Sunshine Coast Council

Paddle around Goat Island near the mouth of the Maroochy River where you will see clear water and perhaps stingrays, fish and sandy banks.

SUITABLILITY
Suitable for beginner kayakers

HIGHLIGHTS
A pleasant if somewhat urban and busy lap that can be the clearest water of all the Maroochy river paddles. You may see stingrays, fish of various sizes and of course seabirds. Choose your paddle by watching the weather and tides as that can severely affect your mileage, including currents.

Look out for the wreck of the "Gneering", a steamer that serviced the river and was wrecked on the Maroochy River bar and later towed to Goat Island and left as a wreck.
If it’s an adventure with your canine friend you’re after, then launch your paddle from the leash free dog section of North Shore and paddle down to the Twin Waters boat ramp and back. This area is perfect for training your dog to paddle with you.
AFTERWARDS
If you start your paddle from the North Shore side you can enjoy the serenity of Mudjimba Beach with a spot of surfing or beach fishing. There are playgrounds for the kids and a choice of cafes. Further afield you can enjoy the Aqua Parks at Twin Waters, Bli Bli or Coolum

If you start your paddle from the Maroochydore side, there are amenities and cafes at Maroochydore as well as surf beaches to enjoy. You could walk from Cotton Tree to Mooloolaba and return.

HOW TO GET THERE
To the starting point: There are a number of starting points for this paddle – all very accessible:

Northshore Carpark, North Shore Road, Mudjimba (not far from Twin Waters)

Nojoor Road Boat Ramp, Twin Waters
or
The Esplanade, Cotton Tree

You could also start from Picnic Point Esplanade, Maroochydore.

All entry/exit points have sandy beaches, wash down taps and parking.

To the end point: The end point is the same as the starting point.