River to Sea: Best jet ski spots on the Sunshine Coast

With over 60 kilometres of pristine coastline and an endless network of shimmering rivers and waterways, the Sunshine Coast offers some of the best jet ski locations in Australia, and Pelican Waters puts you right in the heart of the action.

From the sparkling Pumicestone Passage to the immersive mangrove ecosystem of the Maroochy River, and all the way up to the turquoise waters of the Noosa River, there’s a whole world of water playgrounds to explore — and you could be doing it from your own private pontoon.

If you’d love to get out there but you don’t already have a jet ski, we might just have a couple ready for the adventure… if you’re lucky.

Endeavour Foundation is giving away two Sea Doo Spark 3UP Jet Skis with a $3.1 million Sunshine Coast Prize Home in the picturesque Pelican Waters.

These jet skis come with their own floating dock and your very own private pontoon, right on the canal. Valued at $34,076, these Sea-Doos pack a punch with 230 supercharged horses and pinpoint control, ready to turn every day into an aquatic adventure.

Pumicestone Passage

One of the closest and most accessible jet ski spots from Pelican Waters is Pumicestone Passage is a protected marine park bordered by the length of Bribie Island. Calm waters, abundant wildlife, and stunning views make this an epic day trip right at your doorstep.

You can choose to ride your jet skis along the beautiful canals of Pelican Waters, and take in your new neighbourhood, or launch from nearby Golden Beach and make the 34-kilometre journey down the passage to the Bribie Island Bridge and the southern-most tip of Bribie Island across from Sandstone Point.

You’ll pass quiet inlets, local fishing spots, and some hidden beaches perfect for a rest stop or a picnic.

Take the time to enjoy the views of the Glasshouse Mountains and explore the little beaches along the way. You could even stop for lunch at one of Bribie’s cafés.

Hot tip: Keep an eye out for Chris’ Float’n Café — a floating coffee and snack boat!

Maroochy River

This place really is the complete package. Calm, sparkling waters, cute islands, mangrove ecosystems, tree-fringed nooks, and mountain views.

Yes, the Maroochy River has it all and is a perfect place to explore while you’re honing your jet ski riding skills.

To get started, launch your jet ski at the Maroochy River Boat Ramp and flip a coin for which direction you go.

Heads? Go east down river toward Cotton Tree and the expansive lagoon at the river mouth. Check out Chambers Island on the way and make sure you do a hot lap around Channel Island and Goat Island. You know you want to. Or tails? Make the journey upriver and weave your way through the twists and turns of the river all the way to Dunethin Rock. Extra points if you can spot Mount Coolum and Mount Ninderry along the way.

Pro tip: The river can be a bit shallow at times, particularly at low tide, so make sure you check the tide times before venturing out. Always look for the channel markers but still keep an eye out as shifting sand can mean that these aren’t always accurate.

Noosa River

If white sandy beaches and sparkling turquoise water is your thing, the Noosa River is a spectacular place to get your jet ski wet and have some fun. The four-kilometre stretch of water from the Noosa Spit up river to the Noosa Yacht and Rowing Club is yours to explore. You won’t be disappointed. Tip: The river does get very busy, especially on weekends, so that means the boat ramps can get a little hectic. To avoid the crowds, make sure you’re there ready to launch before 8am. 

Noosa National Park

If you’ve explored Noosa River and you’re ready to take it to the next level, you can head to the river mouth and cross the Noosa Bar to explore the open waters beyond.

From there you can cruise around for a stop at Noosa Main Beach. Head south and trace the coastline around Noosa National Park. You’ll get a whole new perspective of the stunning turquoise waters of spots like Little Cove and Tea Tree Bay as well as the famous Boiling Point and Hell’s Kitchen.

Pro tip: The Noosa Bar can get a little gnarly at times, so make sure you check conditions before you attempt to cross.

Win a pair of Sea Doo jet skis and a very nice place to park them

Your dream adventure starts at home… literally. Endeavour Foundation’s $3.1 million Pelican Waters Prize Home includes:
🏡 A luxurious canal-front home
🌊 A private pontoon with floating dock
🚤 Two Sea-Doo Spark 3UP Jet Skis

Imagine walking out your back door, hopping on your jet ski, and launching straight into the water. Whether you're chasing sunrise on the water or cruising into the sunset, this is coastal living at its finest.

Don’t miss your chance to win it all—buy your ticket now and get ready to ride!

Find directions and opening times here. Or if you just can’t wait, take a virtual tour now!