Under $100: Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a small town of the Shire of Noosa on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia.

The Noosa River and the Noosa National Park border the town, making it a popular spot for travelers since the 1890s. The main street, Hastings Street, lies directly next to the shore, boasting great restaurants, entertainment spots and hotels.

While there is great shopping on Hastings Street, there is plenty to do on a budget, as Noosa Heads’ real draw is its natural environment, declared Queensland’s first UNECSO Biosphere Reserve.

The National Park, free to enter, is a must visit, with woodlands, pockets of rainforests and a population of koalas in and around the park. The Laguna Lookout walk is particularly amazing, especially at sunset, with expansive views of Noosa Bay.

Noosa Head’s main attraction, though, is its beaches, which can all be accessed via the Noosa Heads’ Coastal Walk. The main beach offers soft sand, clear green water and waves ideal for surfing, and is home to large festivals throughout the year. It’s free to enjoy the beach, lined with charming cafés, restaurants and cheap food shacks.

For an excursion to get a lay of the land, go on a horseback ride around Lake Weyba or hop on a ferry, where for only $5 you can take a trip along the river, Noosa Woods and Noosa Sound. For some affordable entertainment, catch an open-air concert at Peregian Beach Park for free.

Some of the popular restaurants along Hastings Street can be pricey, but it’s not difficult to find affordable, delicious food. Head to the water where you’ll stumble into one of several fish and chips shops, where the fish is fresh and costs only a couple dollars. You can also grab a bite at one of several weekly Noosa Farmers Markets and experience the local culture, or buy some inexpensive food from the supermarket and head to one of several free barbecues along Noosa River and Noosa Woods.

Getting around is both easy and enjoyable, as every spot in town offers great views of the ocean and National Park. There are dedicated bike and scooter lanes throughout the shire, and bike racks are available in all shopping and beach areas. Bike and scooter rentals are as little as $15 for the entire day and are available on Hastings Street and near the beaches.