INFO
ABOUT THE AREA - TO SEE & DO
ABOUT THE AREA
Explore the Noosa River, Lakes & Everglades
Base: Boreen Point, Lake Cootharaba – Sunshine Coast, QLD
Welcome to one of Queensland's most extraordinary natural destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, our operations base is at Boreen Point, perched on the edge of Lake Cootharaba—the largest lake in the Noosa River system.
From here, we offer unique adventures into the pristine waters, vibrant ecosystems, and cultural heritage of the Noosa River and the Cooloola Section of the Great Sandy National Park.
THE NOOSA RIVER & LAKES SYSTEM
The Noosa River flows for over 60 km, from its source deep within the Great Sandy National Park, through the mystical Noosa Everglades, into the tea-coloured waters of Lake Cootharaba, then through Lake Cooroibah, and past the bustling waterfronts of Tewantin, Noosaville, and Noosa Heads, before finally meeting the ocean at Laguna Bay.
Along its journey, the river transitions through untouched wilderness, peaceful lakes, and vibrant community hubs—offering something for every kind of explorer.
THE GREAT SANDY NATIONAL PARK (Cooloola Section)
Covering approximately 62,000 hectares, the Cooloola Section (south of the K’gari/Fraser Island area) stretches from Rainbow Beach to Noosa North Shore. It is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in Australia, with:
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Open heathland & wildflower plains
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Banksia woodlands & scribbly gum forests
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Towering blackbutt & rainforest pockets
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Freshwater lakes & wetlands
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Mangrove-lined riverbanks
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Coloured sand cliffs & extensive beaches
This region preserves some of the last intact coastal wilderness areas in southern Queensland—and is home to an abundance of birdlife, including majestic sea eagles.
It also contains the largest intact sand dune system in the world.
THE NOOSA EVERGLADES
"The River of Mirrors"
The upper reaches of the Noosa River are home to the spectacular Noosa Everglades, one of only two everglade systems in the world.
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Known for their glassy, tannin-stained waters that reflect the sky and forest like a mirror
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Rich in biodiversity—home to over 40% of Australia’s bird species
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Dense canopy of paperbarks, melaleucas, and mangroves
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Teeming with fish, frogs, and other wildlife
Visit the Kinaba Information Centre, a floating interpretive hub above the wetlands, or paddle upstream to Harry’s Hut, a historic logging hut surrounded by wilderness. Campsites are accessible only by canoe or boat—perfect for off-grid adventure seekers.
BOREEN POINT & LAKE COOTHARABA
The charming lakeside village of Boreen Point sits on a peninsula, surrounded on three sides by Lake Cootharaba. Just 1.5 hours north of Brisbane, and only 25 minutes from Noosa Heads, it’s an ideal launch point for exploring the region.
Lake Cootharaba is:
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Queensland’s largest coastal lake (approx. 10 km x 5 km)
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A water-lover’s playground: popular for sailing, swimming, canoeing, fishing, windsurfing & kite surfing
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Surrounded by national park and wildlife habitats
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A gateway to the Noosa Everglades
Local amenities include a council-run campground, the Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club, a general store, café, and the historic Apollonian Hotel.
NOOSA BIOSPHERE RESERVE
A Living Example of Harmony Between Nature and People
In 2007, UNESCO designated Noosa as a Biosphere Reserve, recognising its rare blend of environmental preservation and sustainable community living.
The biosphere includes:
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Terrestrial, coastal, and marine ecosystems
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Diverse wildlife habitats
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Strong community stewardship and eco-conscious tourism
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One of the most biologically rich areas in the world
A 2005 biodiversity study found Noosa had more native plant and bird species than both Yosemite National Park (USA) and Kakadu National Park (NT, Australia).
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Whether you're here to paddle through mirrored waterways, hike through ancient forests, or simply unwind by the lake, you're invited to discover one of the most unique and unspoiled environments on Earth.
📍 Base Location: Boreen Point, Lake Cootharaba
📞 Contact us: +61 417 768 808 - info@lakeescapades.com.au
TO SEE AND DO
All accessible from Boreen Point by kayak, canoe or water taxi service. Free maps and trip briefings included with all watercraft hire.. Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or an extended adventure, there’s no shortage of things to do on and around the Noosa River, Lake Cootharaba and the surrounding natural areas. You can create custom itineraries, split your group into different activities, or meet up later at one of the many beautiful locations along the river system.🚶♀️
WALKS & HIKES
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Teewah Landing to Teewah Village (2km one way)
Walk from the eastern shore of Lake Cootharaba to the village of Teewah. Optional: take the 4km return side trail to Mount Seawah for breathtaking 360° views.
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Campsite 3 to Cooloola Sandpatch (6km one way)
Gentle forest trail to the massive shifting dunes. Continue down to the beach for a swim in the Pacific Ocean or return via Teewah Village and the lake shore.
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Figtree Point - Melaleuca Walk (500m loop)
Easy nature walk showcasing unique wetland ecosystems.
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Elanda Point to Kinaba (6.1km)
A peaceful trail through cabbage palm and paperbark wetlands.
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Elanda Point to Mill Point (2.6km)
Short forest walk through casuarina and melaleuca trees.
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Kin Kin Creek to Fig Tree Point (10.6km total)
Start with a 4.7km walk to the footbridge, then continue 5.9km to Fig Tree Point through rainforest and riverside bush.
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Fig Tree Point to Harry’s Hut (6.6km)
Walk a section of the Cooloola Wilderness Trail.
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Harry’s Hut to Campsites 1, 2 & 3 (6.4km)
Trail on the opposite side of the river connecting key camping areas.
CAMPING
There are excellent camping options for all types of nature lovers:
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National Park Riverbank Camping
Choose from 15 designated camping sites along the Upper Noosa River, including Figtree Point and Harry’s Hut—each with a jetty for boat access and swimming. -
Boreen Point Campground
A beautiful lakeside camping area operated by Sunshine Coast Council. -
Elanda Point Private Campground
Family-friendly, with direct access to water trails and walking tracks.
SWIMMING
Top swimming spots in the Noosa River and lake system:
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Dunns Beach (Boreen Point)
Sandy bottom, shallow water – ideal for families. -
Main Beach (Boreen Point Peninsula)
A popular lakeside beach spot. -
South of Elanda Point
Wide, shallow and safe – great for paddlers and swimmers alike. -
Figtree Point & Harry’s Hut Jettys
Popular among campers for a refreshing dip. -
Kinaba Island
Quiet, clear waters and several swimming locations. -
Teewah Beach & Cooloola Sandpatch Coastline
For ocean lovers – access surfing beaches from walking trails.
Please note: these are natural, unpatrolled waterways. Use common sense and caution when swimming, just as you would at any coastal location connected to the sea.
FISHING & CRABBING
Fish throughout the river and lakes system—or try these local favourites:
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Between Lake Cootharaba & Lake Cooroibah (6km stretch)
Winding river waters popular for fishing and setting crab pots. -
Junction of Upper Noosa River & Kin Kin Creek
A top secret spot known by locals. -
Noosa North Shore Beach Fishing
Walk in from the lake to explore 50+ km of pristine beach fishing opportunities.
EXPLORING
Endless possibilities for discovery await on the water:
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Lake Cootharaba
Paddle or motor around its 25km perimeter. Stop for an on-board picnic or explore hidden corners. -
Kin Kin Creek
Wind through 20+ km of serene waterway teeming with life. -
Upper Noosa River (Noosa Everglades)
One of only two everglade systems in the world, with stunning reflections and rich biodiversity. -
Lake Como
A deep, quiet lake—rumoured to hide a sunken ship. -
Cooloothin Creek
Secluded waterway on the southwest side of Lake Cootharaba. -
Downstream to Tewantin, Noosaville & Noosa Heads
Visit riverside towns, stop for lunch, go shopping, or enjoy a BBQ in a park. Tie up at one of the many public beaches or jetties.
FIND & DISCOVERE
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Eliza Fraser Memorial (Lake Cootharaba)
Commemorates the dramatic story of Eliza Fraser, shipwrecked in 1836. Her survival and rescue inspired books and films, and Fraser Island was named in her honour. -
Mill Point Historic Site
Just north of Elanda Point. Once home to a bustling 1800s timber settlement, complete with a sawmill, school, hotel, and cemetery. Some remnants still remain and are protected by the National Trust.
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VISIT
Kinaba Information Centre
Located on Lake Cootharaba, this interpretive centre offers a fascinating display of maps, photos, and natural history. Don’t miss the elevated self-guided walk through the mangroves.
READY TO PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE?
Use your own kayak, canoe or powered boat—or hire one from us. We’ll provide:
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Free detailed briefing
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Local insights and tips
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Waterproof maps
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Equipment hire and support
Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into the area’s natural and cultural heritage—you can access it all from Boreen Point.