Growing up in a popular holiday destination like Noosa has given me a very special set of skills.

Like the ability to sneak into any hotel pool. But also one that has actually come in handy in adult life: knowing where to go when all the best places are booked out.

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From accommodation gems on Hastings Street for as little as $170, to an unforgettable afternoon on Noosa River (no reservation required!), here is my insider's guide to experiencing the best of Noosa.

The best time to visit Noosa.

The best time to visit Noosa is late autumn through to early spring.

There's just something really special about arriving in Noosa and looking out onto Main Beach and seeing crystal blue water, instead of a sea of Coolcabanas.

By booking a trip off peak, not only will you get your pick of the best accommodation and restaurants, you'll also be able to enjoy the Noosa National Park walk without accidently shoulder barging people.

Image: Supplied.

If you have booked a summer holiday to Noosa, don't worry! I have included some last minute, hidden gems for you in this article.

Where to stay in Noosa.

Generally speaking, the further away from Hastings Street you go, the better deal you will get on accommodation.

Noosa River has some great value accommodation options and a more laid back vibe.

Local's tip: If you are going to splurge on Hastings Street accommodation, make sure you book a hotel with a private car space provided as it's almost impossible to find long term parking down Hastings Street during the busier periods.

Splurge: Noosa apartments and boutique resorts.

On The Beach Noosa Resort.

Ocean front self-contained apartments located directly above the famous Bistro C restaurant.

Nothing says romantic getaway like stumbling upstairs after a boozy lunch to your private spa bath with ocean views.

Seahaven Noosa.

Nestled in the palm trees down the quieter end of Hastings Street, this boutique resort has the best amenities for small families including three pools and direct beach access.

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Elysium Noosa Resort.

Newcomer Elysium, (formerly Sofitel Noosa) has got me intrigued.

Noosa's largest hotel has recently undergone a full transformation and now has infrared saunas in their very pretty Wellness Suites. Expect to pay Sydney, Melbourne prices though.

Save: Noosa budget accommodation.

Halse Lodge Noosa.

The place where I once pashed a deep sea fisherman in my early twenties, has just undergone a major makeover.

While it's still technically a backpackers, not many people know that it also has beautifully appointed private rooms starting from as little as $170 per night.

Noosa Entrance Waterfront Resort.

Waterfront townhouses without the Hastings Street price tag, this is a great spot for larger families.

Last-minute Noosa accommodation.

If you've missed out on your pick of accommodation down Hastings Street, private Holiday rental sites such as Niche Holidays and Noosa Luxury Holidays often have privately owned apartments still available in many of the popular complexes like Seahaven and Netanya.

There are also lots of other privately owned options within walking distance to Hastings Street such as Little Cove and Noosa Hill that are worth checking out.

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Where to eat and drink in Noosa.

Bougie Noosa restaurants and bars.

Bistro C.

In 30 years I've never regretted a meal here, food has been consistently good for decades and it still has the best views in Noosa.

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Sum Yung Guys.

I'm not the biggest fan of their new location (I personally think the original Sunshine Beach restaurant was better), however, you can't deny that Sum Yung Guys has some of the best food on the coast. Try their $90 'Feed Me' menu for a selection of their best dishes.

Bang Bang Noosa.

There is something truly magical about the combination of an icy cold margarita and fresh seafood with a side of Bang Bang signature vibes. Tucked away down Hastings Street, this is a spot that is worth pre booking before your next trip.

Affordable Noosa cafes and restaurants.

Sunshine Beach Surf Club.

You cannot beat a good surf club session! While Noosa Heads surf club tends to be overcrowded with tourists, you'll always find a seat amongst the locals at Sunshine Beach surfy. This is my favourite place to go during winter to enjoy a hearty meal while watching the whales migrate north.

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Flo's Crêperie Noosa.

So much more than just a crêpe place, Flo's is a modern French restaurant serving sweet and savory crêpes the whole family will enjoy.

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La Vie en Rose Noosa.

Another local gem with views of Noosa River where you can get a crêpe and a coffee for only $12.50!

Someday's Pizza.

I've tried all the pizza places in Noosa and Somedays in Noosa Junction is currently my favourite for authentic wood fired pizza.

Local tip: Finish every dinner (splurge or save) with an ice cream from Massimo's. The ice cream flavours have not changed since I worked behind the counter 15 years ago. It's still the best gelato in Australia in my opinion.

Last-minute Noosa dinner options.

All of the above budget-friendly options generally have last-minute availability, however, if you're really in a pinch you can't beat a good takeaway while enjoying some of the best views in Noosa.

At least once a month my family and I get takeaway fish and chips from Noosa Boathouse and eat it while watching the sunset on Noosa River.

What to do in Noosa: Best beaches and Noosa shopping.

The obvious choice is to spend the day at one of Noosa's stunning beaches.

Locals steer clear of Main Beach during the busier periods and will either swim further down at The Groyne or at Little Cove or Tea Tree Bay. I wouldn't advise swimming at Sunshine Beach or Alexander Bay as these beaches are not as protected and less patrolled.

If shopping is more your thing, you need to head to The Village at Peregian Beach which has some of the best boutiques on the Sunshine Coast.

And finally, one of my favourite ways to see Noosa is by boat.

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If you're after a party atmosphere and an excuse to dress up, check out Catalina Noosa for cruises complete with a fully stocked bar and DJ on the main deck.

And for a sticky beak at how some of Noosa's richest locals live, you can hire a boat by the hour at U-Drive Boat Hire on Noosa River (no boat licence required) and take it for a spin around Witta Circle where house prices reach up to 30 million dollars.

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This is often where you'll find me on a Saturday morning, with my bum in a dinghy, playing 'which house would you buy?' with my friends and family.

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