NOOSA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

A Naturally Warm Welcome

Escape to paradise and immerse your senses in the splendour of nature in Noosa.

Idyllically nestled on the northern end of the spectacular Sunshine Coast, the warm and welcoming coastal community of Noosa offers the perfect fusion of unforgettable holiday experiences – from active adventures amidst pristine nature to relaxed, eco-minded seaside indulgence. Spend sun-soaked days meandering along endless soft sand beaches or exploring a tapestry of tree-clad waterways, or hike through pristine National Parks and glamp beneath a star-studded sky. Delight in the inventive wining and dining scene, or recline in luxury by a sparkling resort pool. Exhale the stresses of life and inhale the serenity. Slow down and discover a deeper, richer connection with loved ones and the overwhelming abundance of Mother Nature. Here your senses are awakened and your soul is rejuvenated.

The Noosa Visitor Information Centre is here to help you experience the very best this beautiful region has to offer. Centrally located in Hastings Street next to the Noosa Heads Surf Club, we offer a one-stop shop for local and regional travel information including maps, brochures and itineraries. Our team of passionate and knowledgeable local experts serve as an indispensable guide on your journey of discovery, helping you unlock the region’s hidden secrets and create a treasure trove of lasting holiday memories. They can assist with bookings for tours, accommodation and experiences, taking the hassle and stress out of the travel planning process. With a wealth of local insights and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service, our team love assisting visitors to create a personalised travel plan designed to meet your unique needs.

So, before you hit the beach or boutiques, be sure to pop by and say hi to our friendly team of local legends at the Noosa Visitor Information Centre.

Service Meets Sustainability

Set within the heart of the UNESCO Noosa Biosphere Reserve, our Visitor Information Centre on world-famous Hastings Street perfectly captures the green, laid-back holiday vibe that’s become synonymous with the Noosa name.

It reflects Noosa’s pristine natural environment with a welcoming, innovative, open-air design, framed by a cool forest canopy and surrounded by landscaped gardens. The distinctive roof (inspired by the natural curve of a leaf), natural lighting and clever incorporation of recycled or sustainable materials embody the Noosa community’s environmental values and commitment to conservation.

At the front of the Visitor Information Centre you’ll find a 0 Initiative Water Fountain designed and painted by local Indigenous artist, Bianca Beetson. This beautiful fountain feature serves both an aesthetic and environmental purpose, encouraging locals and visitors alike to ditch single-use plastic bottles and fill up reusable water bottles with tap water.

A yellow and blue italicised ‘I’ sign sits amongst a lush plant wall, signalling the centre’s accreditation, and a 12-metre-wide doorway welcomes you with open arms.

As you step inside, high ceilings instil a sense of space and freedom to explore, and braille signage creates an inclusive welcome to the centre. Our friendly team of local volunteers extend a warm welcome. Armed with in-depth knowledge of the region’s extensive product offerings, our team of local gurus can provide directions, recommendations and tailored advice on the best things to see, do and experience during your time in Noosa. With compassion, empathy and respect for visitor’s needs, they create a relaxed and welcoming environment where travel inspiration flourishes. Their local insights and personal stories resonate strongly with visitors, creating an authentic connection with the local community.

Along with a huge array of maps, brochures and other holiday planning resources, our centre also features a thoughtful collection of sustainable travel merchandise for sale.

A Hint of History and Fascinating Facts

Noosa’s rich history dates back to the Dreamtime, when the traditional custodians, the Kabi Kabi people, inhabited the land and waterways of the Noosa area. They were largely sustained by the abundance of nature, sourcing food from the waterways and rich subtropical rainforests.

Our centre has worked closely with the local First Nation people to launch a unique Welcome to Kabi Kabi Country virtual audio-visual experience, which screens outside the visitor centre each evening at 7pm. This six-minute story-telling presentation blends traditional messaging with contemporary innovative projection and screen techniques to create a gentle holographic feel that’s sure to move, educate and inspire visitors to our region.

Within the centre you’ll also discover an impressive Dreamtime wall mural, showcasing the cultural history of the Kabi Kabi people. The mural was designed and painted by Maurice Mickelo, an emerging Kabi Kabi artist. A second stage augmented reality project is planned to bring the mural to life.

European exploration began in the mid-1800s, and over time, the timber and fishing industries became the mainstay of this emerging town’s economy. Thankfully, the environmental value of the area was soon recognised, and conservation efforts continue to ensure protection of the area’s many natural attractions. As a growing tourism industry caters to increased numbers of visitors eager to experience this pristine coastal paradise, Noosa remains steadfastly committed to its strong environmental ethos. It expertly balances development with sustainability, ensuring we can continue to enjoy the area’s abundant natural beauty for generations to come.

In other fascinating facts, Noosa is proud to host the annual Noosa Triathlon Festival – the largest event of its type in the world! Noosa also has an unmistakable appeal to the world’s rich and famous, with Richard Branson’s ‘Virgin’ company purchasing local Makepeace Island to establish a prestigious 6-star resort on the Noosa River.

Local Highlights

Whether you’re chasing thrills or just want to chill, Noosa delivers the perfect holiday escape.

For those seeking up-close encounters with nature, Noosa is eutopia! A short walk from Hastings Street, Noosa National Park is a serene sanctuary of abundant natural beauty. Take an invigorating hike on tracks that traverse spectacular scenery – from coastal outlooks to authentic Aussie bush. Explore secluded bays, listen to a symphony of birdsong, and encounter koalas and wallabies in their natural habitat.

Take a peaceful paddle through the Noosa Everglades,one of only two everglades systems in the world. This 60-kilometre stretch of waterways is flanked by magnificent flora and fauna. Also known as the River of Mirrors due to its incredibly reflective surface, these still waters are sure to calm the soul and spirit.

The Noosa River is another watery wonderland beckoning your exploration. Travel its length aboard the Noosa Ferry to soak your senses in utter tranquillity. Or cruise along in style to the accompaniment of Italian Opera in the unique and romantic Gondolas of Noosa. For those feeling energetic, take to the water on kayaks or stand up paddleboards, or make a splash on a high-tech fliteboard.

Speaking of thrills, why not hit the waves for some exciting surf action, experience an exhilarating horse ride along Noosa North Shore, or take the ultimate plunge by skydiving onto the beach?

For more relaxed feels, soak in the sunshine at Noosa’s Main Beach, or take a leisurely dip in Laguna Bay. Indulge in some retail therapy in the boutiques and galleries of iconic Hastings Street, discover hand-crafted treasures at Eumundi Markets, or feast on the freshest flavours at Noosa Farmers Markets. As day fades to night, enjoy innovative menus and live entertainment at a host of dining destinations throughout the region, such as the Noosa Junction entertainment precinct.

With so much on offer, it’s little wonder Noosa was named Queensland’s Top Tourism Town in 2021!

Accessibility

Noosa is idyllically perched on the northern end of the beautiful Sunshine Coast, less than 2 hours’ drive north of Brisbane. The Sunshine Coast Airport is serviced by multiple airlines offering regular direct flights from a variety of destinations. If arriving by air, Noosa is just a 30-minute drive north of the airport, with many transport options available, including rental cars, taxis, Ubers, bus transfers, hotel shuttles and public buses. Greyhound Australia operates an extensive coach network across the country, with Noosa proving a popular stop for many travellers.

Get about the region with ease using a range of public transport and eco-conscious options. Catch the picturesque Noosa Ferry or regular Sunbus services to and from Hastings Street daily, or make the most of free GO Noosa buses on weekends and Easter and Christmas school holidays. Many attractions are within walking distance of holiday accommodation.

The Noosa Visitor Information Centre is located at 61 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads (next to the Noosa Heads Surf Club). The centre is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week (excluding Christmas Day). Our team love welcoming all visitors and have received specialised accessibility awareness training to enhance your experience. For further information or to confirm current opening hours, please contact the centre directly on 07 5430 5000.

Street parking is available in Hastings Street. The centre is all on one level, with wide doorways and good accessibility for wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. The only exception is the back sun deck, which has stair access only. The nearest accessible and public toilets are located next door, in the Noosa Heads Surf Club car park.

For visitors accompanied by assistance animals, grassy areas suitable for their toileting can be found to the side of the boardwalk along First Point.