Right along the Southeastern end of Queensland, Australia, lies the sunshine coast of Caloundra. Revered for its many oasis-like beaches, surftastic waves, and golden glow, this gem of a town is home to some unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re going for a day of salty hair and a street fair or spiritual sips and curling wave tips, Caloundra is ready to take you on a blissful adventure, seeped in local culture.
1. Beachtree Tour
What better way to celebrate heritage and nature than to tour the Beachtree Distilling Co. located in Caloundra? They specialise in crafting spirits made from fresh native botanicals by mixing the ancient techniques of their ancestors with the modern sciences of this era. The Beachtree team are the biggest advocates and fans of the country, land, nature, and community.
Our tour starts with their team escorting you through their beautifully painted building, through to the inner sanctum, for a behind-the-scenes look at every step of the formulation. You also get to sample some of their award-winning artisanal premium spirits! Nothing like a spirit day in Caloundra!
2. Beach It Up
Caloundra is most known for its spectacular beaches all along the coastline. Gems from north to south include Moffat, Shelley, Kings, Bulcock, and Golden Beach.
Moffat
The most kid-friendly beach, Moffat has soft sand, a cool shipwreck, a playground, and beautiful blue waves. It’s not huge, though it has the necessary tourist accolades nearby (restaurants, shops, trails). A staple of the surf world, catch annual surfing competitions here!
Shelley
Shelley beach is the place to play! From rock fishing to ski boating, its faces are perfect for angling, and its water is a stunning turquoise.
Kings
Kings Beach is the royalty of beaches. It’s got something for everyone; a kids sprinkle area, saltwater basking pool, great waves for surfing, and tourist attractions. There’s never a dull moment at Kings.
Bulcock
Lined with pines, this soft-sand beach is great for a day of relaxation. Offering a beautiful sunrise & sunset view, it’s nestled away from noise and wind, perfect for basking or fishing.
Golden
Close to a boardwalk, wildlife area, shops, kayak rentals, Pumicestone Passage, and golf clubs, Golden Beach has plenty of activities to offer. This waveless beach boasts crystal clear water full of sea life; perfect for paddleboarding, fishing, and safe child’s play.
Every Beach has its own distinct character and vibe. You can’t go wrong along the coastline.
3. Local Breweries
For those who appreciate a finely crafted brew, our region boasts a vibrant craft beer scene. Local breweries are producing a diverse range of beers, from hop-forward IPAs to refreshing lagers and rich stouts. It's the perfect opportunity to relax and discover the unique tastes of our area.
4. Street Fair
Got a Sunday free? Check out the street fair, where tons of vendors and community members buzz around in excitement for the new stock. There’s a farmer’s market, buskers, artisanal boutiques, and treats for every member of the family! Located right by Bulcock Beach, it’s the perfect place for finding picnic fixings and a show!
5. Regional Art Gallery, Cinema's, Escape Rooms, Bowling & More
Caloudra’s art scene is certainly not lacking. From street art to sculptures, there are visual delicacies everywhere you look. The art featured in the gallery carries the weight of the history, ancestry, and spirit of Caloundra. The gallery contains art from the Kabi Kabi people of Australia, as well as other famous locals.
Nearby you’ll find the vibrant street art of Steven Bordonaro, who believes the city itself is an exhibition.
6. Site-Seeing
Caloundra is full of beautiful boardwalks and lookouts for site-seeing, picnicking, and strolling along. We recommend checking out the Caloundra Lighthouses, Currimundi Lake Trails, Leach Park, and Moffat Headland Lookout. All the beachside piers are also a great spot to watch the sunset or snap a pic, while strolling along the coastline shops and boutiques.
7. Wildlife
There’s so much flora and fauna to meet in Caloundra! Check out the Caloundra Conservation Park, Wildlife HQ, Maroochy Wetland Sanctuary, or the still waters of Golden Beach! You’ll come face-to-face with stingrays, crabs, koalas and more.
The Sunshine Coast is ripe with adventure and heritage, alive with the natural forces and colourful humans of Australia. Don’t miss it!