A visit to Noosa isn’t complete with spending time exploring the stunning Noosa National Park. Spanning over 4000 hectares of lush rainforest, hidden beaches and incredible flora and fauna, this is one of the most iconic natural destinations in Queensland. With a vast network of trails to explore suitable for all walking abilities. We’ve put together a complete guide of what you can expect, the best walking trails to suit your preferences, and where to stay to make the most of your adventure into the wilderness.
What to Expect
Noosa National Park is a stunning slice of protected green space, located just moments from Noosa Heads in south-east Queensland. The park is a sanctuary for all forms of flora, with lush eucalypt forestry, pandanus-fringed coves, melaleuca wetland and pockets of dense rainforest. It is also home to many forms of native wildlife, including koalas, echidnas, goannas and kangaroos. With several walking trails of varying difficulty on offer, Noosa National Park is ideal for families, nature lovers, hikers and casual walkers alike.
Noosa National Park Trails
There are five main walking trails in the Headland Section of the Noosa National Park, each offering a diverse experience into the stunning landscapes of the park. Most of these walks begin at the main day-use area at the end of Park Road in Little Cove, just a short stroll from Hastings Street.
Coastal Walk
Arguably the most beautiful walk in Australia (big call, we know), the Coastal Walk in Noosa National Park is utterly spectacular. This trail stretches from the main entrance along the headland to Sunshine Beach, where you’ll encounter sweeping ocean views, hidden coves and an incredible array of flora and fauna. Your first lookout will be at the aptly named Boiling Pot, where waves swirl dramatically below the cliff’s edge in the ‘pot’ framed by pandanus trees. A short stroll further along the path brings you to Tea Tree Bay where you can breathe in that soothing tea tree and eucalyptus scented air. Press on through to Dolphin Point (yes, they really do play here), and Granite Bay until reaching the headland at Hell’s Gate. Here you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the Alexandria Bay and the Pacific Ocean beyond. The last stretch of the trail leads you to your destination, the golden sands and rolling surf of Sunshine Beach.
If time allows for just one walk, let it be this one.
Distance: 10.8km return
Grade: Moderate
Tanglewood Walk
For a quieter and more shaded alternative, the Tanglewood Walk offers a serene journey through eucalyptus forest canopies. You’ll want to be keeping your eyes peeled for signs of wildlife, as koalas, echidnas and small wattlebirds live around here. The walk eventually connects back to the Coastal Track near Hell’s Gates, making this a great loop if you want to experience both forest and ocean views.
Distance: 8km return
Grade: Moderate
Palm Grove Walk
The Palm Grove Walk is a lovely loop ideal for a gentle stroll beneath the rainforest canopy. Short and sweet, this walk is perfect if you’re short on time or exploring with kids.
Distance: 1km loop
Grade: Easy
Noosa Hill Walk
Starting at the day-use area, this peaceful walk climbs gently alongside the northern face of Noosa Hill with filtered ocean glimpses. One of the quieter trails, this is a great option for nature lovers to immerse themselves in the stunning flora of the park and be rewarded with stunning scenery.
Distance: 2.8km return
Grade: Moderate
Alexandria Bay Walk
This walk begins at Parkedge Road in Sunshine Beach, making this trail somewhat of a local secret. This mostly sandy walk winds through open eucalyptus forestry and sun-dappled headland all the way through to the beautiful and expansive surf beach at Alexandria Bay, lovingly known as A-Bay to locals. The trail can also be joined from the Coastal Walk at Alexandria Bay, so you can easily choose your own adventure.
Distance: 4.2km return
Grade: Moderate
Noosa National Park Map
To help guide your adventure through Noosa National Park, view a map here that highlights each trail, key lookouts, beach access points and facilities.
Noosa National Park Accommodation
If you’re looking to stay in the heart of Noosa National Park, we have a handpicked collection of luxury accommodation options in Little Cove and surrounds. Here you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds, peaceful mornings immersed in nature and afternoons spent enjoying the bustling ambience of Hastings Street. Here are some of our favourite accommodation picks for enjoying the best Noosa has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main walk around Noosa National Park, the Coastal Walk, is approximately 10.8km return. There are many shorter alternative trails available and you can also use any of the landmarks along the Coastal Walk, including Dolphin Point and Hell’s Gate, for a shorter walk along the coastline.
Yes, Noosa National Park is absolutely worth visiting for its stunning coastal views, secluded beaches and coves, and immaculately maintained walking trails. It is one of the most iconic natural attractions in south-east Queensland, just moments from Noosa Heads.
Noosa National Park is not your average nature experience, it is best known for its unique combination of lush rainforest, open heathland, coastal cliffs and hidden beaches and coves that are all easily accessible through scenic walking trails. It is also one of the few national parks located so close to a renowned beach holiday destination, making it a rare blend of convenience and idyllic natural beauty.
Yes, koalas can be spotted in Noosa National Park. As you stroll through the park, look up into the eucalyptus trees and you may be able to see them resting in the branches. In the day-use area near the carpark, there is a blackboard that indicates recent koala sighting locations to point you in the right direction for your koala spotting adventures.
