Caloundra

Caloundra is a city on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. Slightly more laid-back than its neighbours Coolum and Noosa, Caloundra still retains a slightly "old-fashioned" air.

Understand

Caloundra's suburbs are in fact a number of different beaches, each with a slightly different local character. Among these are Golden Beach, Moffatt Beach, Dickie Beach and King's Beach.

Get in

The easiest way into Caloundra is by road from either the south (Brisbane) or the north (the rest of the coast).

By car

Following the highway north from Brisbane for approximately two hours (depending on traffic) will get you to Caloundra. Be aware that the Sunshine Coast is a popular weekend getaway for Brisbanites, so expect a slightly longer drive on a Friday afternoon. You will also have to pay the toll on the Gateway Bridge as you leave Brisbane.

By bus

Regular bus services run from Brisbane to Caloundra. The bus terminal is located near King's Beach.

By boat

Get around

For a comparatively small city in population terms, Caloundra takes in a surprisingly large area, much of which is quite hilly. Unless all you want to do or see is close to your accommodation (which is unlikely), a car will probably come in handy.

See

The major attraction of Caloundra is the beaches, some of the state's best. These include:

King's beach, the main patrolled surf beach, even has a webcam.=> (currently appears to be down)
Bulcock beach.
Moffatt beach.
Golden beach, popular with windwurfers.
Dickie beach, popular with families and adjoins a caravan park.

Do

All beach-related activities are more than well catered for.

Buy

While there are no traditional "tourist purchases" to make, there are a number of shops stocking books and suchlike which are often worth a browse.

Eat

As befits a seaside town, seafood is very popular and there are many fish and chip shops around. For the sweet tooth, the Gelateria Milano is highly-regarded in the southeast of Queensland and is actually run by Italians, unlike many other gelato shops.

Budget

Mid-range

Splurge

Sleep

Budget

Mid-range

Splurge

Stay safe

The usual precautions against theft in a developed nation should be taken. As always in coastal Australia, remember to swim between the flags - namely the red-and-yellow flags erected by the surf lifesavers each day. Between those flags is the safest part of the beach. It may be more crowded, but the risk to life otherwise is considerable. Lifesavers are also often annoyed at having to rescue tourists not following those instructions.

Get out

Caloundra can serve as a base from which to visit Australia Zoo,=> run by "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin. The spectacular Glass House Mountains are also nearby.