Things to do in Coolum: Where to Eat, Drink, Stay & Play

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. Known for its laid-back village vibe, tasty restaurants and spectacular natural landscapes, this bustling beachside town checks all the boxes for a relaxing coastal getaway.

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.

This is our round-up of things to do in Coolum Beach for a coastal getaway you’ll never forget.

Coolum Surf Club

With its stunning ocean views and laidback atmosphere, the award-winning Coolum Surf Club is the epitome of beachside dining.  Relax outside on the dreamy outdoor deck and watch the waves roll in or dine inside to contemporary coastal furnishings with panoramic ocean views. 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. Think homemade gourmet pizzas, burgers, local seafood, salad and everything in between. 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. Trust us; no one does salads like these guys do.

6/1776 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Mr Mancino

Continuing your culinary tour around Europe, Coolum Beach’s resident Italian joint is the place to head for pizza, pasta, and all manner of comfort classics. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and authentic recipes, Mr Mancino serves a wide-ranging menu across antipasti, pizza, slow-cooked meats, and desserts, but the star attraction is without a doubt the pasta. Start your night with salt and pepper calamari and mushroom arancini, order your favourite noodle with a homemade sauce of choice for the main (the gnocchi with burnt butter, sage and pumpkin and spicy tomato penne arrabbiata are standouts) and end the night with an assortment of Italian desserts - washed down with a bottle of vino. Naturally.

1806 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

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. When it’s time for a treat, opt for one of their delectable locally-sourced sweets. Perfect for grabbing on the go, we simply can’t get enough of the Caramilk cookies from Sunny's Treats. 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

Yiani’s Greek Restaurant

Experience a taste of the Aegean at Yiani's Greek Restaurant. Adored as much for its lively atmosphere and impeccable service as its sumptuous fare, this Hellenic hideaway serves up authentic Mediterranean flavours to locals and epicurious visitors alike. From sizzling seafood platters to mouth-watering moussaka, Yiani's menu is a true celebration of Greece's rich culinary heritage. We’re talking meze, share plates, grilled dishes and fresher than fresh seafood. Enjoy it all with a bottle of dangerously smooth Greek wine and finish the night with a serving of decadent bougatsa.

6/7-13 Beach Road, Coolum Beach

Foxy on Coolum

Coolum’s favourite multi-tasker, this vibey after-hours haunt will fix you a spread, play you some live local sounds and mix you up a cocktail before you can say table for two. Intimate and laid-back, Foxy on Coolum keeps the good times rolling every day of the week. With a curated selection of cocktails, you’ll find classics in addition to a range of custom concoctions specially made by their friendly bar staff (Foxy’s orange mojito is a must). Regularly hosting live music performances, you can have pre-drinks, dinner and catch a gig all in one venue.

3/7-14 Beach Road, Coolum Beach

Coolum Beach Hotel

When you think of pub dining, coastal-cool interiors and a serene beachfront location don’t immediately come to mind, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at Coolum Beach Hotel. Open seven days a week and brimming with atmosphere, this laidback local 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, pumpkin red curry and poke bowls topped with spicy chicken, Asian slaw and kimchi. Friendly, tasty, and open every night of the week – what more could you want?

David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Coolum Surf Club

Whether it’s a sunset spritz on the terrace or post-meal aperitif in the main bar, this bustling beachfront boozer has your tipple sorted. Transitioning from dinner to drinks flawlessly, Coolum Surf Club ticks all the beverage boxes with 22 draught beers, cider, and alcoholic ginger beer on tap, as well as a wide range of quality wines, cocktails, and bottled beers. And with live music in the bar on Friday and Saturday nights from 8.30 pm, it is the perfect place to bliss out and take the serene surroundings.

1775-1779 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

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 step foot in the door. Voted the #1 Australian Hotel in the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards 2021, Element on Coolum Beach bundles luxury, convenience, and comfort all in one tidy package. Boasting 49 self-contained apartments, the resort has 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

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.

From $259 per night (2 nights minimum)

First Bay Beach, Coolum

Coolum Ocean Views

Book a luxurious beachfront home for your next escape to Coolum, with this Coolum Ocean Views accommodation. A short 200 metres from Coolum’s First Bay (one of the best, quiet beaches), Main Beach, restaurants and shops, you’ll be ideally situated for an incredible weekend away. The home has a high tech cinema room, private pool oasis and a roomy backyard, meaning there’s plenty of room for families and pets. We also love the large deck with a barbecue for making dinner and soaking up the fresh air and breeze all in one.

From $1300 per night

Coolum Beach

Beach Shack at Coolum

Quiet and character-filled, the architecturally designed Beach Shack at Coolum is the perfect coastal retreat for the whole family (fur-babies included). With three bedrooms, spacious open-plan living areas and a covered outdoor deck with BBQ facilities, there’s more than enough space for everyone to relax and hang out in. Beyond the shack, there’s plenty to see and do, from Coolum’s pristine beaches and walking trails to the plethora of dining options and local watering holes that neighbour the property. A trip to the Sunshine Coast is always a good idea, but it’s even better when you can take your pet with you.

From $131.75 per night (2 nights minimum)

Coolum Beach

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. It’s the perfect way to explore the sights and sounds of Coolum, all while working up an appetite (or walking off your breakfast before you go for a swim!). The Boardwalk is an easy twenty-minute stroll, so pack a water bottle and pop on your favourite podcast for the perfect thing to do in Coolum at any time of day.

David Low Way (Coolum Esplanade), Coolum Beach

Oceanview Helicopters

See Coolum from the sky with Oceanview Helicopters! For a thrilling adventure drinking in sweeping coastline views and sparkling azure waters. You get to 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.

From $299

Caloundra West

Climb Mount Coolum

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will have you feeling on top of the world. 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 supplied.

Asante Day Spa

Indulge in a day of pampering at Asante Day Spa. With its tranquil atmosphere, top-tier treatments and expert therapists, this relaxing retreat is one the best things to do in Coolum for anyone seeking a luxurious spa day. 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

Loved our edit of things to do in Coolum Beach and looking for somewhere to eat? Check out these delicious Coolum restaurants that are guaranteed to impress. Keen to venture a little further? Check out our ‘Destinations’ page and work your way through our archive.