How to experience the Noosa Everglades

Nestled within the Cooloola region of the Great Sandy National Park, the Noosa Everglades is a spectacular network of pristine waterways and wetlands connecting the Northern Noosa River system on the Sunshine Coast.

A genetically blessed wilderness of crystal clear waters and ancient tea tree forests, the landscape here has remained unchanged for thousands of years; making it a crucial biosphere for this pocket of Queensland.

A stone’s throw from the rugged beauty of Noosa National Park and the electric atmosphere of Noosa, exploring Queensland’s first UNESCO Biosphere has never been easier. Thanks to a handful of award-winning eco-tourism options, whether you’ve got a few hours, a day, or a week, here’s how to experience the Noosa Everglades.

What makes the Noosa Everglades so special

One of only two everglades systems on earth, the Noosa Everglades has some very unique things going for it. An unparalleled ecosystem home to over 40% of Australia’s bird species, its intricate network of waterways provides an important sanctuary for some of our most iconic creatures.

Despite its remoteness, it’s surprisingly easy to access the everglades. Practically on Brisbane’s doorstep, the Noosa Everglades are an easy day trip from the city. Take the Bruce highway two hours north towards the Sunshine Coast, following the route to Noosa and on to Lake Cootharaba; the gateway to both the Upper Noosa River and Noosa Everglades.

Already hanging beachside on Noosa’s Main Beach? Head 20km northwest to Lake Cootharaba. Many excursions depart daily from the Noosa River making it easy to experience the beauty of the everglades.

When’s the best time to visit the Noosa Everglades?

Honestly, there’s never a bad time to visit. Queensland winters are famously mild; think cool, crisp mornings and warm sunny days. Summers, on the other hand, are hot and humid. Blue skies are just part of the deal—no matter when you visit.

The flora and fauna put on a show year-round, too. Catch glimpses of the everglades’ native residents; pelicans, cormorants, eagles, osprey, and the rare jabiru and glossy black cockatoo are all found here. Rain or shine.

How to explore the Noosa Everglades

One of the best ways to experience this pocket of beauty is up close with someone who knows it inside out. Join the team from Everglades Eco Safari on the ultimate day trip; choose to kick back with a river cruise or choose-your-own-adventure on a guided canoe tour.

If you’ve only got a few hours, explore these ancient waters with a guided boat tour. As well as taking the pressure off, you’ll get to see some of the most magical areas of the wetlands and not feel like you’ve rushed it.

Kanu Kapers is another award-winning eco-tourism team offering everything from guided half-day and full-day tours, as well as the option to go it alone on a self-guided overnight kayak experience.

Going it alone? Cast off and hit the everglades at sunrise. This is when you’ll catch the sunlight first hit the famous ‘river of mirrors’. Glide past tea tree forests, giant banksias and waterlilies, and keep your eyes peeled for resident osprey and jabiru—they’re most active at the beginning and end of the day.

Stay a while

There are a number of camping options dotted around Lake Cootharaba (situated at the southernmost end of the Noosa Everglades), but Boreen Point’s sandy beach on the northwest edge is a beautiful spot to set up camp. The campground offers both powered and unpowered sites, with a general store and family-friendly pub all within walking distance of the grounds.

For a little reminder of those creature comforts, book a glamping stay at Habitat Noosa. This award-winning eco-accommodation is situated right on Lake Cootharaba’s edge, making it an ideal base to explore the everglades. Tours of the entire wetlands depart daily, right from camp. Its onsite micro-brewery and restaurant makes for an equally pleasant return from a day’s exploring. Kayaking is thirsty work, after all. Habitat Noosa also offers camping, for those who prefer to BYO tent.

Of course, you can also base yourself in Noosa and day-trip to the Noosa Everglades - it's under 30 minutes' drive to get here. 

If you’re seeking the ultimate escape from the trappings of everyday life, head to Harry’s Hut. This rustic, no frills workers’ cottage campsite on the banks of the northernmost stretch of the everglades is like stepping back in time. To reach Harry’s you have two options; either start your journey here via 4WD, or by kayak. Roughly one-hour’s drive north of Noosa, take the Gympie Kin Kin Road toward Como and follow the signs along the rugged path to the campsite.

Alternatively, disembark land from Lake Cootharaba by kayak. The journey is roughly 7kms from the lake’s mid-way point to Harry’s Hut, but you’ll be rewarded with some incredible scenes of the more remote parts of the Noosa Everglades.

Tip: Harry’s Hut camping ground requires a permit, so make sure you have all the necessary paperwork before heading out. You’ll also need to BYO camping gear (a tent is important).

To see more of the Sunshine Coast through a new lens, escape to the country with this Noosa Hinterland guide.