Noosa Everglades: Canoe Tour & Lake Cruise with Pickup

Summary

Quiet paddling through Noosa’s wild Everglades and silent tea tree waters

You’ll drift through Noosa Everglades’ glassy waters by eco-boat or canoe, spotting rare birds as your guide shares stories of this wild place. Walk ancient rainforest trails or paddle deeper into mirrored rivers—snacks included—and end your day relaxing lakeside with time to taste local craft beer or just breathe in that quiet.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from the Noosa Everglades tour. I’d heard about these “mirrored waterways” but honestly, it sounded a bit too poetic for real life. But when we glided out onto Lake Cootharaba, everything just slowed down—the water was so still it felt like we were floating in a painting. Our guide, Ben, pointed out how the tea trees stain the water this deep amber color. It smelled earthy and sweet, almost like wet leaves after rain. There was this moment where a white egret took off right beside us—wings catching the sun—and no one said anything for a while. Just listened to the paddle dipping in and out.

At Fig Tree Point, we had to make a choice: walk through the rainforest or grab a canoe and keep going upstream. I went for the paddle (I mean, when in Australia…). The “River of Mirrors” part is no joke—every branch and cloud doubled below you. My arms got tired faster than I’d admit, but Ben kept chatting about how over 40% of Australia’s birds live here. He could name them by their calls, which made me feel like I should’ve paid more attention in biology class. We stopped for snacks at some point—I remember orange slices and something sweet—and my hands were sticky but happy.

After we got back to Habitat Noosa (I was definitely ready for dry land), there was time to just hang around by the lake or try the local craft beer at their micro-brewery. Some folks went straight for food at the bistro; I just sat under a tree and watched kids skipping stones. The air smelled like eucalyptus and sunscreen, which somehow feels very Australian now that I think about it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Noosa Everglades by boat and canoe

• Cruise across Lake Cootharaba
• Enter Australia's only Everglades
• Stop at Fig Tree Point
• Choose rainforest walk or canoe paddle
• Enjoy expert commentary on flora and fauna
• Experience sub-tropical rainforest and Cooloola National Park
• Have light refreshment during tour
• Return to Habitat Noosa
• Optional craft beer or bistro meal
• Explore Lake and EcoCamp bushland

Top questions

Is pickup included in the Noosa Everglades tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from Noosa are included in your day trip.

How long is the canoeing section on this tour?

The canoe leg is about 5km upstream to Harry’s Hut; moderate fitness is recommended.

Can kids join the canoe part of the tour?

Children must be at least seven years old and able to swim to participate in canoeing.

Are snacks provided during the day trip?

Yes, light refreshments are served during the tour.

Do I need previous canoe experience?

No previous experience is necessary for joining the canoe section.

What should I bring on this Everglades tour?

You’ll want swimwear, towel (if swimming), sunglasses, water bottle, hat, and sunscreen.

Is there time to explore after returning from the cruise?

Yes, you’ll have spare time at Habitat Noosa to relax by the lake or visit their bistro or micro-brewery (at own cost).

How far are Australia’s Everglades from Noosa?

The Everglades are located at the northern end of the Noosa River system within Cooloola National Park.

What’s included

Your day includes all equipment (canoes too), pickup and drop-off from Noosa hotels, plus light snacks along the way—so you can focus on paddling mirrored rivers or wandering rainforest trails without worrying about logistics before heading back in comfort.