Noosa is a place that promises chic elegance with the backdrop of a pristine beaches and spectacular coastal scenery; which may come with a price tag at first glance. While there are plenty of things to do that require money; there’s an equal match of things that cost little to nothing at all. Use these tips to experience Noosa on a budget; you may be surprised at just how much there is to do cheaply!
Noosa National Park
Perhaps the best (and cost-free) thing to do is to head straight to Noosa National Park. Multiple day’s of free, healthy activity walking along coastal or inland trails; with the potential of spotting dolphins, whales, and koalas. The headland section alone has 25km of well-defined walking trails. Bring your swimmers and camera for some of the dreamiest locations; like Tea Tree Bay and the fairy pools at Granite Bay.
For more information about Noosa National Park Headlands trails click here.
The Glass House Mountains National Park
Visible from many places along the Sunshine Coast; The Glass House Mountains are well worth the 1 hr drive inland from Noosa. The 13 angular shaped peaks protruding from the earth were aptly named by Capt. James Cook the British explorer; on his journey up the East Coast of Australia in 1770.
The Glass House Mountains were formed due to volcanic activity 27 million years ago; where molten lava cooled quickly to form hard rock. Millions of years of erosion of the softer rock around the vent of the volcanos; have left a number of “volcanic plugs” or vertical columns that we see today.
The mountains can be explored by walking well-graded trails from easy to challenging. Some trails must not be attempted in the rain or wet conditions; due to the sheer rock faces and slippy conditions specifically Mount Tibrogargan – 364m, Mount Beerwah – 556m and Mount Beerburrum – 278m. These challenging walks are best for experienced hikers and we recommend packing some rope. If you are looking for something less strenuous with fantastic views; why not try the easy walk up Mount Ngungun, the 6th highest of the Glass House Mountains.
For more information about the Glass House Mountain trails click here.
Surfing
Surfing in Noosa is one of the easiest activities to do for surfers of all skill levels. Bring or borrow a surfboard for waves that peel at Tea Tree Bay; or head to Sunshine Beach, which has plenty of peaks to choose from. Noosa has some great sheltered beaches like Main Beach; which make for the perfect place to simply muck around on a surfboard. Also a patrolled beach so perfect for beginners.
For those who can’t access a surfboard enjoy the wave s by picking up a cheap bodyboard; this is sure to keep the kids entertained for hours and can be done with limited expense.
Low cost eats
On Sundays, we’d recommend heading to the Noosa Farmers Market between 7am and 12pm. You can stock up on plenty of local produce; from fresh vegetables, meat and snacks to make a tasty and cheap BBQ dinner for the family. Or, head into Noosa and grab some fish and chips to eat on Noosa Main Beach for a picnic.
Hostels
There are a number of hostels to stay at offering reduced cost accommodation; including Flashpackers Noosa, Dolphins Beach House, and Nomads Noosa. You can find some on or near Hastings St, giving you the free activity of window shopping or people watching. Head to Nomads Noosa for live music on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Perhaps one of Australia’s favourite travel destinations, Noosa offers so much to enjoy with little to no cost. Its landscapes, parks and relaxed beach culture will give you endless entertainment without breaking the bank.
