Golden Beach – the name alone is enough to make you want to pack your bags and head straight to the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia. This local beach does not have lifesavers on its stretch of coastline, but it does have something even better: endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation!
But first– let's talk about the tides. With high and low tide times, Golden Beach offers a unique experience every day. Be sure to check the times each day if you have a particular activity in mind. The BOM is a good source for this (BOM= Bureau of Meteorology)
Photo at Golden Beach during high tide
At low tide, the beach expands, revealing kilometers of sandy shoreline
and tide pools perfect for exploring. The pockets of water get super
warm and it's an amazing place to hang out and relax in a sort of
natural spa.
For those looking for adventure, Golden Beach has plenty to offer. Rent a
kayak or stand-up paddle board and explore the calm waters of the
Pumicestone Passage, where you'll see dolphins, turtles, and other
marine life up close.
During high tide is the perfect time to indulge in an adrenaline-fueled experience! Try your hand at jet skiing or kite-surfing.
If you are jet skiing, please keep in mind your distance from the shore. Some come in very close, which is not only against the rules, but dangerous. Many children play in the sand along here and others enjoy the calm waters to learn how to SUP (stand up paddle board). The waves created by jet-skis can knock a novice right off their board.
For the kite-surfers, this is the perfect place to be! You can have a go at either low OR high tide. Low tide is perfect for beginners trying to get a feel for it. At high tide, you will really fly if there is any bit of a breeze. Go to the south end of the beach (just before the Mangrove walk) where there is a small park and some grass. You will find other kite-surfers there who are willing to share tips and a laugh. This is a great place to lay out your kite at the end of the day to dry it out. Beware of rogue winds, they WILL take your kite and land it right up into the nearby trees. We have seen this happen more than once!
For those who prefer to take things a bit slower, Golden Beach has plenty of options for relaxation. Grab a beach towel and soak up the sun, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, enjoying the salty breeze and stunning views of the coastline.
Dogs are not allowed on most of this beach. There is a spot on the north end by Bill's Boat Hire where dogs are allowed on a lead. Just before beach access #304. Dogs ARE allowed on lead, at all times, along the paved footpath that runs alongside the beach. Our pup really enjoys this!
If you prefer to take a walk in the water during low tide, this is a great way to either walk out to the Northern tip of Bribie Island or even walk all the way into Caloundra. Just watch out for the stingrays! These guys are usually buried in the sand
underfoot and you won't see them until it's too late. Do the "stingray
shuffle" instead of regular walking. Shuffle your feet along the bottom
of the sea floor to disturb them and let them know you are coming. Don't
worry, they will swim out of your way!
Golden Beach isn't just about the tides – it's also a prime destination for families and travelers seeking a fun and laid-back holiday.
No trip here would be complete without indulging in some classic Aussie cuisine. From fish and chips to meat pies, there's no shortage of delicious eats to enjoy. And for those looking for something a bit more upscale, the nearby town of Caloundra offers a range of gourmet restaurants and cafes, showcasing the best of local ingredients.
But perhaps the best thing about Golden Beach is its sense of community. From families playing beach volleyball to groups of friends enjoying a BBQ on the sand, there's a sense of camaraderie and relaxation that permeates the entire beach. The locals are always happy to lend a helping hand or offer advice on the best spots to swim or surf.
So whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from the everyday, Golden Beach is the perfect destination for travelers of all ages. With its stunning scenery, welcoming locals, and endless activities, it's no wonder this local beach has become a beloved destination for anyone seeking the best of Australian beaches. So grab your sun hat and your sense of adventure – Golden Beach is waiting for you!
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