Shelly Beach
Discover tidal pools amid the fascinating rock formations and crashing waves of this rugged beach, enclosed by Caloundra’s scenic pine-covered headland.
Facing directly east toward the Pacific Ocean, Shelly Beach is a beautiful place to catch the first rays of the sun while strolling along the soft sands. Framed by Norfolk pines on a rocky headland, this beach and suburb of the same name is a scenic spot for enjoying ocean views, exploring rock pools with the kids and splashing around in the shallows.
Wander down to the beach with your towel and sun umbrella, and settle in for a day of enjoying some of Caloundra’s best beach views. At the southern end of the beach, you’ll find fascinating rock formations brimming with marine life. Children will love exploring the rock pools and identifying the variety of marine species residing here. Read the information board nearby the rock pools and see if you can find the species listed, such as black sea cucumbers, rose barnacles, chiton and blue periwinkles.
Relax with a good book and listen to the sounds of the waves as the kids play on the beach’s swings and shaded play equipment. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch out of the sun at the picnic facilities, which also include a barbecue. The surf at Shelly Beach can become dangerous. Although the beach is patrolled, be sure to take extra care when swimming. Kings Beach, located just around the southern headland, offers safe swimming and great surf. Here in Shelly Beach, however, you’ll find a charming serenity that can be hard to come by at some of Queensland’s beautiful beaches.
If you’d like to take a longer stroll along the beach, Shelly Beach marks the beginning of the Des Dwyer Walkway, which connects to Moffat Beach to the north. Here, you can link up with Caloundra’s beautiful Coastal Pathway, a stunning 9-kilometre (5.6-mile) stretch of bike and walking paths. Shelly Beach is located 3 kilometres (1.9 miles) to the northeast of Caloundra’s city centre.
Shelly Beach becomes an off-leash dog beach between May and October at certain times of the day. Watch the dogs bounding up and down the shoreline or visit outside of these times to enjoy the views in relative solitude.