Fun Things to Do in Noosa with Kids (of all ages)

Pristine sandy beaches, trendy cafes, stunning national parks and a plethora of fun family-friendly activities, there is almost an endless list of fun things to do in Noosa with kids. 

Whether it is a spur-of-the-moment day trip from Brisbane, a quick stopover or a weeklong Summer getaway, you will always find something to amuse even the toughest critic in the family when exploring Noosa. The obvious choice, given the beautiful beaches and calm waters, is water-based activities, but that is not all on offer in Queensland’s holiday mecca.

There are bush walks, playgrounds, museums and other cultural activities to enjoy in this picturesque seaside town, so load the car, pack the swimwear and discover amazing Noosa.

Fun Things to Do in Noosa with Kids

Water-Based Activities in Noosa

Beaches, Lakes and Rivers

There is no shortage of waterways in Noosa, with a range of lakes, rivers and beaches to explore any time of the year. Families can enjoy sand play, paddling at the water’s edge, or fully submerging in the turquoise waters, many of which are patrolled in the summer. Popular spots for families to enjoy the water include Noosa Main Beach, Peregian Beach and Noosa River.

Noosa Ferry Cruise

Get a different perspective of Noosa by taking a ride on the popular Noosa Ferry. Cruising daily between Tewantin and Hastings Street, with many stops along the way, guests can sit back and enjoy the view as they listen to the commentary and cruise down the Noosa River.  Kids may even get to ring the bell!

To take advantage of the stunning sunsets, climb the Sunset Cruise, which will have you admiring waterfront homes as you sail around Noosa Sound and Weyba Creek.

Fishing

Noosa is the perfect place to introduce your kids to fishing. Whether you opt for land-based fishing or casting a line from a boat, the possibility of catching fish in Noosa is high. Species you may be lucky enough to catch include flathead, baitfish, bream and whiting.

With both freshwater and saltwater fishing on offer, popular fishing spots in and around Noosa include Sandy Cove, Dolphin Point, Woods Bay Jetty, the Fairy Pools, Munna Point Bridge, Lake Cootharaba Entrance and anywhere along the Noosa River. Be sure to check local bagging regulations and follow signage regarding fishing restrictions.

Spoil Yourself with Handcrafted Gelato

After hiking in Noosa National Park, you and the family deserve a delicious treat. Happy Pops on Hastings Street offers handcrafted gelato, sorbet, and yoghurt pops all on adorable popsicle sticks. You choose your own pre-made pop or you can design your own with a Willy Wonka array of toppings.

Top Tip: If you’re still craving a tasty treat when you get home to Brisbane – you’re in luck. Happy Pops has recently opened a second location in South Brisbane.

Noosa Aquatic Centre

Take a break from the waves and sand and head to the Noosa Aquatic Centre where families can splash about in one of the many heated pools. There is a designated toddler pool, a bubble pool and a 25m and 50m pool.

During most school holidays, children over six can enjoy having fun bouncing on the inflatables, while the adults can relax sitting in the shade or enjoying a snack from the onsite café.

Cruise the Noosa River

There is no better place when the sun is out than on the water. If you don’t own a boat, not to worry, there are several places along the river where you can hire a boat, including Pelican Boat Hire, U-Drive Boat Hire and O Boat Hire.

For many, you don’t even need experience or a boat licence! Different boats are available, including fun BBQ pontoons, small boats, half-cabin cruisers, dinghies, catamarans and jet skis.  Of course, if you have your own boat, bring it along and enjoy the stunning Noosa waterways at your leisure.

Explore Noosa Everglades

For a truly unforgettable and tranquil experience, glide down the stunning Noosa Everglades on one of the marvellous daily tours with Everglades Eco Safaris.

Join either the Eco tour or Serenity cruise to marvel at this historic waterway from a comfortable, purpose-built vessel – you can even add on a canoe experience if you feel like a little extra exercise. Stunning reflections on the calm waters and spectacular flora and fauna make this an adventure not to be missed when visiting Noosa.

Surfing

Hang ten and ride the waves at one of Noosa’s iconic beaches. Popular spots to surf include Noosa Main Beach (First Point) and the Noosa National Park (Tea Tree Bay or Granite Bay). If you haven’t mastered the art of surfing yet, then learn from the professionals at one of the many learn to surf facilities around Noosa.

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP)

There has never been a better time to learn to stand-up paddle-board (SUP) than when you are holidaying in Noosa. There are several providers offering lessons and board hire but if you are already a pro, then why not join a guided tour of Noosa waterways. You can even limber up and test your balance while trying your hand at a SUP fitness class or SUP yoga.

Nature Activities at Noosa

Noosa National Park

No visit to Noosa is complete without immersing yourself in nature at the Noosa National Park – a 3000-ha park showcasing amazing fauna and flora, as well as some of the most picturesque coastlines in Australia.

As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls the National Park home. You may be lucky enough to spot koalas, black cockatoos, ground parrots or even humpback whales.

With more than 15km of trails, many suitable for children, put on your walking shoes, pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful rainforest, wildflowers, coastline and rock pools.

For further information, read our detailed review of Noosa National Park

Noosa Botanic Gardens

When the weather is fine, explore the eight hectares which make up the Noosa Botanic Gardens, located on the shores of Lake Macdonald. The Gardens are home to many plant species and wildlife, with a fun dinosaur dig area just for kids.  You can even bring your dog (on leash of course). If you visit on the first Sunday of the month, you will be treated to Music in the Gardens, which is a fabulous way to ease into Sunday.

Indoor Fun at Noosa

• Catch the latest blockbuster movie at BCC Cinemas Noosa.
• Any day is a good day for eating Ice cream and Gelato at one of the many ice creameries conveniently located on the streets of Noosa and surrounding suburbs.
• Unleash your inner artist as you peruse the Noosa Regional Gallery, or partake in one of their many inspiring workshops.
• Shop up a storm or window shop along the iconic Hastings Street in Noosa.

Fun Outdoor Activities

• Whether it is a seaside park or a leafy fort with slides and swings, there are plenty of fun Playgrounds to explore when visiting Noosa. Some of our favourites are:
  • Pirate Park – Noosaville
  • Hinterland Adventure Playground – Cooroy
  • Lions Park – Noosa Heads
  • Dick Caplick Park – Eumundi
• When strolling along the Noosa River Foreshore in Noosaville, stop and snap a selfie with the Big Pelican.
• Conveniently located next to the bustling Marina, the Tewantin Splash Park is a fully fenced water play area with the handy addition of picnic tables, shade and toilet facilities.
• Positioned beside the Tewantin Splash Park, the small but functional Tewantin Skate Park will see junior skaters and scooter riders zipping about practising tricks while having fun.

Adventures close to Noosa

• Explore the picturesque grounds at the Ginger Factory in Yandina while also checking out the factory, bee show, ZOG Trail and gift shop.
• Sample the goods and browse the many colourful market stalls at the eclectic Eumundi Markets.
• Cuddle a koala at Wildlife HQ followed by a high ropes course to keep the kids on their toes. It is also home to the famous Big Pineapple! 
• Watch sharks glide over your head at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.  Walk along the aquarium’s incredible underwater tunnel and be amazed at the diversity of marine life.
• Get your heart started as you zip, dip and spin on the thrilling rides at Aussie World.