Noosa is renowned for being warm all year round. It is considered one of the best winter holiday destinations in Australia, and for good reason. While it never gets down to freezing temps, Noosa still has a few weeks’ worth of light jacket weather. The sun stays warm but there’s a particular cool edge to the breeze and the nights get rather snuggly. This makes it an ideal place to visit in winter – you won’t have to deal with the unrelenting sweat of summer, but you’ll still be able to warm your bones during the day. So, whether you’ve already booked a winter vacation or just scoping things out, this list breaks down our favourite things to do on your Noosa luxury holiday.
1. Experience the wonder of whale watching
Noosa Whale Watching offers breathtaking tours during between July and October each year. The tours showcase the majestic Humpback in its native habitat, migrating from Antarctic waters to Queensland coasts and back again for breeding. Prices start at $70pp for adults, or $600 for those who wish to book a private charter for this magical, memorable experience.
2. Hike the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk
Winter is the ideal time to tackle the Coastal Walk for two reasons: one, it’s less busy, and two, the view is much clearer. The Coastal Walk is a 10.8km return trip that takes approximately 4 hours to complete. Along the way you’ll be able to explore many hidden gems of the Noosa Headland and experience the invigorating sea spray against the rocks at Boiling Pot and Hell’s Gates. If you’re lucky enough, you may even spot a whale in the distance.
3. Treat yourself to a day retreat at Ikatan Spa
Ikatan is an award-winning Balinese day spa that will leave you radiating warmth from within for the entirety of your holiday. The day retreat offered by Ikatan runs for 8 hours, can be completely personalised, and covers nibbles, breakfast and lunch. All spa treatments are completely private and eco-friendly so you can relax in ultimate luxurious comfort knowing there are no harmful products being used.
4. Spectate the first round of the Noosa Hill Climb Championship
If you’re after something a little more thrilling, go watch the Noosa Hill Climb championship! Held in the Noosa National Park, the exciting 1.5km race tackles a series of tight corners that guarantees a very entertaining watch. There are plenty of spectator areas that include grandstand seating for your comfort. Tickets are $25 for a weekend pass, with the first round running 3rd-5th June 2023.
5. Get your dose of culture at the Noosa alive! Festival
The Noosa alive! Festival offers 25 unique events throughout the Noosa region, between 21st to 31st July 2023. From quartets to comedy, and business forum luncheons to visual arts displays, the festival offers something that appeals to everyone. Each event has its own runtime and ticket costing so head to the website to find out more.
6. Warm up by the Pomona Gin Distillery fire pit
Pomona Gin Distillery uses scientific methodology and the finest filtration processes to ensure the drop in your glass leaves your heart warm and cheeks rosy. You can order a delicious hot meal to accompany your beverage of choice while you sit by the fire pit, soaking up the beautiful atmosphere. If you head there on a weekend, you may even get to try some of the mouth-watering, limited time only smoked treats. Opt in for their live music nights to get the full experience!
7. Get a little tipsy on a brewery-hopping tour
There is no shortage of breweries in Noosa (Land & Sea, Heads of Noosa, Boiling Pot Brewery…) so why not dress up and go brewery-hopping? Noosa Transfers + Tours offers a brilliant half-day tour that includes beer tastings, food, and transfers to and from your Noosa luxury accommodation. Prices start at $150pp with very flexible timing and must be booked in advance.
8. Enjoy the food and fireplace at Embassy XO
Embassy XO is a modern Asian restaurant and wine bar fully equipped with a fireplace to make things cosy. The dark furnishings contrasted against elegant deep red highlights make the restaurant ideal for intimate winter evenings with your loved one. If that isn’t enough, the menu is made from 100% Australian produce and can be experienced either as a 5-course set menu or by ordering shareable dishes from the a la carte menu.
9. Shop Hastings St
Hastings Street is the bustling heart and soul of Noosa. It is the one-stop-street where you can go to dine, shop and relax. It offers luxury boutiques, eateries, bars, spas and galleries all within mere steps of Main Beach. The crisp winter air of evening strolls under the fairy lights on Hastings Street makes you feel you are part of a magical world – but let’s be honest, when you’re in Noosa, you are. Check our our guide to the Hastings Street shops or our guide to Noosa restaurants.
We hope this list gave you the nudge you needed to get booking your Noosa winter holiday. If you’ve already booked, we hope you use this list as inspiration to make the most of this beautiful coastal town on your visit. See you soon!
