An underrated gem in Noosa is the stunning Noosa River, with its calm waters, incredible scenic views and numerous activities making it a must-visit destination on your next holiday in Noosa. Whether you’re looking to head out for a peaceful paddle, scenic river cruise, exhilarating watersports, or you’re just wanting to soak up the incredible atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in and along the Noosa River.
Explore the Noosa River
The best way to explore the Noosa River is, of course, by water! Gympie Terrace is the perfect starting point to your day of exploring, here you can hire boats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, or book guided river tours. You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the foreshore, stop for a riverside picnic, or unwind at one of the many restaurants and cafes lining the river. Start your day here and set off to enjoy all the river has to offer.
To get you started, we’ve put together a list of our favourite ways to get out on the water and enjoy the stunning natural scenery of our beautiful region.
Noosa River Boat Hire
If you’re looking to choose your own adventure, hiring a boat to cruise the river is a fantastic way to see the stunning scenery. You’ll find many reputable Noosa River boat hire companies situated on the banks of the river on Gympie Terrace, including Pelican Boat Hire, Terrace Marina and O Boat Hire. They offer a variety of hire options, including boats, pontoons, jet-skis, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. Most of the self-drive hire boats don’t require a boat licence, so you can hit the water with ease.
For a truly unique experience, Roundaboat offers a circular boat that seats up to 10 people. Complete with an ice bucket in the middle, bluetooth music connectivity and shade umbrella, this is perfect for a fun day out with friends. Pack some snacks, gather your crew, and spend the day cruising, swimming, and soaking up the breathtaking Noosa River views at your own pace.
Noosa River Cruises
If you’d prefer to sit back and let someone else do the navigating, a Noosa River cruise is the perfect choice. Noosa River Cruise Co. has been operating river cruises for over 25 years, specialising in intimate cruises on their luxury pontoon boat or gondola.
If you’re planning a special event or celebrating an occasion, LILO Noosa offers a luxurious private charter experience aboard their custom-built vessel. Whether you’re after a sunset sail or a leisurely daytime journey, a Noosa River cruise lets you soak up the incredible scenery without lifting a finger. With expert commentary, comfortable seating, and endless photo opportunities, it’s one of the most effortless and picturesque ways to experience Noosa from the water.
Restaurants Along the Noosa River
After a big day out on the water, Noosa River’s vibrant dining scene is the perfect way to unwind. Dotted along the charming Gympie Terrace, you’ll find an incredible selection of cafes, restaurants and bars. From laid-back bites to fine dining experiences, there’s something to suit every mood and palate, here are some of our favourites.
Lanai Noosa
Lanai Noosa brings a relaxed yet refined dining experience to the Noosa River, with a pacific-inspired menu featuring the best of local produce. Set in an airy, light-filled space, the venue offers stunning water views making it perfect for long lunches or sunset cocktails.
Noosa Boathouse
Perched right on the river, Noosa Boathouse is an iconic three-level establishment offering everything from casual bites to seafood platter feasts. A true favourite is the rooftop Sunset Bar, providing a west-facing aspect to watch the sun go down over the river.
250 Grammi Food & Wine Bar
For an authentic taste of Italy, look no further than 250 Grammi. Capturing the warmth and atmosphere of an Italian Sunday lunch, the menu is designed for sharing among loved ones. Each dish pairs perfectly with a curated selection of Italian and local wines, inviting you to settle in and enjoy the hospitality and ambience.
Sardo Noosa
Specialising in Sardinian cuisine, Sardo Noosa is a newcomer to the Noosa River dining scene, delivering a unique taste of the Mediterranean using fresh, local ingredients. Expect bold, rustic flavours and a welcoming, family-style approach to dining.
Noosa River Accommodation
If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the action, Accommodation in Noosa has an array of beautiful Noosa River accommodation options to suit a variety of preferences. Here are some of our favourite accommodation picks for a comfortable and memorable stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can swim in the Noosa River. The river is considered to be a safe and enjoyable environment for families to enjoy due to the calm, shallow areas that are perfect for kids to enjoy. Our favourite spot to take a dip is off the sandy banks along Gympie Terrace. As always, make sure you check the conditions before you take the plunge.
There are plenty of things to do on the Noosa River. Our favourites include hiring a boat and setting out for a day on the water, stand-up paddleboarding, river cruises, jet-skiing, kayaking and riverside dining. The river foreshore is also a great spot for walking, picnics and watching the sunset over the water.
The Noosa River walk along the foreshore and Gympie Terrace stretches for about 2km one way, depending on where you start your walk. The walk is along a flat, waterside path where you’ll encounter locals on their morning walks, plenty of charming cafes and even some pelicans.
Noosa River has an abundance of fantastic restaurants and cafes. Our favourite restaurants include Rickys, Noosa Boathouse, 250 Grammi and Bandita Mexican. As for cafes, you can’t go past Depot, Double Shot and Old Salt Coffee.
