Story and pictures by Rama Gaind
A gem in the crown of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Noosa is fascinating with its warm climate, natural wonders of the Noosa National Park, Laguna Bay beach and the enticing haunts of Hastings Street.
Regarded as a summer playground, Noosa has developed from a small fishing hamlet to a world-standard holiday destination where tourism provides the foundation to the local economy which flourishes with more than 250,000 holidaymakers a year.
It’s easy to see why the population is sure to swell further from the current approximate of 40,000. Noosa Heads is certainly cosmopolitan.
Discover the olde-world charm of Hastings Street: explore boutiques (especially Hathor on Hastings in the Bay Village), galleries and a myriad of restaurants – before walking a few paces to dive into the inviting, crystal clear waters off the beautiful main beach. Walking past the apartment blocks and cafes, one can’t help but yearn to own a beachfront unit!
Try a refreshingly novel way to commute by taking in the sights from the water instead of navigating meandering through traffic on the roads. Enjoy the novel attributes of the Noosa River with daily Noosa Ferry Cruise services from the Sheraton Resort jetty which take you up and down the river between Noosa Heads, Noosaville and Tewantin.
Relax as you see people having picnics and barbecues on the river bank, walking, playing ball, even swimming, houseboats, activities from fishing to sailing and diners enjoying the ambience of one of the many dining establishments on the riverfront.
Take a step back in time onboard Gondolas of Noosa and let maestro Richard aka Ricardo steer you on a private river cruise wandering the back reaches of the river, gazing enviously at a myriad of riverfront homes. Then step into Ricky’s river bar and restaurant at the Noosa Wharf where, while enjoying great views you partake of a modern menu built around fresh, local produce.
Take pleasure in dining at Trios on the River which has been run by David Stellon and Geoff Cohen for 12 years. Bathe in the river atmosphere and delight in the menu choices featuring seafood, meat and vegetarian choices.
When it comes to comfort, let owner-managers Tony and Linda Jedynak attend to your every need at the Hotel Laguna. After 17 years at the helm, they are aware of the needs of holidaymakers. Choose from either spectacular river views or overlook colourful Hastings Street when you choose a studio room, suite or fully self-contained holiday apartment.
Get a stunning perception of the Noosa River, the wetlands and the lakes and their importance to the region by going on a Noosa Everglades Discovery river cruise.
Have a unique encounter with nature through tours of rocky headlands, long golden beaches, high forested dunes, dark waterways, broad lakes and dramatic coloured sand cliffs. These are the spectacular features which make up the Cooloola section of the Great Sandy national park, the largest sand mass in the world.
Explore, take a swim in the pristine waters, photograph the abundant birdlife or simply relax in this unique natural environment.
This is one of the truly remarkable wilderness areas of the world. Succumb to Noosa calling – and enjoy!
