Caloundra
From World travel guide
Caloundra is a city on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. Slightly more laid-back than its neighbours Coolum and Noosa, Caloundra still retains a slightly "old-fashioned" air.
Contents |
Understand
Caloundra's suburbs are in fact a number of different beaches, each with a slightly different local character. Among these are Golden Beach, Moffatt Beach, Dickie Beach and King's Beach.
Get in
The easiest way into Caloundra is by road from either the south (Brisbane) or the north (the rest of the coast).
By train
By car
Following the highway north from Brisbane for approximately two hours (depending on traffic) will get you to Caloundra. Be aware that the Sunshine Coast is a popular weekend getaway for Brisbanites, so expect a slightly longer drive on a Friday afternoon. You will also have to pay the toll on the Gateway Bridge as you leave Brisbane.
By bus
Regular bus services run from Brisbane to Caloundra. The bus terminal is located near King's Beach.
By boat
Get around
For a comparatively small city in population terms, Caloundra takes in a surprisingly large area, much of which is quite hilly. Unless all you want to do or see is close to your accommodation (which is unlikely), a car will probably come in handy.
See
The major attraction of Caloundra is the beaches, some of the state's best. Caloundra can also serve as a base from which to visit Australia Zoo, run by Steve Irwin. The spectacular Glasshouse Mountains are nearby as well.
Do
All beach-related activities are more than well catered for.
Buy
While there are no traditional "tourist purchases" to make, there are a number of shops stocking books and suchlike which are often worth a browse.
Eat
As befits a seaside town, seafood is very popular and there are many fish and chip shops around. For the sweet tooth, the Gelateria Milano is highly-regarded in the southeast of Queensland and is actually run by Italians, unlike many other gelato shops.
Budget
Mid-range
Splurge
Drink
Sleep
Budget
Mid-range
Splurge
Contact
Stay safe
The usual precautions against theft in a developed nation should be taken. As always in coastal Australia, remember to swim between the flags - namely the red-and-yellow flags erected by the surf lifesavers each day. Between those flags is the safest part of the beach. It may be more crowded, but the risk to life otherwise is considerable. Lifesavers are also often annoyed at having to rescue tourists not following those instructions.
Get out
External links
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