Coolum Beach: A Wonderful Destination For A Sunshine Coast Beach Holiday

 

 

Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland is a terrific destination for a family holiday.

With its pristine beaches, stunning coastal views, and wide range of outdoor activities, it is a picturesque destination that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. In recent times, it has become a popular holiday spot for tourists and day trippers from Brisbane looking to escape the pressures of city life.

For those wanting to sunbathe, surf, explore the surroundings, or simply unwind and enjoy the laid-back beach lifestyle, Coolum Beach is now considered one of the best Sunshine Coast beaches to visit as it has something that will appeal to everyone.

In this guide, I’ll showcase the best things to see and do in Coolum, as well as highlight the top accommodation, dining, and shopping options. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty and charm of this fabulous area!

 

Location

Coolum Beach is situated on the Sunshine Coast, about an hour and 15 minutes drive north of Brisbane on the Bruce Highway.

It makes a nice alternative destination to visit from the likes of Noosa Main Beach, Alexandra Headlands, Mooloolaba Beach and Maroochydore Beach, which are all between a 20 and 30 minute drive away.

 

Beach Facilities

Coolum Beach offers a range of beach facilities to enhance visitors’ beach experiences.

The beach is patrolled by professional lifeguards, ensuring visitors can swim safely in the ocean. There are also plenty of picnic tables and barbecue facilities located on the foreshore, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to gather for a beachside meal.

For those looking for a bit of adventure, there are several water sports activities available, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kiteboarding. Additionally, the nearby cafes and restaurants provide an opportunity to enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning ocean views.

Overall, the beach facilities at Coolum Beach cater to visitors of all ages and interests, making it a splendid destination for anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled day at the beach.

 

 

Things To Do At Coolum Beach

There are plenty of things to see and do during your time at Coolum Beach. One of the most popular activities is, of course, spending time on the beach, swimming in the ocean, surfing the waves, or simply lounging in the sun.

However, if you are looking to do a bit of exploring, Coolum Beach has a number of operators who will rent out equipment like stand-up paddleboards, surfboards and kiteboards that will enable you to explore the coastline.

If you would prefer to do this on dry land there is also a scenic coastal walking trail you can traverse that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding hinterland. Be sure to have your Android or Smartphone at the ready, as there are plenty of Insta-worthy photo opportunities waiting to be taken.

A little bit away from the beach, another popular attraction is the nearby Mount Coolum National Park, which offers hiking trails that lead to the summit, providing more panoramic views of the area.

 

Shops

Away from the sand, Coolum Beach offers a range of boutique shops, fashion stores, and speciality shops to cater to visitors’ shopping needs.

For fashionistas, there are several chic clothing boutiques that offer trendy beachwear, resort wear, and casual clothing for both men and women. Visitors can also find unique handmade jewellery, homeware, artworks and gifts. Additionally, there are several surf shops that offer a range of surf gear and accessories, including boards, wetsuits, and beach essentials.

For those looking to stock up on supplies, there are also several supermarkets and convenience stores located in the town. Coolum Beach also has a vibrant street market scene, with a weekly twilight market that features local artisanal products, street food, and live entertainment.

 

Best Time To Visit Coolum Beach

The best time to visit Coolum Beach depends on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Coolum Beach has a subtropical climate, which means that it’s warm and sunny for most of the year, making it an ideal destination for those wanting a Queensland Beach Holiday.

The summer months, from December to February, are the busiest time of the year, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so the beaches and attractions can get quite crowded.

The shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and pleasant weather.
While the winter months of June to August are the coolest months, though temperatures rarely drop below 10°C, making it a great time to explore the area’s many attractions without the crowds.

 

How To Get To Coolum Beach

Coolum Beach is located on the Sunshine Coast, in the state of Queensland, Australia.

There are several ways to get to Coolum Beach, depending on your starting point. If you’re arriving by air, the nearest airport is the Sunshine Coast Airport, which is located approximately 10 kilometres south of Coolum Beach. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus or hire a car to reach Coolum Beach.

If you’re driving from Brisbane, take the Bruce Highway north and exit at the Sunshine Motorway. Follow the signs to Coolum Beach, which is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive from Brisbane.

If you’re travelling by public transport, the closest train station is Nambour Station, which is approximately a 20-minute drive from Coolum Beach. From Nambour Station, you can take a bus or taxi to Coolum Beach.

Once you arrive at Coolum Beach, the town is easily navigable by foot or bicycle. Additionally, there are several local bus services that connect Coolum Beach to other towns and attractions in the area.

 

Hotels in Coolum

Coolum Beach has a variety of hotels and resorts to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels to stay in Coolum Beach:

The Point Coolum Beach: This luxury resort offers stunning ocean views, spacious apartments, and a range of amenities, including a heated swimming pool, spa, and fitness centre. The resort is situated on a hilltop, providing sweeping views of the coast.

Coolum Beach Resort: This family-friendly resort offers a range of accommodation options, including self-contained apartments and villas. The resort features two swimming pools, a tennis court, and a barbecue area, making it an ideal destination for families and groups.

Element on Coolum Beach: This boutique hotel offers spacious, modern apartments with private balconies, and is located just a few steps away from the beach. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the coastline.

Coolum Beach Getaway Resort: This budget-friendly resort offers self-contained apartments with kitchenettes, and is located just a short walk from the beach. The resort features two swimming pools, a barbecue area, and a games room, making it an ideal option for families and budget-conscious travellers.

The Beach Retreat Coolum: This cosy bed and breakfast offers just six rooms, each with a private balcony or patio. So, it is perfect for those who want a bit of peace and quiet. For guests, it offers a swimming pool, communal kitchen, and lounge area, and resides just a short walk from the beach.

 

Dining Options

Coolum Beach is highly regarded for its burgeoning dining scene, comprising various options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the dining options in Coolum Beach that you should check out:

Raw Energy: Raw Energy is a great option for visitors looking for vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free options. It is a health-conscious cafe offering fresh juices, smoothies, and a range of healthy meals, including salads, wraps, and breakfast bowls.

Coolum Beach Hotel: An institution in Coolum, this historic pub offers a range of classic pub meals, as well as a modern Australian menu featuring fresh local seafood and seasonal produce. The pub also has a range of craft beers on tap, making it a great spot for a casual meal or a drink with friends.

Harvest: For those wanting a more upscale experience, this restaurant offers top-notch food in a beautiful heritage-listed building that offers splendid coastal views.

My Place: This popular cafe offers a range of breakfast and lunch options, including eggs benedict, burgers, and salads. My Place is known for its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere, and is a great spot for a casual meal or a coffee.

Coolum Thai Spice: An authentic Thai restaurant that offers a delicious range of traditional Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and noodles. The restaurant is known for its flavourful and aromatic dishes and is a great option for visitors looking for international cuisine.

 

Coffee

Coolum Beach has a thriving coffee culture, with many cafes and coffee shops serving up delicious brews. Here are some of the most notable places to get coffee in Coolum Beach:

Compound Surf and Espresso: This trendy coffee shop is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. They serve up delicious coffee using beans from local roasters, as well as a range of sweet and savoury treats.

Canteen Coffee: A funky cafe is known for its excellent coffee, friendly service, and cool vibes. They offer a range of espresso-based drinks, as well as filter coffee and cold brew.

My Place: The popular cafe not only offers delicious meals but also has top-notch coffee. They use speciality coffee beans and have a range of brewing methods, including pour-over and cold drip.

The Colombian Coffee Co: As its name suggests, this coffee shop specialises in Colombian coffee, sourcing its beans directly from Colombia. They serve up a range of espresso-based drinks, as well as filter coffee and cold brew.

Raw Energy: This health-conscious cafe also serves up great coffee using organic beans, as well as a range of healthy snacks and meals.