Some of the east coast's best beaches, beautiful hinterland and stylish restaurants make this upmarket, ocean-front town one of Australia's favourite destinations.

Pack a beach towel, grab your sunglasses and head up to one of Australia’s best-known beach destinations. A fishing village until the mid 20th-century, its excellent beaches and the stunning Noosa River have seen it transformed into a popular holiday destination. Locals have made sure it hasn’t suffered too heavily from the development, though. More than 30 percent of the area is protected forest or parkland, and height restrictions have kept the skyline low. This is a place where you can park the car, walking is all the transport you will need.

Head to the beach to cool off in the waves. Main Beach is safe and perfect for kids, while the beaches around Noosa National Park are better for surfers. You can rent boards or book some lessons at places all around town. 

Go hiking in Noosa National Park at the southern end of the town. The trails are easy and wind through a cool forest, taking you past hidden beaches and coves and revealing some lovely views along the way. The national park is home to several rare native species. Keep your eyes open and look up, and you may be lucky enough to spot a koala or a black-cockatoo.

If you would like to see some of Australia’s rarer or more dangerous species, head to Australia Zoo, which is less than an hour to the south. Another trip worth the effort is a cruise along the Noosa River to admire more of the area’s stunning scenery. 

Fishing enthusiasts can either organise trips along the river or out to sea, or fish right from the beach. Shopping fans will enjoy Hastings Street, the main thoroughfare, which is lined with boutiques and upmarket stores. In the evenings, walk the streets and choose from a good range of restaurants, or just relax on a balcony and enjoy the view.