I fell in love with Australia nine years ago, when I temporarily moved to Sydney for my job as a model. Now, many years — and what feels like several lives — later, I went back to revisit some of my favorite places. One of them is Noosa. A coastal town in Queensland where life moves at a gentler pace. Known for its beaches, lush nature, and that unmistakable relaxed flow that makes you instantly slow down. Come along with me for my perfect weekend in Noosa.
I start my morning at Terrace Marina on Gympie Terrace, which is a boat & jet ski hire, but I just come here for the coffee and to sit down and watch the river.
From there, I head towards Hastings Street for some shopping. Australians really do know how to dress well. A few of my go-to spots in Noosa:
If you’re already on Hastings Street, lunch at Bang Bang is a must. Order the kingfish sashimi, and if you’re in the mood, one of their cocktails — they’re excellent.
Afternoons in Noosa are made for the water. Just like Amsterdam, this is a place best experienced from a boat. Book a sunset cruise on the river and reserve a table at Ricky’s, where the boat can drop you off straight at the restaurant. If they have them, order the ’nduja prawns — one of the best dishes I’ve had in Australia.
Sunday mornings in Noosa come with two perfect options.
Option one: visit the Noosa Farmers Market. It’s packed with local, seasonal produce that will instantly make you hungry. Bonus: their coffee is very good.
Option two: head out on the coastal walk. Bring water, maybe a coffee to go, and walk the Noosa Coastal Track through Noosa National Park. The trail is almost 11 km return and offers incredible ocean views, plus endless surfers to watch. If you visit between June and November, you might even spot humpback whales cruising past the coastline on their migration north.
If you start the walk from Noosa Heads, finish at Little Cove — my favorite beach in Noosa, with the clearest water and the kind of views that make you want to stay all day.
A trip to Noosa isn’t complete without an ice cream from Massimo’s on Hastings Street.
End your weekend at Sails, so you can try one of the specialties of the Eastern Coast: the Moreton Bay Bug. It’s the best!
Noosa is the perfect weekend getaway. Everyone seems relaxed — visitors and locals alike — as if life here permanently feels like a holiday. It’s a beautiful mix of people enjoying their retirement and young families chasing waves with surfboards under their arms. From wide beaches and lush nature to lively wine bars and great shops, Noosa truly has something for everyone.
I loved staying in Noosaville and rented an apartment through The Noosa Collection. Jordana is the best host!
Coffee and breakfast: Depot cafe, Laneway, Tuckshop
Lunch and dinner: Locale, Sabrosa, Peli’s, Lucio’s, Bandita
Beaches: Little Cove, Tea Tree Bay, Peregian Beach (lunch at Mariella’s!), Coolum Beach
