How to spend the school holidays on Hastings Street: family fun from sunrise to sunset

From sandy toes to sweet treats, Hastings Street has everything you need to keep the little ones smiling all holiday long. Whether you’re staying for a week or just popping in for the day, here’s how to make the most of the school break – Noosa style.

Start with a splash

There’s no better way to kick off a school holiday morning than with a salty dip and golden sand between your toes. Noosa Main Beach is calm, patrolled, and only a stone’s throw from Hastings Street, ideal for little legs and big beach dreams. Build sandcastles, paddle in the shallows, or stretch out under an umbrella while the kids chase waves. Bonus points for packing the boogie board. The gentle surf is perfect for beginners.

Fuel up

Once the sun is high and the stomachs are rumbling, head to one of Hastings Street’s breezy cafés. Little Sparrow serves up family-friendly favourites like fluffy pancakes and babyccinos in a relaxed, grab-and-go setting. Prefer something more leisurely? Aromas Noosa offers alfresco elegance with flaky pastries, breakfast classics, and people-watching worthy of a Parisian terrace. It’s the kind of start to the day both kids and grown-ups can get behind.

A little something for everyone

Hastings Street isn’t just about fashion-forward finds. It’s packed with stores that cater to every age and interest. Hit up Okanui for comfy tees and coastal gear, or check out the bright and beachy pieces at Bow & Arrow. Pop into Laneway Noosa for playful gifts and feel-good finds. From laidback staples to holiday keepsakes, there’s a little something for every member of the family (yes, even the grown-ups).

Cool off with a treat

By midday, the call for something cool is loud and clear. Happy Pops is a crowd-pleaser, letting kids (and kids at heart) customise their own gourmet popsicles. Think dipped-in-chocolate, topped-with-sprinkles kind of fun. Prefer a scoop? Ben & Jerry’s delivers smiles in cone form, with flavours that are guaranteed to make decision-making deliciously difficult.

Family feasts done right

Lunch on Hastings Street is an experience in itself. Locale is the go-to for relaxed elegance – think woodfired pizzas, handmade pastas, and a menu that balances grown-up flavours with kid-friendly favourites. Looking for something seaside and low-key? Boardwalk Bistro dishes up classics with front-row beach views. Wherever you land, there’s a table waiting with good food and great vibes.

From morning beach dips to twilight strolls under fairy lights, Hastings Street has your school holiday plans sorted. With sun-soaked adventures, kid-approved eats, sweet treats, and plenty of family-friendly fun around every corner, it’s the perfect place to make memories that last long after the backpacks go back on. Come for the coastal charm, stay for the smiles. There’s no better place to holiday than right here on Hastings Street.