Caloundra, QLD

Shelly Beach in Caloundra is one of the Sunshine Coast’s hidden gems. This lovely stretch of oceanfront is unpatrolled and not suitable for swimming meaning you’ll rarely see a crowd on the shore. In fact, you’ll often have the white sands and oceans views all to yourself! Facing directly east, this is the perfect place to enjoy a tranquil sunrise or reconnect with nature on a solitary beach stroll. If you’d like some company, bring your four-legged bestie along for an off-leash romp between 4 pm and 8 am during May and October. Shelly Beach is renowned for its ankle deep rock pools that abound with marine life. Both adults and budding marine biologists will delight in discovering the Black Sea Cucumbers, Blue Periwinkles and Rose Barnacles that make their home in the waters of the rocky shoreline.

There is a nearby park with undercover tables making it the ideal spot for a beachside picnic, or simply grab a coffee from the corner store and enjoy your brew and the fresh sea air.