With a breezy South Pacific vibe, newcomer Lanai’s menu includes seafood classics such as Fijian-style raw kingfish with coconut, chilli, coriander and crunchy house-made potato crisps, and the moreish prawn sangas encased in soft white bread. Perfect for snacking as you sip a flirty pina colada and take in the river views. lanainoosa.com.au

At the quiet end of Hastings Street, Locale’s sophisticated, moody interior is framed by lush greenery, a hit of glamour only surpassed by its innovative Italian menu and well-chosen wine list. Using ingredients from the restaurant’s hinterland farm and seasonal local seafood, Locale adds a modern twist to Italian classics. localenoosa.com.au

In many places people will put up with second-rate food for a table with a stunning view, but at Bistro C the menu more than matches the outlook. Think oysters, barramundi and bouillabaisse and the classic Fraser Isle crab spaghetti, a must-order dish of garlicky local crab with lemon, chilli, capers and cherry tomatoes. bistroc.com.au

Another Noosa stalwart that never disappoints, Season’s beachfront location is the perfect place for a sunset drink, long lazy lunch or romantic dinner. Its contemporary menu offers Asian and Mediterranean classics, and the signature dish of yellow curry loaded with mussels, prawns, scallops and crayfish always impresses. seasonrestaurant.com.au

This sophisticated gin bar is tucked away in Noosa’s industrial area, and the juxtaposition of warehouses and mechanics with marble, delicate glassware and soft lighting makes the transition from gritty to glam even more remarkable. Using only Australian botanicals (with many exclusively local) try a gin flight or choose from the seasonal cocktail menu. seabournedistillery.com.au

Australia’s surf lifesaving clubs are social hubs in every coastal town you find them. In Noosa Heads, the elevated bar offers views across the bay and national park and with 30 beers on tap and classic pub food, it’s the perfect post-swim spot. Swap bay views for surf at Sunshine Beach where the club is also open for breakfast. View the waves as you start the day with buttermilk pancakes or a big breakfast. noosasurfclub.com.au, surfclub.sunshinebeachslsc.com.au

In a prime position on Hastings Street, Bella Casa’s chic apartments offer easy access to the main beach, national park, river, and all the shopping and eating Hastings Street has to offer. Large breezy terraces and a tranquil pool mean staying in is just as relaxing. bellacasa.com.au

Oasis Noosa places you in your own luxury eco houseboat in the Noosa River. Just a short row out to the moored accommodation and you’ll have only the birds and the lapping water for company. Provided kayaks, snorkels, and stand-up paddleboards enable river exploration, and if you need people, Hastings Street is just 10 minutes away. oasisnoosa.com.au

If a beachfront stay is on your wish list, Tingirana’s beachfront apartments and infinity pool offer broad views across Laguna Bay and headland. From the pool, it’s just a few steps to the boardwalk and the patrolled beachfront. tingirana.com.au

A visit to the Noosa Farmers market on Sundays is a weekly Noosa must-do. With products celebrating the region’s rich farming heritage as well as homewares, plants and flowers, it’s a great place for a laidback breakfast and browse. noosafarmersmarket.com.au

Hop on at the wharf on the river side of the Sofitel Hotel in Noosa and cruise up the Noosa River all the way to the Marina at Tewantin on a classic custom-built riverboat. With seven stops along the way, including the iconic Rickys River Bar & Restaurant, choose a hop-on, hop-off ticket and take a day to explore all the villages along the route. noosaferry.com

A guided walk in the National Park elevates the nature experience with knowledgeable hosts sharing stories of the history, culture, and flora and fauna of the area. Choose from the three-hour morning walk or pop on a headlamp and experience the sometimes spooky, but always fascinating bush at night. outdooradventureaustralia.com/noosa-national-park-walks-morning

Are you really in Noosa if you’re not including wellness in your stay? Tick this box with a morning beach yoga class, and you’ll feel relaxed and virtuous for the rest of the day. Held daily in the Noosa Woods, the yoga classes are suitable for everyone, and mats are provided. Children and First Nations people stretch for free. noosabeachyoga.com