SITE PARTNER:  

Noosa Botanic Gardens

Noosa

Updated: Sep 06, 2025

Situated on the shores of picturesque Lake MacDonald are the Noosa Botanic Gardens, one of the area’s most beautiful best kept secrets.

Eight hectares of manicured lawns, beautiful gardens and meandering pathways are sure to delight visitors to this peaceful haven for humans and wildlife alike. There's much to see in these gardens, which are home to native trees, tropical plants, exotic plant species and rainforest vegetation.

Table and bench overlooking the Noosa River

This site was originally farmland, before being resumed by Council in the late 1950s when part of the site was used to create the Lake MacDonald water supply. 

It's hard to imagine now, but the land was used to dump rubbish until local resident Ida Duncan approached council for permission to clear the site. With the help of other locals, Ida Duncan cleared the area of weeds and car bodies.

Noosa Botanic Gardens

It wasn't until 1987 that funding from a government community employment program saw construction of the botanic gardens begin.

Former Noosa Shire Parks Curator, Bob Bickley designed the layout of the gardens and Council has funded the gardens since 1988. The Noosa Botanic Gardens officially opened to the public in 1990.

Statue in the Noosa Botanic Gardens

A leisurely stroll through the grounds reveals a zen garden, an open-air bush chapel, marble sculptures, a lily pond, fern house and impressive lawned areas. The winding pathways lead visitors past picnic shelters, tables and chairs, gazebos and park benches, strategically placed to take in the glorious view across Lake MacDonald. The gardens are also a popular venue for weddings.

The very special feature of these gardens is a Grecian amphitheatre which is set against the backdrop of the blue lake and green countryside, making it a spectacular sight and one that photographers will want to capture. With circular seating, this venue is home to several events throughout the year, including the annual "Opera in the Amphitheatre".

Noosa Botanic Gardens

Guided garden walks, visitor talks and tea, bird walks, festivals, opera and other events occur in these stunning gardens. To keep informed of upcoming events, follow Friends of Noosa Botanic Gardens on Facebook.

Need to know - Drinking water is available, the graded pathways provide easy access and a disabled access toilet is available within the gardens. Admission to the gardens is free.

by Sandy Ludinski

Lake MacDonald Drive

Lake MacDonald

Daily 9-6

Free entry

Map

Lake McDonald Drive Lake McDonald

Top Things To Do In Brisbane This Week

Eat Street Northshore is getting a haunting Halloween makover!
After a massive sellout in 2024, The Long Sunset is back in Boonah!
Brisbane's big festival of short films is back at Palace Cinemas
Two days of superhot spice will be happening at the Queensland Superhot Chilli Festival
SIX60 are bringing their electrifying live show to Kingston Butter Factory
The Star Brisbane will come alive with colour, bubbles, and dazzling entertainment
Celebrate Melbourne Cup in classic style this year at Sirromet
Supanova Comic Con & Gaming Powers Up in Brisbane!
Get ready to laugh out loud as the Comedy@The Butter Factory series returns
COMING UP

What's on in November in & around Brisbane

From Brisbane's top foodie night feast, Halloween at Eat Street, 2-day chilli festival, Melbourne Cup events and Supanova ComicCon to a free pop up riverside concert, what's on in November
What's On in November 2025
BEST OF BRISBANE

50+ Best Restaurants in Brisbane

Looking for the best restaurants in Brisbane? Then check out this guide for the must-do dining experiences from the city to the suburbs
Best Restaurants in Brisbane
A wild ride through love, lust & lunacy!
CONTENT RESUMES ON SCROLL
ADVERTISEMENT