10 things to do in Coolum
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Family on boardwalk at Coolum Beach

Its stunning outlook across a large beachfront park, and its leafy backstreets quietly traverse this beautiful coastal town in constant view of Mount Coolum, a grand volcanic dome that presides over the landscape.

Sunrise at Mount Coolum
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Sunrise at Mount Coolum

Climb Mount Coolum

It’s not Everest, but Mount Coolum has its own claim to fame as the second largest rock in the world. Climbing to the top of this 25-million-year-old laccolith is a must-do when visiting the region - the views from the top are absolutely spectacular! Make sure you pack your camera to capture the amazing views you'll discover on your journey to Mount Coolum's peak.

Get active at Aqua Park Coolum

The park covers a huge area and boasts a wide array of inflatable fun items for everyone’s enjoyment. Slides, blast bags, trampolines, swings, challenge tracks, balance beams, wobble pads and chill-out areas are just a few of the many features enclosed within the extensive walkways and floating tracks of the course. On shore the park has extensive shade structures, free BBQ areas, change rooms, picnic benches and sun loungers. A new café with great coffee and a new kiosk are all provided for your convenience and comfort under the natural shaded environment and white sand beaches. Suitable for ages six years and up.

Coolum Learn to Surf School, Coolum Beach
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Coolum Learn to Surf School, Coolum Beach

Learn to surf at Coolum Surf School

The whole family can take a surf lesson together, or parents can drop the kids off and head up to Coolum Surf Club for a meal while the kids have fun in the surf. The school provides all the equipment, including soft, learner style surf boards, wet shirts and sunscreen. All you need to bring is a towel. The beginner surf lesson runs every day from 10 am to 12 noon year round.

Carve up the skate park

If you’re not carving up the waves, then carve up the Coolum Beach surf park. Show off your moves or learn some new tricks from the locals. Take advantage of the rare opportunity to skate around with views of world class beaches.

Coolum Beach
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Coolum Beach

Enjoy chilling by the ocean

Coolum Beach has a laid-back, holiday atmosphere which makes it stand out from the hustle and bustle of neighbouring beach towns. Enjoy pristine, white stretches of sand as you relax, go for a paddle or play beach cricket, throw around the football or frisbee and cook up a storm on the free BBQ facilities.

Early morning surf, Coolum
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Early morning surf, Coolum

Go surfing

The home break of pro surfer Julian Wilson, the beach’s consistent waves and glassy waters make it a favourite for surfers and body boarders. Enjoy a day in the surf, carving up waves before relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sky turn from blue to cotton candy hues.

Couple shopping at The Island Surf and Espresso in Mudjimba
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Couple shopping at The Island Surf and Espresso in Mudjimba

Shop ‘til you drop

Coolum Beach is backed by a shopping and entertainment strip featuring a range of shopping opportunities at mainstream clothing brands and cute boutiques. Enjoy a quick (or long) shopping trip before wining and dining into the afternoon. There are even a couple of op shops to check out.

Marcoola Twilight Market
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Marcoola Twilight Market

Enjoy Coolum Twilight Markets (seasonal)

Each summer Coolum park turns into the Coolum Twilight Markets and outdoor movies during the school holidays. There is something for everyone at the markets, from handmade and new clothing, art and craft by locals, woodwork, jewellery, sunglasses, spices, children's toys to entertainment, fruit and vegetables and even fudge. This is a great experience the whole family will enjoy, giving you the opportunity to enjoy an evening out under starry skies, surrounded by stunning views.  

Coolum SLSC
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Coolum SLSC

Wine and dine

Enjoy a delicious selection of fine dining and casual eateries perfect for a beachside setting. Wander the main street just back from the ocean and take your pick of lunch spots, from indulgent to wholesome and health conscious. Stop by Amore Pizza Co for delicious pizza, or head to Coolum Surf Club for a selection of delicious award-winning dining. (TIP: The Sunday breakfast tower is worth getting out of bed for!)

Beach walks with four legged friends
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Beach walks with four legged friends

Take your fur baby for a beach adventure

Your four-legged friend will be loving an adventure at Coolum’s off leash dog beach at Stumers Creek. A great location that offers beach paddles, sandy runs and a saltwater creek for a playful splash. You’ll find this dog paradise at northern end of Coolum Beach Caravan Park extending 1 km north of Stumers Creek.  

Accommodation in Coolum Beach

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