Old Woman Island Paddle

Highlights

This is an out and back open water sea kayak, once there you can circumnavigate Old Woman Island.

Look for the channel just north of the beach access and once out on the open water look for sea turtles. This can be a very rewarding kayak trip with views up and down the coast on the return journey including views to Mt Coolum, Marcoola and Maroochydore. Landing on the Island is not permitted but you can fish, snorkel and spearfish when out there.

At the island you may be lucky and see terns, cormorants, egrets, tattlers, and ospreys. In the right season there are wedge-tailed shearwaters nesting in burrows.

Old Woman Island is actually Mudjimba Island, of which the nearby beach is also named after. The name Old Woman Island is from an Aboriginal legend about two women who lived on the island.

Back at Mudjimba Beach there are amenities, cafés and a variety of accommodation options.

Afterwards

Enjoy the serenity of Mudjimba Beach with a spot of surfing, 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. Nearby is Mt Coolum, a strenuous return hike of approximately 1 hour (return) to the summit where you will be rewarded with whole of Sunshine Coast views.

How to get there

To the starting point: The starting point for this is Mudjimba Beach directly opposite the island. Drive to Mudjimba Esplanade where you will can access the beach near Power Memorial Park or Beach View Lookout. Be mindful of getting out over the surf break.

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

About this place

Suitable for kayaking
Drinking water available
Barbeque on site
Picnic table on site
Toilets on site
Playground on site
Camping permitted

Walking track grade: Grade 5; An unformed track, likely to be very rough, very steep and unmarked. For very experienced bushwalkers with specialised skills.

Graded on the Queensland Parks walking track scale. Walk with care(opens in a new tab)

Managed by

Sunshine Coast Council

To report damage, a hazard or another problem with the trail:

Safety

Hazards on this trail

Weather and waves

In an emergency, call 000. Always adventure safely!

Always follow any local signage, it contains key information and conditions can change at any time.
Use the trails with consideration for your abilities, be prepared for the adventure ahead:
- Be aware of the weather conditions, found here: Bureau of Meteorology — Queensland(opens in a new tab)
- Always wear appropriate clothing, focus on good footwear.
- Always bring more water than you think you will need.
- Be Sun Safe!
- Always let someone know where you are going that isn't going with you.
Just getting started try this site for good useful information: Trail Hiking Australia — hike safety(opens in a new tab)
Sunshine Coast Council does its best to keep this information current, but things change, so be aware that a trail may not be as listed here.

2 ratings

Mickey7 years ago

15 min paddle each way on a kayak or SUP. If the conditions are good you can land on the island and explore. Check the swell and wind forecast before heading out.

Mickey7 years ago

15 min paddle each way on a kayak or SUP. You can land at the island and check out the old stone house ruins if the conditions are good. Make sure you check the wind and swell conditions.