Trail Running in Noosa National Park
Noosa National Park is one of the most visited national parks in Australia, and for good reason. The coastal headland trail weaves between sandy coves, rocky lookouts, and dense coastal heath above the Pacific, delivering extraordinary scenery within minutes of Noosa's Hastings Street. Koalas are a near-daily sighting along the main track, and dolphins and turtles are common just offshore. The trail network is compact but highly rewarding, making it a perfect morning run for visiting or resident runners who want ocean views without complicated logistics.
Region
Noosa, QLD
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Best Seasons
Autumn, Winter, Spring
Trails
3 featured
Terrain
Well-maintained coastal dirt and rock trails, with short sandy beach connections. The headland circuit involves rolling terrain with short climbs to lookout points. Mostly accessible and non-technical.
Best Trails
Noosa Headland Coastal Track
Easy to ModerateAlexandria Bay, Granite Bay, and ocean views from Hell's Gates lookout.
Packed earth and rock, some sandy stretches
Palm Grove Circuit
EasyA shaded inner loop for hotter days or a warmup before the coastal track.
Shaded dirt track through hinterland scrub
Tanglewood Track to Tea Tree Bay
EasyQuieter route to reach Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay away from the main coastal crowds.
Coastal singletrack
Gear Recommendations
Road or hybrid shoes are fine on the well-maintained coastal track
Start before 8 AM in summer to avoid heat and the main tourist traffic
Carry water as there are no water points inside the park
Bring a camera or use your phone, the wildlife and scenery warrant it
Safety Tips
Stay on marked trails, the headland drops steeply to the ocean in places
Keep a respectful distance from koalas and do not approach wildlife
The coastal track has some exposed rocky sections that require care when wet
Park entry fills early on weekends, arrive before 7 AM to secure parking
Getting There
The main park entrance is at the end of Park Road in Noosa Heads, 2 km from Hastings Street. Paid parking is available. The park is also easily accessed on foot or by bike from Noosa township. No park entry fee.
Post-Run Refuel
Noosa Heads has dozens of cafes along Hastings Street. Sum Yung Guys on Noosa Drive is excellent for post-run brunch. Thomas Corner Eatery is a Noosa institution for coffee.
Local Trail Events
Noosa Trail Festival
10K, 22K, and 35KA well-loved community trail running event that uses the national park and hinterland trails north of Noosa.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
How long is the Noosa National Park coastal trail?
The main coastal headland circuit is about 10 km with around 210m of elevation. Most runners complete it in 70-100 minutes.
Is there an entry fee for Noosa National Park?
There is no entry fee to the park itself, but paid parking applies at the Park Road car park.
Can I see koalas while running in Noosa National Park?
Yes. Koalas are regularly spotted in the trees along the main coastal track, especially in the Palm Grove area. Keep your pace easy when passing through to spot them.
When is the best time to run in Noosa National Park?
Year-round, but winter (June to August) offers the most comfortable temperatures. In summer, start before 7:30 AM to avoid heat and crowds.
Is Noosa National Park suitable for beginner trail runners?
Yes. The coastal track is well-maintained, clearly signposted, and not technically demanding. The distances are short enough for most fitness levels.
