Surf & Sundowners: the Best Bars in Caloundra

The perfect holiday escape for families, Caloundra has gorgeous beaches, tasty restaurants to try and plenty to see and do to keep the whole family happy. But if it’s a nice refreshing craft beer or crafty cocktail you’re craving, you won’t be disappointed with what’s on offer.

The best bars in Caloundra are known for a generous offering of unique sips, beachfront views and some of the most laid-back vibes on the Sunshine Coast, perfect for setting that cruisy holiday mood.

Kings Beach Bar

Kings Beach Bar might just be the quintessential Caloundra bar. With a waterfront location and live music three days a week, this spot is perfect for an afternoon bite to eat.

With share plates to pick at while you sip cocktails, or heartier options dished up for lunch and dinner, gluten-free diners will be excited to know that most of the menu items can be served up sans gluten.

 1/8 Levuka Avenue, Kings Beach

Moffat Beach Brewing Co

If you’re on the hunt for the best bar in Caloundra, the Sunshine Coast’s most-awarded brewery might just be the best place to start. Since opening its doors to Moffat Beach locals in 2015, this brewpub and cafe has earned a reputation as one of the best places on the Sunshine Coast to kick back with a meal and a cold drink with your friends, and so to meet demand, it soon opened a second location in Caloundra in 2020.

So when you’re holidaying in Caloundra next, be sure to head down and enjoy fresh local produce, live tunes and tasty craft beer from the heart of Australia’s craft beer capital.

51 Caloundra Road, Caloundra West

Beachtree Distilling Co

Beachtree Distilling Co is not just Australia’s only certified Indigenous distillery, but also the nation’s most awarded organic distillery! So if you’re looking for top-notch organic gins, you needn’t search any longer.

After years working as a tradesman, Kamilaroi man Steve decided to channel his electrotechnology and engineering experience into his labour of love, a unique distillation and filtration method unique to this establishment. Co-creator Kirra, raised on Bundjalung Country, grew up stomping grapes as part of her family’s wine production, so she was well-equipped to join her partner in their joint business venture.

Pop by the distillery for a gin flight, and sample the delicate botanicals that are infused into each bottle of gin and vodka at this unique venue.

14 Industrial Avenue, Caloundra West

Drift Bar Caloundra

A lively local favourite along the Esplanade, Drift Bar is one of the best bars in Caloundra to pop into for a bite and a sip. Not only do they serve the breakfast crowd, but if you’re feeling like a post-surf cold one, they’ve got you covered.

Friendly service and good vibes are guaranteed no matter what day you visit, and don’t go thinking that things are sleepy around here, just because they’re laid-back. Drift is home to fun events and DJ Sundays to keep your energy high and social calendar pumping.

30 The Esplanade – Rumba Resort, Bulcock Beach, Caloundra

The Pocket Espresso Bar

This little hole-in-the-wall cafe has a gorgeous view overlooking Moffat Beach and dishes up bright and colourful food bursting with freshness and flavour.

They happily accommodate any dietary requirements, and on their menu, you’ll discover gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan goodies for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Pocket Espresso Bar has you covered at any time of day, and they do it with an infectious joy and friendliness that can’t be beaten.

6 Seaview Terrace, Moffat Beach

So there you have it, the guide to the best bars in Caloundra for your next coastal escape. Start making plans for your Sunshine Coast escape by exploring all the best things to do while you’re there, and don’t forget to pack plenty of SPF.