Discover Coolum Beach: A Laid-Back Coastal Escape on the Sunshine Coast
Tucked between Noosa and Maroochydore, Coolum Beach embodies everything you want in a coastal getaway: laid-back charm, spectacular natural scenery, and a strong sense of community. Known for its iconic surf breaks, family-friendly foreshore, and the majestic Mount Coolum, this beachside town is ideal for those seeking balance between adventure and tranquillity.
🌊 Sun, Surf, and Sandy Shores
Coolum is famous for its vibrant beach culture, and the coastline offers something for everyone:
- Coolum Main Beach: Patrolled year-round, this beach is perfect for safe swimming and beginner-friendly surf. The beachside boardwalk connects to grassy picnic areas, parks, and cafés, making it a favourite for families and casual beachgoers.
- Mount Coolum: Towering 208 metres above sea level, this ancient volcanic dome is a must-do hike. The challenging but short 800-metre trail takes you to sweeping 360-degree views over the ocean, hinterland, and beyond.
- Secluded Bays: First Bay, Second Bay, and Third Bay are peaceful hideaways just south of the main beach. These rocky coves are perfect for a quiet picnic, rockpool exploring, or a spot of yoga by the sea.
- Dog-Friendly Beaches: Coolum is also known for its pet-friendly ethos. Several off-leash zones make it a popular destination for dog lovers.
🎨 Culture, Community, and Events
Despite its relaxed vibe, Coolum has a creative and energetic spirit:
- Twilight Markets & Artisan Stalls: Held during the warmer months, these markets along the beachfront foreshore showcase everything from handmade gifts and street food to live music and fire twirling performances.
- Coolum Civic Centre & Art Galleries: The town regularly hosts art exhibitions, theatre performances, and community events that reflect the Sunshine Coast’s diverse cultural scene.
- Annual Events: Don’t miss the Coolum Kite Festival or Surfing Competitions, which bring the town to life with color, excitement, and fun for all ages.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Coolum is ideal for multi-generational travellers:
- To the Beach Parklands: Beside the surf club, a large adventure playground and parklands with BBQ facilities are perfect for a family picnic with an ocean breeze.
- Surf Lessons: Local surf schools offer lessons for all skill levels, and instructors are highly experienced in working with children and beginners.
- Nearby Day Trips: Short drives bring you to the Ginger Factory in Yandina, Mount Ninderry’s scenic lookout, and Bli Bli Watersports Complex for inflatable water obstacle and wake park thrills.
🏨 Where to Stay in Coolum
Coolum offers a wide range of accommodation, with something for every type of traveler:
- Coolum at the Beach: This stylish resort is just 100 metres from the sand and offers spacious apartments, pools, and a gym—ideal for longer stays or families.
- The Point Coolum Beach: Perched on the headland, these villas provide sweeping views of the Pacific and a serene, private atmosphere.
- Coolum Seaside: Luxury apartments close to town centre with lush gardens and lagoon pools, perfect for a tranquil coastal escape.
- Holiday Parks & Budget Lodges: There are also excellent value-for-money caravan parks and motels for road trippers and families on a budget.
🏖️ Why Coolum Should Be On Your List
Coolum combines the quintessential Aussie surf town feel with a surprising depth of nature, wellness, and local culture. Whether you’re sipping a flat white from a beachfront café, hiking to the top of Mount Coolum at sunrise, or catching a wave with your kids, this coastal gem delivers authentic, low-key holiday magic.
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Let Sunshine Coast Tours help you experience the best of Coolum Beach—from scenic hikes and guided nature walks to customised day tours that show off the real heart of the Sunshine Coast. Get in Touch with the team today!
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