Try Something New in Caloundra
You can learn something new during every day of a holiday in Caloundra on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. This inspiring region has something for everyone from art classes and cooking schools to the more adventurous activities like horse riding, learning to surf, kite surf, kayak, and scuba. Caloundra's a great base to broaden your horizons, and what better time to learn something new than during a relaxing holiday.
If you love the water there's plenty of choice to get wet and learn something new. Book in for a lesson with a surf school to learn how to ride the waves. Or perhaps take a lesson in kite surfing with the help of experienced 
instructors. Caloundra has the perfect conditions for kite surfing. A short pre-tour lesson is all it takes to experience kayaking on the tranquil waters of the Pumicestone Passage Marine Park. A kayak tour is relaxing and fun for all the family and offers a close up view of nature, and the chance to take a stroll on Bribie Island.
If heading under water is more the go, then learn to scuba dive. Lessons for beginners in small groups up to five are available. You start in the pool then advance to dive off Dicky Beach in Caloundra to see some soft corals and marine life. Certified divers can add to their repertoire of experiences with a visit to the ex HMAS Brisbane dive site.
The blue waters off Caloundra are also earning a reputation for world-class sport fishing. This area has hooked a number of fly-fishing world records, including sailfish and longtail tuna over 20kg caught on light line. Fly fishing is a great add-on to any holiday break, and easy to learn from an internationally accredited instructor.
Understand more about the importance of the marine environment on board a whale watching cruise. Join the search for humpback whale pods taking a break from Antarctica on their annual migration route. Experience these playful giants that can 
grow to over 14.6 metres. Encounters depart Mooloolaba daily between July and the end of November. Mooloolaba is just a short drive from your holiday base in Caloundra.
Away from the water there is also plenty of choice to extend yourself. Hitch up for some horse riding instruction and guided tours on trails and treks through rainforest and timberland for all riding standards. Take your horse on a picnic or lunch stopover.
Visitors can let loose their cultural instincts and join workshops in watercolour, pastels, oils, acrylics and drawing techniques held at a local art centre. Workshops are tailored for beginners to advanced and are held in small, friendly groups of four to six that enables plenty of hands-on support while you create a unique artwork.
During the period of the Sunshine Coast Art Prize (August - October) there are regular art appreciation sessions and workshops to enjoy.
Just behind the Caloundra coastline is the Sunshine Coast hinterland, home to the freshest of produce and a perfect location to learn how to use them in hands-on cooking classes from leading chefs. Make tasty Thai or understand more about organic food and cooking.
Useful information
Caloundra can be reached an hour's drive north of Brisbane or via air from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide direct to Brisbane or Sunshine Coast Airports. For more information on how to book these activities and others that may be running during your stay visit Caloundra Tourism.
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For a host of accommodation options and things to see and do in Caloundra, visit our Caloundra Travel Guide
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All images are supplied by Caloundra Tourism