INSIDER'S GUIDE TO NOOSA

Sunshine, world-class food, beautiful beaches, a laid-back ethos – there’s a lot to love about this pristine slice of paradise

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It’s been 14 years since I’ve visited Noosa and, as we drive down into town and catch sight of the Noosa National Park headland where verdant rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean, I wonder why I left it so long to return.

A veritable foodie’s paradise and holiday hot spot, Noosa, located 140km north of Brisbane on the Sunshine Coast, is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, one of only two in Queensland.

After the travel ban and lengthy isolation period, holidaying with my kids in such a pristine place – 35 per cent of Noosa’s land is protected – with plenty of natural attractions and fresh air is a very appealing prospect.

I was hoping to go for a surf but Noosa’s Main Beach is flat today so we waste no time hitting the beach for a dip and to enjoy the last rays of afternoon sun.

The following day, we decide to walk off last night’s dinner, post-dinner gelato – when in Noosa, right? – and our large breakfast, in the Noosa National Park. We follow the coastal boardwalk from Noosa Main Beach to the entrance of the park.

There is a vast network of walking tracks within the national park but, with two little reluctant hikers in tow, we follow the paved, well-worn coastal path and marvel over the tranquil bays and little coves, often climbing down the rocks to have a dip.

The rest of our time in Noosa is spent eating – oh, the food! – drinking, surfing the fun little point waves at the headland, lazing on the sand at Little Cove and people watching. I must say this was a joy, as to be honest, I’ve never seen so many smiling faces in one town. Admittedly, Noosa quickly has that effect on me, too.