Do something that's fun and free the next time you're in Noosa and treat your family to a hike from
Main Beach to Alexandria Bay.
Alexandria Bay
Alexandria Bay, or A-Bay to the locals, can be found at the end of a trail that winds approximately 3km around Noosa's National Park headland.
As you start your journey on the boardwalk at the end of Main Beach you will find yourself surrounded by lots of fellow walkers. Many people will drop off the trail as you past Little Cove, and even more so will exit once you make your way past The Boiling Pot and Tea Tree Bay. I highly recommend using the facilities provided at this point, as you won't find any more along the way. It is also important to pack plenty of water and some snacks for your journey, as there are no taps along the trail and hungry little walkers will need something to keep their little legs going.
Before long, the boardwalk becomes a track and you and your family will be all alone on your hike.
The trail that takes you to Alexandria Bay.
The track can get a little rocky at times, and slightly inclined but it is definitely manageable for kids. Give yourself plenty of time and be sure to stop and look around at regular intervals - a hike to Alexandria Bay is as much about the journey as it is the destination.
Take advantage of the many lookouts that provide excellent views including sweeping coastlines, migrating whales (depending on the time of year), dolphins, turtles, eagles and more. Take some binoculars and get the kids to see what birds and animals they can spy along the way. Here are a few snaps from one of our recent hikes to A-Bay:
The trail will take you past Dolphin Point, Winch Cove, Picnic Cove and finally and Hell's Gate before finally arriving at Alexandria Bay. Once you reach Alexandria Bay you will find to a staircase which will deliver you down to the beach. It is important to note that swimming is not recommended. Although it is beautifully private, the beach is not patrolled and not considered safe for swimming, especially with kids. A good plan would be to enjoy a picnic or a play in the sand, and save the swimming for when you return to the calmer waters of Main Beach. There are emergency phones positioned at the both the Northern and Southern ends of the beach if needed.
The view down to Alexandria Beach.
If your family are true nature enthusiasts, then feel free to strip off on the "clothes optional" southern end of the beach and frolic on the sand as nature intended.
Be sure to plan your hike and let someone know your plan before you go. Give yourself about 3 hours for a round trip including a picnic or rest at the beach. Head off early to avoid hiking in the midday heat and don't forget to pack all the usual hiking essentials such as sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, a small first-aid kit, a mobile phone, plenty of water and of course a yummy picnic to enjoy at Noosa's beautiful Alexandria Bay.
