There are two distinct departments when it comes to seaside hotspots. Firstly, there’s the variety which is the epitome of the deserted island dream: space and privacy aplenty, just what you want for a romantic rendezvous in Noosa, says Willow…
There are two distinct departments when it comes to seaside hotspots. Firstly, there’s the variety which is the epitome of the deserted island dream: space and privacy aplenty, just what you want for a romantic rendezvous. Then you have Bondi, or Byron, or Brighton, places where seclusion is sacrificed for that other great classic, the jam-packed action beach.
Add Noosa to that latter list. Only a few hours from Brisbane it’s the desert island dream minus the solitude. Cocooned by national park its spaciousness is also incredibly deceptive.
Does this place really have a population that’s estimated to reach half a million fairly sharpish? Answer, yes. And unlike lost little locations in the backwaters of, say, said desert island, the population is matched only by its popularity.
Which means, of course, there’s great shopping.
Take a stroll along Hastings Street and be warned! Any vague ideas about a new bikini will assume suddenly iconic proportions on the list of priorities. Ditto shoes – the choices are endless and, while jandals have their place, something with a little sparkle could be quite essential. Sophisticated and casual are both catered for so no need to go home empty handed. (As if that was even an option.)
It goes without saying that shopping is a hungry exercise. Chances are any craving will be catered for, with sandy-footed folk treated to fresh, delicious fare.
Great Japanese can be enjoyed at Bar Sushi, where the fire engine red tables and chairs create a light-hearted approach to dining; a selection of fabulous sea-front restaurants, including Season and Bistro C, tempt with menus almost as good as the view.
Of course, Noosa is essentially nautical by nature, so it’s no surprise that ice cream is considered a pretty serious occupation. This is great news as it justifies extended research, a relief when it comes to excruciating flavour-based decisions.
Enjoying an ice-cream on the beach is best done in good weather. Again (are we getting slightly smug here?) Noosa’s average is twenty five degrees. Yes, you read that right. Instead of wallowing in envious disgust, you could swing the advantage of this breezy weather gage into your own court. Book a trip. After all, Vitamin D is essential, regardless of the season.
So whether you’re after a tramp through the national park or just fancy a nearly-guaranteed dose of sun, surf, and eye candy, Noosa’s a cinch. It nearly makes the desert island look like the less attractive option…
Grab a coffee at…
Aromas. It’s shaken off its Eighties heritage and assumed a beautifully lived in skin, sophisticated and easy at once. As the young cute lad poured out my takeaway flat white, I knew I was on to a winner. Delicious, in every sense of the word!
Have a nibble at…
Berardo’s on the Beach. Casual dining right there on the shore, unassuming prompt service, food that is interesting, unfussy, and clean, with breakfast open from 5am. No excuses about that early swim!
Eat Gelato at…
There’s no arguing about it, Massimo’s takes the icing on the cake. Favourite so far is lychee, which tastes so real it has to be good for you. Better do a double-decker, thanks.
Stay at…
Noosa’s not short of accommodation. Hastings Beach Houses are a collection of leafy, self-contained units that are great for easy exploring, right in the middle of town.
See the sights…
If swimming, sun bathing, people watching and eating begin to pall, there are a wealth of other alternatives. The national park is linked by a series of fabulous boardwalks, all within an easy stretch from Hastings St; Noosaville is just up the road, with kayaking, biking, paddle boarding and horse riding just some of the activities offered within the locale. Further afield, there’s the Hinterland with hamlets such as Maleny and Montville, which exude that intoxicating mix of bohemian and smart, alternative and chic. Pop over to Visit Noosa for the low down and further details.
Words and photos by Willow Sharp
25 January 2012
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