Coolum Beach

Coolum Beach is a long sandy beach and coastal town on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, located between Noosa and Maroochydore. Backed by the prominent Mount Coolum and a beachfront esplanade, it is known for its wide stretch of sand, consistent surf breaks and patrolled swimming area. The beach forms the centre of the suburb of Coolum Beach and is a popular destination for swimming, surfing and coastal walks.

Visitors can expect a wide, open sandy beach stretching for several kilometres with a patrolled swimming area marked by surf lifesavers, consistent surf breaks, and views of Mount Coolum to the south. The beach is backed by a paved esplanade and boardwalk, grassy foreshore reserves, Norfolk pines, and a low-rise beach town with cafes and shops. Areas to explore include the main beach, Stumers Creek mouth, Point Perry headland, and the coastal pathway linking to nearby beaches.

The name Coolum derives from the local Aboriginal word 'gulum' or 'kulum' associated with Mount Coolum, often interpreted as meaning blunt or headless, referring to the mountain's shape. The area was developed as a coastal holiday and residential town from the 1960s following improved road access along the Sunshine Coast.

Located on the traditional lands of the Gubbi Gubbi (Kabi Kabi) people, the coastal landscape including Mount Coolum holds cultural significance. The beach today is a central community and recreational focus for residents and visitors on the Sunshine Coast.