Lake Cootharaba is a serene and picturesque freshwater lake in the Noosa North Shore locality within the Shire of Noosa, Queensland, Australia. It is renowned as the gateway to the Noosa Everglades, a sought-after tourist destination. The lake’s primary access points are the town of Boreen Point and the camping spot of Elanda Point.
The lake spans approximately 10 kilometers in length and 5 kilometers in width, with an average depth of 1.5 meters. It is close to the Pacific Ocean but does not drain directly. Instead, the Noosa River flows into the lake from the north via the Everglades Wetlands. It empties into the sea near Noosa Heads, 12 km southeast, where it meets a navigable waterway at its southernmost point. Farmland borders the lake on the west, while the southernmost portion of the Great Sandy National Park borders it on the east, north, and south.
To the west of Lake Cootharaba are Como, Boreen Point, and Cootharaba, while to the east and south is Noosa North Shore. The surrounding areas are full of scenic beauty and provide a peaceful backdrop for a variety of outdoor pursuits.
In 1869, a sawmill commenced operations at Elandra Point, developing a company town around it. Today, the Mill Point Settlement Site is a heritage-listed archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the region’s historical significance.
Lake Cootharaba is a favored spot for fishing, sailing, canoeing, and other water sports. It hosts several regattas annually and is home to the Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club. The lake’s calm waters and scenic surroundings make it ideal for recreational and competitive water activities.
Boreen Point, located on the western shores of the lake, is a small village with around 150 dwellings arranged in a grid system, surrounded by larger blocks of land and small farms. The village features two general stores, several art galleries, lakeside beaches, parkland, and the historic Apollonian Hotel. The Shire of Noosa Council operates a popular camping ground on the lake’s shore, which includes a sandy beach with shallow water, making it a favored swimming spot for families and a convenient launching point for sailors.
