Kayaking is a popular activity on the Sunshine Coast, QLD. The Sunshine Coast has numerous waterways and bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and the ocean, which are perfect for kayaking. There are several places on the Sunshine Coast where you can rent a kayak, join a kayak tour and enjoy the natural beauty of the area while paddling through the water.
Some popular kayaking spots on the Sunshine Coast include the Noosa River, Double Island Point, Noosa Everglades, Maroochy River, Pumicestone Passage, and the Mooloolaba Canal. These areas offer calm waters and scenic surroundings that are perfect for (sea) kayaking, whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler.
It’s important to note that kayaking can be a dangerous activity if proper safety precautions are not taken. Before embarking on a kayaking trip, it’s important to ensure that you have the necessary safety equipment and knowledge of the local conditions. It’s also recommended to check the weather forecast and tides before setting out. If you are a beginner you can join a guided tour like Epic’s Dolphin Kayak Tour to stay safe and still enjoy the thrill of an ocean kayak.
The Best Kayak Spots
Noosa River
Kayaking on the Noosa River is a popular activity for both locals and tourists on the Sunshine Coast. The Noosa River is a beautiful and serene waterway that winds through the town of Noosa and the surrounding Noosa Biosphere Reserve.
One of the best things about kayaking on the Noosa River is the variety of landscapes and wildlife you’ll encounter. As you paddle along, you’ll pass through calm estuaries, mangrove forests, and open water. You may also spot a variety of birdlife, including pelicans, cormorants, and egrets, as well as marine life like dolphins and turtles.
There are several places where you can rent kayaks on the Noosa River, including in the town of Noosa and at the Noosa River mouth. Most kayak rental companies will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including life jackets and paddles, and will give you a brief instruction on how to kayak if you’re a beginner.
The Noosa River is suitable for kayakers of all levels, including beginners and families with children. However, it’s important to be aware of the tides and currents, which can affect your paddling and make some parts of the river more challenging. It’s also important to respect the local environment and follow the rules and guidelines for kayaking in the area, including staying in designated areas and avoiding disturbing the wildlife.
Double Island Point
Kayaking at Double Island Point is a unique and thrilling experience on the Sunshine Coast. Double Island Point is located at the southern end of Rainbow Beach, around an hour beach drive from Noosa. It’s a popular spot for kayaking and other water sports, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.
One of the main attractions of kayaking at Double Island Point is the opportunity to explore the area’s colourful marine life, including turtles, dolphins, and a variety of fish. The area is also known for its scenic coastline, with towering cliffs and stunning sandy beaches.
Epic Ocean Adventures is the only tour operator that offers kayaking tours at Double Island Point. These tours are led by experienced guides who will take you to the best spots for wildlife sightings and provide information about the local environment.
Overall, kayaking at Double Island Point is a must-do activity for adventure seekers and nature lovers on the Sunshine Coast. You’re sure to be rewarded with stunning views and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Noosa Everglades
Kayaking on the Noosa Everglades is a memorable experience on the Sunshine Coast. The Noosa Everglades is a network of waterways that wind through the Great Sandy National Park, just north of Noosa. This pristine wilderness area is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare and endangered species.
One of the best ways to experience the Noosa Everglades is by kayak. Kayaking allows you to explore the narrow waterways and secluded bays, and get up close to the area’s diverse wildlife. You may spot birds like kingfishers and herons, as well as turtles and fish swimming in the clear waters.
There are several tour operators that offer guided kayaking tours of the Noosa Everglades, ranging from half-day to multi-day tours. These tours are led by experienced guides who will take you to the best spots for wildlife sightings and provide information about the local environment. Some tours may also include camping or staying in eco-cabins in the heart of the Everglades.
If you’re an experienced kayaker, you can also rent a kayak and explore the area on your own. However, it’s important to be aware of the local conditions, including the strong currents and changing tides, which can make paddling challenging.
Overall, kayaking on the Noosa Everglades is a peaceful and serene experience that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and connect with nature. Whether you’re exploring with a guide or paddling on your own, you’re sure to be rewarded with stunning scenery and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Maroochy River
Kayaking on the Maroochy River is a popular activity for both locals and tourists on the Sunshine Coast. The Maroochy River is a beautiful and diverse waterway that flows through the heart of the Sunshine Coast, from the hinterland to the ocean.
One of the best things about kayaking on the Maroochy River is the variety of landscapes and wildlife you’ll encounter. As you paddle along, you’ll pass through mangrove forests, wetlands, and open water. You may also spot a variety of birdlife, including ospreys, herons, and ibis, as well as marine life like dolphins and stingrays.
There are several places where you can rent kayaks on the Maroochy River, including in the town of Maroochydore and at Cotton Tree Park. Most kayak rental companies will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including life jackets and paddles, and will give you a brief instruction on how to kayak if you’re a beginner.
The Maroochy River is suitable for kayakers of all levels, including beginners and families with children. There are several different routes you can take, depending on your skill level and the amount of time you have. For a shorter paddle, you can explore the river around Cotton Tree Park and the Maroochydore area. For a longer adventure, you can paddle upstream to the wetlands and back, or all the way to the river mouth at Maroochydore Beach.
It’s important to be aware of the tides and currents on the Maroochy River, which can affect your paddling and make some parts of the river more challenging. It’s also important to respect the local environment and follow the rules and guidelines for kayaking in the area, including staying in designated areas and avoiding disturbing the wildlife.
Pumicestone Passage
Kayaking on the Pumicestone Passage is a popular activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers on the Sunshine Coast. The Pumicestone Passage is a protected waterway that stretches for 35 kilometers between Bribie Island and Caloundra, offering stunning views of the Glass House Mountains and a variety of wildlife.
One of the best things about kayaking on the Pumicestone Passage is the abundance of marine life you’ll encounter. The shallow, clear waters are home to a variety of fish, crabs, and other marine creatures, and you may also spot dolphins, turtles, and seabirds along the way.
There are several places where you can rent kayaks on the Pumicestone Passage, including in Caloundra and on Bribie Island. Most kayak rental companies will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including life jackets and paddles, and will give you a brief instruction on how to kayak if you’re a beginner.
The Pumicestone Passage is suitable for kayakers of all levels, including beginners and families with children. There are several different routes you can take, depending on your skill level and the amount of time you have. For a shorter paddle, you can explore the area around Caloundra and Golden Beach. For a longer adventure, you can paddle all the way to Bribie Island and explore the mangrove forests and sandy beaches.
It’s important to be aware of the tides and currents on the Pumicestone Passage, which can affect your paddling and make some parts of the passage more challenging. It’s also important to respect the local environment and follow the rules and guidelines for kayaking in the area, including staying in designated areas and avoiding disturbing the wildlife.
Mooloolaba Canal
Kayaking on the Mooloolaba Canal is a popular activity for both locals and tourists on the Sunshine Coast. The Mooloolaba Canal is a man-made waterway that runs through the heart of Mooloolaba, offering a unique perspective on the area’s coastal lifestyle.
One of the best things about kayaking on the Mooloolaba Canal is the relaxed and scenic atmosphere. As you paddle along, you’ll pass by luxury homes, waterfront cafes, and beautiful parks and gardens. You may also spot a variety of birdlife, including pelicans, herons, and ducks.
There are several places where you can rent kayaks on the Mooloolaba Canal, including at the Mooloolaba Wharf and along the Esplanade. Most kayak rental companies will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including life jackets and paddles, and will give you a brief instruction on how to kayak if you’re a beginner.
The Mooloolaba Canal is suitable for kayakers of all levels, including beginners and families with children. The water is calm and shallow, making it easy to navigate. You can paddle at your own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of the canal and stopping at cafes or parks along the way.
It’s important to be aware of the other watercraft on the canal, including boats and jet skis, which can create waves and make paddling more challenging. It’s also important to respect the local environment and follow the rules and guidelines for kayaking in the area, including staying in designated areas and avoiding disturbing the wildlife.
