Winter Wonders: School Holiday Activities

Welcome to the coolest time of the year! As winter rolls into Noosa the crisp air and sunny days make it the perfect destination for an unforgettable family holiday. Whether you’re visiting our slice of paradise for the first time or returning for more adventures, there’s a myriad of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained during the winter school holidays. Let’s dive into the ultimate winter wonderland, where fun meets relaxation and adventure!

on the Beach:

Winter in Noosa means fewer crowds and more space to enjoy the golden sands of Noosa Main Beach. The gentle waves and pristine waters are perfect for a family day out. Don’t forget to pack your beach cricket set and some snacks for a fun-filled day in the sun. Who says you can’t enjoy the beach in winter?

Explore Noosa National Park

Noosa National Park transforms into a wonderland in winter, offering cooler temperatures ideal for hiking. The Coastal Track is a family favourite, boasting panoramic ocean views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including our beloved koalas. Keep your eyes peeled for migrating whales. Spotting these majestic creatures from the shore is a winter bonus!

Hire a Bike

Bike riding is a fabulous way to see any new place, be it cruising along the Noosa river, discovering Hinterland lookouts, exploring Noosa’s endless bike paths, knocking out an epic road ride, mountain biking through subtropical rainforests or just avoiding traffic and parking hassles, hiring a bike is for you. We recommend Ecotekk electric Bike Hire or Bike On. Lots of different options of bikes to hire, suitable for the whole family to ride.

Learn to surf

Noosa is one of the world's excellent learn-to-surf locations. The water is warm and clean, the beach pristine and white. Protected by Laguna Bay's north-facing location, Noosa offers year-round, gentle waves, perfect for teaching. Book a lesson on Noosa main beach with a 2 x Australian champ Surfer Merrick Davis.

enjoy noosa river

The Noosa River, with its serene waters and stunning landscapes, is a family favourite destination in Sunshine Coast. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Noosa River offers a range of activities that cater to all ages. Dive into our guide to discover the best family-friendly activities on the Noosa River, and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

Kayaking, Canoeing & Stand Up Paddle-boarding: The calm waters of the Noosa River are perfect for water sports. Rent a kayak or a canoe from one of the many local rental shops and explore the river at your own pace. Paddle along the picturesque waterways, enjoy the tranquility, and maybe even spot some local wildlife. For a bit more excitement, try stand-up paddle-boarding. SUP is a fun and easy way to navigate the river, and it's suitable for all ages and skill levels. Balance on your board as you paddle through the scenic surroundings and enjoy the unique perspective from the water.

Jet Ski: Embark on an adrenaline-packed adventure with jet ski hire! Feel the rush as you zip through the pristine waters, soaking in breathtaking views of Noosa's natural beauty.

Hire a Boat: For a leisurely day on the river, hire a pontoon boat. These spacious and stable boats are perfect for families, offering plenty of room to move around and enjoy a picnic on the water. Cruise along the river, drop anchor in a quiet spot, and soak up the sun. Some pontoon boats even come with BBQ facilities, so you can grill up a feast while floating on the river. For an eco-friendly option, consider hiring an electric boat. These quiet and emission-free boats allow you to explore the Noosa River without disturbing the natural environment. It's a great way to teach kids about sustainability while having a fantastic time.

Scenic Walks, Picnics & Playgrounds: Take a leisurely stroll along the Noosa River Walk. This scenic pathway runs parallel to the river, offering beautiful views and plenty of benches to sit and relax. It's perfect for a family walk or a casual bike ride, with several cafes and ice cream shops along the way. Pack a picnic, spread a blanket over the grass, and enjoy watching the pelicans land on the river surface. There are also plenty of picnic tables, chairs, and BBQ areas available. Little ones will adore the nearby playground for some extra fun.

Our suggestions are: A selection of hire boats including pontoon, Bowrider, Jet Ski, Kayak & SUP hire: T Boat Hire. Hire an electric boat at Eco Noosa River Adventures.

book a Scenic day trip

Noosa, is a paradise that offers more than just beautiful beaches and stunning national parks. Its location makes it an excellent base for day trips that the entire family will love. From lush hinterlands to exciting wildlife parks, there’s no shortage of adventures awaiting you. Let’s explore some of the best family-friendly day trips from Noosa Heads that promise fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.

Australia Zoo: One hour south will bring you to Australia Zoo, made famous by the legendary Steve Irwin, is a must-visit for families. The zoo offers interactive wildlife experiences that will thrill both kids and adults. Watch the exciting crocodile shows, hand-feed kangaroos, and even cuddle a koala.

Eumundi Markets: Head to the Eumundi Markets, located about 20 minutes from Noosa, for a day of shopping, eating, and entertainment. Open every Wednesday and Saturday, the markets feature a wide array of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food. Kids will enjoy the live music, street performers, and various kid-friendly activities.

Fishing Trips: Cast your worries away and reel in unforgettable memories on a fishing trip in Noosa. Embark on a journey with experienced guides to the best fishing spots. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, the tranquil waters and abundant marine life make Noosa an angler's paradise. We recommend Fishing Offshore Noosa & Deep Sea Fishing Co

Fraser Island: The world’s largest sand island, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure, perfect for a family day trip. Just a short distance from Noosa Heads, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site offers an unforgettable experience that blends pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and unique wildlife. Enjoy driving along 75 Mile Beach, swimming in Eli Creek, exploring the Maheno Shipwreck, relaxing at Lake McKenzie, and hiking through the lush Central Station Rainforest. Unforgettable memories await! There are a selection of companies who offer tours, we suggest Great Beach Drive 4WD Tours.

Ginger Factory: Offering free entry and located in Yandina, the Ginger Factory offers a unique blend of fun and education. Take a ride on the Ginger Train, explore the beautiful gardens, and learn about the process of ginger production. The factory also features a delicious café and a fantastic souvenir shop. Don’t miss the Superbee Live Bee Show to see a working hive and learn about the importance of bees.

Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World: Get ready for an enchanting adventure at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World! Spanning 18 acres of lush gardens against a rainforest backdrop, it's a magical haven for nature lovers. Discover stunning waterfalls, panoramic views of the Glasshouse Mountains, and over 6km of walking tracks. Say hello to 700 feathered friends in walk-through aviaries, enjoy a picnic by the garden gazebos, and don't miss the Fairy Tale Garden and tree house. With a café serving Devonshire Tea, it's a perfect family day out!

Mary Valley Rattler: For an unforgettable family day out, hop on the Mary Valley Rattler, a heritage steam train that winds through the picturesque Mary Valley. Departing from Gympie, a 50 minute drive from Noosa Heads, this charming train ride is a journey back in time. The kids will be thrilled as the vintage steam engine chugs through lush countryside, crossing bridges and passing quaint villages. The open-air carriages offer fantastic views and plenty of photo opportunities. Onboard, friendly volunteers share fascinating stories about the region's history and the train itself. Make a stop at the historic Amamoor Station, where you can watch the locomotive turn on the turntable and explore the scenic village. The journey back is just as delightful, with more chances to spot local wildlife and wave to friendly locals.

Noosa Everglades: Nature’s hidden Gem! Embark on an eco-adventure in the Noosa Everglades, one of only two everglade systems in the world. Take a guided kayak tour or a boat cruise through this pristine wilderness. The calm waters and abundant wildlife make it a perfect spot for nature-loving families. The Noosa Everglades are often referred to as the "River of Mirrors" due to the stunning reflections on the water. Book a trip with Everglades Eco Safaris.

Sea Life Sunshine Coast: ocated in Mooloolaba, Sea Life Sunshine Coast is an aquarium that promises a day of underwater adventure. Walk through the ocean tunnel, marvel at the colorful fish, and get hands-on at the touch pools. The interactive exhibits and daily shows make it an engaging experience for all ages. Check the feeding times schedule to see the seals and penguins in action.

a selection of School Holiday Activities

Noosa Council offer a range of fun activities to keep your children entertained over the school holidays, from storytelling to crafty workshops, indoor and outdoor sporty fun. These events are spread between Noosa Leisure Centre, Noosa Aquatic Centre, Noosa Libraries, Noosa Regional Gallery & Peregian Digital Hub. Jump online to find out what’s on in Noosa these holidays to keep your kids entertained.

Noosa, with its blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, is the perfect winter school holiday destination. So, pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in our winter wonderland. If you are still looking for family friendly accommodation for these school holidays, please contact us, and we will help create the perfect family winter holiday.