A distant view of the Sunshine Coast and its ocean waters
If you’re visiting the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, either as an interstate or overseas traveller, one thing becomes clear very quickly: life here revolves around the water. Besides the picture-perfect beaches and laid-back coastal towns, the Sunshine Coast water activities give you immersive experiences of its natural bounty. Winding rivers, rare Everglades systems, sunny coasts – you name, the Sunshine Coast has it!
If you’re planning your itinerary and wondering what’s genuinely worth your time, start with the water. These five things will help you see, feel and experience the Sunshine Coast from the water and under the Australian sun. If you aren’t an ‘aquaholic’ already – get ready to be converted!
Exploring the Everglades in Noosa
What brings the Everglades to the top Sunshine Coast attractions? Well, it’s one of the only two Everglades systems in the world! The other one is all the way in Florida, so let’s leave that for another day.
The Noosa River Cruises are quite easy to access from where you’ll be staying in town. Often departing from Noosa Heads and Noosaville, you’ll get to see how the tea trees along the river shore stain the water with their dark tannins. This creates an alluring mirror-like surface, perfectly reflecting the sky and surrounding landscapes, and giving it the name ‘River of Mirrors’. You could almost believe you’ve stepped into an enchanted world!
Since most of the area is protected, the landscape stays pristine and untouched. This place is a haven for wildlife — dolphins and stingrays, jellyfish and crabs, thousands of fish species, and birds such as the white-bellied sea eagle call this river system home. So don’t forget to bring your camera because you’ll definitely see a critter or two. If you’re a fair dinkum shutterbug, make sure to book one of the longer cruises to get more opportunities to click some good pics.
Cruising the Mooloolah River in Mooloolaba
Ahh, Mooloolaba! Centrally located, sweeping coastal views – it’s easy to see why this suburb is adored by anyone with a love for offbeat water experiences.
Joining one of the many Mooloolaba cruises is a popular way to get the best views of the suburb. You have a number of ways to see the sights – each with a twist. Bushfood cruises to savour the flavours of indigenous ingredients; golden-hour sails for the best photo ops; seasonal trips to catch views of turtles and whales; or a sightseeing tour aboard the Aquaduck(an amphibious vehicle). Whichever you pick, each reveals something more about this picturesque suburb, deepening your connection to this little corner of the world.
Canoeing in Maleny
canoe drifting on the surface of the lake
Located less than an hour from the coast, Maleny is a delightful little hinterland town that’s perfect for getting away from the city. Tranquil and charming, the town’s lakes and dam reservoirs are also ideal to take a canoe out onto the water and just let your mind wander.
A popular spot for canoeing here is Lake Baroon, nestled within a patch of lush subtropical rainforest. With no powercrafts in sight, it’s a beautiful protected place for a paddle and gives you great views of the towering peaks of the Blackall Range too.
Another beginner-friendly favourite is Ewen Maddock Dam. Besides being a beautiful place to go kayaking or canoeing, it also has a nice swimming area, mountain bike trails, a playground for kids and everything you need to have a barbie. It’s a great place for families who love outdoor fun. It’s really one of those places where, once you reach, you never want to leave.
Jet Skiing in Caloundra
The ‘Southern Gateway’ of the Sunshine Coast, this coastal town may seem quite unassuming. In reality, however, it actually has some exciting adventures in store.
Jet skiing is something that attracts visitors to Caloundra like mozzies to a flame. And no, you’re not going to be sitting behind a driver – you’ll actually be the one in control! Choose your package and whizz along the water. Depending on your route, you’ll be gazing in awe at the Glasshouse Mountains or eagerly following your guide to the PumicestonePassage of the nearby Moreton Bay Marine Park. The waters near Caloundra are way more diverse than you’d think – mangroves patches, volcanic landscapes and tropical jungles can be found where you least expect.
Don’t worry – you don’t need a licence to take in the beauty of this magnificent coastal waterway. And what’s more – kids older than 8 yrs can sit behind a responsible adult to join in the fun.
SUP in Maroochydore
Wanna know what’s SUP? Stand Up Paddle Boarding – now that’s an unconventional one among the many Sunshine Coast water activities!
About 15 mins away from the ocean blue, the calm water surrounding Chambers Island on the Lower Maroochy River is the perfect environment for SUP. The island shore gives you some gorgeous spots to veg out and get some ripper photos. Paddle the river system’s scenic route and you might find that you’ve come all the way up to the Bli Bli Wet Land Sanctuary. Chambers Island’s warm beaches are close at hand if you ever feel the need for a break, and the river water is pristine, flat and inviting, making it ideal for a refreshing dip. This isn’t just a sport; it’s an invigorating experience.
Wrapping Up
So, if you’re planning a Sunny Coast vacay, don’t let these Sunshine Coast water activities pass you by. Dive in and give ‘em a whirl – they might just turn your hols into a fair dinkum ‘splash’–ing adventure!
Author Bio – Amanda Clark
A Sydney-based travel writer who loves chasing experiences that defy expectations – especially when great food and entertainment are part of the mix. From unforgettable hits to unexpected flops, I share real stories to keep the adventure honest and fun for everyone!
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