Things To Do
in Caloundra
Caloundra sits on the southern edge of the Sunshine Coast, offering sun-drenched beaches and a relaxed coastal vibe. It blends pristine shorelines with a friendly town center, featuring scenic esplanades and calm waters ideal for families. The area is peppered with parks, cafes, and viewpoints that showcase its maritime charm.
With a mild year-round climate and easy access to nature trails, Caloundra makes for a versatile beach-based getaway.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along Kings Beach, where the gentle waves and golden sands invite you to soak in the morning sun. Grab a fresh coffee from a local café and enjoy it while watching surfers catch the early morning swell. The beach is less crowded at this time, allowing for peaceful moments of reflection and appreciation of the stunning coastal views.
After a morning at the beach, head over to Bulcock Beach for lunch at one of the seaside restaurants offering fresh seafood and local delicacies. Spend the afternoon swimming or participating in water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking, which are popular here due to the calm waters. Don't forget to take a moment to explore the nearby boardwalk that offers scenic views of the ocean and the iconic Pumicestone Passage.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness the vibrant colors of the sunset reflecting over the water. Afterward, head to the Esplanade for a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can enjoy local cuisine and live music. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Australia Zoo, the home of the late Steve Irwin, where you can marvel at a variety of native and exotic wildlife. Attend a morning animal encounter session to get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles, learning about their habitats and conservation efforts. The zoo opens early, so you can enjoy the cool morning air while exploring the beautiful grounds.
After an exciting morning at the zoo, grab a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas or at a nearby café. Spend your afternoon exploring the lush gardens and animal exhibits, taking part in interactive shows that highlight animal behavior and conservation messages. Make sure to visit the reptile house, where you can see some of Australia’s most famous reptiles up close.
Return to Caloundra for a laid-back dinner at a local bistro, where you can indulge in seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Caloundra Headland, enjoying the panoramic views of the coastline and the twinkling lights of the town. Cap off the night with a visit to a local pub or bar for a taste of the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket | $4-5 |
| 🏨Hotel room (per night) | $120-220 |
| 🛒Grocery staple (1 week) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere
- Relaxed, safe environment for travelers
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowding during peak periods
Places to Visit in Caloundra
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy bay with colorful sunrises and a long boardwalk perfect for early-morning photography.
Waterfront with reflections, boats, and scenic silhouettes at golden hour.
Dramatic headland views over the Pacific; great for wide-angle coastal shots.
Cultural spots with water features and landscaped gardens ideal for portraits.
Surfing beaches with rock formations and moody skies for dramatic shots.
Food in Caloundra
Caloundra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh local barramundi grilled or pan-seared, served with chips and salad at seaside cafes.
Must-Try!
Spicy garlic prawns commonly served as a sharing plate in waterfront venues.
Classic Australian desserts found in cafes and patisseries; ideal with a coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seaside market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts (seasonal days and times vary).
Regional produce stalls and food trucks with coastal flavors; great for tasting local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect posted signs, keep distance from wildlife, and follow local beach rules; cover up appropriately when away from the beach.
Australians value fairness in queues; wait your turn in lines and be friendly to others.
Wear sunscreen and hats in sunny weather; water and shade breaks are common.
Safety
Tipping in Caloundra
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some cafes may be cashless.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional heat waves; bring sun protection; swim-safe waters and watch for jellyfish advisories.
Pleasant temperatures and calmer seas; good for coastal walks and outdoor dining.
Mild to cool days; occasional rain; ideal for whale-watching from headlands and longer coastal walks.
Pleasant shoulder-season with blooming flora; markets and outdoor events resume in full force.
Caloundra at Night
Hiking in Caloundra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
2.6 km return moderate hike with panoramic views of the Glass House Mountains.
A 1.6 km return climb with sweeping coastal views from the summit.
4.6 km loop through rainforest to a waterfall; best in wetter months.
Scenic coastline trail with cliff views and opportunities for spotting wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Caloundra by plane.
Located near Maroochydore; quick domestic flights and easy road access to Caloundra.
Primary international gateway for travelers; about 1-1.5 hours by road depending on traffic.
Alternative southern option with domestic and some international flights; roughly 1.5-2 hours away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and visit Caloundra for its beaches and parks; family-friendly amenities abound.
The area attracts retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle and accessible services.
Tourists from across Australia and international travelers who enjoy beaches, markets, and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong surfing culture with beaches offering beginner-friendly waves and training schools.
Popular in parks and local clubs; weekend matches common in the region.
Coastal fishing from piers and beaches is a common pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Caloundra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafes offer vegetarian options; look for wraps, salads, and veggie mains; ask for dairy-free or egg-free preparations.