An Introduction To Caloundra Surf
Caloundra surf provides easy access to diverse Sunshine Coast breaks, offering a fantastic destination for surfers to explore without needing a car.
Kings Beach is ideal for surfers of all levels and is just a short 10-minute walk from the town centre. For beginners, Bulcock Beach offers sheltered conditions & is only 15 minutes on foot.
Dicky Beach & Moffat Beach, both just a short bike ride away, provide excellent breaks, with Dicky Beach catering to all levels and Moffat Beach offering more powerful waves for intermediate to advanced surfers.
With well-maintained bike paths, pedestrian-friendly streets, and convenient public transport, Caloundra is a great base for surfers looking to explore the Sunshine Coast’s vibrant surf scene.
In This Guide
Best Time For Caloundra Surf
Seasons:
- Autumn (March-May): Consistent swells with light offshore winds.
- Attire Needed: 2mm shorty or boardshorts/bikini.
- Winter (June-August): Large, clean swells for advanced surfers.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit.
- Spring (September-November): Moderate swells, warming water.
- Attire Needed: 2mm shorty or boardshorts/bikini.
- Summer (December-February): Smaller, more consistent surf, great for beginners.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.
Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 6 foot, best with southeast to east swells.
- Break Type: Mixture of beach & point breaks, offering long, fun rides.
- Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide, with southeast or southwest winds keeping conditions clean.
- Skill Required: Suitable for all levels, but Kings Beach & Moffat Beach are better for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Caloundra Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Caloundra | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Bulcock Beach |
In town centre |
1-3 foot |
Gentle, sheltered beach break |
Beginner |
|
Kings Beach |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) south |
3-6 foot |
Beach break with some point sections |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Dicky Beach |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north |
2-4 foot |
Fun, sand-bottom beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
|
Moffat Beach |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north |
3-6 foot |
Long, right-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Access to Caloundra Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bulcock Beach |
In town centre |
Not required |
Not required |
|
Kings Beach |
Approx. 10 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
|
Dicky Beach |
Approx. 30 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
10 min.
(Bus from Caloundra available)
|
|
Moffat Beach |
Approx. 40 min. |
10 min. |
15 min.
(Bus from Caloundra available)
|
Accommodation in Caloundra
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€90 to €200 |
$100 to $220 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€220 to €400+ |
$240 to $420+ |
How To Get To Caloundra
How to get to Caloundra from Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY)
The best way to get to Caloundra is by flying into Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY). Although smaller than Brisbane Airport, it provides a more convenient option for travellers. Located just a brief drive or bus ride from Caloundra, this airport minimises the need for long transfers & complex public transport connections.
Distance: Approx. 30km (19mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 30-40 min.
- Cost: Around $33-$47 USD
- Public Transport (Bus) (Best Option):
- Time: 1 hr.
- Cost: Approx. $3.50-$5 USD per person
- Shuttle Service:
- Time: 40 min.
- Cost: Approx. $15 USD per person
How to get to Caloundra from Brisbane Airport (BNE)
As Sunshine Coast Airport is relatively small, most international flights arrive at Brisbane Airport (BNE). Below are the estimated costs & various transportation options to reach Caloundra from BNE.
Distance: Approx. 100km (62mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 1 hr 20 min.
- Cost: Approx. $130-$200 USD
- Public Transport (Train + Bus) (Best Option):
- Time: 2-2.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $20-$30 USD per person
- Shuttle Service:
- Time: 1.5-2 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $30-$45 USD per person
Discover Caloundra: What to Do When the Waves Are Flat
When the surf is small in Caloundra, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Below are some great alternatives to keep you entertained.
Hiking:
Explore the scenic coastal paths of the Caloundra Coastal Walk for breathtaking ocean views.
Nature & Wildlife:
Visit the nearby Glass House Mountains for hiking & wildlife spotting.
Beaches & Water Activities:
Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding at Bulcock Beach on calm days or check out the SS Dicky Shipwreck.
Cultural Activities:
Head to the nearby Caloundra Regional Gallery for art exhibitions & community events.
Exploring Sunshine Coast: The Best Sights and Landmarks to Visit
When the surf isn’t on, there are numerous activities to explore around the Sunshine Coast. You can immerse yourself in the beauty of the hinterland, visit charming local markets, or enjoy a variety of dining & shopping options, all while soaking up the relaxed atmosphere of this picturesque region.
Visit Noosa National Park:
Enjoy scenic hikes & spot dolphins or koalas in this beautiful coastal reserve.
Explore Mooloolaba:
Famous for its beaches, aquarium, & laid-back vibe, Mooloolaba offers great activities for all ages.
Montville & Maleny Hinterland:
Discover the charming towns of Montville & Maleny, known for their art galleries, cafes, & stunning hinterland views.
Australia Zoo:
Just a short drive away, Australia Zoo is a must-visit, home to diverse wildlife & famous for the legacy of Steve Irwin.
