Imagine a place where the sand stretches endlessly, the gentle waves kiss the shore, and the sun paints the sky with vibrant colors. Welcome to Kawana Beach, the crown jewel of the Sunshine Coast. Spanning a breathtaking nine kilometers, this pristine coastline runs from Point Cartwright in the north to Currimundi Lake in the south. Kawana Beach isn’t just a beach; it’s a symphony of sun, sand, and sea—a sanctuary for beach lovers and a quintessential Sunshine Coast experience.
As you plan your visit to Kawana Waters, prepare to dive into a world of natural wonders and local treasures. While the beach may be the main attraction, there’s so much more to explore:
Sunrise Spectacle: Begin your day with a front-row seat to a breathtaking sunrise at Point Cartwright Lighthouse. The morning sky ignites in hues of pink and gold, casting its brilliance over the shimmering sea. It’s a magical start to any day.
Lake Kawana Exploration: Beyond the beach, embark on a serene kayaking adventure on the calm waters of Lake Kawana. Glide effortlessly through the tranquil oasis, surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a novice, the lake welcomes all to its serene shores.
Market Magic: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Kawana Waters Artisans & Farmers Market, a local treasure trove. Here, you’ll find more than just fresh produce; it’s a hub of artisanal delights, community spirit, and the flavors of the region.
Craft Beer Delight: If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a visit to Your Mates Brewing Co is a must. Delight in a leisurely lunch and savor a flight of their finest brews. It’s a true taste of the Sunshine Coast’s craft beer scene.
But there’s more to Kawana than its natural beauty; it’s a place where outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities thrive:
Coastal Exploration: After a few hours of sun worshipping on the beach, venture beyond the shoreline to discover the wonders of Kawana’s coast. Make your way to La Balsa Park, a picturesque setting for an alfresco picnic on the banks of the Mooloolah River. Towering palms provide shade, creating the perfect spot for a leisurely meal. Afterward, stretch your legs with a stroll along the winding coastal path that leads to the iconic Point Cartwright Lighthouse. Don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee from Twin Fins Espresso Bar along the way. Find a cozy spot on a grassy knoll near the rugged cliffs and gaze out at the glistening sea. Keep your eyes peeled for the locals—the whales and dolphins that call this stretch of coast home.
Marine Encounters: As you gaze out at the sea from Point Cartwright, you’re in prime position to spot the majestic marine life that frequents these waters. Whales and dolphins are frequent visitors to this part of the coastline, and if you’re lucky, you might witness their graceful displays. These moments are a testament to the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast.
Nature’s Bounty For a deeper immersion in nature, venture to the Mooloolah River National Park. This area boasts one of the few remaining coastal rainforests. Trails wind through piccabeen palm groves, eucalypt forests, and melaleuca swamps. If you time your visit for dawn or dusk, you might encounter kangaroos hopping through the wild, a truly Australian experience.
Lake Adventures: Lake Kawana offers a spectrum of aquatic activities. Whether you prefer kayaking, canoeing, outrigging, dragon boat racing, or simply drifting along the lake in a motorized boat with a cold drink in hand, there’s something here for everyone. The lake’s calm waters and stunning backdrop make it an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a leisurely escape.
For families seeking excitement and entertainment:
Big Boing Trampoline Park: Release your inner acrobat at Big Boing, an indoor trampoline park featuring over 50 interconnected trampolines. Bounce, flip, and defy gravity with friends and family.
Bould Move and Alley Oops Indoor Skatepark: Adventure seekers can take on the challenge of wall climbing at Bould Move or test their skateboarding skills at Alley Oops Indoor Skatepark. It’s an adrenaline-packed experience suitable for all ages.
As the Craft Beer Capital of Australia, the Sunshine Coast offers a treat for beer enthusiasts. Don’t miss a visit to Your Mates Brewing Co for a frothy experience. Saturday mornings are reserved for the Kawana Waters Artisans & Farmers Market, a food lover’s paradise filled with local produce. Before you leave, indulge in some retail therapy at Kawana Shopping world, one of the region’s largest shopping malls. Here, you’ll find fashion, food, entertainment, and services, all under one roof.
Fishing and surfing enthusiasts will discover their paradise along one of the longest stretches of ocean coastline in the area. Point Cartwright marks the northern end of the beach and is part of a scenic walking track along the coastline. Just near Point Cartwright is La Balsa Park, lining the edge of the Mooloolah River. It’s a popular spot for barbecues or picnics, offering ample space to relax. Follow the path from the park to the end of the rock wall marking the river entrance, then wind your way through the Point Cartwright Lighthouse Reserve.
Kawana Waters also boasts one of the region’s premier sports and entertainment precincts, home to Stockland Park and the Lake Kawana Community Centre. These venues host major events year-round, offering a vibrant addition to your Sunshine Coast experience. The man-made waterway of Lake Kawana has become a hub for various sports, including kayaking, canoeing, outrigging, dragon boat racing, and motorized boat excursions. The foreshores of the lake feature walking and bicycle tracks, perfect for some light exercise or for spectating during regattas.
For those craving a scenic escape, the northern end of Kawana offers a marina on the main canal. Hop aboard a cruise that winds its way past waterfront homes, navigating into the Mooloolah River and passing by the Mooloolaba Yacht Club on the way to the river mouth.
Shopping enthusiasts will delight in the offerings of Kawana Shopping world, one of the largest shopping malls in the region. With over 100 retailers, this air-conditioned haven satisfies all your fashion, food, entertainment, and service needs. It’s a shopper’s paradise.
Kawana Waters invites you to indulge in excellent fishing, surfing, shopping, dining, and exploration. It’s a coastal gem where nature and adventure harmonize seamlessly. As you plan your stay at Mercure Sunshine Coast Kawana Waters, prepare to embark on a journey filled with memorable moments. Experience the Sunshine Coast like never before, where the sun, sea, and countless adventures await.
Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out Mercure Sunshine Coast Kawana Waters, your gateway to this coastal paradise.