Gubbi Gubbi people through interpretive signs and guided tours.
Noosa Heads National Park is located just a short walk from the town centre of Noosa Heads, making it easily accessible to visitors. There are several parking areas located throughout the park, although parking can be limited during peak season. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or walk or cycle to the park if possible.Overall, Noosa Heads National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Sunshine Coast.
