Caloundra

Description

If you’re searching for that perfect mix of laid-back coastal charm and modern convenience, Caloundra hits the sweet spot. I’ve visited countless Australian beach towns, but there’s something special about this Sunshine Coast gem that keeps drawing me back. Picture yourself strolling along the pristine shoreline where six stunning beaches – each with its own character – stretch out before you.

Kings Beach steals the show as the main attraction, with its fantastic saltwater pool and family-friendly vibe. But honestly, what I love most about Caloundra is how it’s managed to keep its soul as a proper beach town while growing into a proper city of nearly 100,000 people. The esplanade always buzzes with life – locals walking their dogs, kids learning to surf, and the tempting aroma of coffee wafting from beachfront cafes.

The town center’s got everything you’d need without feeling overwhelming. And those views from the coastal boardwalk? Absolutely unreal, especially when you catch sight of the Glass House Mountains in the distance. Worth mentioning that the water quality here is fantastic – crystal clear most days, perfect for swimming or just dipping your toes in.

Key Features

• Six distinct beaches including Kings Beach, Bulcock Beach, and Dicky Beach
• 25km of coastal pathways perfect for walking, cycling, or jogging
• Protected swimming areas and patrolled beaches
• Historic lighthouse and maritime museum
• Weekly markets featuring local produce and crafts
• Glass House Mountains viewpoints
• Modern waterfront dining precinct
• Family-friendly water park and playground facilities
• Excellent fishing spots and boat ramps
• Regular community events and festivals

Best Time to Visit

Look, I’ll be straight with you – Caloundra’s pretty fantastic year-round, but timing your visit right can make a big difference. September through November is absolute gold – you get warm days around 25°C (77°F), low humidity, and smaller crowds than summer. Plus, the water’s starting to warm up nicely.

December to February brings the classic Australian summer vibes, but it can get pretty busy and temperatures sometimes hit the mid-30s (95°F). If you’re coming then, book your accommodation well ahead. March to May is actually my personal favorite – still warm enough to swim but with this gorgeous calm energy about the place.

Winter (June-August) might surprise you – days are typically sunny and mild, perfect for exploring the coastal walks or checking out the markets. Sure, you might need a light jacket, but the beaches are practically empty and you can often spot whales migrating along the coast.

How to Get There

Getting to Caloundra’s pretty straightforward, especially if you’re flying into the Sunshine Coast. From Sunshine Coast Airport, it’s about a 30-minute drive south – just follow the signs, you can’t really go wrong. If you’re coming from Brisbane, hop on the Bruce Highway heading north and you’ll be there in about an hour and a half, traffic permitting (though weekend traffic can sometimes add an extra 30 minutes).

Public transport’s an option too, with regular bus services connecting from both Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. But honestly? Having your own wheels will make life way easier, especially if you want to explore the surrounding areas or check out different beaches.

Tips for Visiting

After countless visits, I’ve picked up some local knowledge that might come in handy. First up, parking near Kings Beach can be a nightmare during peak times – try the side streets near Dicky Beach instead, or come early morning. Speaking of mornings, that’s when you’ll catch the local cafes at their best – my go-to is grabbing a coffee and watching the sunrise from the boardwalk.

Don’t forget your sunscreen, seriously. The Queensland sun is no joke, even on cloudy days. And while the main beaches are great, take time to explore the lesser-known spots like Shelly Beach – it’s where the locals go when they want to escape the crowds.

If you’re into markets, time your visit for the Sunday markets at Bulcock Street – they’re way better than the tourist traps you might find elsewhere. For dinner, skip the main strip and head to the newer spots along Bulcock Beach – the sunset views are incredible and the food’s usually better value.

Bring cash for parking meters in some areas, and definitely pack a hat and water bottle. The coastal walk from Kings Beach to Bulcock Beach is stunning but there’s not much shade along the way. And here’s a local secret: the best fish and chips aren’t at the fancy places – look for the small takeaway joints where the fishermen eat.

Oh, and one last thing – keep an eye on the weather forecast. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, but they usually pass quickly. The mornings are almost always perfect, so plan your beach time accordingly.

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