Beach Yourself Here This Summer
If you are looking for somewhere to beach your family this summer, then settle in beside the sea at Caloundra's new-look Bulcock Beach precinct. The Bulcock Beach Esplanade has enjoyed a major facelift just in time for summer, with an upgraded boardwalk, improved picnic areas and barbecues, and pedestrian links to the cafés and restaurants.
Resorts at this delightful family-friendly hub enjoy stunning views over the tranquil
Pumicestone Passage and the northern tip of Bribie Island, with the heritage-listed Glass House Mountains as a natural backdrop.
Bulcock Beach is one of the many Caloundra beaches that are linked by the Sunshine Coast Coastal Path, a shared pedestrian and cycle trail that runs for 25km along the scenic foreshores of Caloundra. It's only a 10 minute walk on the coastal path from Bulcock Beach to the
popular Kings Beach and the views in between are just magical. Don't miss out on the great accommodation specials and hot deals in the lead up to Christmas.
Indulge the Senses
New to Bulcock Beach is the $90 million Rumba Beach Resort & Spa. This 5-star resort is designed to take full advantage of the pristine surroundings and views, with a lagoon pool, separate spa and a
lap pool with portholes. Relax poolside with a drink and snack from the bar or try out one of the fantastic dining options, including the Italian restaurant, La Dolce Vita, the Hogs Breath Café, The Coffee Club and the English-style Penefathings Inn.
Be sure to sample some of the award-winning food offerings around town as well. Indulge in a scoop of grand champion cherry icecream from Milano Gelataria on Bulcock Street, and sample the yummy home-made products made to secret family recipes. For authentic Indian food in an exotic setting, try some of the delicious dishes on offer at India Today. This intriguing restaurant on Bulcock Street holds the title of Queensland's best Indian restaurant.
In the nearby hinterland, Maleny Cheese won the state's grand champion cheese award with their
herb and garlic fetta. You can make up your own picnic basket and explore the towering rainforest at nearby Mary Cairncross Park.
Family Fun
For parents looking to keep the whole family entertained, Caloundra definitely has the kids at heart. Enjoy an eco adventure in the Marine Park with Caloundra Cruise or take a spin at the Big Kart Track, the largest commercial go-kart track in Australia. The kids will never forget a visit to Australia Zoo. This incredible wildlife experience has more than 14 wildlife shows daily, and you can also go behind the scenes at the Australian Wildlife Hospital next door.
Aussie World has over 30 rides and games for all ages and with a reputation for fun and good old-fashioned value for money, you can't go wrong. Check out the Ferris Wheel and the Wild Mouse
Rollercoaster, or ride the Stock Shed Dodgems and the Space Shaker Swinging Ship. At the Queensland Air Museum the whole family can let their imagination fly high in one of Australia's finest air museums.
Just 20 minutes north of Caloundra at Mooloolaba, UnderWater World has thousands of marine and freshwater animals including giant sharks, stingrays, sawfish and tropical reef fish. Dive in and enjoy a seal experience or a behind-the-scenes tour.
Getting There
Caloundra is just an hour's drive north of Brisbane for visitors travelling by car, or you can fly direct to Sunshine Coast Airport from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. You can also fly to Brisbane International or Domestic Airports and get an airport transfer straight to your hotel.
Editorial and images courtesy of Caloundra Tourism
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