Iconic Sunshine Coast Boating Destinations

Noosa River & Noosa Everglades

A premier boating playground with calm, scenic waters and easy access from Noosa Heads.

Ideal for cruising, fishing, wildlife spotting and exploring upper reaches of the river.

Perfect for pontoons, cruisers and family water outings.

Highlights:

Peaceful estuarine cruising and river passages

Access to Laguna Bay and nearby sandbars for anchoring

Wildlife-rich Everglades sections for slow cruising and exploration

Pumicestone Passage & Bribie Island Waterways

Stretching between the mainland and Bribie Island, this long, sheltered corridor is one of the Coast’s most loved boating areas.

Calm tidal waters great for boats of all sizes and fishing.

Keep in mind local boating rules and safety patrols along this popular route.

Highlights:

Mangrove-lined channels and scenic vistas

Great opportunities for fishing and paddle craft alongside powered vessels

Close to popular marinas and ramps

Maroochy River

A versatile boating river with sections perfect for both relaxed cruising and fishing adventures.

Family-friendly, sheltered waters and plenty of nooks to explore. 

Parks and launch points upstream make it a favourite for day trips.

Highlights:

Excellent for boating, fishing and river picnics

Scenic views of bushland and waterways

Mooloolaba & Caloundra Coastal Zone

These coastal gateways offer direct access to open ocean boating, reef fishing, and offshore cruising.

Mooloolaba has quick deep-water access for game fishing and ocean trips.

Caloundra Bar provides an iconic boating passage to the Pacific.

Highlights:

Deep ocean access for offshore fishing and big water cruising

Fantastic scenic routes between beaches, headlands and islands

Currimundi Lake & Other Coastal Lakes

Sheltered lakes like Currimundi offer relaxed boating in a protected environment.

Ideal for smaller boats, kayaks, and family outings. 

Highlights:

Calm water boating with beautiful natural surrounds

Good for beginners or gentler boating days

Pelican Waters Marina

A modern marina hub in the protected waterways of Pelican Waters—perfect for boat owners looking for premium services.

Offers wet berths, dry storage and easy access to surrounding waterways. 

Highlights:

Full marina facilities

Easy gateway for Sunshine Coast boating experience

Explore Beyond the River: Sandbars, Coastal Runs & Offshore Fishing

Noosa North Shore Sandbars

The Noosa North Shore sandbars are one of the Sunshine Coast’s most iconic boating experiences. Just across the river mouth from Noosa Heads, this stretch of tidal sand flats offers the perfect blend of relaxed anchoring, family time, and scenic cruising.

Best for: Sheltered cruising, exploring, overnighting.

Why Boaters Love It

Calm, shallow areas ideal for raft-ups and swimming

Expansive sandbanks exposed at low tide — perfect for beach setups

Easy access from the lower Noosa River

Stunning views back toward Noosa Heads and Laguna Bay

Timing is everything here. Planning your trip around the tide ensures you can anchor safely and enjoy the sandbanks at their best. With a quality sounder and local knowledge, you’ll quickly discover favourite pockets for anchoring out of the main current.


For families and social boating days, the North Shore sandbars are hard to beat — just remember to respect the shifting channels and keep an eye on weather changes near the river mouth.

Coastal Beach & Headland Routes

Brisbane River

Cruise through the heart of the city past the Story Bridge, South Bank, and Kangaroo Point cliffs. The river is navigable for dozens of kilometres and offers access to restaurants and public pontoons.

Best for: Urban cruising, sightseeing, entertaining.

Access: Ramps at Rivergate, New Farm, or Jindalee.

Overnight: Moorings available at Rivergate Marina or Dockside.

Raby Bay & Cleveland Point

A popular launch area and base for exploring the southern bay islands. Cleveland Point offers great dining options, with calm waters nearby for short trips.

Best for: Family outings, fishing, quick bay access.

Access: Raby Bay Marina and public ramp.

Overnight: Short stays possible in settled conditions.

St Helena Island National Park

Once a colonial prison, St Helena now offers a mix of history and scenic tranquility. It’s a short cruise from the mainland and a great educational stop for families.

Best for: Historical interest, day trips.

Access: Around 5 NM from Manly Harbour.

Overnight: Day use only (anchoring permitted but no landing after dark).

Manly Boat Harbour & East Coast Marina

Spirit Marine’s home base in Brisbane and one of Queensland’s best marinas. Manly offers great launch facilities, cafes, chandlery stores, and access to Moreton Bay within minutes.

Best for: Launch point, refuelling, dining, community events.

Access: 20 km from Brisbane CBD via Wynnum Rd.

Overnight: Berths available at East Coast Marina.

Tangalooma to Cape Moreton Coastal Run

For experienced skippers, the northern run along Moreton Island’s eastern side offers a breathtaking open-water experience, with chances to spot dolphins, whales (in season), and turtles.

Best for: Adventure boating, sportfishing, scenic cruising.

Access: Via South Passage Bar (weather-dependent).

Overnight: Anchorages at Yellow Patch or North Point (fair weather only).