Noosa North Shore & Cooloola National Park

The main Beach of Noosa and Hastings St get all the coverage but just north of here is an unspoilt piece of paradise - without the crowds.

You will need a 4WD to truly enjoy this stretch of sand, but it is worth it. 

Before jumping off, you will need to get a permit for the day if you want to drive on the sandy stretch because this is Coolola National Park after all. These are easy to get at the information office just before the ferry.

At the information office, I recommend you grab a tide chart as some of the beach will disappear at high tide, making driving a little more challenging.

We headed for the small car ferry from Tewantin ($7 each way) that will take you over to the north side in just two minutes - by the time you have paid your fare, it is time to drive off.

Once there, you will find a long stretch of pristine sand, dunes and beautiful coastline. You can pick out your own spot along the beach to relax or go fishing without anyone nearby bothering you - apart from the occasional 4WD zooming past.

If you have more time and are organised, there are camping spots (15 sites in total) along the beach so make it a holiday rather than a day trip- but remember you will have to book in!

The beach driving stretches 50km north, all the way to Rainbow Beach where you will spy Fraser Island, but we just stopped and enjoyed the vibrant reds and oranges of the sand dunes and even found a spot to clamber up and enjoy the view from the top.

If you are looking for more walking and less driving, Cooloola National Park has a range of bush walks lasting from half an hour to multi-day treks. Most of the walks start from the Elanda Point, and four at the Harrys Hut camping ground.

For a different perspective, you can hire a canoe at Tin Can Bay, Boreen Point or at the Harrys Hut camping area and explore the Noosa river flowing around the park.

No matter which way you choose to travel, this is a gorgeous spot worth a visit.