An Introduction To Caloundra Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | February 07, 2025
Caloundra surf is one of the best on the Sunshine Coast and easy access to multiple breaks suited to all levels. The mellow town vibe charms surfers who seem to prefer putting the car keys down for board leashes and includes Kings Beach right at the top.
Kings sits within easy walking distance of the town for clean and consistent waves, which are great for beginners as well as experienced riders. Bulcock Beach is even more mellow, so ideal for that confidence-building.
For some more challenging surf, Dicky Beach is just a short paddle to grab the bumps, while for the bigger swells, Moffat Beach attracts the riders with its fast, right-hand point breaks. Everything in the area is well connected by paths and public transit, so biking and walking are great options.
Caloundra surf slots beautifully into any Sunshine Coast adventure, whether you’re down the river in the early morning with Moffat sets or cruising into a mellow ride at Kings Beach.
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Video by Angus Kennedy, originally published on YouTube.
In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Caloundra
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Peak Caloundra Surf Season | December to April
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Summer & early autumn bring the most powerful & consistent swells to Caloundra surf, generated by tropical cyclones & steady trade winds. These long-period swells create quality waves, typically ranging from 3 to 8 feet, with the best days offering long, clean rides when offshore winds align.
The conditions can be unpredictable, as cyclone activity varies each season, with some weeks delivering epic surf while others remain small & choppy due to persistent onshore winds.
Crowds increase significantly during the summer holidays, especially on the best swells, but there are still opportunities for quieter sessions in Caloundra surf, especially early in the mornings.
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Shoulder Caloundra Surf Season | May, June, October & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
Autumn & spring offer more moderate conditions, with waves generally in the 2 to 5-foot range. May & early June still see some late-season cyclone swells, mixed with more frequent southerly swells that can provide fun, clean waves.
Spring (Oct & Nov) brings early signs of summer’s trade swells, though flat spells are more common. Offshore winds in autumn help maintain clean conditions, while spring can be more unpredictable with occasional onshore winds.
Caloundra surf during this time sees fewer crowds than the peak summer months, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy fun, less competitive waves.
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Low Surf Season | July to September
Suited For Beginners
Winter sees smaller & less consistent swells, as the primary swell sources shift southward. Southerly swells still reach Caloundra but are often less powerful, resulting in wave heights around 1 to 3 foot, with occasional larger days.
Offshore westerly winds keep conditions clean, making this a great time for beginners to practice on gentle, forgiving waves. While winter isn’t the most exciting season for Caloundra surf, it offers uncrowded lineups & mellow waves, perfect for longboarding or refining skills in a relaxed setting.
Caloundra Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Caloundra Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–91°F)
What To Wear:
You’ll be comfortable in boardshorts/bikini. The water is warm, so you won’t need a wetsuit. If you’re planning long sessions, a rash vest can help with sun protection.
Rainfall:
This is the rainiest season, with 12–15 rainy days per month. Expect humid conditions & occasional afternoon storms, but plenty of sunshine between showers.
Caloundra Surf Temperature:
23–25°C (73–77°F)
What To Wear:
You can still get away with boardshorts/bikini, but if you’re sensitive to cooler water, a 1-2 mm spring suit can add some extra warmth.
Rainfall:
Rainfall starts easing off, with around 9–12 rainy days per month. The humidity drops, & the weather becomes more stable, making this a great time for consistent surf.
Caloundra Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm full wetsuit is the best choice. The water stays relatively mild, but early morning & evening sessions can feel a bit chilly without some insulation.
Rainfall:
This is the driest season, with around 6–9 rainy days per month. You’ll get mostly sunny days with cool mornings & pleasant afternoons.
Caloundra Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
A spring suit or a 2 mm wetsuit is ideal. The water is warming up, so some days you might even be fine in boardshorts/bikini.
Rainfall:
Spring sees increasing rainfall, with around 8–11 rainy days per month. Conditions are still mostly dry early in the season, but humidity starts creeping back toward summer levels.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Caloundra
| Caloundra Surf Spots | Distance from Caloundra | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Bulcock Beach |
In town centre |
1-3 foot |
Gentle, sheltered beach break |
Beginner |
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Kings Beach |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) south |
3-6 foot |
Beach break with some point sections |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Dicky Beach |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north |
2-4 foot |
Fun, sand-bottom beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Moffat Beach |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north |
3-6 foot |
Long, right-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Caloundra Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northwest
- Swell Direction: South-east
- Crowd Factor: High
Bulcock Beach surf is a mellow break offering soft, rolling waves in a picturesque coastal setting that’s perfect for surfers looking to ease into the water. Its gentle swell and spacious lineup create an ideal environment for building confidence and refining technique.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northwest
- Swell Direction: Northeast-east
- Crowd Factor: High
Kings Beach surf delivers a dynamic experience with a mix of playful and powerful waves that keep every session engaging. The vibrant atmosphere and central location contribute to its lively character, making it a favorite for those seeking both performance and fun.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northwest
- Swell Direction: South-southeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Dicky Beach surf is celebrated for its smooth, consistent waves and welcoming vibe that appeal to a broad range of surfers. The break provides a balanced mix of performance and ease, ensuring enjoyable rides whether you’re progressing or just having fun.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northwest
- Swell Direction: East
- Crowd Factor: High
Moffat Beach surf offers a tranquil escape with gentle, rolling waves in a serene environment. This hidden gem provides a quieter lineup and consistent conditions, ideal for a relaxed day in the water away from busier spots.
Rating: 3.5/5
Travel Time To Caloundra Surf Spots
| Caloundra Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Bulcock Beach |
In town centre |
Not required |
Not required |
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Kings Beach |
Approx. 10 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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Dicky Beach |
Approx. 30 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
10 min.
(Bus from Caloundra available)
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Moffat Beach |
Approx. 40 min. |
10 min. |
15 min.
(Bus from Caloundra available)
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Accommodation In Caloundra
For an enjoyable and unperturbed surf trip in Caloundra, check Trip.com for nearby wave accommodations. There is so much to choose from, whether you want a hotel by the beach or a quaint cabin. Early booking reduces last minute stress and lets you focus on surfing.
For a complete surfing experience in the Australia, Tripaneer organizes surf camps and coaching, accommodation, and community events. During these camps, you will be able to learn, get better, and interact with many others who share a love of surfing in the Australia, making your trip unique and unforgettable.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€90 to €200 |
$100 to $220 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€220 to €400+ |
$240 to $440+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Caloundra Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Caloundra Surf School provides professional coaching for surfers of all levels, offering both group lessons and private sessions to suit your needs. With experienced coaches, you’ll gain confidence in the waves while improving your skills in a fun and supportive environment.
North Caloundra Surf School is another fantastic option, with experienced instructors and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a safe and enjoyable introduction to surfing.
These two Caloundra surf schools provide a great introduction to the area, offering expert guidance & a supportive environment for surfers of all levels.
Caloundra Surf Camp
There are no surf camps in Caloundra, but the amazing variety of local lodges makes it one of the perfect places to go for surfers who like to travel in style and comfort. This area has accommodations, ranging from hotels to holiday homes and even places by the beach, many of which are accessible by walking to popular surfing spots found around Caloundra.
If you venture south to Byron Bay, make the most of your trip with a 3-day, 2-night Surf & Stay experience at Soul Surf School. This package includes two days of expert led surf lessons for those who have never stepped in the surf or intermediates working on their technique.
You will be staying in fun, social accommodation just minutes from the beach, making it all too easy to immerse yourself in Byron Bay’s laid-back surf culture. This opportunity is available to anyone traveling solo or in a group of up to six people.
Caloundra Surfboard Hire
Caloundra surfboard hire at Beach Beat Caloundra offers a variety of surfboards, conveniently located near the beach for easy access.
Surfware Australia also provides quality surfboard rentals, making it simple to gear up and enjoy the beautiful surf spots around Caloundra.
These two surfboard hire spots make it easy to enjoy Caloundra surf, offering a range of boards to suit all skill levels.
Caloundra Surf Report & Surf Cam
There is no such thing as timing, Caloundra surf depends on accurate forecasting. Surf-Forecast presents dependable tide & swell data, whereas Surfline subscription model offers active live cam feeds from the wave action at those prime Australia surf locations.
Staying connected becomes a breeze with Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, which activates right when you arrive there. No need to shop for the local SIM cards. Be it checking surf conditions or uploading videos, Yesim ensures that your Australia surf experience is fuss-free and fully connected.
How To Get To Caloundra Surf
- Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) To Caloundra
Distance: 30km (19mi)
The best way to get to Caloundra surf 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.
Public Transport
Approx. 1 hr.
Details:
Upon arrival at Sunshine Coast Airport, follow the signage to the local bus stops situated just outside the terminal. Board the designated bus service that connects you to major hubs on the Sunshine Coast; you may need to transfer at a central stop such as Maroochydore to catch a connecting bus that heads directly to Caloundra.
The buses are air-conditioned and provide a comfortable ride along scenic coastal and hinterland routes. Departure frequencies are generally reliable, though it is advisable to check the latest schedules online or at the terminal since timings may vary during weekends and holidays.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 50-60 min.
Details:
Several reputable shuttle companies operate between Sunshine Coast Airport and Caloundra, offering shared rides that balance cost and convenience. After arriving at the airport, head to the designated shuttle pick-up area where these services are clearly signposted.
The shuttles run on fixed schedules, often timed to coincide with major flight arrivals, and provide air-conditioned vehicles with ample seating and luggage space. While the journey might take slightly longer due to scheduled stops along the route, it remains a reliable and cost-effective alternative.
Reserve your shuttle ahead via HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to guarantee your ride is ready when you land. This ensures a seamless transfer from airport to beach without any delays.
- Brisbane Airport (BNE) To Caloundra
Distance: 100km (62mi)
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 surf from BNE.
Public Transport
Approx. 2-2.5 hrs.
Details:
After landing at Brisbane Airport, proceed to the nearby Airtrain station, which provides a fast connection into Brisbane’s city center. From stations such as Roma Street or Brisbane Central, transfer to a long-distance coach or train service that heads north toward the Sunshine Coast region.
Upon reaching a major stop like Maroochydore, you can then catch a local bus that takes you directly to Caloundra. This multi-leg journey, though involving transfers, is an economical choice that offers air-conditioned comfort along the way.
It is advisable to verify current timetables online or at the station, as schedules may vary on weekends and public holidays.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 2 hrs.
Details:
Reputable shuttle companies offer services from Brisbane Airport to Caloundra, coordinating departures to match major flight arrivals. After disembarking, locate the shuttle service counters or designated pick-up areas outside the terminal.
These shuttles provide air-conditioned rides with ample space for luggage and offer scheduled stops to accommodate multiple passengers. While the journey may be slightly longer due to these stops, the service remains a dependable and cost-effective alternative to a taxi.
Book your shuttle in advance with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups so it’s waiting when you land. This quick transfer gets you from the airport to the beach with no waiting time.
Australian Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Australia is one of the easiest places to surf and travel, but it’s still smart to know the basics. Australian Dollars are the official currency, and digital payments are the norm. English is the primary language, so communication is easy. Tap water is safe across the country. WiFi is widely available, though it can be slower in remote coastal areas.
Our Australia surf page highlights all 7 essentials, from health care access and visa requirements to emergency contact numbers, so you can hit the beach well-prepared.
Travel Insurance For Your Caloundra Surf Trip
Your Australia surf vacation has been so long in the planning, anything short of that excitement can cause you stress. Say you arrive without your board or fall ill before the very first paddle out, imagine that! Take a look at some plans by VisitorsCoverage & rest assured that you have made provisions for a twist in the plot while chasing the perfect wave.
Travel insurance would be handy and cover you in case of changes made at the last moment, loss of gear, or emergencies, among other things. Don’t let chance play a role in your trip plans. The Caloundra surf scene deserves to be insured, in its own rights.
Exploring Sunshine Coast: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit
When the surf isn’t on, the Sunshine Coast still offers plenty to explore. You can take in the beauty of the lush hinterland, browse through local markets, or enjoy great dining and shopping, all while soaking up the area’s laid-back coastal charm. Check out our 4 recommendations below!
For even more ways to enjoy the region, check out GetYourGuide and Viator, where you’ll find experiences like scenic hikes, wildlife encounters, food tours, and day trips that highlight the best of the Sunshine Coast.
