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National park · Noosa Heads, Queensland
Noosa Everglades
Lakes and channels of the upper Noosa River, in Great Sandy National Park, with dark, mirror-like water, mangroves and forest, visited by boat or kayak.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Noosa Everglades
Noosa Everglades is the name given to the upper course of the Noosa River and the lakes connected to it, north of Noosa, within the Cooloola section of Great Sandy National Park. It is one of the few floodplain areas of this type on Australia’s east coast.
The water is dark, stained by the tannins from plants, and on windless days it reflects the sky and trees like a mirror. The river flows through wide lakes, such as Cootharaba, then narrows between stands of paperbark trees, mangroves and eucalyptus.
Visits are made on guided boat tours that depart from Noosaville and Tewantin, or by kayak and canoe rented at the lake shores. In the upper stretches there are park camping areas accessible only by water.
The region hosts many water birds, such as pelicans, herons and osprey.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day or a full day, depending on the tour.
Best time
On calm, windless mornings, when the water is usually most mirror-like.
How to get there
On an organized tour departing from Noosaville or Tewantin, or by car to the lake shores north of Noosa to paddle.
Tip
If you plan to paddle alone, check the route and wind conditions before you set out: the lakes are large and the wind can make crossings tiring.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Noosa Everglades
How to visit the Noosa Everglades?
On a guided boat tour from Noosaville or Tewantin, or by kayak and canoe from the lake shores.
Why is the water in the Noosa Everglades dark?
Because of tannins from the region’s plants, which stain the water. On calm days it reflects the sky and trees.
How long does a trip in the Noosa Everglades take?
From half a day to a full day, depending on the stretch of river and the type of tour.