Caloundra, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is known for its stunning coastline, family-friendly beaches, and relaxed atmosphere.
It offers an ideal mix of outdoor adventures, beautiful natural surroundings, and a charming town center.
Here are the Top 6 things to do in Caloundra, Queensland, Australia:
1. Relax at Kings Beach
Kings Beach is Caloundra’s most popular beach, offering a beautiful stretch of golden sand and clear blue water perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is patrolled year-round, making it a safe spot for families. In addition to the beach, Kings Beach also has a popular saltwater pool right on the oceanfront, children’s play areas, picnic spots, and plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby. It’s a great spot for all ages, with calm rock pools for little ones and great waves for bodyboarding and surfing enthusiasts.
2. Stroll Along the Caloundra Coastal Walk
The Caloundra Coastal Walk is a scenic pathway that stretches for nearly 25 km along the stunning coastline, connecting Caloundra’s beautiful beaches and offering breathtaking ocean views. The walk passes through Bulcock Beach, Kings Beach, Shelly Beach, and Moffat Beach, among others. The route is suitable for walkers of all fitness levels, with shorter sections available for those who prefer a leisurely stroll. Along the way, there are plenty of picnic spots, lookouts, and cafes, making it perfect for a relaxing coastal day out.
3. Explore Pumicestone Passage
Pumicestone Passage is a unique marine and estuarine environment separating the mainland from Bribie Island, and it’s ideal for water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and boating. You can rent kayaks or book a boat tour to explore this ecologically rich waterway, where you may spot dugongs, dolphins, turtles, and a variety of bird species. The calm waters make it a perfect destination for families and beginners, while the surrounding scenery offers a peaceful escape from city life.
4. Visit the Caloundra Street Fair
Held every Sunday on Bulcock Street, the Caloundra Street Fair is a bustling market featuring over 100 stalls offering local produce, handmade crafts, fashion, jewelry, and gourmet foods. The market is a community hub, with live music, street performers, and a lively atmosphere that makes it a must-visit. It’s a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs, enjoy local treats, and soak up the local culture. With a mix of food vendors, artisanal products, and fresh produce, it’s a favorite weekend outing for both locals and visitors.
5. Spend the Day at Bulcock Beach
Bulcock Beach is another family-friendly beach in Caloundra known for its calm waters and beautiful views of the Glass House Mountains and Pumicestone Passage. The beach is ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and picnicking, with a boardwalk along the shore that offers scenic views and easy access to nearby cafes and shops. Bulcock Beach also has picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and a fantastic spot for fishing off the boardwalk. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the relaxed beach atmosphere of Caloundra.
6. Discover History at the Queensland Air Museum
The Queensland Air Museum in Caloundra is a hidden gem and a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. This museum has an impressive collection of over 70 historic aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters, and passenger planes. Visitors can learn about Australia’s aviation history and even get up close to some of the aircraft in the open-air display. The museum is staffed by passionate volunteers who are happy to share their knowledge, and the displays provide fascinating insights into military, commercial, and recreational aviation in Australia.
Conclusion
Caloundra combines stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and local culture in a laid-back coastal setting.
From the iconic Kings Beach and Bulcock Beach to scenic coastal walks and unique experiences like the Queensland Air Museum, Caloundra offers something for everyone.
With its family-friendly attractions, beautiful natural landscapes, and relaxed vibe, Caloundra is a top destination for travelers looking to enjoy the best of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.