Mooloolaba to Noosa in 3 days

Start your beach mini break with a healthy dose of relaxation. The Sunshine Coast's warm waters (even in winter) mean that a morning swim between the flags is always a refreshing way to start the day, and you'll find plenty of spots along Mooloolaba Beach to set up the beach umbrella. Kick back with your new favourite book or close your eyes to the sound of the lapping waves beyond.

Late morning will see you hopping aboard the Bushtucker Cruise with the crew from Saltwater Eco Tours. As you cruise the waterways of Mooloolaba for the next 90 minutes, you'll get to learn more about the area's Indigenous culture while tucking into mouthwatering canapes that celebrate native ingredients. Return to land in the early afternoon, ready for your next adventure.

Settle into your home for the night, Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel, before heading straight upstairs to Sully's Rooftop for an early dinner. Freshly opened in 2026, this buzzing new hotel and restaurant offer sweeping views out across Mooloolaba and beyond. Start with sunset drinks before moving into evening fare, where you'll fill your table with a mix of small and large plates from the menu.

Rise and shine early (like a Sunshine Coast local) and get ready to immerse yourself in the Sunshine Coast's underwater world. During whale season, whale watching is a must, so book yourself a tour with operators such as Sunshine Coast Afloat, Sunreef andAdventure Rafting. If you'd rather have a chance to get in the water and swim with the whales, The Pressure Project and Sunreef are great options. Outside of whale season, you can still catch plenty of underwater beauty on other guided experiences, which you can check out here.

Fuel up from a morning on the water with lunch at The Wharf Mooloolaba. Nestled right along the water, this is an ideal location to sort through your best photos over a meal, while also gearing up for the trail later in the afternoon. When you're ready, pack up the car and start the journey north. Before you get to Noosa, stop off at Mount Coolum for a late afternoon hike that features a panoramic view you won't want to miss. Even though the hike to the summit and back is short and sweet (around 1.6km return), you'll still spend plenty of time at the top soaking up the sights.

Your Noosa home is Elysium Noosa Resort, located within easy walking distance of Noosa Main Beach. Set aside some time to unwind in your room or by the sparkling lagoon pool, before making your way down to dinner at Cibaria. Here, a gorgeous taste of Italy awaits in the form of wood oven breads, delicate bites, homemade pastas and more. You'll feel a world away from the bustle of Hastings Street beyond.

Whether you're keen to wake up early and catch sunrise at the beach, or sleep in after yesterday's fun, make sure you're ready in time for today's first experience. You'll be setting out on a guided Stingrays & Everglades Kayak Tour with By Earth and Ocean. Over the next three hours, you'll be in the prime position to spot wildlife and learn more about this spectacular part of the world.

Later, swap your paddles for a knife and fork (and coastal vibes) at Bistro C. This iconic Noosa restaurant sits right on Noosa Main Beach, and here, you'll savour a locally-inspired menu while dining with postcard-worthy views while sipping on a spritz. Catch up on an incredible morning with the ocean as your backdrop, and cue the holiday bliss.

It wouldn't be a beach mini break without time spent weaving your way around the likes of Little Cove Beach and Tea Tree Bay in Noosa National Park. If you're prepared to walk a little further, spots like Hell's Gates offer incredible views and a great vantage point to potentially glimpse whales (seasonally) and dolphins beyond. If a swim is calling your name, head back to Noosa Main Beach for a swim between the flags and then to catch golden hour on the sand.