The Most Beautiful Rockpools for Kids in Sunshine Coast

The Most Beautiful rockpools for Kids in Sunshine Coast

Our Sunshine Coast rockpools are full of wonders for children to explore with the whole family. Here are 5 of the best kid-friendly rockpools on the Sunshine Coast.

Point Us in the Cartwright Direction

A heavenly slice of beach-life awaits you at Point Cartwright at Buddina. It’s a local treasure, sandwiched between the river mouth and the headland. You’ll be swimming in sight of the lighthouse! It’s sandy and shallow, perfect for toddlers. At just a few hundred metres long, it feels like a private beach. Another certified family favourite is Kings Beach at Caloundra. Here, you’ll find sheltered rockpools, and a swimming pool with a splashy shallow end for littlies. Once you’re ready to dry off, hit the nearby playground or cafes.

Go West

Head to the hinterland for a cool change from the heat of the beach. The Kondalilla National Park is home to over 100 bird species, some of which you’ll hear as you wander the well-maintained forest path beneath towering rainforest trees. Kondalilla Falls is small but exceptionally pretty. Brave the short walk to the bottom to access the natural pools, where it’s easy to step straight into the refreshing water. If you’d prefer to skip the stairs – swim in the pool at the top of the falls. It’s perfectly safe, with stunning views over the valley.

Tunnel of Sharks

Once you’ve seen some beautiful rockpools from above, see them from below! SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast features an 80-metre Ocean Tunnel that takes you under the waves without getting wet. Gaze up at stingrays and see their funny smiling mouths from the underside. Stand in complete safety as huge sharks cruise by, their big tails swishing from side to side. There are eight different shark species to spot, including Grey Nurses. See glittering reef fish and other exciting inhabitants of the ocean exhibit. It’s a 360-degree view from the ocean floor!

Rockpool Hopping

Two of our best beaches also have some of the best rockpools on the Sunshine Coast. Check out Pandanus Lookout, between Mooloolaba and Maroochydore, and Caloundra, at the northern end of Kings Beach. There’s a lot to explore for little adventurers, with shells, tiny fish and jelly-like anemones living in the pools. But remember, rockpools can contain the dangerous blue-ringed octopus and spiky creatures such as sea urchins. So, teach your kids the ‘rule of the rockpool’ – look but don’t touch.

Reach for the Stars

There is ONE place where the rule doesn’t apply, and that’s the Tidal Touch Pool at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium. Here, children are encouraged to put their hands into the pool. Bright blue Sea Stars and Sea Cucumbers have an amazing texture, like velvet or rubber, and can be gently handled under supervision from an aquarist. Join the expert talk-time, to find out more about the unique inhabitants of tidal rockpools. The Tidal Touch Pool is open rain, hail or shine, so it’s always an excellent option for a family day out on the Sunshine Coast.

If you would like to learn more about our Tidal Touch Pool, please click below: