How to experience the Noosa Everglades

HOW TO

By Danielle Reckless

Published 3 weeks ago

How to get here | When to visit | How to explore | Stay | Need to know

Hidden within the Cooloola section of Great Sandy National Park lies one of Queensland’s most awe-inspiring secrets: the Noosa Everglades.

A rare and remarkable landscape of mirrored waterways, ancient tea tree forests and crystal-clear lakes, this wild pocket of the Sunshine Coast is unlike anywhere else in the world.

In fact, there are only two everglades systems on Earth. This is one of them.

Whether you're cruising, kayaking or camping under the stars, here's how to experience the Noosa Everglades in all its glory.

What makes the Noosa Everglades so special

Aerial view of four kayaks paddling through the Noosa Everglades — Noosa Everglades, Sunshine Coast

There are wild places, and then there are world-class wonders. The Noosa Everglades ticks both boxes. This rare waterway is one of only two everglades systems on the planet. And it flows through the heart of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it a globally significant ecosystem.

The everglades are also home to over 40% of Australia’s bird species, offering a haven for both common and rare wildlife. As you glide through these ancient waters, you’ll pass forests of tea trees and giant banksias, floating lily pads and wildlife-rich wetlands. The calm surface has earned it the nickname ‘river of mirrors’ and once you see the reflections, you’ll understand why.

How to get to the Noosa Everglades

Two people SUPing at sunrise on Lake Cootharaba — Habitat Noosa, Boreen Point, Sunshine Coast

The Noosa Everglades may feel remote, but they’re closer than you think:

From Brisbane: Drive two hours north on the Bruce Highway, then follow the signs to Noosa and on to Lake Cootharaba.
From Noosa Main Beach: It’s just a 20-minute drive northwest to the gateway of the everglades.

Many guided tours depart daily from Noosa or Habitat Noosa on Lake Cootharaba, so it's easy to get exploring.

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

Woman jumps into the lake while two friends sit on the jetty — Noosa Everglades, Sunshine Coast

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.

Birdwatchers will be in their element year-round. Keep an eye out for pelicans, cormorants, sea eagles, ospreys, jabirus and the glossy black cockatoo.

How to explore the Noosa Everglades

Lady with a guide, while on a kayak through the Noosa Everglades — Kanu Kapers, Noosa Everglades, Sunshine Coast

Want to really experience this wild water wonderland? Here’s how:

Take a guided eco cruise: Join Everglades Eco Safari for a relaxing boat trip through the wetlands. Cruise past reflective waterways and ancient forests with expert commentary along the way, with option to take a closer look via canoe.
Paddle through the 'river of mirrors': Book a canoe or kayak tour with award-winning Kanu Kapers. Choose from half-day, full-day or self-guided multi-day adventures. Early mornings are magic, as this is when the everglades are still and wildlife is most active.
Go it alone: Confident paddlers can hire a kayak and chart their own course. Sunrise or sunset is prime time for golden reflections, peaceful waters and no crowds.

Where to stay in the Noosa Everglades

Family sit by firepit and roast marshmallows at a campground — Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp, Boreen Point, Sunshine Coast

Whether you're camping lakeside or glamping in style, there are plenty of ways to stay wild out here.

Habitat Noosa: Eco-accommodation set right on Lake Cootharaba’s edge. Habitat Noosa offers glamping tents, waterfront campsites, and daily tour departures. Plus, there's an on-site microbrewery and bistro for post-adventure refreshment. Dusk kangaroo sightings are complementary.
Kangarooms: Perfect for backpackers and budget travellers, with dorms, private rooms and safari tents within Habitat Noosa.
Boreen Point Campground: A relaxed spot with powered and unpowered campsites right on the lake’s sandy shore. A general store and local pub are just a short walk away.
Harry’s Hut: A no-frills bush campsite tucked deep within the everglades. Reach it by 4WD or paddle seven kilometres from Lake Cootharaba. Permits are required and you'll need to BYO everything.
Stay in Noosa and day trip: For travellers who want nature by day, Hastings Street dinner by night, simply base yourself in town. It's only a 30 minute drive to reach the Everglades and Noosa is overflowing with great accommodation.

Need to know before you go

Electric boat navigates through winding everglades waterways — Everglades Eco Safaris, Noosa Everglades, Sunshine Coast

Permits are required for some campsites, like Harry’s Hut.
Pack light, but smart: bring insect repellent, sunscreen, water and your sense of adventure.
Wildlife etiquette: admire from a distance, no feeding, no touching.

Ready to explore Noosa Everglades?

From sunrise paddles to sunset reflections, the Noosa Everglades is a true Queensland treasure. One of the rarest ecosystems on Earth and a living postcard of the Sunshine Coast’s wilder side, this is the kind of experience you never forget.

So, grab a paddle, pitch a tent, or just bring your camera. The everglades are calling.