Mount Coolum is an awe-inspiring volcanic dome that presides over the Sunshine Coast landscape. Climbing to the top of this ancient laccolith is a must-do when visiting the region: the views from the top are spectacular!
Getting here
Head to the Mount Coolum Car Park, accessible from Tanah Street West (off David Low Way). It's just 3.5 km south of Coolum Beach. Off-road parking is available on the corner of Jarnahill Drive and Tanah Street West. Follow the National Parks and Wildlife signs and directions to the walking track.
Mount Coolum boardwalk / Photo credit: Brent Matthews
What to bring
Make sure to pack your camera to capture the Instagram-worthy views you'll discover on your journey to the peak. There are limited facilities on-site, so BYO bottled water (climbing can be thirsty work). Wear enclosed shoes to get a firm grip on the rockier parts of the track, and pop on a hat and some sunscreen. Insect repellent is also a good idea, particularly in the warmer months.
You'll want to spend some time at the top so be sure to pack a few easy-to-carry snacks to enjoy as you sit back and soak up the stunning 360-degree views from the summit.
The climb
Only reasonably fit walkers should attempt this climb. Allow 1½ hours for the return walk, as it will take approximately 45 minutes to reach the summit and another 30 minutes to get back down to the car park.
The first part of the track is a pleasant stroll through native bushland and forest. The path then becomes quite steep as it traverses the rock face, so pause for a while to catch your breath and snap a photo of the breathtaking coastal views. Take care when tackling the rocky part of the track towards the top of the mountain: it can be very slippery when wet. Stay on the designated tracks and stay clear of the cliff edges.
At the summit of Mount Coolum, you'll find sweeping panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast. To the east, coastal views stretch from Double Island Point all the way to Caloundra. The short tracks at the top of the mountain offer the best views to the south and showcase a patchwork of flat cane land, river valleys, and the rolling hills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Above image: Mount Coolum sunrise
Wildlife
Mount Coolum National Park is a haven for local wildlife. The cliffs provide a safe habitat for a pair of nesting Peregrine Falcons (one of 25–35 known pairs in south-east Queensland). You may also encounter Echidnas, Northern Brown Bandicoots, and the Grey-Headed Flying-Foxes.
Opening hours
For your safety, walk in Mount Coolum National Park in daylight hours only. Do not attempt this walk in wet weather. More information can be found here.
Mount Coolum from the beach
After your climb
Cool off after your climb with a dip at Coolum Beach before heading up to The Esplanade to sample the local fare at one of the many eateries along the beachfront. Alternatively, kick back at the Coolum Surf Club with fresh Mooloolaba prawns and a few coldies.
Accommodation
If you're making a weekend of your Coolum adventures, check out some of the fantastic accommodation options available.
Accommodation in Coolum Beach
Accommodation
The Point Coolum Beach
The Point Coolum Beach offers comfortable Oceanview apartments for freedom-loving folks who want to
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Coolum at the Beach
Coolum at the Beach offers self-contained beachside apartments and luxurious villas set within lush
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Atlantis Marcoola Beachfront Resort
It's time to rediscover the joy of beach holidays with the family. Here at Atlantis Marcoola, yo
Marcoola
Accommodation
Drift at Coolum Unit 603
With fabulous beach views stretching from Coolum Beach to Sunshine Beach, this modern north-facing a
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Ramada by Wyndham Marcoola Beach
For an idyllic, family-friendly beachfront escape on Australia s Sunshine Coast, look no further tha
Marcoola
Accommodation
Endless Summer Resort Coolum Beach
You'll love the holiday atmosphere of Endless Summer Resort. Perfectly located on a quiet street clo
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Glen Eden Beach Resort
Embrace Tranquility, Create Memories: Glen Eden Beach Resort, A Haven on the Sunshine Coast Glen Ed
Peregian Beach
Accommodation
Bellevue on Sunrise
Escape to the stunning coastal paradise of Coolum Beach and experience a truly unforgettable holiday
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Villa 2 Coolum Beach
Villa Two Coolum is a stunning, spacious villa that spans over 3 beautifully styled stories - the th
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Essence Peregian Beach
Follow the sea breeze from wherever you are. Essence is a holiday experience unlike anywhere. It is
Peregian Beach
Accommodation
Papillon Villas
Offering luxury self contained accommodation, Papillon Villas is located above the bays of Coolum Be
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Coolum Caprice
Located in the heart of Coolum and directly across from the famous Coolum Beach. Private balconies a
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Coolum Beach Holiday Park
The Coolum Beach Holiday Park is set on four hectares of beachfront land, making it one of the Sunsh
Coolum Beach
Accommodation
Element on Coolum Beach
Architecturally designed, Element on Coolum Beach combines the best of urban chic and beachside livi
Coolum Beach
