The Hells Gates in Noosa is the endpoint of a beautiful coastal Noosa National Park walk.
Many people do the walk without knowing any other cool spots on the way, including the hidden Fairy pools Noosa.
We will show you what to expect on this picturesque coastal walk and what to look out for at Hells Gates.
We include hints and tips to make it as pleasant as possible, sprinkled with a little bit of history behind the famous landmark.
How to get to Hells Gates
Hells Gates is within the Noosa National Park, however, there are 2 ways to start the journey.
The easiest way is if you have a car, you can park at the Noosa National Park as they have 4-hour free parking. This will be plenty of time.
The alternative way to get to Noosa National Park is by walking from Noosa Heads Main Beach.
Walking from Noosa Main Beach
You can walk from Noosa Main Beach all the way to Hells Gates. This is nice and convenient because you can get ready for the hike by eating some delicious food along the way near Hastings Street.
It is right next to the beach, making it convenient to stock up on water and snacks before you leave.
Little Cove Beach
Little Cove Beach is only a 2 min walk from the end of Noosa Beach heading towards the Noosa National Park. It is relatively small but worth a stop for a few snaps and possibly a quick dip if it’s a hot day.
Roses Cove
Keep following the track and you should come to another lovely cove, Roses Cove.
This has stairs leading down to a little viewpoint and then more stairs leading down to ground level. If you don’t like the sand and prefer rocks then this is right up your street. The area is covered in rocks and perfect for relaxing. Soak up the views and continue on to Hell’s Gates.
By the way if surfing is your thing, then you’re at the right place because this is the surfers hot spot!
Once you have done admiring Roses Cove, keep following the track towards Noosa National Park. It should only take you around 15 – 20 min to walk from Noosa Main Beach to Noosa National Park and the area is nice and shaded.
Noosa National Park
Once you have arrived at Noosa National Park either by car or foot, this is where the real fun begins.
As seen on the map, it is a pretty straight forward coastal walk from the beginning of the park up to Hells Gates. We walked all the way to Hells Gates then walked back again.
TIP: Bring your trainers/runners for a more comfortable walk, sandals/sliders aren’t that great here.
The hike will take you around 45 min – 1 hour one way. You are better off allowing yourself 2 – 3 hours because there are some equally gorgeous sites to stop by and admire on the way, as well as the time for coming back.
Some of the highlights along the way are:
Boiling Pot – The waves surge into the rocks creating an effect of boiling water.
Tea Tree Bay – Named after the dominant tree species that grow there.
Dolphin Point – If you’re lucky enough to spot dolphins!
Fairy Pools – Secret and hidden rock pools which even the staff at the national parks won’t tell you about.
If you want to find out more about how to locate the secret rock pools then have a look at our Fairy Pools Noosa blog.
What to expect at Hells Gates Noosa
The hike along the coast will be well worth it as you are rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the ocean and cliffs.
Hells Gates is great for wildlife spotting. You can encounter turtles as they resurface from the water catching a breath of fresh air.
TIP: Bring your zoom lens for a beautiful photo of the birds on the trees.
Birds of prey such as Osprey and Sea Eagles are seen quite often in the area. They sit patiently perched on a tree at the edge of a cliff, ready to swarm down on an unexpecting fish.
If you’re at Hells Gates from July – November and lady luck is on your side, you may be able to spot migrating Humpback Whales. What a sight that would be.
Hells Gates Noosa history
For this, we have to go back, way back.
Around 190 million years ago what you see as Hells Gates today was actually a river plain. This means the area was dominated by rivers rather than the ocean crashing into the cliffs today.
Layers of sand were deposited over the years and eventually, the weight of the sand compacted the sand beneath so much that it cemented it into sandstone.
Hells Gates as you know it today formed as weathering eroded the sandstone bit by bit and creating the gaps and deep coves.
Nature is amazing what it can do over the years and the Hells Gates are true evidence of the beauty it can create.
Where to stay in Noosa
Budget accommodation
Nomads Noosa Backpackers: For those backpackers on a budget this is the perfect place to stay whilst you explore Noosa and its surroundings.
They even have a swimming pool and restaurant & bar for you to enjoy. The best part is, it is only a 5 min walk away from Noosa National Park.
Check out the latest prices here.
Mid-range accommodation
Noosa River Guest Suite: You get your own villa with a large bed, kitchen area to cook in and garden. It is a cute little spot to relax and ideal for couples.
Check out their latest prices here.
High end accommodation
The Sebel Noosa: With absolutely stunning views and scenery all around the hotel, you will feel like you’re in paradise.
It’s located in the heart of the famous Hastings Street where all the fine eateries are located. It helps only being a 100-yard walk from Noosa Beach too. As well as being a short 15 min walk away from Noosa National Park.
You will have access to a hot tub, pool and fitness centre. Absolute bliss.
Book your stay with them here.
FAQ
From the entrance of the Noosa National Park, it will take around 45 min – 1 hour.
Humpback Whales can be spotted from Hells Gates from July – November as they migrate.
The hike is a relatively easy coastal walk and can be done by all family members.
