Things To Do
in Caloundra
Caloundra is a beautiful coastal town located in Queensland, Australia, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. The town boasts a laid-back lifestyle and plenty of outdoor activities, such as surfing, swimming, and hiking in nearby national parks. Visitors can explore the famous Caloundra Coastal Path, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
With its charming cafes, shops, and markets, Caloundra is a popular holiday destination for both locals and tourists.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll along Sunshine Beach. Grab a coffee at a local cafe while enjoying the ocean view.
Spend the afternoon surfing or sunbathing at the beach. Explore nearby boutique shops for some unique souvenirs.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood with a view. Cap off the night with a walk along the shoreline under the stars.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic coastal pathways from Caloundra to Moffat Beach. Stop along the way to capture some stunning coastal photos.
Visit the local markets in Moffat Beach for fresh produce and handmade goods. Treat yourself to lunch at one of the trendy cafes in the area.
Head back to Caloundra and enjoy a sunset ride along the boardwalk. Relax with a picnic dinner at Kings Beach Park.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches with clear waters and golden sands ideal for swimming and surfing.
- Pleasant subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.
- Family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of parks, playgrounds, and recreational activities.
- A vibrant local food scene with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and markets.
- Proximity to the beautiful Sunshine Coast hinterland, offering hiking and nature experiences.
- Strong sense of community and local events throughout the year.
- Good access to public transport and infrastructure for residents and visitors.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regional areas in Australia.
- Tourist crowds during peak holiday seasons can affect the local experience.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Potential for tropical storms and weather-related issues in summer months.
- Public amenities may be less extensive than in metropolitan areas.
- Traffic congestion can be problematic, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban centers.
Best Activities in Caloundra
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning beaches in Caloundra, including Kings Beach, Bulcock Beach, and Moffat Beach.
Engage in water activities such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and kite surfing.
Take a scenic coastal walk along the Caloundra Coastal Path, which offers breathtaking views of the shoreline.
Embark on a whale watching tour during the migration season (June to November) to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Caloundra with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Caloundra
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Pumicestone Passage and Bribie Island, perfect for sunrise or sunset photos.
Boasts stunning views of the coastline and is a popular spot for capturing the ocean and nearby headlands.
Provides breathtaking views of the ocean and is ideal for capturing the surrounding cliffs and lighthouse.
Food in Caloundra
Caloundra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These succulent and sweet prawns are a local specialty, sourced directly from the nearby Mooloolaba Wharf. They can be savored at seafood restaurants along the esplanade.
Must-Try!
This dish combines the delicate flavor of barramundi fish with the distinct crunch of macadamia nuts. It is a must-try at many fine dining establishments in Caloundra.
A quintessential Australian dessert, pavlova features a crispy meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh seasonal fruits. It can be found at local bakeries and cafes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Caloundra better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is held every Sunday and is a treasure trove of street food stalls offering global cuisines, fresh produce, and gourmet delights.
These markets, held on the first and third Sunday of each month, showcase an array of local food vendors serving up delectable street food and artisanal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Caloundra, it is a common social norm to greet people with a smile and a handshake. It is important to maintain eye contact and show respect when greeting others.
It is important to show respect for the indigenous culture in Caloundra. This includes being mindful of sacred sites, showing interest in indigenous art and customs, and refraining from any disrespectful behavior towards the indigenous community.
As Caloundra is a coastal town, it is important to observe beach etiquette. This includes cleaning up after oneself, respecting designated swimming and surfing areas, and being mindful of other beachgoers' space and privacy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Caloundra with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Caloundra
Ensure a smooth experience
In Caloundra, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or for a service, leaving a small tip as a token of appreciation is always welcome.
In Caloundra, the most commonly accepted forms of payment are cash and credit/debit cards. Contactless payment methods are also widely used. It's important to note that some smaller establishments may not accept credit or debit cards, so it's advisable to carry some cash for such occasions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Caloundra.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm weather, sunny beach days, and outdoor activities. Expect crowded beaches and higher accommodation prices.
Milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and pleasant sunny days. Good for outdoor activities and exploring without the peak season crowds.
Cooler temperatures but still comfortable for coastal walks and enjoying the local attractions. Whale watching season from June to November.
Blooming wildflowers, pleasant temperatures, and ideal for nature walks and outdoor activities. Less crowded than summer but still vibrant.
Caloundra at Night
Hiking in Caloundra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring a range of walking trails and breathtaking views of the Glass House Mountains.
Offers a variety of coastal and inland tracks, showcasing diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.
Home to a prominent granite dome, this park provides a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views.
Famous for its coastal scenery, this park features well-maintained walking tracks with opportunities to spot koalas and stunning beaches.
A tranquil park with easy walking paths along the river, surrounded by lush vegetation and rich wildlife.
A peaceful park located in Buderim with walking trails through rainforest and beautiful waterfalls.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Caloundra through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Caloundra by plane.
Brisbane Airport is the primary international airport serving Brisbane, Queensland and is located approximately 90 km north of Caloundra.
Gold Coast Airport is an international airport located approximately 120 km south of Caloundra, serving the Gold Coast region.
Sunshine Coast Airport is located approximately 30 km north of Caloundra and serves domestic flights with some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Caloundra, typically representing the majority of the population.
Includes residents originating from the UK, New Zealand, and other English-speaking nations.
Significant representation of residents with Italian ancestry, reflecting historical immigration trends.
A notable group of residents with German ancestry contributing to the cultural diversity.
Growing demographic group including residents from various Asian countries such as India, China, and the Philippines.
Includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, representing the original inhabitants of the land.
An emerging group of residents from various African nations contributing to the multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Caloundra
Discover the essence of Caloundra through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Caloundra is renowned for its excellent surfing spots, attracting both locals and tourists to its beautiful beaches like Kings Beach and Moffat Beach.
Australian Rules Football is popular in Caloundra, with local clubs participating in various regional competitions.
Cricket is widely played in Caloundra, with numerous clubs and teams engaging both junior and senior players in local leagues.
Rugby league has a strong following in Caloundra, with local teams competing in regional competitions throughout the season.
Soccer (football) is a growing sport in Caloundra, with various clubs offering programs for children and adults alike.
Netball is a popular sport, especially among women and girls, with many clubs and competitions in the area.
Given its coastal location, swimming is a favorite activity in Caloundra, with many participating in both leisure swimming and competitive events.
Caloundra offers scenic cycling routes that attract both casual and competitive cyclists, contributing to the local sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Caloundra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Caloundra offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, from plant-based burgers to hearty salads featuring locally grown produce.
Visitors with gluten intolerances will find many eateries in Caloundra catering to their needs, with gluten-free bread, pasta, and dessert options readily available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Caloundra with these cultural adventures.
