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FAQs

Thank you for your interest in attending the Noosa Festival of Surfing as a competitor or visitor. Below is a list of frequently asked questions. If you’re unable to find the answer to your question below, please contact us with your enquiry.

SURFING COMPETITORS

You can register via our official website. Check the home page for the registration link or simply REGISTER HERE.

We offer a range of divisions including Junior & Senior age divisions, Masters, Pro, and specialty events such as the Old Mal and Twin Fin. A full list is available on our website or through the registration portal.

Heat schedules will be published online approximately 7-10 days before the Festival starts. We use Live Heats for our surfing schedule and scoring system. This information will be displayed at the event site. You can also request surfing times from the marshalls or contest director.

Equipment regulations vary by division. Ensure your board complies with division-specific rules. Contact us for details.

You can find more information HERE

This information can be found in the Festival terms and conditions HERE

Unfortunately, due to the number of competitors we can’t make any promises that we can find you another spot. But, our event staff will do their best to place you in an available heat or a repechage round should one exist for your division.

Our team of contest directors and head judge will coordinate seedings based on existing domestic or international rankings and previous results in the festival. This approach is in line with Surfing Australia rules.

If prize money applies to your entered division, we will provide this information prior to the Festival commencement. The Noosa Festival of Surfing believes in equal prize money across both mens and womens divisions and pays prize money within 30 days post festival completion.

 Everyday, we will update our social media page with the ‘official call’ for the days surfing activities. We will also share important updates on the Competitors Forum on Facebook.

BEACH BAR

The Beach Bar is conveniently located near the main event site in front of the Noosa Surf Club.

In 2026, the beach bar will operate from 13th – 22nd March.

No! the beach bar is completely free to patrons. There are SOME ticketed events for the beach bar in 2026 but we pride ourselves on making it as inclusive and affordable as possible.

The bar operates daily from 12 PM to 8 PM, with 2 main bars, catering, live music and other entertainment.

Yes! Families are welcome, but patrons must be 18+ to purchase or consume alcohol.

We offer a selection of craft beers, wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.

We cater to all dietary requirements and have a range of delicious food options from loaded fries, burgers, wraps, salads and more.

Yes. We offer a private lounge experience for up to 12 adults including table service. The cost is $300 to secure your booking.

Yes. We recommend that your equipment is suitable for sand. Our bar staff are available to assist in any way to make you comfortable.

Yes. We accept both forms of payment, however, please be aware that our cash float is limited and you may be asked to pay by card.

We have never closed the beach bar due to rain. There is ample space undercover to escape the odd shower.

GETTING TO THE EVENT

The primary surfing site is at First Point, Noosa Heads, with the beach bar located in front of the Noosa Surf Club. We also have events occurring at nearby locations. This information can be found HERE

Limited parking is available around Hastings Street and along Noosa Parade. However, we highly recommend using public transport, ride-sharing services or other forms of transport such as an e-bike.

Yes, local buses service the area throughout the festival dates. Check TransLink’s website for routes and schedules.

Absolutely! Bike racks are available near the festival site.

Shuttle Services from airports? If you are flying into Brisbane or Sunshine Coast airports, we recommend using con-X-ion airport transfers or Joel’s Journeys Airport Transfers.

SURFING DOGS EVENT

The famous Surfing Dogs competition takes place on the opening weekend. Check the ‘Whats-On’ schedule for specific times.

Yes, but you must register in advance with VetShopAustralia. Ensure your dog is comfortable in the water and on a surfboard before applying.

We provide life vests for dogs and have lifeguards on duty to ensure a safe experience.

There is no entry fee for spectators.

Get to the beach early, find a nice vantage point on the rocks at First Point or along the shores edge where the dogs zoom past.

ASSOCIATED EVENTS

Expect to see art shows, live music, surf film screenings, surf based trivia nights, health workshops, charity lunches or dinners and community activities such as the Locals Day. Details are on our website.

Some events are free, while others require tickets. Check the schedule for specifics.

Tickets are available online and at designated box offices during the festival.

We welcome community collaborations. Contact us via email to discuss your idea.

GENERAL EVENT INFORMATION

The festival runs from March 13th to 22nd, 2026.

Yes, the festival is designed for all ages, with activities for kids and adults alike.

Absolutely! Volunteer applications are open on our website HERE

Yes, we have a variety of paid hospitality positions available. You can apply to work in the beach bar HERE

Musicians and other performers are welcome to register an expression of interest on our website HERE

We aim to proceed rain or shine, but safety is our priority. Updates will be communicated on our website and through social media.

For general inquiries, Contact Us

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

For the best access to the Festival, restaurants, cafes and bars you should definately try and stay around Hastings Street or in Noosa Sound. The Noosa Festival of Surfing works with Ocean Breeze Resort, Bella Casa & Saks on Hastings but there is ample accommodation options around Noosa including Noosaville, Tewantin, Sunshine Beach and Peregian Beach.

Noosa Junction is the closest area for groceries with a Coles supermarket, bakers delight, butcher, chemist/pharmacies all in close proximity. Noosaville also has access to similar infrastructure.