Ultimate Winter Guide to Coolum Beach
Welcome to the Ultimate Winter Guide to Coolum Beach. We invite you to escape the chilly grasp of winter and immerse yourself in the sun-soaked paradise of Queensland's sub-tropical haven.
On the Sunshine Coast we offer a respite from frigid temperatures down south and beckon you to indulge in the balmy embrace of Coolum Beach. The idyllic coastal town boasts endless stretches of golden sand, blue waters, and a delightful array of activities and attractions perfectly tailored for those seeking a winter retreat.
So, swap your boots for flip-flops, pack your sunscreen, and join us as we unveil the secrets of Coolum Beach, your ultimate winter sanctuary.
Sunrise at First Bay, Coolum Beach
Learn to Surf - The Best Conditions are in Winter!
Surf’s up year-round on the Sunshine Coast. With glassy waves and consistent weather, winter is the best time to learn to surf. You’ll be frothing to hit the waves, and a lesson with Coolum Surf School will have you hanging 10 in no time. You can borrow one of their wetsuits to keep toasty.
Winter Hikes
The winter months are the best time to hike in Queensland. Not only are the days still warm to enjoy the sunshine. The shorter days mean that there are more opportunities to witness sunrise or sunset from your favourite summit.
Mount Coolum - If it isn't already, the popular Mount Coolum hike should be on your bucket list. The journey to the peak will take around 45 minutes, and the return trip to the parking lot will take about 30 minutes.
The hike's first leg is a pleasant, shaded stroll through native forest. When the trail reaches the rock wall, it gets very steep, so take a break to gather your breath and take pictures of the stunning coastal scenery.
Emu Mountain - The entire family can complete this straightforward 20-minute hike to the summit. The trail starts opposite Coolum State High School. The breathtaking 360-degree views of the ocean and the surrounding area make the walk worthwhile.
Summit of Mount Coolum
Salty Saturdays
The local markets in Coolum are always such a vibe so check out Salty Saturdays. They are held every second Saturday of the month in Jack Morgan Park (next to the Coolum Bowls Club). They are filled with a fun afternoon of music, shopping and entertainment for the entire family.
Whale Watching from Coolum Beach
We are lucky to have designated whale-watching platforms in Coolum Beach that are part of a longer coastal walk. During whale migration season, join the local Facebook groups to receive up-to-date information about when whales are active and spotted off the coastline. Download the Discovery Trail to help get yourself around our region.
Point Arkwright - Point Arkwright is a rocky outcrop only one kilometre south of Point Perry that offers breathtaking views over Moreton Island in the south, Peregian Beach in the north, and Noosa in the north.
Second Bay - Between First and Second Bay, there is a little-known lookout that was built specifically for whale watching. It is a photographer's dream due to the ability to capture the unique angle of both bays.
Point Perry - At the southern end of Coolum Beach lies a rocky headland known as Point Perry, also called Wilkinson Park. Point Perry is one of the best places on the Sunshine Coast for whale watching because of its wonderful setting and breathtaking vistas. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean from the elevated vantage point, making whale watching simple and enjoyable.
Swim with Whales
Every winter experience the opportunity to meet the giant locals on Australia’s first swim with whales experience with Sunreef Mooloolaba. Find yourself fin to fin with these majestic mammals as you glide side by side along the humpback highway. Tours operate from July to Mid-October every year.
Snorkelling in Coolum
Coolum's wintertime snorkelling is a captivating experience that will leave you in awe of the colourful underwater world. Coolum's subtropical environment keeps things comfortably warm, with an average water temperature around 21 degrees.
With a variety of topical fish, curious turtles and much more to be discovered. The best spots for experienced snorkelers are around the rocky headlands of the Coolum Bays, Main Beach and Point Arkwright. Pick a day that there is no swell, blue skies and minimal wind for the best water clarity.
Skydiving
Experience Coolum from above and get your endorphins pumping! You will see the Sunshine Coast from a whole new angle. Admire the surrounding forests. And breathe in that salty breeze whilst grinning ear to ear. For information check out Skydive Noosa.
Your landing location is at Stumers Creek in Coolum. If skydiving isn’t for you, why not come down and watch the parachutes land? It’s a mesmerising experience.
Skydive Noosa lands at Stumers Creek, Coolum Beach
Wildlife Spotting
Coolum is the Sunshine Coast’s best place for animal adventures! The creature trail has been designed for the whole family to get outside and explore the wonderful nature that Coolum offers.
Discover turtles, whales, water dragons and search for elusive peregrine falcons. Immerse yourself in nature and learn incredible animal facts along the way. Download the map to find the best spots in Coolum to discover each creature.
Experience First Nation Performances at Horizon Festival
The Horizon Festival showcases the best local talent and shares stories and artwork of the First Nations people of the Sunshine Coast through visual arts and theatre, music and dance. From August through to September every year, enjoy large-scale installations to intimate performances, workshops and talks.
At the end of the festival, experience the Dawn Awakening on the banks of Stumers Creek in Coolum as the first light rises and the voices of First Peoples call in new energy for these times. Together experience the journey through story, dance, song, visual art projections, spoken word and fire installations to reflect, strengthen and testify a flourishing connection to country, culture and each other.
Dawn Awakening at Stumers Creek, Coolum Beach
Enjoy Vivid Sunrises and Sunsets
The skies appear to be growing more vivid and bold as the days grow shorter and cooler. This is due to the reduced humidity and the earth’s rotational tilt. There are more opportunities to see both sunrise and sunset during the winter months due to the shorter days.
Spirit House Cooking School
The famous Spirit House restaurant in Yandina offers cooking lessons of their to-die-for menu. You usually have to book months in advance to get a table reservation so why not learn to make their dishes for yourself? Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or not, Spirit House Cooking School will give you a complete understanding of Asian ingredients and cooking methods. It also includes a feed and wine.
Winter Star Gazing
Due to the reduced cloud coverage, the winter night sky is particularly stunning. With minimal light pollution in Coolum, the stars look like they shine brighter up here. Remember to look up and experience the nighttime glory at least once while you are visiting us.
Day Trips from Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach is centrally located in the middle of the Sunshine Coast. This means that it is the perfect place to explore the entire region during your stay. We recommend these winter day trips.
Noosa National Park - The world-famous Noosa National Park is only a 20-minute north of Coolum. Take a hike and experience its beauty by enjoying the headland walk that starts at either Noosa Main Beach or Sunshine Beach.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland - Drive 40 mins inland and experience the rainforest and quaint countryside towns of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton. Enjoy a scenic hike, picturesque views and true country Queensland life.
Australia Zoo - The world-famous zoo owned by the Irwin family is 40 mins south of Coolum and is the perfect family day out. At Australia Zoo, you can view over 1,200 animals, including those found in our African Savannah, South-East Asia exhibit and Bindi’s Island – as well as the original part of the zoo with all your Aussie favourites!
Where to Eat in Coolum Beach During Winter:
A local coffee shop with the coolest surf store located in the back. Their coffee is even roasted in Coolum as well, so for a truly local coffee experience, look no further than Compound.
Shop for unique local clothing and surf accessories, making it the perfect souvenir from your time in Coolum.
Blackflag Brewing Compound Coolum
Visit the Blackflag Brewing taproom and brewery in the Coolum Industrial Park. The Brewhouse is on the ground floor with a bar on the mezzanine level so you can gaze over the production floor. A rotating selection of food trucks visit the brewery and brewery tours are also available.
The greatest views in Coolum Beach can be found at the local surf club. The menu has something for every taste and appetite, from succulent steaks and crispy fish and chips to fresh seafood and colourful salads.
Coolum Surf Club
If you are looking for the best curry on the coast then you are in luck. With authentically prepared meals from the Northern region of India. The restaurant only uses the finest Indian spices and captures the flavours of the north.
Their menu is an example of how modern other cultures have influenced Australian food. With views of the ocean and a location just feet from the fine dunes, this restaurant combines contemporary design with a laid-back beachfront ambience. Check out their outdoor fireplace for a unique winter feel. With local seafood sourced from the Sunshine Coast region, this is an excellent restaurant for those foodies wanting to try the local cuisine.
The Caf, is a favourite with locals and tourists alike, provides a cosy and laid-back atmosphere where you can unwind and eat delicious food. Offering an all-day menu that operates seven days a week.
Where to Stay in Coolum Beach During Winter:
Overlooking Coolum’s main beach and just up the road from the main shops, Coolum Caprice has it all. With a resort-style heated pool and spa, your winter getaway is sorted. With one, two or three-bedroom apartments available there is an option available for you.
Coolum Caprice Hotel, Coolum Beach
Coolum Motel accommodation is located across the road from the beach and features affordable prices. They focus on providing simple comforts with standard rooms including private ensuites, or budget rooms including shared bathrooms. They provide a fully equipped kitchen which is very popular for those who like to eat at home and self-cater.
A spectacular beach trip may be had here, where luxury and unmatched natural beauty coexist. The hotel, which is perched atop a lovely hill and has fantastic panoramic views of the glittering ocean, is only a two minute walk away from the secluded Third Bay.
The Point Coolum Beach, Opposite Third Bay
A contemporary beachfront resort, Coolum at the Beach offers elegant, fully-equipped vacation apartments and opulent villas in a lush tropical setting. You're welcomed with a huge heated pool and a second pool just for kids. There are apartments with one to four bedrooms available, so you can find one that works for you.
We look forward to welcoming you to the warm Coolum community and showing how we do winter… Coolum style!
