Welcome to one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal walks! The Noosa National Park Coastal Track is the crowning jewel of this Sunshine Coast region, offering spectacular ocean views, secluded beaches, and amazing wildlife spotting.

This guide provides the complete map and trail information you need to plan your walk, whether you’re aiming for a quick scenic stroll or the full 10.8km return journey. As a key feature of the region’s attractions, this route is vital to any local Tourism Directory in Noosa. Get ready to lace up your shoes and explore!

Coastal Track Quick Facts (The Essential Summary)

• Total Distance: 10.8km return (5.4km one-way from Noosa Headland to Sunshine Beach).
• Time to Allow: The full return trip takes approximately 3 to 4 hours of walking time, but plan for much longer (half a day) to stop, swim, and take photos.
• Difficulty: Moderate. The first section is paved and easy, but the track beyond Dolphin Point is unpaved, sandy, and involves some inclines and stairs.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the heat and crowds, and to increase your chance of spotting koalas.

Step-by-Step Guide: The Must-See Stops

The Coastal Track starts at the Noosa Headland Day-Use Area (the main car park at the end of Park Road). Here are the essential stops along the way, moving from the Noosa Heads side towards Sunshine Beach.

1. Boiling Pot Lookout (0.3km from Start)

This is the first lookout point and one of the easiest to reach. It’s often where you can truly appreciate the name: when the surf is rough, the waves crash into the rocks, making the water churn like a “boiling pot.”

2. Tea Tree Bay (0.75km from Start)

A beautiful, sheltered beach surrounded by fragrant Tea Trees. This is an ideal spot to stop, relax, and enjoy the calm, clear water (swimming is unpatrolled, so be cautious).

Koala Spotting Tip: Look up into the trees around Tea Tree Bay and the start of the Tanglewood track, koalas are frequently seen sleeping here!

3. Dolphin Point Lookout (1.3km from Start)

This viewpoint is a small detour off the main path and is a strategic spot to look for marine life. While koalas are the land stars, keep your eyes on the ocean for pods of dolphins or the heads of sea turtles popping up for air.

• Paved Path Ends: The path is paved and suitable for strollers or assisted wheelchairs up to this point. Beyond Dolphin Point, the track becomes a packed dirt/sandy surface.

4. Granite Bay (1.7km from Start)

A stunning, rocky bay that often attracts surfers. The view opens up here, giving you unobstructed vistas of the coastline.

5. The Fairy Pools (Approx. 2.3km from Start)

These natural rock pools are one of the most popular stops. They form beautiful, small swimming spots in the rocks when the tide is low.

Safety Note: The path down to the Fairy Pools is rugged, and you must use extreme caution on the wet, slippery rocks, especially at high tide.

6. Hell’s Gates (2.7km from Start)

This is the dramatic pinnacle of the Coastal Walk. This massive, rocky cliff face offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the coastline, looking south toward Alexandria Bay. It’s the highest point on the walk and the most famous photo stop. During the cooler months (May to November), it is a prime spot for humpback whale watching as they migrate.

7. Alexandria Bay (A-Bay)

A long, wide, and usually deserted stretch of pristine beach, famous for being clothing-optional (unpatrolled). The track continues along the beach before climbing the stairs at the southern end to Sunshine Beach.

8. Sunshine Beach (5.4km one-way)

The official end of the Coastal Track. From here, you can walk a little further to the Sunshine Beach Surf Club for a snack or a drink with a view. You can then walk back the way you came, or catch the local bus (Route 627) back to Noosa Heads.

Essential Hiking Tips & Safety

Hiking in a national park is a fun adventure, but it requires preparation.

• Hydration is Key: There is very little shade on the headlands. Carry plenty of water, at least $1.5$ litres per person for the full return trip. There are limited drinking water points near the start.
• Protect Yourself: Wear a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen, even on cloudy days. The path is exposed in many areas.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy walking shoes or trainers. The unpaved sections are rocky and sandy.
• Respect Wildlife: You are sharing the park with koalas, lace monitors, and various birds. Keep your distance, never feed the animals, and always stick to the marked tracks.
• No Dogs: As a national park, dogs are not permitted on the walking tracks.

Finding Your Way & Resources

While the Coastal Track is well-marked, it helps to know your resources.

• Official Park Map: Look for the official Noosa National Park Headland Section map near the Day-Use Area car park for a visual guide.
• Local Directory: For information on public transport (Bus Route 627) or nearby services like accommodation or restaurants to fuel up, check the local directory, Noosa Life. This resource lets you easily look for accommodations, attractions, events, and restaurants in the area.
• Weather Check: Always check the Bureau of Meteorology forecast before setting out.

The Noosa National Park Coastal Track is a must-do experience and a core attraction in any comprehensive Tourism Directory in Noosa. Enjoy the hike, take your time, and soak up the spectacular views!