Coolum: A Hidden Gem on the Sunshine Coast of Australia
Coolum is a beautiful beach town located on the Sunshine Coast of Australia. With its pristine beaches, stunning coastline, and laid-back lifestyle, Coolum is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes Coolum such a special place and explore some of the top things to see and do in the area.
Geography and Climate
Coolum is located in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, approximately 120km north of Brisbane. The town is situated on a narrow coastal strip between the Pacific Ocean and the Mount Coolum National Park. The area has a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year and high humidity in the summer months.
Top Attractions in Coolum
Coolum is home to a range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Coolum:
Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach is the main attraction in the town, with its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, making it a safe place for swimming and surfing.
Mount Coolum National Park
Mount Coolum National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as the iconic Mount Coolum, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Coolum Boardwalk
The Coolum Boardwalk is a scenic walking trail that takes visitors along the coastline. The boardwalk offers stunning views of the ocean and is a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Coolum Aqua Park
Coolum Aqua Park is a water-based obstacle course that is fun for the whole family. The park features inflatable obstacles, slides, and trampolines, making it a great way to cool off on a hot day.
Coolum Surf School
Coolum Surf School offers lessons for surfers of all skill levels. The school provides all the necessary equipment and instructors who are experienced surfers themselves.
Local Food and Drink
Coolum is home to a range of restaurants and cafes that offer delicious food and drink. Here are some of the top places to eat and drink in Coolum:
Raw Energy
Raw Energy is a popular cafe that serves healthy breakfast and lunch options. The cafe has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to grab a coffee or smoothie.
Coolum Beach Hotel
The Coolum Beach Hotel is a local landmark and has been serving food and drinks for over a century. The hotel offers a range of dining options, including a bistro and a beer garden.
My Place
My Place is a cosy cafe that serves homemade food and delicious coffee. The cafe has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to meet friends or catch up on work.
Accommodation
Coolum offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. The main types of tourist accommodation in Coolum include:
Hotels and Resorts: Coolum has a range of hotels and resorts, from luxury to budget options. Some popular examples include The Point Coolum Beach Resort, Coolum Seaside Resort, and Element on Coolum Beach.
Apartments and Villas: There are a variety of apartments and villas available in Coolum, which can be a great option for families or groups. Some popular examples include Coolum Beach Getaway Resort, Seacove Resort, and Coolum Caprice.
Holiday Homes: Coolum also offers a range of holiday homes, which can provide a more secluded and private experience. Some popular examples include Coolum Beach House, Coolum Dreams, and Beach Haven.
Caravan Parks and Camping: Coolum has several caravan parks and camping grounds, which can be a great option for those looking for a more budget-friendly accommodation option. Some popular examples include Coolum Beach Holiday Park, Big4 Rivershore Resort, and Maroochy River Park.
Bed and Breakfasts: For those looking for a more personal touch, Coolum also has a range of bed and breakfasts available. Some popular examples include Coolum Beach Bed and Breakfast, Coolum At The Beach, and Point Break Coolum Beach.
Coolum has a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly caravan parks.
Top Accommodation Choices
Here are some of the top places to stay in Coolum:
The Point Coolum Beach
The Point Coolum Beach is a luxury resort that offers stunning views of the ocean. The resort features a range of accommodation options, including apartments and villas.
Coolum Beach Resort
Coolum Beach Resort is a family-friendly resort that offers spacious apartments and a range of amenities, including a pool and a tennis court.
Element on Coolum Beach
Element on Coolum Beach is a modern resort that is located just steps from the beach. The resort features spacious apartments that are perfect for families or groups of friends.
Local Events and Festivals
Coolum hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the top events to check out:
Coolum Markets
The Coolum Markets are held on the third Sunday of every month and feature a range of local products, including fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods.
Coolum Surf Festival
The Coolum Surf Festival is held annually and attracts surfers from around the world. The festival features a range of surfing events, as well as live music and food stalls.
Christmas in Coolum
Christmas in Coolum is a popular event that is held in December. The event features a range of activities, including carol singing, a visit from Santa Claus, and a fireworks display.
Getting to Coolum
Coolum is located approximately 120km north of Brisbane and is easily accessible by car or public transport. The town is serviced by the Sunshine Coast Airport, which offers regular flights to and from major cities in Australia.
Conclusion
Coolum is a hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast of Australia. With its stunning beaches, beautiful coastline, and laid-back lifestyle, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Coolum?
The best time to visit Coolum is between September and May when the weather is warm and dry. During this time, you can expect average temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.
The summer months of December to February are the busiest and most popular time to visit, with many events and festivals taking place.
However, it’s important to note that the summer months can also bring some humidity and occasional rain showers.
If you prefer a quieter time, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of September to November or March to May, where you can still enjoy warm weather and fewer crowds.
Coolum is a year-round destination with plenty to offer visitors, no matter when you choose to visit.
Is Coolum a good place for families?
Coolum is a great place for families with its range of family-friendly accommodation, attractions, and activities.
Coolum Beach is a patrolled beach, making it a safe place for families to swim and surf. The beach also has a range of amenities, including showers, toilets, and picnic areas, making it easy to spend a day there.
Other family-friendly attractions in the area include the Ginger Factory, which has rides and activities for children, and the Wildlife HQ Zoo, where you can get up close to Australian and international animals.
There are also plenty of parks and playgrounds in Coolum, as well as a range of family-friendly restaurants and cafes.
Coolum is a great destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing beach holiday.
Can you swim at Coolum Beach?
Coolum Beach is patrolled by lifeguards and is a safe place for swimming and surfing. The beach is known for its clear, blue waters and white sand, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
During the summer months, the beach can get quite busy, so it’s important to follow the instructions of the lifeguards and swim between the red and yellow flags.
If you’re not a confident swimmer, there are plenty of other water activities to enjoy, including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing lessons.
It’s important to note that the beach can have strong currents and rips, so it’s important to be aware of the conditions and swim within your limits.
Is there public transport in Coolum?
Coolum is serviced by a range of public transport options, including buses and trains. The closest train station is in Nambour, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Coolum. From there, you can catch a bus or taxi to Coolum.
The local bus network, Sunbus, operates a range of services throughout the Sunshine Coast, including to and from Coolum.
If you’re travelling from further afield, the Sunshine Coast Airport is the closest airport and is located approximately 10 minutes’ drive from Coolum. From there, you can catch a bus, taxi or hire a car to get to your accommodation.
What is the closest city to Coolum?
Brisbane is the closest major city to Coolum, located approximately 120km to the south. If you are driving from Brisbane to Coolum, it will take approximately 90 minutes along the Bruce Highway. If you prefer not to drive, there are a range of public transport options available, including buses and trains.
The train journey from Brisbane to Nambour takes approximately 2 hours, and from there, you can catch a bus or taxi to Coolum.
Coolum is a great destination for those looking to explore the Sunshine Coast region while still being close to major city.