As the gateway to Australia’s Sunshine Coast and only an hour’s drive from Brisbane, this town is an excellent getaway for travelers. Families will love the close proximity to the Australian Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter, as well as the Big Kart Track, Australia’s largest go-kart track. Also a family favorite is Aussie World, a diverse theme park where you can ride the second largest ferris wheel in the Southern Hemisphere. The park is also home to the Ettamogah Pub, a recreation of the pub from the Ken Maynard cartoon series. Visitors are drawn to the pub’s caricature architectural style. Aussie World also boasts the Sunshine Coast’s largest collection of Aboriginal art and artifacts. Another excellent stop is the Queensland Air Museum, where guests can explore the history of aircraft back to World War II.
Caloundra is also an wonderful place to enjoy Australia’s beautiful great outdoors. Pumicestone Passage Marine Park is full of mangroves and sea grasses, and is home to more than 350 species of birds. Local tour guides offer boat cruises in the area, or you can kayak or even walk along the coastal beach trail. The Glass House Mountains are also nearby, and can be enjoyed by taking a scenic tourist drive. The Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is a forty hectare area of protected land that is home to many different species of wildlife. Guided tours are available and it is also a popular picnic and barbecue spot.
Dining is an experience in Caloundra and there is cuisine to suit everyone’s taste. The Velvet Waters restaurant is similar to a Hard Rock Café, and also is home to the Walk of Stars, a tribute to Australian musicians. The walk extends to the top of the hill and includes commemorative plaques.
