Mount Coolum is an unmissable Sunshine Coast natural attraction that stands proudly against the Sunshine Coast landscape. Rising 208m above sea level, this impressive volcanic dome was created over 25 million years ago!

About the climb

You'll need to be reasonably fit to attempt the climb. Allow at least 1.5 hours for the walk, it's approximately 45 minutes to reach the summit and then half an hour to make your way back down to the car park.  And of course you'll want to include some time for taking in those magnificent panoramic views from the top!

The walk starts out with a nice stroll through native bushland and forest. As the path traverses the rock face it then becomes quite steep. Extra care should be taken on the rocky part of the track towards the top of the mountain, it can also be very slippery when wet.  Be sure to only stay on the designated tracks and stay clear of the cliff edges. The walk should only be attempted in daylight hours and not in wet weather.

About the views & local wildlife

Once at the summit you'll be rewarded with sensational views over the Sunshine Coast. Looking east toward the sea, coastal views stretch from Double Island Point all the way to Caloundra. The short tracks at the top offer great views to the south overlooking cane land, river valleys and the Sunshine Coast's undulating hills.

You may encounter echidnas, northern brown bandicoots, grey-headed flying-foxes or if you're very lucky you might even spot a pair of nesting peregrine falcons - one of 25–35 known pairs in south-east Queensland.

What to take/wear

• Bottled water
• Wear enclosed walking shoes
• Hat & sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Camera/phone for those Insta-worthy views!

How to get there

From your accommodation at Coolum at the Beach it's less than a ten minute drive to climb Mount Coolum! Head to the Mount Coolum Car Park which is accessed from Tanah Street West (off David Low Way).  Off road parking is available on the corner of Jarnahill Drive and Tanah Street West. Follow the National Parks and Wildlife signs to reach the walking track.

*Mount Coolum image courtesy of Visit Sunshine Coast.

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If you're looking for the top things to do on the Sunshine Coast, you've come to the right place.

You'll be spoilt for choice with all the best things to do around the Sunshine Coast available to book online right here - so you can skip the queues and save time!

The Sunshine Coast lives up to its name with sunny weather, golden beaches and family-friendly attractions. Why not feel the sand between your toes and learn to surf at Noosa Beach or get up close with incredible wildlife at Australia Zoo and SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.

In season (generally July to October each year) you can experience whales up close with a whale watching cruise or even swim with the whales!

For the adventurous there's loads on offer including Sunshine Coast Treetop Challenge and Mooloolaba Ocean Jet Boat Ride.

The Sunshine Coast is truly a destination that blends natural beauty with a host of amazing tours and attractions.  Browse and book all your tickets to the top Sunshine Coast attractions here.

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For all you adventurous souls – don’t think your holiday at Coolum is going to be all rest and relaxation, because we have some awesome escapades that will get your heart pumping and your adrenaline racing!

Big Kart Track – This is go kart racing on speed. It has it all – the straights, the bends and mind-blowing hairpins on an international 1.2Km standard race track taking up to 50 karts at a time. Tell your friends about your adventures on Australia’s largest commercial race track. And for the little kids there is a 50 metre track with 4 stroke/260cc/7-horse power karts. Located at 2310 Steve Irwin Way, Landsborough, just 40 minutes south from Coolum Beach.

Sky Diving – Take in the Sunshine Coast from a unique perspective! Make the leap into Sky Diving and enjoy the views and the adrenaline rush!

Quad Bike Tours – Big kids love Quad bikes. Explore the great Woondum National Park in the Sunshine Coast’s hinterland - with your friends or join a group. No experience necessary as full training will be given, but you do need a drivers licence.

Horse Riding in the Mary Valley – This is real horse riding through lush farmland and our beautiful rainforests. Stop off at breathtaking mountain lookouts and take in the spectacular views. Half day or full day tours are available and both experienced and beginner riders will not be disappointed. You can even do a 2 to 5 day camp out tour. Located at 50 Amamoor Creek Road, Amamoor – just an hour north-west of your Coolum accommodation.

Aerobatics Flight – This is the ultimate in extreme adventures. Climb aboard a high performance aerobatic stunt plane for an adrenaline busting and stomach churning thrilling experience. You can even have your flight recorded to capture every exciting moment. Located at the Sunshine Coast Aero Club at Marcoola, just 12Km south from Coolum at the Beach.

Harley Davidson Tours – How can you top this? Your very own chauffeured tour of the Sunshine Coast on an awesome Harley. Spend just a few hours or a whole day cruising from Noosa to Caloundra. Jackets and helmets are provided and they ride 7 days a week. Based near Noosa heads they will pick you up from your Coolum accommodation.

Perhaps jet boating, paintball or high ropes is more your speed? Visit our tours and attractions booking page for more inspiration on awesome and extreme adventure activities on the Sunshine Coast and to book your spot!

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Here is Coolum at the Beach's guide to 5 fantastic free activities that embrace the beauty of the Sunshine Coast's great outdoors. What are you waiting for? An adventure awaits you.

1 – Climb a mountain
There is no better way to enjoy the breathtakingly stunning Sunshine Coast than from up high. At Coolum at the Beach, we are fortunate to have one of the coasts most beautiful and family-friendly mountains, Mount Coolum, right in our backyard! Mount Coolum is an amazing volcanic dome that has clocked up 25 million years. It’s located less than 10 minutes by car from Coolum at the Beach. This must-do activity can be enjoyed at all times of the day as no matter what time you make the climb, you will be rewarded with 360 degree panoramic views of the beaches and hinterland that the Sunshine Coast is famous for. Why not get up a little earlier and enjoy the views first thing in the morning before the heat of the day sets in, or alternatively in the late afternoon as the evening light is changing? At 208 metres high, you will need to be reasonably fit to make this 1½ hour return walk. But it’s worth it as you’ll experience native bush, incredible views, rock escarpments, and an abundance of wildlife including Northern Brown Bandicoots, echidnas, and Peregrine Falcons. The Mount Coolum walking track is accessed from the Mount Coolum car park off Tanah Street West. Off-road parking is available at the corner of Tanah Street West and Jarnahill Drive. Remember to only walk in the park during the day and not when wet as it can be very slippery in parts. Oh, and don’t forget your camera, water, snacks, good walking shoes and some insect repellent. Have fun!

2 – Stroll from Coolum to Point Perry
Why not pack some snacks, water and a picnic blanket and walk to Point Perry, which is one of the Sunshine Coast’s most spectacular headlands?  It’s a fantastic place to kick back and watch the changing colours of the ocean and enjoy the fantastic coastal views whilst trying to spot dolphins, and humpback whales during their migratory seasons. Start your walk from the Coolum Surf Club and follow the boardwalk as it hugs the coastline for 600m to Point Perry, making it perfect if you have little ones in a stroller or want to enjoy a leisurely walk at your own pace.  From here, if you feel like going on you can continue along to Point Arkwright or return to Coolum where you can finish off your walk at one  of the great coffee shops and restaurants with a leisurely lunch or coffee. Perfect!

3 – Lose yourself in a local market
Who doesn’t love losing themselves in a market for a few hours, especially when it is filled with handmade local artisan wares, upcycled and recycled goods, and fresh local organic produce and foods? Three of the Sunshine Coast's most popular market destinations, Sunshine Coast Collective Markets, Eumundi Markets and Peregian Markets, are not far from Coolum. Showcasing local craft and delicious food - these markets are the perfect destination for a morning out. Sunshine Coast Collective Markets are held right here in Coolum on the fourth Sunday of every month from 8am to 12pm, at the Coolum Primary School on Barns Lane. The Peregian Markets are held in Peregian Park, Kingfisher Drive, Peregian Beach on the first and third Sunday of every month from 7am – 12.30pm. Peregian Park is a short 7 minute drive from Coolum at the Beach. The Eumundi Markets are located inland from Coolum in the hinterland, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Coolum at the Beach. The markets are held every Saturday between 7am and 2pm, and every Wednesday between 8am and 2pm ... you’ll find them on Memorial Drive, Eumundi. Make a day of it as you can enjoy fantastic products, great food and local musicians and entertainment.

4 – Explore a waterfall
The Sunshine Coast's pristine hinterland boasts breathtaking views, spectacular picnic settings and charming country towns. It is also home to some spectacular waterfalls offering a cool sanctuary on a warm summer’s day. Kondalilla Falls is a favourite with locals and tourists alike as it has the reputation for being the most spectacular and easy to access falls on the Sunshine Coast hinterland. With rock pools at the top and bottom of the falls, you can take your pick – swim in the top, bottom pool or both! It’s an easy walk to the falls along a well-maintained pathway but there are some rock stairs. In the wet season, Kondalilla Falls sees Skene Creek drop an amazing 80 metres into a rainforest valley. There are also a number of walking tracks varying in length and difficulty, which lead to the base of the falls. If you are heading out to the falls, pack a picnic as the area is surrounded by great picnic destinations and is home to hundreds of birds species, as well as rare rainforest animals. Read our article about walks and waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast.

5 – Immerse yourself in Noosa National Park
Noosa's magnificent National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife - think echidnas, snoozing koalas and glossy-black cockatoos - pristine pocket beaches, coastal bush and rainforests. If you are feeling energetic, there are more than 15 kilometres of walking tracks to explore. The walks are graded and range from easy through to more difficult. The most popular track, and for good reason, is the Coastal Walk. This is the perfect walk is you want to experience incredible views of the rugged coastline and some of the fauna the park is famous for. On the first section of the track you’ll walk past Boiling Pot with its swirling water, then onto Dolphin Point, where you just may spot a dolphin. The next stop is the mystical Fairy Pools which are a series of rocky tidal pools, and then on to Hell’s Gate where you can take in stunning coastal views and of course, get some amazing pics. It takes about 4 hours return and is just under 11 kilometres. The walk starts at the end of Park Road, at Noosa Heads. Access is available by walking from Hastings Street along the boardwalk, past Little Cove, until you reach the Noosa National Park carpark.

*Image credit: Visit Sunshine Coast

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Step away from the well-worn tracks and tourist haunts to explore the natural beauty of the spectacular Sunshine Coast.

Read on for Coolum at the Beach’s top tips and discover a hidden gem...

Swim

There is nothing quite like a refreshing dip in cool, clean waters on a balmy summer's day. But what is we said that you can beat the crowds and have an uninterrupted swim in peaceful surround, too? It's possible!

• Immerse yourself in nature at the Buderim Waterfall
  In the heat of the day, the glorious Buderim Forest Waterfall offers a serene and secluded oasis. A relaxed wander through lush canopies, ferns, rock pools and abundant bird life leads you to the spectacular falls, as well as a refreshing swimming hole. The 45 hectare site also has electric barbecues and picnic benches if you are looking to extend your stay in the shade.
• Inspire your senses at Artists Cascades
  Nestled in the heart of Conondale’s lush National Park, Artists Cascades offer a well-deserved reward for the hunt! Finding them will require a trek of approximately five kilometres, but the good news is that the search deters many... leaving you to share this secret oasis with very few (if any). If you don’t want to miss this glorious setting, park your car at Booloumba Creek Day Use Area and enjoy the walk... we promise it’s worth it.
• Escape to paradise at Yaroomba
  Skip the noisy crowds and kids with body boards interrupting your swim. At Yaroomba Beach, you can take in the fresh breeze and rolling waves in peace. Just south of Coolum, you will find Yaroomba – a specular stretch of beach punctuated by a large headland and endless pandanus trees and visited only by those in the know. Make the trip... you can thank us later.

Adventure

If you are feeling a little more energetic, it’s easy to combine physical activity, seclusion and an appreciation for untouched natural beauty on the Sunshine Coast.

• Canoe your way to Harry’s Hut
  Known as the “river of mirrors” the Noosa Everglades boast unparalleled beauty. Take one of the most breathtaking canoeing adventures in Australia and meander your way through the everglades en route to Harry’s Hut – an historic loggers camp and a great place to take a break. If canoeing is not your thing, you can still explore the beauty of the region by 4WD (access to the everglades is limited but you can drive to Harry’s Hut) or by cruise with a glass of champagne and a lunch time barbecue. Talk to a member of the Coolum at the Beach to book a Noosa Everglades Tour.
• Throw in a line at Dunethin Lake and Rock
  Cast your line while sipping a crisp sunset beer at Dunethin Lake. It’s an experience you won’t quickly forget. The fishing Is great, the atmosphere is relaxed and the sights are spectacular. Follow the Yandina-Bli Bli Rd to Dunethin Rock Rd to reach Lake Dunethin.

Picnic

Avoid long queues for beachside barbecues and overlapping picnic rugs during your Sunshine Coast holiday. These gems boast plenty of picturesque space, amenities and natural beauty... without the crowds!

• Switch off at Lake Macdonald and the Noosa Botanic Gardens
  Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to picturesque settings at this picnic destination. The lush botanic gardens provide plenty of shaded seating, rotundas mean you are covered for all seasons, amenities are accessible and the scenery is breathtaking. There are a number of parks around the lake’s edge, a playground will keep the children happy and, for those who are snap-happy, there are endless photo opportunities with eight hectares of gardens, meandering pathways and an abundance of wildlife.
• Take a leisurely drive to Wappa Dam
  Wappa Dam is a fabulous destination for a Sunday drive and picnic lunch. Vast expanses of green, open space make relaxing in peace a breeze. Pack a book and a bottle of wine for maximum pleasure.

Feel free to contact us if you wish to learn more about the hidden gems we have listed above.

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Coolum and its surrounding areas are a great place for walking tracks and beautiful, sparkling waterfalls. As you leave your Coolum beach apartment - choose between a gentle walk along the ocean or a more vigorous, hiking walk up in the hinterland.

So here are some ideas for great walks and driving trips you can do on your Coolum holiday:

Walking tracks along the Sunshine Coast

The Coolum Boardwalk: this is a beautiful walk along a newly constructed boardwalk, which follows the ocean from Beach Road to Point Perry all the way to Point Arkwright. An easy walk for people of all ages, it is well lit at night and it is just metres from Coolum on the Beach.

Point Perry and Point Arkwright are great spots for both whale watching (from June to November) and bird watching – they are also popular spots for weddings. Point Perry (also known as Wilkinson Park) is a rocky headland at the southern boundary of Coolum Beach. It has a new shelter which offers a chance to rest for a while and take in the stunning views. Point Arkwright is a rocky promontory just a short 1km walk south of Point Perry, and has amazing views north to Peregian Beach, right up to Noosa and south down to Moreton Island/Mulgumpin.

You can continue walking on up to Peregian Beach - a delightful 7km walk north along the beach from Point Perry. Peregian Beach is a quaint little seaside village – but make sure to look out for the tall Norfolk Pines growing alongside the beach so you can spot where to turn off for the village.

Waterfalls

Kondalilla Falls: A leisurely 40km drive from Coolum Beach, south-west via Montville brings you to the Kondalilla Falls National Park, in the Blackall Ranges. The Kondalilla Falls circuit is a 5km walk requiring a medium level of fitness, it has gentle downward slopes but there are a lot of steps on the return journey.

The walk starts at the top of the stunning Skene Creek which falls 90 metres down to the rainforest floor – an awesome stunning spectacle.

Gardeners Falls: This is freshwater swimming at its best. Gardeners Falls at Maleny is a secluded jewel just 45km west of Coolum Beach. Located not far from Falls Creek Road at Obi Obi, it is just a short walk to the falls from the sealed car park and is one of the prettiest waterways in Australia.

Booloumba Falls: Located within Kenilworth State Forest. Drive down Sunday Creek Road, 7km past Kenilworth and take the turnoff for Booloumba Creek picnic and camping areas. These falls are a short 3km walk from the camping area and you will love the large rock pool above the falls – though they can be very popular on weekends.

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From June to November every year over 25,000 humpback whales undertake a 10,000km migration from Antarctica.

It’s a ritual documented for thousands of years by the traditional owners of the land and an amazing spectacle that should be experienced by land or sea. Ever wanted to see these gentle giants at play? Then a trip to Coolum Beach is on the cards.

Stay in Coolum and enjoy the spectacle

Coolum Beach is considered one of the best places to watch the Humpback Whale migration on the Sunshine Coast. From your Coolum at the Beach apartment, it's an easy stroll to the beach and prime viewing spots like Point Perry.

Thinking of taking in the spectacle? Here are the best 5 places to take in the whale migration if you’re staying in Coolum Beach.

Emu Mountain

Situated between Peregian Beach and Coolum Beach, Emu Mountain is a small easily scalable mountain that serves as a perfect viewing platform to watch for whale breaches on the horizon. Located 3.8 km from Coolum at the Beach it also makes for a pleasant morning out. The trail head can be easily found along Emu Mountain Road opposite Coolum Beach High School.

Mount Coolum

Mt Coolum is a slightly harder hike and requires a mid level of fitness. Come during the whale season and the rewards are certainly worth the effort. Whale season usually enjoys cool, clear days so visitors are treated to 360’ panoramic views and an incomparable view of the ocean. Make sure you keep an eye out for the more aggressive male Humpback Whale displays in July. And, if you’re here in October you’ll see the pods come closer to the shoreline with their calves.

Point Perry

An easy stroll from your Coolum at the Beach apartment along the boardwalk you’ll find Point Perry, one of the best and most accessible spots to take in the whale migration. Located only 1.8 km from your accommodation it makes for an enjoyable walk, we recommend that you keep your eye on the horizon whilst walking to see the whales breach and play.

Coolum Surf Club

The Coolum Beach Surf Club is situated right on the beach and is a great place to take in the whale migration from the land, especially if you’re feeling hungry. Our advice is to grab a seat by the window, something tasty and keep your eyes on the horizon.

Whale Watching Tours

There a number of tour businesses across the Sunshine Coast that will take you to see the whale migration. From all day tours to half day trips and even the ultimate ‘swim with the whales’ tour, the Sunshine Coast is the perfect base to experience the gentle giants of the sea up close.

If you’re thinking of joining a tour ask at the reception of Coolum at the Beach and our friendly staff can make a recommendation or book a tour here.

Tips for the Sunshine Coast whale season

There are three distinctions within the Sunshine Coast whale season. Early in the season, June and July, the males are more active and even a little aggressive in their displays. This is the time when the singleton whales are playing and displaying. Expect to see large breaches, tail slaps and huffy sprays as the males show off to attract mates.

From July through to August the whale acts are more family friendly and you can expect to see whole pods and plenty of smaller calves. The pods move in closer to the coastline and you can see them from the beach. If you’re staying with us at Coolum at the Beach this time of year make sure head up to Point Perry and take in the show.

Later in the season, September through to October and even November, the calves become a lot more curious and if you happen to be on a whale watching tour then expect to the young whales express their curiosity by approaching the vessel, flashing their white tummies and eyeing you off playfully from the depths.

Whale season on the Sunshine Coast is magnificent and worth the visit to Coolum if you want to experience it first hand. Join us at Coolum at the Beach from June to November and be part of this magic migration.

Check out our tour booking page for your Sunshine Coast whale watching cruises.

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The best way to see the Sunshine Coast is from high in the sky! See stunning beachfront scenery with a 10,000ft or 15,000ft tandem skydive over beautiful Noosa.

Book your tandem skydive with friendly and reassuring skydive operators from Sunshine Coast Skydivers at Sunshine Coast Airport in Marcoola.

They will put your fears aside as they give you a full safety briefing and suit you up in the latest jumpsuit and skydiving equipment.

Once the instruction and safety briefing is over you'll hop aboard a light aircraft to soar up over the Sunshine Coast's landscape for some awesome views of the hinterland, beach, and glittering waters beyond.

BOOK YOUR SKYDIVE HERE or ask our friendly reception staff here at Coolum At The Beach to make your arrangements.

Plan your next fun-filled holiday on the Sunshine Coast in Coolum accommodation located right near the beach and amongst a tropical oasis at Coolum At The Beach. Select from self-contained stylish one, two or three bedroom apartments or three and four bedroom villas. 

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