Caloundra

Description

Caloundra’s laid-back coastal charm hits different from other Sunshine Coast spots – and I say this as someone who’s explored pretty much every beach town up and down Queensland’s coast. This sun-soaked paradise sits right at the southern tip of the Sunshine Coast, where the vibe shifts perfectly between beachy relaxation and small-town buzz.

I’ll tell ya what really gets me about this place – it’s how the old-school coastal town feel manages to stick around even as the area grows. You’ve got these gorgeous stretches of sand at Kings Beach and Dicky Beach that aren’t nearly as packed as Noosa’s, plus some pretty epic surfing spots that locals have been riding for generations. The waterfront path that winds along the esplanade? That’s where I love taking my morning walks when I’m in town – you get these incredible views of the Glass House Mountains in the distance while pelicans swoop overhead.

Key Features

• Kings Beach – the main swimming spot with its ocean-fed pool and regular surf patrol
• Bulcock Beach – perfect for families with its calm waters and bustling weekend markets
• The Pumicestone Passage – a protected marine park where you can spot dolphins and dugongs
• Golden Beach – a water sports haven for kitesurfing and kayaking
• The Coastal Pathway – stretching 25km along stunning beaches and headlands
• Dicky Beach – named after the SS Dicky shipwreck and popular with surfers
• Glass House Mountains lookout – offering panoramic views of the volcanic peaks
• Local seafood restaurants serving fresh catches daily
• Historic lighthouses that tell tales of the region’s maritime past
• Protected swimming areas and rock pools for kids to explore

Best Time to Visit

Look, I’ve been here in all seasons, and honestly? Spring (September to November) is when Caloundra really shines. The temps hover around 25°C (77°F), the humidity hasn’t kicked in yet, and the water’s warm enough for swimming without being crowded like summer.

Summer (December to February) brings the tourists and some pretty intense heat – we’re talking 30°C+ (86°F) days. But if you don’t mind sharing the beach with holiday crowds, the evening sea breezes make it totally worth it. Plus, that’s when most of the cool events happen, like the Music Festival in December.

Winter’s actually not bad either – temps rarely drop below 20°C (68°F) during the day, and you might catch sight of whales migrating along the coast between June and October. Just pack a light jacket for those evening walks along the esplanade.

How to Get There

Getting to Caloundra’s pretty straightforward – it’s about an hour’s drive north of Brisbane on the Bruce Highway. Just take the Steve Irwin Way exit and follow the signs. Trust me, it’s way easier than it sounds.

If you’re flying in, the Sunshine Coast Airport’s your best bet – it’s only 30 minutes away by car or shuttle bus. Brisbane Airport works too, but you’re looking at a longer transfer (around 1.5 hours).

Public transport’s decent enough – regular buses connect Caloundra to nearby towns and the train station at Landsborough. But I’m gonna be straight with you – having a car makes life way easier, especially if you wanna explore some of the less touristy spots around town.

Tips for Visiting

After countless trips here, I’ve picked up some local knowledge that’ll make your visit smoother. First up, book your accommodation well ahead if you’re coming during school holidays or long weekends – this place fills up fast!

Early mornings are magic here – hit Kings Beach around sunrise and you’ll see what I mean. The light’s incredible for photos, and you might even score some waves to yourself if you’re into surfing.

Don’t miss the Sunday markets at Bulcock Beach – they’re smaller than some other Sunny Coast markets but way more authentic. And speaking of food, skip the big chains and try the local seafood joints – some of my faves are tucked away in the side streets off Bulcock Street.

Parking can be tricky during peak times, especially around Kings Beach. The secret? Park a few blocks back and walk – you’ll find plenty of free spots, plus you’ll get to nosey around the cute beach houses along the way.

Remember to slip-slop-slap with sunscreen – the Queensland sun’s no joke, even on cloudy days. And if you’re bringing kids, the rock pools at Kings Beach are perfect for little ones when the surf’s up at the main beach.

One last thing – keep an eye on the tide times if you’re planning to walk between beaches. Some spots get pretty narrow at high tide, and you don’t wanna get caught out!

Location

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