Go Coastal: The Best Things to Do in Sunny Caloundra

The Sunshine Coast is always a popular destination for Brisbane holiday-goers who are seeking a sea change, but one spot that sometimes flies under the radar is the sunshine-filled city of Caloundra.

When you’re not relaxing poolside with that book you’ve been meaning to finish for months or sprawled out on the sand soaking up vitamin D, you might be looking for some more unique experiences to fill your time.

Well, dear reader, you’ve found yourself in luck. Caloundra boasts a thriving bar scene, and has plenty of fun shops to explore and watersports to get your adrenaline pumping.

We spoke to some locals to get the inside scoop on where to spend your time, and they’ve revealed some hidden gems that are not to be missed! 

QCamel

If you’ve ever wanted to meet a camel (I mean who doesn’t?!), take a short drive out to QCamel to meet a friendly long face or two. This camel farm hosts visits and tours, and even a camel cuddling opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants.

There are also camel products on the menu for you to try — the milk is lauded as a more nutritious option and is available to sample if you’re feeling adventurous.

This unique and unusual activity is certainly one of the best things to do in Caloundra when you’re looking for something new to try.

573 Bells Creek Road, Bells Creek

Caloundra Jet Ski

Discover the natural beauty of the Pumicestone Passageaway and Caloundra’s water scenes from the back of of jet ski - the ultimate way to explore the coastline.

For adrenaline junkies or vehicle enthusiasts, a jet ski adventure might be just the best thing you could suggest on a visit to Caloundra’s gleaming coastline, but it can also make for a fun family day out.

Head out on an exhilarating tour around Bribie Island and the Passage, set against the glorious backdrop of the Glass House Mountains.

Caloundra Markets

If you’re a regular market-goer, or someone who can never usually find the time, make the most of the Caloundra Markets on your next Sunshine Coast escape.

This Sunshine Coast treasure hosts over 120 stalls, making it a bountiful destination for exploring delicious food, local produce, artisanal goodies and some gorgeous gifts.

The markets are held every Sunday from 8am to 1pm, and provide the perfect excuse to get out of bed early on Sunday morning to soak up more of what the area offers and live like a local.

Bulcock Street, Caloundra

Caloundra Street Art

If it’s a beautiful day out (and isn’t it always, up here?), why not stretch your legs on the public art trail? Covering 1.8 kilometres, this leisurely stroll encounters 15 public art pieces to be enjoyed.

You can opt for a self-guided stroll, or partake in a guided tour to garner as much insight to each piece and the area as possible. Begin at the Caloundra Regional Gallery, and allow around an hour to explore the murals, sculptures and installations by artists both local and national.

If you don’t want to get lost, pop into the Gallery before you begin to pick up a map, or you can download one off their website. Once you reach the end of your scenic stroll, you’re perfectly placed to pop into a cafe on the Esplanade for some refreshments.

Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra

Salti Reads

Salti Reads is hands down, the best cafe in Caloundra for bookworms. This cute and colourful cafe serves specialty coffee, bubble tea and tasty snacks, all with a beautiful beach view.

They also let their creativity shine, with a whole host of stickers and book accessories that make the perfect gift for the bookworm in your life, or just a new addition to your own collection.

Cosy into a table with a cup of coffee and a new read, Caloundra is a holiday destination, after all!

Shop 6/38 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra

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

Shelly Beach Rock Pools

Shelly Beach is the perfect place to get your feet wet and enjoy a languid afternoon by the water. If you’ve lot little ones in tow, they’ll relish the opportunity to splash about in the shallow pools, spotting watery wildlife while they’re at it.

The southern end of Shelly Beach is also equipped with convenient amenities in the park including picnic tables, so why not pack a little grazing board and enjoy some sundowners by the water as your day draws to a close.

Victoria Terrace, Shelly Beach QLD 4551

Hire A Boat or Kayak

If you’re bursting to get out on the water and explore, why not rent a BBQ boat pontoon or a kayak from Bill’s Boat Hire?

North Bribie Island and the Pumicestone Passage are yours to explore from your very own little kayak or boat. Combining adventure and exploration with a little bit of exercise, a day on the water is hands down, one of the best things to do in Caloundra.

1 Esplanade, Golden Beach QLD 4551

Now that you’ve made your shortlist of the best things to do in Caloundra, why not expand your search? We’ve got your go-to guide for how to spend a weekend on the Sunshine Coast right here. Still on the hunt for some accommodation? Explore some luxury accommodation on the Sunny Coast here.