Popular Sunshine Coast Holiday Destination for Queensland Tourists
Table of Contents
Welcome to my post about Golden Beach Caloundra. If you are planning a visit to this part of the Sunshine Coast I hope you find it a useful resource.
To make this post easier for you to read, I have organised it into the following sections:
1. Introduction
2. Where Is Golden Beach Caloundra?
3. Best Time To Visit Golden Beach Caloundra
4. What Facilities Do They Have at Golden Beach Caloundra?
5. Things to do at Golden Beach Caloundra
6. Tours and Excursions
7. Golden Beach Accommodation
8. Golden Beach Restaurants
9. Final Thought
10. FAQs
If you like the idea of indulging in a bit of Caloundra tourism, be sure to read all the way until the end!
(This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you interact with them).
Read Time: 12 Minutes
Introduction
Golden Beach Caloundra, not to be confused with Golden Beach in Victoria, or the one in Chennai for that matter, is one of the nicest beaches on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.
Nestled along the shoreline of the Pumicestone Passage, this delightful coastal suburb has a more residential feel than other beaches in Caloundra. So, it is the perfect spot to escape to for some rest and relaxation.
The calmer waters here are much more conducive to swimming, while there are plenty of idyllic stretches of sand to lay down a towel and soak up some vitamin D.
You’ll also find some fantastic ramps to launch your boat or kayak to go fishing or explore the waterway that eventually leads you to Moreton Bay Marine Park.
But if that sounds too energetic for you, alongside the beach is a winding coastal path that snakes its way to more central parts of Caloundra. There you will find several barbecue areas and children’s playgrounds, where you can set up a base camp.
You’ll also enjoy numerous vantage points to see the sun setting over the Glass House Mountains, which hover majestically in the background.
The Sunshine Coast enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, so no matter what time of year you decide to come you have an 82% chance of it being sunny!
Where Is Golden Beach Caloundra?
Golden Beach is one of many beaches in Caloundra you can visit during a trip to the Sunshine Coast.
It is situated between Pelican Waters to the south and Bulcock Beach to the north and resides within the region’s main urban centre, just southwest of the CBD.
The coastal suburb is about 95 km north of Brisbane and about 25 km south of Maroochydore and is offset by the Coral Sea. It is also protected by the sandspit at the northern tip of Bribie Island.
Like the rest of the Sunshine Coast, Golden Beach Queensland is located on land for whom the traditional owners are the Kubi Kubi (Gabi Gabi) people. It was once known as Loch Lamerough, but developers later changed it to Golden Beach.
Golden Beach Caloundra distance to other Queensland destinations
Best Time To Visit Golden Beach Caloundra
For those looking for a coastal getaway Golden Beach Caloundra is a destination you can visit all year round. The Sunshine Coast enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, so no matter what time of year you decide to come you have an 82% chance of it being sunny!
In terms of specific seasons, the summer months (December to February) are the most popular time to visit the Sunshine Coast as temperatures regularly top 33°C (91.4°F).
At this time the beach is usually more crowded, hotels are fuller and parking spots are more difficult to find. Still, you are guaranteed to have a lovely day on and around the water once you get yourself settled.
You won’t have any of these issues in the winter months of June to August, however you can expect temperatures to hover a degree or two either side of 20°C (68°F). The water might be a bit chilly at this time but you should be able to find cheaper accommodation and less wait times at restaurants and other attractions.
Arguably the best time of year to visit Golden Beach Caloundra is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. This takes place between March and May and September and November respectively.
You should find the weather perfectly agreeable at this time and accommodation rates are reasonable. Flight prices tend to be pretty good too, so it is a good time to visit this or other Queensland beaches in the Sunshine Coast area.
What Facilities Do They Have at Golden Beach Caloundra?
As a Sunshine Coast tourism destination, Golden Beach in Caloundra is well set up with a variety of facilities and amenities to ensure visitors have everything they need to enjoy their time there.
Along Golden Beach Esplanade, you will find a range of accommodation options (more about that later), from cosy resorts to holiday apartments, offering stunning views of the coastline. Additionally, there are plenty of places to eat (again, I will elaborate), along with shops and medical-related services.
At the time of writing, Golden Beach Caloundra is patrolled by lifeguards. However, there have been suggestions that this may no longer be the case in the coming months. So, before deciding to go there, you might want to check with Surf Life Saving Queensland.
You will find plenty of toilets in the surrounding Golden Beach park for when nature calls. Additionally, there are also barbecue areas and open-air showers there, as well as a couple of children’s play areas.
If you really want to gain an appreciation of the beauty of the Sunshine Coast, then a great way to do it is via the Caloundra Coastal Walkway.
Things to do at Golden Beach Caloundra
Boredom is not an option when you visit the sun-drenched shores of Golden Beach Caloundra, as you will find plenty of Caloundra attractions and things to keep you occupied.
It doesn’t matter if you are a water sports enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for relaxed moments by the sea; Golden Beach has something special for everyone. Here are some of the things you can do whilst you are there.
The Beach
The main attraction, of course, is the beach itself. Golden Beach stretches along the eastern side of the Pumicestone Passage, offering visitors a vast expanse of soft, golden sand to enjoy.
You can spend your time here swimming, sunbathing, playing ball games or simply kicking back and relaxing with a good book or your Spotify playlist.
Given its family-friendly atmosphere and the range of activities you can do there, Golden Beach is a place where you could easily spend a good few hours.
You may even want to bring your longboard with you, as it is one of the better surfing spots Caloundra has to offer.
Pumicestone Passage and Bribie Island
Forming part of the Moreton Bay Marine Park, the Pumicestone Passage is a pristine waterway that stretches for 35 km from the very tip of Bribie Island (pretty much opposite Golden Beach) all the way down south to Deception Bay.
The passage is a shallow, narrow estuary that comprises a network of sand banks and tidal channels along Bribie Island, which are ideal for exploring via jet ski, kayak, catamaran, or stand-up paddleboard.
It is also a terrific spot for fishing, with bream, tailor, prawns and jewfish in abundance and is home to 35 species of migratory and resident shorebirds – making it one of the east coast of Australia’s most important marine and bird habitats.
Caloundra Coastal Walk
If you really want to gain an appreciation of the beauty of the Sunshine Coast, then a great way to do it is via the Caloundra Coastal Walkway.
Overall, it stretches for more than 25 km from its origins at Golden Beach all the way up to the southern part of Mooloolaba.
This path takes you through other beaches in Caloundra, including Kings Beach, which kids will love, as it has rock pools, a free swimming pool and a water park.
Other points of interest include the Kings Beach Bathing Pavillion, which was built in 1937 and a historical Military Jetty which was an important part of coastal operations during World War II.
If it’s whale watching season in Queensland, you should also keep an eye out for humpbacks frolicking in the Coral Sea. Also be on the lookout for dolphins around the Pumicestone Passage.
Caloundra CBD
When you fancy some time away from the beach, its worth heading over to the Caloundra CBD. Primarily, this involves making your way to Bulcock Street, which you can easily reach via the coastal walkway path.
Once you arrive at Bulcock Street, you’ll find a lovely selection of shops and quaint cafes and as both sides of the street are well shaded, you will be able to spend a good bit of time exploring them.
If you happen to get there on a Sunday, the Caloundra Street Fair will be in operation. This lively market runs from 8 am to 1 pm and comprises several stalls that offer everything from art and clothing to crafts and homewares.
There are also several food vans where you can grab a bite to eat and live entertainment performances that create a really good vibe.
Golden Beach Caloundra distance to other Australia destinations
Tours and Excursions
During your visit to Golden Beach Caloundra, there are a number of tours and excursions you can choose to go on that will give you a real taste of the Sunshine Coast region.
A full list of them can be found on the Get Your Guide and Viator websites.
However, here are links to some of the most popular activities and day trips you can go on. If you click on any of the titles, you’ll be able to find out more information about them.
Mooloolaba whale-watching cruise
Serenity Cruise to Australia’s Everglades
Australia Zoo transfer and entry
Noosa Oceanrider Adventure Tour
Glasshouse Mountains tour with walking tour, lookouts and lunch
4×4 dolphin, sea and kayaking tour
Whichever tour(s) you decide to book, it is worth doing so early to avoid the risk of missing out. Some of these are high in demand, so are likely to sell out quickly.
Golden Beach Accommodation
Golden Beach Caloundra offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. So, whether you are planning to spend a two week family holiday here or just spend a night away with your mates you should find an option available to you.
I’ve outlined some noteworthy Caloundra accommodation providers to consider below. You can click here to make a reservation at any of them.
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Golden Beach
You’ll get terrific views of the Pumicestone Passage if you stay at the Ramada Resort by Wyndham. Each of the spacious apartments here has a private balcony that looks out to the waterway, which gives you a prime spot to take in the beautiful Queensland sunrise.
If you stay here, you’ll get to enjoy the use of an outdoor swimming pool all year round. You can also treat yourself to a delicious meal at the property’s Thai Restaurant, the Copper Spoon, work up a sweat at its fitness centre or enjoy a soak in its spa bath.
Belvedere Apartments
You’ll get an amazing view of Golden Beach Caloundra at the Belvedere Apartment, which you can enjoy on the massive balconies that come with each unit.
They come with a fully equipped kitchen, which is ideal for those who want to self-cater, while guests can make use of their swimming pool, BBQ facilities and the free secure parking they offer on site.
Gemini Resort
Overlooking the Pumicestone Passage, Gemini Resort offers spacious apartments with balconies and stunning ocean views.
If you love tennis or swimming you will enjoy the court and pool they have available. Additionally, you can also make use of its hot tub, while the property is just 100 metres from a nice parade of shops.
Golden Beach Motor Inn
Nestled just 700 metres from the sand, Golden Beach Motor Inn offers free private parking (very handy in Golden Beach Caloundra) as well as a lovely terrace and garden for guests to make the most of.
It also has an outdoor swimming pool which is perfect for cooling off on a hot Sunshine Coast afternoon.
Riviere on Golden Beach
If you fancy spending much of your day on a large private balcony looking out to the shimmering waters of Caloundra and Bribie Island then you should check out Riviere on Golden Beach.
Each apartment is roomy, well appointed and has a good selection of facilities and amenities.
Golden Beach is my favourite part of Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast and if you could only visit one part of this coastal town, I would recommend that is where you go.
Golden Beach Restaurants
You’ll be pleased to read there are several very good places to eat in Golden Beach Caloundra.
One of the most popular of them is the Copper Spoon, which is a Thai restaurant and bar located within the Ramada Resort on the Esplanade. Open primarily for dinner, it presents a superb menu of classic dishes, including a delicious seafood pad Thai that is so good, you’ll be tempted to order a second portion.
Another good Thai option is the Thai Golden Beach Restaurant. You’ll find it down an alleyway on Landsborough Parade. It is a good place to go if you are vegan or have gluten free dietary requirements as they offer plenty of options for both.
If you fancy something different, the Golden Beach Tavern is a child-friendly venue that offers a nice range of gastro-pub classics like burgers, steaks and snitchzels. You will be able to enjoy it in a large, contemporary dining room and there is also a sports bar and gaming room there for your enjoyment.
Elsewhere, the Chill Cafe 89 is a fantastic option. It’s situated directly over the road from a quiet stretch of the beach and offers a fantastic menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner options, which you can enjoy in a wonderful al fresco setting.
Should you fancy Indian, Khana Premi is a lovely option. Their desi goat curry is sensational.
Other notable Caloundra Restaurants
Final Thought
Golden Beach is my favourite part of Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast and if you could only visit one part of this coastal town, I would recommend that is where you go.
This beautiful, residential beach might be quieter than some of its local counterparts, but its laid-back, family-friendly nature and idyllic shoreline provide the perfect backdrop for some fun in the sun.
Definitely make a note to yourself to place it on your beach bucketlist. It won’t disappoint you.
FAQs
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about visiting Golden Beach Caloundra.
Is it safe to swim at Golden Beach Caloundra?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to swim at Golden Beach Caloundra. As well as being the southernmost of all beaches in Caloundra its position, east-facing the Pumicestone passage means it is very stoic. Although it might not be patrolled for very much longer, you should find it safe for swimming and various other water activities.
Is Golden Beach the Best Beach in Caloundra?
Golden Beach is one of several beaches you can visit in Caloundra. Whether or not it is the best depends on what you are looking for. However, it is a terrific place for fishing, swimming and generally relaxing on the Sunshine Coast.
Why is Golden Beach in Caloundra called Golden Beach?
Back in the day, the area around Golden Beach Caloundra used to be home to a wide range of wildlife and native trees, one of which the golden wattles, were so prevalent around the coastline, the beach was named after it.
How Far is Bulcock Beach from Golden Beach Caloundra?
Bulcock Beach Caloundra is about 3.5km from Golden Beach. Both are family-friendly beaches that offer plenty of waterfront activities and opportunities to walk along the coastaline.
