Coolum at the Beach

Coolum at the Beach is an aparthotel in Coolum Beach, a relaxed coastal village on the Sunshine Coast. As the name suggests, the appeal is proximity to the sand, and the accommodation is apartment-style, which usually means living areas, kitchens and balconies in many room types. Coolum is slower and less showy than Noosa, with a village main street, a surf club and a long beach where you can walk for a long time without crowds. For travellers who value space and value more than status, an aparthotel here is hard to beat, and the setting suits families, couples and groups who want a simple beach holiday with the option of day trips.

The village offers cafes, bakeries, restaurants and a few boutique shops, and a short drive leads to supermarkets and larger stores. Peregian Beach is nearby, with its weekend market and village feel, while Noosa is about half an hour away by car. The beach faces east, so sunrise walks and morning swims are a highlight, and the volcanic cone of Mount Coolum provides a hiking challenge for the energetic. Whale watching from the beach and headlands is possible in season.

Staying in an apartment helps manage costs. A kitchen lets you prepare breakfasts and picnic lunches for day trips, and a laundry takes pressure off packing for a longer stay. Check which facilities your apartment provides and whether linen and cleaning are included. Rooms facing the beach or the village may differ in noise and light, so ask for what suits your preference. Parking is usually included or available nearby, but confirm in advance, particularly in peak periods.

This type of stay is best in the shoulder seasons, when beaches are quieter and rates are lower. Winter is excellent for walking and whale watching, and spring brings warm water and wildflowers. School holidays are busy, so book early. Consider using Coolum as a base for a split holiday that spends a few nights here before moving on to Noosa or Mooloolaba, which gives you three different flavours of the Sunshine Coast. Check the cancellation policy, minimum-stay rules and any additional fees before you book.

Coolum rewards slow travellers. A typical day might begin with a walk on the sand, include a coffee and bakery stop in the village, continue with a swim and lunch from the apartment kitchen, and end with a sunset stroll and fish and chips on the lawn. Add Mount Coolum for a challenge or a drive to Noosa for a change of pace, and keep an afternoon free for doing nothing at all.