Caloundra

Caloundra, on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, is a laid-back beach town that blends golden sands, a lively esplanade, and a working lighthouse into a classic Aussie coastal escape. Its relaxed vibe makes it a perfect stop for travellers exploring the region between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Highlights & What to See

• Bulcock Beach & The Esplanade – The heart of Caloundra, with a patrolled swimming area, a long pier, and a grassy foreshore dotted with cafes and restaurants. Great for a morning coffee or sunset stroll.
• Caloundra Lighthouses – Two historic lighthouses (the old and new) sit on the headland, offering panoramic views of the coast and the Glass House Mountains. The path between them is an easy, scenic walk.
• Kings Beach – A family-friendly stretch with rock pools, a saltwater swimming enclosure, and a popular boardwalk. The surf club here serves up classic fish and chips.
• Dick Caplick Park – A small but beautiful park with a boardwalk through mangroves and melaleuca wetlands, great for birdwatching and spotting turtles.
• Pumicestone Passage – The calm waterway separating Caloundra from Bribie Island. Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the mangroves, or take a ferry to Bribie for a day trip.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find one full day sufficient to soak up Caloundra’s main attractions: a morning walk along the coastal path from Kings Beach to the lighthouses, lunch on the esplanade, and an afternoon on the water or exploring the park. If you’re keen on a more relaxed pace, an overnight stay allows you to enjoy both sunset and sunrise over the ocean. Caloundra works well as a stopover on a self-drive itinerary from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast hinterland or Noosa.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mooloolaba – Just 15 minutes north, with a vibrant marina, seafood restaurants, and Underwater World SEA LIFE aquarium.
• Bribie Island – A short ferry ride across Pumicestone Passage offers unspoilt beaches, 4WD tracks, and the Bribie Island National Park.
• Glass House Mountains National Park – Stunning volcanic peaks with hiking trails and lookout points, about 30 minutes inland.
• Noosa – An hour’s drive north, famous for its national park, surf beaches, and chic Hastings Street dining.
• Brisbane – Just over an hour south, offering urban attractions, cultural precincts, and the South Bank parklands.

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