Jess at Sea

If you’re heading to Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast and looking for an adventure that won’t take all day but still delivers seriously jaw-dropping views, look no further than Mount Coolum. This dome-shaped beauty rises dramatically from the coastal plains and offers panoramic vistas that’ll make your jaw drop faster than you can say, “Wait, this only took 30 minutes?!”

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone just trying to burn off last night’s fish and chips, climbing Mt Coolum is the perfect addition to your Sunshine Coast itinerary.

Quick Facts About Mt Coolum

🗺 Location: Mount Coolum National Park, Sunshine Coast, QLD
🥾 Hike Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep!)
⏱ Time Required: 30–45 minutes to the summit
📏 Height: 208 metres above sea level
📸 Highlight: 360° views over the coast, hinterland, and even the Glass House Mountains on a clear day

The Hike: What to Expect

Let’s get one thing straight: this hike is short, but it’s no walk in the park. The trail is only about 1.6 km return, but the incline is real. You’ll start off on a relatively easy dirt path, which quickly turns into rocky stairs that’ll have your calves questioning your life choices.

But fear not – it’s absolutely worth it. As you ascend, you’ll pass through lush bushland and catch sneak peeks of the ocean, teasing what’s to come. The final stretch requires a bit of scrambling over rock steps, so proper shoes are a must – thongs (flip-flops) are not your friend here!

The Summit: Sunshine Coast Views That’ll Blow You Away

When you reach the top – cue dramatic music – you’ll be greeted by a sweeping, uninterrupted view of the Sunshine Coast coastline, from Noosa in the north to Caloundra in the south. On a clear day, you can spot the Glass House Mountains, the Maroochy River, and even planes taking off from the nearby Sunshine Coast Airport.

Bring a snack, a bottle of water, and soak it all in. The breeze is fresh, the vibe is peaceful, and the photo ops are unlimited.

Best Time to Climb Mt Coolum

🌅 Sunrise is hands-down the most magical time to climb. You’ll be rewarded with golden light spilling over the coast and fewer crowds on the trail.
🌤 Clear days are best for visibility – check the weather before you go.
🥵 Avoid climbing in the middle of the day during summer – it gets hot and there’s limited shade along the trail

Tips for the Climb

• 👟 Wear good walking shoes with grip.
• 💧 Bring water – there are no facilities at the top.
• 📵 Don’t rely on phone service – download maps ahead of time.
• 🚻 No toilets at the base, so plan ahead!
• 🐍 Keep an eye out for local wildlife (yes, including snakes in warmer months)

Getting There

Mount Coolum is located just off the Sunshine Motorway, about a 20-minute drive south of Noosa, 10 minutes north of Maroochydore or 1.5 hour drive from Brisbane. Check out rental car options from Brisbane here. There’s a small car park at the base, but it fills up quickly on weekends, so get there early.

📍 Address: Corner of Tanah Street West and Jarnahill Drive, Mount Coolum QLD

Where to Stay at Coolum

Accommodation Recommendations:
Luxury: Coolum Seaside Apartments
Mid-Range: Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort
Budget: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast by IHG

A Must-Do Sunshine Coast Adventure

Climbing Mt Coolum is one of those just-right adventures – it’s quick, rewarding, and incredibly scenic. Whether you’re starting your day with a sunrise summit or squeezing in an afternoon climb before hitting the beach, this hike offers a memorable way to experience the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast.

So pack your day bag, charge your phone for those epic summit selfies, and get ready to say, “That view was 100% worth the sweat.”

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