Hell's Gates

Hell's Gates is the spectacular rocky headland that marks one of the highlights of the Noosa National Park coastal walk, out past the beaches and coves on the Noosa Heads peninsula. Where the cliffs meet the open ocean, the surf crashes against the rocks below and the views stretch along the coast — a wild, exhilarating contrast to the calm of Noosa's main beach.

Reaching it is part of the appeal: the walk out follows the celebrated coastal track through the national park, with lookouts, bays and chances to spot wildlife along the way. The dramatic scenery at the headland makes the effort thoroughly worthwhile, and it's a favourite turnaround point for walkers exploring the park.

With a 4.8 rating from more than 1,100 reviews, it's a firmly established favourite. The walk is exposed in places and conditions near the cliffs can be hazardous, and track information changes with the seasons, so it's worth checking current national park details before you set off — and taking water, sun protection and sensible footwear, and keeping a safe distance from the cliff edges.