2 minute read
Caloundra to Kawana
Cast your mind back to a time when life was simpler, when a family beach holiday every year was the done thing.
If you’re looking for a destination that has retained the charm of the good old days, – then consider picturesque Caloundra and the Pumicestone Passage area. From affordable to five star, you’ll find a place to play, unwind and spend unhurried time together.
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The time-delayed fountain at Kings Beach will have the kids giggling for hours as it catches them unawares. They’ll happily spend the day running between the beach, the fountain and the fully-fenced saltwater pool that is located on the stunning foreshore.
Look for hermit crabs along Dicky Beach’s shoreline, cycle or stroll along the boardwalk from Bulcock Beach to Kings Beach. Experienced surfers will want to make a beeline for Moffat Beach, renowned for its awesome surf break.
When you’ve had your fill of the beach, take an environmental cruise with a difference on an amphibious tour or amp up the energy with some jetskiing. Have an F-111 experience at the Queensland Air Museum, browse the bustling Caloundra Street Fair or ice skate every summer at Caloundra Rollerdrome.
Kawana Waters is an ideal destination for shopping, watersports, swimming, fishing and walking, with its many secret spots along the coastline waiting to be found.
Explore the canals with a canoe, kayak or outrigger, or get involved in the exciting sport of dragon boating. You may prefer to watch the colourful water activities from dry land or take in a match at Stockland Park where you can see rugby league, rugby union and soccer.
GET MOVING - The recently revitalised Caloundra Coastal Walk, stretching 25 kilometres, begins at Golden Beach in the south, where it rims the Pumicestone Passage, before passing Bulcock Beach and Kings Beach on its way around Caloundra Headland and then north to the sandy beaches of Kawana to Point Cartwright.
The walk features historical sites including Military Jetty, which was used for operations in World War II, and the heritage-listed Kings Beach Bathing Pavilion, constructed in 1937. The headland section follows a trail of plaques honouring the lives of those lost in war.
Along the Caloundra Coastal Walk keep an eye out for the wreck of the SS Dicky that ran aground on Dicky Beach in 1893 during a cyclone.
PIONEERS RECOGNISED - Ma and Pa Bendall were pioneering, late-starter surfers who lived at and loved Caloundra. In the 1960s, Pa was the oldest competitive surfer and vied for honours in well-known surf spots. The longest running surf competition in Australia bearing their name takes place in Caloundra each year. The event will celebrate 40 years in 2014 and is expected to attract surfers from around the country.
DAY & NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT - Caloundra has become a popular hub for events - from the gruelling physical challenge known as Tough Mudder, to the beats and grooves of the Caloundra Music Festival. Whether it’s taking in the view from the lighthouses, playing a round of golf at Pelican Waters or throwing in a line to catch the next ‘big one’, there’s endless fun to be had during the day. As for the evenings - enjoy dinner at Caloundra RSL Club or be entertained with the latest theatre, music or comedy at the Events Centre.
