Fairy Pools — Attraction in Noosa Heads

Ok...so, when the national parks won't mark a location on their maps, you know there are some issues with the spot.

The Fairy Pools: They do NOT appear on too many maps.

And there is a reason for that.

First, there are a few different pools. The lower ones: yeah...they are definitely only be good for swimming on ultra-calm days and at low, low tide. When I was there, they were a definite no-go! Too much swell and even 2 hours after high tide, too much water moving around. Best to avoid. (Honestly, I don't even know If they count as "Fairy Pools")

Second: even the higher pool, when the swell is big enough, it can cop a beating. It was just getting the tail end of such a day when I was there. Even at high tide, it could be out of action.

Third: those rocks are slippery, people. Look hard before you approach that pool. One slip, you are breaking something. Take your time, look for the driest approach. The direct line is not the right one. Neither is the one closest to the open swell. The morning I was there, more than half the people approached the pool by more dangerous routes.

Fourth: those pools are not deep. Don't kid yourself. Do not dive in head first! People have gone to hospital doing exactly that. And the nearest hospital that can take care of a broken neck: that's over an hour helicopter flight away...if you are that lucky.

Fifth: go early! I parked by 7:30am, walked slowly to the pool by about 9, swam and soaked up the sun for about an hour, by which time, when I was leaving, every man and his dog had arrived. (And by dog, I mean...well, just go early. No dogs allowed in the National Park)

Right...having said all of that, Having noted all the warnings, Having got the tides and the timings right, And having taken care on approach:

Yes, the Fairy Pools make for a beautiful swim! They truly do round out a morning walk in the Noosa National Park. Even a visit to see them adds to the location.

So, seriously, do take care. There have been incidents!

Recommended for some, Caution to all. Enjoyable...

Magical and ethereal pools located along the Coastal Walk track in Noosa National Park. Apart from the scenery, these pools are literally magical and it feels like Ariel The Little Mermaid will appear in the turquoise colored water among the fish and crabs.

Mussels and other shell fish cling to the rocks as the waves crash into the cliff edge and the surf spills into the pools. It was absolutely amazing being right at the edge of the ocean in the pool, as you see the waves rise and roll in, yet you're safe because somehow as they crash into the massive rocks, only the surf actually gets into the pool.

I felt like I was in the kiddie pool overlooking the deep-end of the ocean. It really puts your human life in perspective - how small you are in the bigger scheme of things. There were a few people fishing and it was so special seeing them try reel in a sting-ray. The line even broke. But it felt like I was in an episode of Blue Planet. Absolutely a must-do if you don't mind the steep decent and rock climbing you'll have to do to...

Visited January 2023, first thing parking at the little cover was a challenge, this place gets very busy, so did about 30 laps of the parking lot till we got a spot.

I would recommend closed walking shoes the trip from carpark to the cliff where the pools are is about 35-45mins at a decent pace, the path for about 30mins is sealed, however after the second major lookout over cotton tree Beach the path is dirt with protruding rocks.

Along the way you pass a few beaches, by fr the best one was Tea tree, would recommend stopping for a swim.

Once arrived at the fairy pools lookout, there is no actual pathway, just crowd made paths entwine their way down to the pools themselves. There is a bit of a climb down the different levels of rocks to reach different pools.

Back on the top of pools the pathway does continue, so if your looking for abit more of a fitness test or enjoy a long walk with some challenges then continue on the path.

From carpark to pools then back is a...