Free School Holiday Activities in Caloundra
Looking for free things to do with kids these school holidays on the Sunshine Coast? Whether you’re a local parent or visiting Caloundra for a family holiday, there are plenty of fun, free school holiday activities that won’t break the bank. From beachside adventures to nature walks, playgrounds, and community events — here’s your ultimate guide to keeping the kids entertained for free.
Hit the Beaches – Caloundra’s Coastal Playground
The beaches in Caloundra are perfect for a school holiday day out:
Kings Beach – With a free saltwater ocean pool, splash fountains, and rockpools to explore, Kings Beach is one of the most kid-friendly beaches on the Sunshine Coast. Pack a picnic and spend the whole day here.
Bulcock Beach – Great for calmer waters and beach walks. You can also stroll along the Boardwalk to Happy Valley, where you’ll find a massive shaded playground and grassy picnic areas.
Bonus tip: Bring scooters or bikes — the Caloundra coastal pathway is a flat, scenic ride that kids love.
Walk the Currimundi Lake Trail
For a nature-filled morning, head to Currimundi Lake. It’s a local favourite with calm water for swimming, sandy shores for digging, and nearby bushwalking trails. Kids can spot fish, birds, and crabs along the way — a great free outdoor activity for school holidays.
Free School Holiday Workshops & Events
Keep an eye out for free school holiday programs at:
Caloundra Regional Gallery – Often hosts free art workshops for kids, interactive exhibits, and drop-in creative spaces during school holidays.
Sunshine Coast Libraries – Local libraries like Caloundra and Kawana offer free storytelling, coding classes, Lego club, and craft sessions. Check their online event calendars — spots can fill quickly!
Outdoor Movies & Community Events
The Sunshine Coast Council regularly hosts free outdoor movie nights, family festivals, and pop-up performances during school holidays.
Search “Sunshine Coast Council school holiday events” or visit the Events page on their website.
Bring blankets, snacks, and your crew for a chilled evening under the stars — no tickets needed!
Ride & Roll at Sugar Bag Mountain Bike Trails
Have older kids with energy to burn? Check out Sugar Bag Road Mountain Bike Trails in Caloundra. They’re completely free and range from beginner to advanced levels — plus, there’s a pump track for younger riders and picnic areas for a post-ride break.
Explore Nature at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
A short drive from Caloundra, this free rainforest walk near Maleny is perfect for a cooler day. The elevated boardwalk is stroller-friendly and kids can learn about native wildlife and plants along the way. Entry to the Rainforest Walk is free (the interactive discovery centre is optional with a small fee).
Do a Sunshine Coast Treasure Hunt
Turn your school holiday into an adventure with a self-guided treasure hunt:
Visit the Buderim Falls, Mount Coolum, or Point Cartwright Lookout — all are free and packed with natural beauty.
Create your own scavenger hunt checklist: spot a kookaburra, find a heart-shaped rock, take a family selfie with the ocean view!
Playground Hop Across the Coast
The Sunshine Coast is home to some incredible playgrounds — all free and open daily:
Aura Treehouse Playground (Baringa) – Climbing towers, flying foxes, water play and heaps of space to explore.
Grahame Stewart Park (Currimundi) – A popular all-ages park with shaded play equipment and open grassy areas.
Pioneer Park (Landsborough) – A great stop if you’re heading inland for a day trip, with BBQs and a train-themed playground.
Quick Tips for Planning Your Free School Holiday Fun
Bring bikes, scooters, swimwear and sunscreen — you’ll use them all!
Check council and community Facebook pages for pop-up events.
Pack a picnic to make a full day out of your adventures.
Mix beach days with shady nature walks to avoid burnout.
Make the Most of the Sunshine Coast These School Holidays
With so many free activities for kids in Caloundra and the Sunshine Coast, you don’t need to spend a fortune to make memories. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, playing by the ocean, or crafting at a local workshop, there’s something fun (and free) for every family
So grab the kids, load up the car, and enjoy the best of the Sunshine Coast — no tickets required.