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Things to do in Coolum Beach: Where to Eat, Drink, Stay & Play
Born in the shadows of a magnificent volcanic dome, you’ll be spoilt for choice with our top picks of things to do in Coolum.
Born in the shadows of a magnificent volcanic dome (the second largest rock in the world), Coolum Beach is a sleepy surfer’s paradise that’s just begging to be discovered. Drive just over an hour north of Brisbane and you’ll find yourself surrounded by pristine beaches of white sand and turquoise water, secluded bays, and breathtaking mountainscapes that attract holidaymakers year-round. It’s all about the great outdoors here, from waterfront eateries with uninterrupted views of the coast to the myriad of outdoor adventures on offer, both on and off the land. Ready to explore? Enjoy our round-up of things to do in Coolum Beach for a coastal getaway you’ll never forget.
Things to do in Coolum: Play
Coolum Boardwalk
Stretch your legs on the Coolum Boardwalk, which follows the ocean from Beach Road to Point Perry, all the way to Point Arkwright.
The Boardwalk is an easy twenty-minute stroll, so pack a water bottle and pop on your favourite podcast.
David Low Way (Coolum Esplanade), Coolum Beach
Oceanview Helicopters
See Coolum from the sky with Oceanview Helicopters!
Choose your own adventure on this 18-minute scenic helicopter flight that flies over Kings Beach, Point Cartwright, the Pumicestone Passage, WWII ruins of Fort Bribie and the Caloundra Bar. If you’re new to the area or you’ve been a local for eons, you’ll find joy in seeing this stunning strip of the Sunshine Coast from a brand-new point of view.
Caloundra West
Climb Mount Coolum
Rising above the lush scenery of the Sunshine Coast, climbing to the peak of this 25-million-year-old laccolith is an absolute must. You’ll want to spend some time at the top, so be sure to pack some nibbles to enjoy as you soak up the other-worldly views from the summit.
Learn To Surf
Live your real-life Blue Crush moment! With its stunning coastline, crystal clear waters and consistent waves, Coolum Beach is the perfect destination for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to try something new, Coolum Surf School offers a variety of lessons and packages offering the perfect opportunity to improve your skills, connect with nature and feel the thrill of riding the waves. All equipment, including wetsuits and boards is supplied.
Asante Day Spa
Indulge in a day of pampering at Asante Day Spa. From facials and massages to brow tattooing, premium spa packages and rituals, Asante’s menu offers an array of treatments designed to soothe the mind, body, and soul.
Shop 5/7, Corner of Beach Road & Frank Street, Coolum Beach
Things to do in Coolum: Eat
Coolum Surf Club
With its stunning ocean views and laidback atmosphere, the award-winning Coolum Surf Club is the epitome of beachside dining.
Ideal for long lunches, a post-swim snack or casual catchups with friends, diners have their pick of club classics alongside a noteworthy selection of vegan, vegetarian, gluten, and dairy-free options.
Those in the know opt for the steaks which are cooked over an ironbark-fuelled coal pit to give a delicious sweet and smoky taste that will have you hooked.
1775-1779 David Low Way, Coolum Beach
Heirloom
Serving up sumptuous salads, amazing toasties and top-notch coffee, you know you’re in very good hands at Heirloom. Where breakfast is concerned, the smoked leg ham toastie with provolone, sauerkraut and mustard is a simple classic.
Come lunchtime, we’re ordering one of their colourful Asian-inspired salads — think cabbage, crispy fried noodles, lettuce, cucumber, mint, wasabi peas, proteins, and the list goes on. Pair your main with a raw sweet treat and a smoothie and you have yourself a mighty fine meal.
6/1776 David Low Way, Coolum Beach
Canteen Kitchen + Bar
Canteen Kitchen & Bar has the advantage of fresh sea breezes, views north to Noosa and the gorgeous surf break just metres away. Offering flexible and fun dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Canteen is perfectly placed for a catch-up with family and friends, or to fuel up before a fantastic day out on the beach.
1750 David Low Way, Coolum Beach
Things to do in Coolum: Drink
Rock Hop Espresso
If you’re serious about your coffee, look no further than Rock Hop Espresso, a specialty coffee shop on Elizabeth Street.
Here, you’ll find the expert baristas pumping out perfectly poured shots of Entity Coffee which lay the foundation for a cup that’s perfectly balanced and meant to be savoured.
Those with a little extra time on their hands can perch at one of the shaded outdoor tables that are primed for people-watching.
12b Elizabeth Street, Coolum Beach
Coolum Beer Co.
This family-friendly brewery is the perfect place to wrap up a sunny beach day with one of Coolum Beer Co.‘s refreshing lagers or session ales. They’ve got ten brews on the go at any one time, as well as share platters, burgers and tacos made from the best locally-sourced ingredients the Noosa Hinterland has to offer. There’s also a kids’ menu to sort the little ones out.
Unit 1/2 Junction Drive, Coolum Beach
Benny’s Espresso
For a reliably excellent coffee, head to Benny’s. Open nice and early, from 5:30am, they’re just steps from the beach and serve up a mean brunch menu, too. Think hotcakes, big breakkies and avo on toast.
Unit 16/1776 David Low Way, Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach Hotel
Open seven days a week and brimming with atmosphere, Coolum Beach Hotel is the kind of all-inclusive community-minded venue where mum, dad and the three kids are just as welcome as the local surfers and after-hours crowd.
Expect quintessential gastro-pub plates like parmas, burgers, and steaks as well as elevated dishes like vegan popcorn cauliflower and poke bowls topped with spicy chicken, Asian slaw and kimchi.
David Low Way, Coolum Beach
Things to do in Coolum: Stay
Element on Coolum Beach
Complete with cascading water features, reflective and heated pools, restaurants, cafes and specialty stores, this stunning seaside stay will transport you into vacay mode as soon as you set foot in the door.
Element on Coolum Beach boasts 49 self-contained apartments, with a variety of options, from spacious 1-bedrooms with not one but two balconies to palatial penthouses accommodating up to 6 guests.
1808 David Low Way, Coolum Beach
Book your stay with Booking.com
Book your stay with Element on Coolum Beach
Absolute Beachfront Apartment
Spectacular ocean views await you at this dreamy Coolum Beach accommodation. Sleeping four guests, Absolute Beachfront Apartment is ideal for a family getaway or friendcation with its ample chill zones, spacious bedrooms, and a stunning ocean-facing balcony complete with a bar.
Take a short stroll to Coolum’s iconic boardwalk to find the patrolled beach alongside popular cafes, restaurants, and shops. For those who fancy a home-cooked meal and a cosy night in, the kitchen is well equipped with appliances, bakeware, utensils, and pantry essentials.
First Bay Beach, Coolum
Loved our edit of things to do in Coolum Beach and looking for somewhere to eat? Check out these delicious Coolum Beach eateries that are guaranteed to impress. Keen to venture a little further? Check out ‘Destinations’ page and work your way through our archive.
