Couple walking along the Coastal Pathway at Moffat Headland, Moffat Beach
The stunning coastal paths and well-maintained boardwalks allow daily life to unfold in a haze of sand, scooter-happy trails, grassy picnic spots and family football or cricket matches. And it all takes place to the constant soundtrack of surf in the background.
Big highlights are the time-delayed fountain on the Kings Beach foreshore that will take your kids by surprise every time, and the adjacent saltwater pool. There are also calm inlets and lakes with gentle currents and lots of safe kid’s playgrounds (especially the pirate ship at Happy Valley for the little ones), all within view of the ancient Glass House Mountains presiding over the glorious sun-drenched beaches of the Pacific Ocean. And when the day has passed and the children are suitably tuckered out, hire a babysitter and go out for a night on the town at your choice of local clubs, pubs, bars and restaurants.
Accommodation
You’ll find every class of accommodation here, much of it family-friendly (and that includes pets!). Accommodation includes internationally branded resorts and five star apartment style resorts, many overlooking the sparkling waters of the Pumicestone Passage and Bribie Island. There are beachside villas, self-contained apartments and well-equipped beach houses large enough for your friends’ families as well as your own.
Things to do
Most of the action in Caloundra is based around water and adventure sports, with everything from surfing and snorkeling to kiteboarding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and jet skiing. You can even take a tandem skydive and wow beachgoers as you land on the sand. Kings Beach saltwater pool is fully-fenced with lots of shade, a wading pool for the little ones, lap lanes and a lifeguard, so you can relax and soak up the sun, knowing the kids are playing safely. There’s also a wonderful walking path that runs from Moffat Beach to Kings Beach and around to Bulcock Beach, which forms part of the greater Caloundra Coastal Path.
Alternate your beach time with a river cruise followed by fishing, golf or a trip to the Sunshine Coast Turf Club, the excellent Caloundra Regional Gallery or the Queensland Air Museum. The kids will love the Rollerdrome (which is an ice-skating rink for half the year), and don’t forget to check out the Bulcock Street Markets, which takes over the town centre every Sunday.
Events
The Caloundra Music Festival is one of the Sunshine Coast’s largest music festivals, taking place at Kings Beach in September. February draws large crowds to the Caloundra Triathlon and Caloundra Tennis International. There are also major Australian and international performances and events scheduled at the Caloundra Events Centre throughout the year, such as the Sunshine Coast Bridal Expo in March.
Caloundra turns up the heat on Bulcock Street in November for the inaugural Ignite Caloundra Chilli Festival. Take a stroll down the tree-lined street to sample spicy and delicious cuisine from around the world, and spice up your life with an incredible range of piquant peppers, cooking demonstrations and information on everything that's so hot right now.
Getting here
Caloundra is conveniently located only one hour from Brisbane International Airport or a 30-minute drive from the Sunshine Coast Airport. With plenty of parking available, public transport options and short driving distances, getting around is quick and easy. The area is perfect for cycling, and if you ever get stuck, the local taxi service can easily accommodate large groups.
