Unique Noosa: 21 Experiences to Indulge Your Senses, Awaken Your Spirit, and Create Extraordinary Memories
As a Noosa local and an underwater portrait photographer, I have a deep appreciation for the extraordinary experiences this beautiful region offers. My clients often come from out of town and interstate to combine their photoshoot experience with a luxurious Noosa getaway. This blog is inspired by the same themes that draw them to my pool studio: indulgence, sensory experiences, and memory-making.
Ride Along Noosa North Shore on Horseback
Experience the beauty of Noosa North Shore on a horseback ride with Equathon Horse Riding Adventures. Their award-winning tours offer safe and informative experiences for all skill levels, allowing you to take in breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife along the beach. The well-cared-for horses and friendly guides ensure a memorable adventure by the ocean, whether you choose a daytime or sunset ride.
Taste Rare and Premium Wines
Settle into the sophisticated atmosphere of Atelier Wine Bar, a chic venue that invites you to indulge your palate with a curated selection of 120 rare and fine wines, available by the half or full glass or bottle. Step into their beautifully designed space, featuring open wine shelves and a 16-seater French oak table. Enjoy European-inspired shared plates ranging from premium charcuterie and fromage to local seafood, pastas and wagyu. This intimate setting is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, offering a taste of Noosa’s relaxed and stylish side.
Fly Above the Water with Electric Hydrofoiling
Experience the sensation of flying over water with an electric hydrofoil on Noosa’s beautiful waterways. Offered by Fliteschool Noosa, this thrilling adventure lets you carve through the water as if you’re snowboarding on fresh powder, but with the freedom to ride without needing wind or waves. The Fliteboard eFoil is fast and quiet, allowing you to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful ride over the stunning river. With a gentle learning curve, expert instructors focus on safety while building your confidence and skills. Feel the exhilaration as you glide effortlessly over the water, soaking in the beauty of Noosa’s natural surroundings.
Explore the Art of Gin-Making
Discover the craft of gin at Seabourne Distillery, the Sunshine Coast’s most award-winning distillery. This tour takes you through the process of crafting small-batch gins, offering samples to tantalise your tastebuds along the way. Discover the intricacies of distillation, native ingredients, and the art and science behind this beloved spirit as you explore the lab and distillery. The bar has a bright and airy industrial-chic vibe, and offers some of Noosa’s best cocktails featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
Paddle Through the Noosa Everglades
Nestled within the Great Sandy National Park, the Noosa Everglades is a pristine environment and one of only two everglade systems in the world. Exploring the everglades by canoe or kayak allows you to glide through its crystal-clear, tea tree-infused waters, offering a tranquil experience of this untouched wilderness. It’s the perfect escape into nature, where you can encounter a variety of local wildlife amidst lush plant life. Head out early in the morning when the waters are calmest to witness the famous River of Mirrors, where the still waters reflect the surrounding vegetation.
Soar Above Noosa’s Coastline in a Seaplane
Embark on a thrilling seaplane adventure above Noosa in an immaculately maintained ex-military vintage “Warbird” spy plane. Experience the excitement of gliding over pristine beaches, lush hinterlands, and the iconic Noosa River, taking in panoramic views that engage all your senses. The vibrant colours of the coastline and the vast expanse of the ocean below provide a unique perspective on Noosa’s natural beauty, and you can customise your flight path to suit your preferences.
Enjoy the Noosa River Like a Local
The Noosaville section of the Noosa River is a beloved spot where locals go to unwind, exercise, socialise, or simply connect with nature. Start your day with a leisurely coffee and stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the water views. For lunch, enjoy a picnic or BBQ by the riverside, followed by the inventive and mouth-watering flavours at Amo Gelato. As evening approaches, head to the Noosa Boathouse for a sundowner at the Sunset Bar on the top floor of this floating venue; arrive early to secure a prime spot for cocktails as the river glows in the evening light. Alternatively, bring your own drinks and settle in on the grassy foreshore where there’s live music at the weekend. Finish the day with dinner at one of the many restaurants along the adjacent Gympie Terrace.
Experience the Magic of Whale Watching
Embark on an unforgettable whale-watching adventure with Whalesongs Noosa during the humpback whale migration season each winter. This charter boat experience offers small group tours, providing an intimate and personalised encounter with marine life. There’s a hydrophone onboard, allowing you to listen to live whale song as the mammals communicate in their pods. Knowledgeable hosts Peppi and Albie ensure a safe and educational experience, guiding you through the waters off Noosa. Whether it’s watching a mother whale and her calf, or dolphins frolicking alongside the boat, this magical experience offers a deeper appreciation of the area’s marine life.
Relax and Revitalise with Advanced Wellness Treatments
Escape into a world of relaxation and recovery at TH7 Body Labs, where cutting-edge wellness treatments await. As an elite recovery and longevity facility, TH7 brings Australia’s largest selection of wellness equipment to Noosa: traditional and infrared saunas, steam rooms, contrast therapy pools (hot, cold, and ice baths), hyperbaric oxygen chambers, compression boots, and red light therapy. This modern and slick setup is the perfect place to unwind and recharge, making it an essential stop on your indulgent Noosa journey.
Explore Asian Flavours with a Cooking Class
Delve into the vibrant flavours of Southeast Asia with a cooking class at Spirit House, a culinary oasis nestled in the lush Noosa hinterland. This destination restaurant offers a stunning setting with its centrepiece lake, surrounded by dining pavilions and extensive gardens. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just dabbling, Spirit House provides hands-on classes where you can learn new techniques and Asian-inspired recipes across 15 different class options. Enjoy prepping and cooking your meal, guided by past head chefs, and then savour your creations in the chic and relaxed setting.
Morning Yoga by the Water
Escape the hustle and bustle of Hastings Street for an outdoor yoga class nestled in the tranquil Noosa Woods. This daily group class, open to all levels and bodies, offers a perfect blend of nature and mindfulness. Claudia guides you through a gentle slow flow, emphasising the connection between movement and breath. Practising yoga in this outdoor setting, under the trees and by the water, creates a unique sensory experience. Feel the sun on your face and listen to the calming sounds of nature during your practice, leaving you feeling focused and rejuvenated. It’s the perfect way to start your day.
Craft the Perfect Cocktail with a Masterclass
Shake, stir and sip your way through a cocktail masterclass at The Bartenders. Learn the secrets behind crafting perfect cocktails from expert mixologists, and enjoy a hands-on experience that will elevate your home bartending skills. This interactive session is perfect for small groups looking for an energetic and educational experience, where you’ll have the chance to make and enjoy three different cocktails under the guidance of your private mixologist.
Ocean-side Massage at Main Beach
After your Hastings Street shopping, boardwalk stroll, or ocean swim at Noosa Heads, indulge in a relaxing massage under the shade of a cabana on iconic Main Beach. The soothing sound of waves and the salty scent of sea breeze create a healing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. Choose from various massage styles, including Swedish, remedial, deep tissue, therapeutic relaxation, sports, and prenatal massage. Feel free to arrive with sandy feet and wet swimmers, as this open-air setting is all about embracing the beach lifestyle. Close your eyes, listen to the ocean, and pamper yourself in this tranquil escape.
Float Above the Hinterland in a Hot Air Balloon
Experience the exhilaration of floating through the skies in a hot air balloon over the stunning Noosa hinterland. As you ascend smoothly, you’ll feel the gentle sensation of being lighter than air, with the balloon drifting quietly with the wind. The tranquillity of the flight lets you take in the panoramic vistas of the lush landscape below. After your flight, enjoy a full breakfast and champagne to complete this extraordinary morning journey.
Get Creative with a Clay Pottery Class
Unleash your creativity at Clay Noosa, a pottery studio in the heart of Noosa, guided by the talented Fred Valentine. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, crafting your own pottery is a therapeutic and rewarding experience. Enjoy the tactile pleasure of wheel throwing, hand-building and glazing as you create a souvenir to remember your Noosa getaway. With Fred’s patient guidance and expertise, you’ll learn new skills and have fun in a supportive environment.
Culinary Delights with a Private Chef Experience
Elevate your dining experience with a private chef in the comfort of your holiday rental, featuring renowned Australian chef Andy Davies. Andy honed his skills under Neil Perry, and ran some of Australia’s finest restaurants. Delight in exquisite gourmet dishes tailored to your preferences, showcasing local ingredients and culinary artistry. Enjoy a bespoke fine dining event where each dish is a celebration of premium, fresh and seasonal produce, expertly combined to create a symphony of flavours. Chef Davies also offers private cooking lessons, where you can discover the art of crafting a three-course meal using the finest local produce.
Savour Local Flavours at Noosa Farmers Market
Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Noosa Farmers Market, where local artisans and food producers gather every Sunday from 6am to midday. This foodie haven is perfect for picking up picnic ingredients or stocking up on self-catering essentials. The market offers a wide selection of organic fruits and vegetables, fresh juices, seafood, cheeses, baked goods, and gourmet treats. Arrive early to beat the crowds and savour the best of local flavours while connecting with the community. With a host of street food vendors serving some of the best breakfasts in the area, you’ll want to come hungry to fully enjoy the culinary delights on offer.
Discover Craft Brewing
Uncover the trendy vibes of Land & Sea Brewery, tucked away in the Noosaville industrial estate. This solar-powered brewery, distillery, bar and restaurant offers an impressive atmosphere featuring classic motorbikes, surfboards, pinball machines and a fireplace. Enjoy a guided tasting and tour, where you’ll learn about the brewing and distilling processes while sampling a range of craft beers and spirits. This engaging experience provides a deeper understanding of Noosa’s vibrant craft beverage scene.
Rejuvenate with a Luxurious Facial
Indulge in a luxurious facial at The Facialist Noosa, where Anna is renowned for her remarkable skill and relaxing treatments. Her serene studio offers a calming environment, and each session is tailored to your skin’s needs, providing a restorative experience that leaves you looking radiant. With a focus on relaxation and high-performance products, Anna’s facials are an all-around restorative experience, featuring techniques like face sculpting and buccal massage for fabulous results.
Capture Panoramic Views at Mount Tinbeerwah
Experience the awe-inspiring 360º views from Mount Tinbeerwah. This easy hike leads to panoramic vistas over the coast and hinterland. It’s incredible at sunset, so bring some bubbles and a picnic blanket to sit on the smooth rock and take in the expansive, spectacular views.
Underwater Photoshoot Experience
As an award-winning Master Photographer specialising in ethereal underwater photography, I create experiences that blend art, adventure and creativity into one unforgettable session. Become the artist’s muse for a day and enjoy unlimited access to a wardrobe of couture gowns, an in-house makeup artist, a heated private pool, luxe amenities, and expert guidance. Whether marking an important milestone or simply celebrating you, an underwater portrait session is a break from the everyday—an opportunity to get creative, strike a pose, and have some fun. I invite you to experience an unforgettable underwater photoshoot with me, where I will create stunning portraits that show you in a way you’ve never seen yourself before.
—Liz
www.lizharlin.com