7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Noosa

Nestled on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure. With its stunning beaches, lush national parks, and vibrant community, Noosa offers an idyllic lifestyle. But even paradise needs an occasional change of scenery. For those looking to explore beyond the surf and sand, here are seven weekend getaways that promise adventure, relaxation, and a touch of the unusual.

Fraser Island

As the world's largest sand island, Fraser Island is a must-visit for anyone in Noosa. This World Heritage-listed paradise boasts ancient rainforests, over 100 freshwater lakes, and an iconic 75-mile beach highway. Adventure seekers can explore the island's unique ecosystem, which includes dingoes, whales off the coast, and the shipwreck of the SS Maheno. Relax at Lake McKenzie or float down Eli Creek after a day of four-wheel driving.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Fraser Island is by taking a ferry from River Heads, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from Noosa. Tour operators also offer packages that include transportation.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to fly over the island for a bird's-eye view of its stunning landscapes. It's an unforgettable experience that offers a unique perspective of the island's vastness and beauty.

Where to Stay: Kingfisher Bay Resort is a popular choice, offering eco-friendly accommodation and a pool with a view of the Great Sandy Strait. For a more secluded stay, consider the beachfront houses at Orchid Beach.

Where to Eat: The Maheno Restaurant at Kingfisher Bay Resort serves up a variety of dishes with a focus on local seafood. For a casual meal, the Sand Bar and Bistro offers great burgers and refreshing drinks.

Montville

Montville is a charming mountain village that feels like a step back in time. With its Tudor-style architecture, art galleries, and boutique shops, it's a delightful escape from the coastal heat. Visit the Kondalilla National Park to see the spectacular Kondalilla Falls, or take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined streets, soaking up the bohemian atmosphere. Montville is also known for its wineries and cheese factories, making it a gourmand's delight.

How to Get There: Montville is just an hour's drive from Noosa, making it an easy and scenic trip by car.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Montville Art Gallery, which showcases works by local artists and offers some unique pieces to take home as souvenirs.

Where to Stay: The Spicers Clovelly Estate offers luxury accommodation with a European flair, complete with an award-winning restaurant, The Long Apron. For a cozy B&B experience, try Montville Country Cabins.

Where to Eat: Wild Rocket at Misty's Micro Brewery serves up modern Australian cuisine with a twist, and their craft beers are a must-try. For a sweet treat, don't miss the fudge at Montville's famous Fudgyboombahs.

Gympie

Often overlooked, Gympie is a historical gold-mining town with a rich heritage. Visit the Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum to learn about the town's past, or take a ride on the Mary Valley Rattler, a restored steam train that offers scenic journeys through the countryside. Gympie also hosts various music and cultural festivals throughout the year, providing a glimpse into the local community spirit.

How to Get There: Gympie is approximately a 1-hour drive north of Noosa, accessible via the Bruce Highway.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Gympie Music Muster, an annual country music festival that attracts performers and fans from all over Australia.

Where to Stay: Mary River Motor Inn offers comfortable accommodation and is conveniently located for exploring the town. For a more rustic experience, stay at the historic Left Bank B&B.

Where to Eat: Emilia's Cafe is a local favorite for its hearty breakfasts and homemade cakes. For a fine dining experience, try The Phoenix Hotel, which serves contemporary Australian cuisine in a beautifully restored building.

Bunya Mountains

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, the Bunya Mountains offer an ancient landscape filled with Bunya pines, abundant wildlife, and over 40 kilometers of walking tracks. This natural oasis is perfect for those seeking tranquility and a chance to disconnect. The Bunya Mountains are also a significant cultural site for Indigenous Australians, with opportunities to learn about the area's traditional owners.

How to Get There: The Bunya Mountains are about a 3-hour drive from Noosa. The journey itself is scenic, with the final ascent into the mountains being particularly breathtaking.

Travel Tip: Visit during the Bunya Mountains Markets, held on the last Sunday of every month, to sample local produce and crafts.

Where to Stay: Bunya Mountains Accommodation offers a range of options from chalets to eco-friendly cabins, many with stunning mountain views. The Bunya Mountains National Park also has camping facilities for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.

Where to Eat: The Bunya Mountains Coffee Shop and Tavern is the go-to spot for a hearty meal and a warm atmosphere. They're known for their generous servings and the iconic Bunya Nut ice cream.

Conondale National Park

Conondale National Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers and hikers. With its rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and the impressive Conondale Range Great Walk, it's a place where you can truly feel at one with nature. The park is also home to the endangered Mary River turtle and a variety of bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

How to Get There: The park is located about a 2-hour drive from Noosa. A 4WD is recommended for some of the park's more remote areas.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Strangler Cairn, an intriguing art installation by artist Andy Goldsworthy, located along the Conondale Range Great Walk.

Where to Stay: While there are no formal accommodations in the park, camping is available at several sites, including Booloumba Creek and Charlie Moreland campground. For those looking for comfort, nearby Maleny offers a range of B&Bs and boutique hotels.

Where to Eat: For a rustic dining experience, head to the nearby town of Kenilworth. Kenilworth Country Bakery is famous for its enormous donuts and a wide range of delicious pastries.

Great Sandy National Park

Great Sandy National Park is a diverse landscape that includes the Cooloola Recreation Area, where towering sand dunes meet the sea. Explore the park's walking trails, kayak along the Noosa River, or visit the iconic Double Island Point Lighthouse for panoramic views. The park's remote location makes it an ideal spot for stargazing and enjoying the serenity of nature.

How to Get There: The park is accessible by a 4WD vehicle, with the trip from Noosa taking approximately 1.5 hours via the beach at low tide or through the Cooloola Way.

Travel Tip: Plan a visit to the Coloured Sands, an impressive natural formation of sand cliffs displaying a spectrum of colors, best viewed at sunrise or sunset.

Where to Stay: Camping is the way to go in Great Sandy National Park, with sites like Teewah Beach offering a unique beachfront camping experience. For more facilities, Rainbow Beach nearby has a range of accommodation options.

Where to Eat: Rainbow Beach Hotel in the nearby town offers a great selection of pub meals and local seafood, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Agnes Water and Town of 1770

Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 are coastal gems where you can enjoy some of the most northerly surf beaches on Australia's east coast. These twin towns offer a laid-back vibe, with opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, and exploring the Southern Great Barrier Reef. The Town of 1770 is also a historic site, being the second landing spot of Captain James Cook in Australia.

How to Get There: A 3.5-hour drive north of Noosa will take you to Agnes Water and the Town of 1770. The scenic route is well worth the drive, offering beautiful coastal views.

Travel Tip: Take a LARC! Tour, an amphibious adventure that explores the area's secluded beaches and national parks, and includes a visit to the Bustard Head Lighthouse.

Where to Stay: Pavillions on 1770 is a luxury apartment complex with stunning ocean views and direct beach access. For a more intimate setting, try the boutique bed and breakfast, LaLaLand Agnes Water Retreat.

Where to Eat: Get Hooked Seafood offers the freshest catch for a true taste of the ocean. For a unique dining experience, the Tree Bar at 1770 offers delicious meals with a side of history, set in a tropical garden under a giant fig tree.

Whether you're a digital nomad in Noosa seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, these weekend getaways offer something for everyone. Just a short journey from your coastal workstation, each destination promises to enrich your Australian adventure with memories to last a lifetime.