Point Arkwright Trail

Highlights

This trail takes you through bushland and also gives you views over secluded bays popular with experienced surfers and a quieter stretch of the scenic coastline.

At Point Arkwright there is another car park, public toilets, picnic shelter and expansive views up the Coast to the Noosa Headland and down the coast to Moreton Island.

Point Arkwright, like Point Perry, is a great place to view migrating whales heading south during Spring. There could even be even dolphin and turtle sightings if you’re in luck.

On your return you may want to duck down to the hidden Arkwright beach below the carpark. Be careful, and remember don’t swim outside the flags!

Afterwards

Return to your starting point or go on to Coolum Beach where you can enjoy an ice cream, coffee or drink at the Coolum Beach shops, or pop into the Surf Life Saving Club where visitors are welcome.

Alternatively for longer walk options you can continue walking south along the beach to Yaroomba. Perhaps turning around when you reach the Life Guard Tower.

How to get there

To the starting point: Start in the carpark near the bus stop approximately 1.2 km south of the Coolum Beach Surf Club. The pathway leads south from the carpark. Take this coastal path that winds its way above the beaches to Point Arkwright, rather than walk alongside the main road as this is often busy. Closer to Point Arkwright the path runs parallel to Jubilee Esplanade.

If you want a longer coastal walk, start at the Coolum Surf Club , which is at Coolum on David Low Way and the T junction of Beach Road. Mostly there are street parks available. From Coolum, follow the boardwalk to Point Perry which is part of a park, known as as Wilkinson Park. Walk down the driveway in the park and join the footpath next to the main road, stay on this path for a short while till you get to a bush track at the bus stop car park.

To the end point: The end point is the same as the starting point.

About this place

Suitable for walking
Dogs prohibited
Picnic table on site
Toilets on site
Playground on site

Walking track grade: Grade 3; A formed track with some obstacles, up to 20km. Expect short steep sections and plenty of steps. Some walking experience helps.

Graded on the Queensland Parks walking track scale. Walk with care(opens in a new tab)

Managed by

Sunshine Coast Council

To report damage, a hazard or another problem with the trail:

Safety

Hazards on this trail

Near cliffs

In an emergency, call 000. Always adventure safely!

Always follow any local signage, it contains key information and conditions can change at any time.
Use the trails with consideration for your abilities, be prepared for the adventure ahead:
- Be aware of the weather conditions, found here: Bureau of Meteorology — Queensland(opens in a new tab)
- Always wear appropriate clothing, focus on good footwear.
- Always bring more water than you think you will need.
- Be Sun Safe!
- Always let someone know where you are going that isn't going with you.
Just getting started try this site for good useful information: Trail Hiking Australia — hike safety(opens in a new tab)
Sunshine Coast Council does its best to keep this information current, but things change, so be aware that a trail may not be as listed here.

5 ratings

Andrew7 years ago

This walk is a real gem! I like starting from Tickle Park (adjacent the Coolum Surf Club) walking along the boardwalk south from Coolum Beach taking in the numerous viewing points along the way. The walk parallels the road but as you reach the top of the rise you have the opportunity to head into the bush proper on a well formed dirt trail. For me this is the highlight of the trail. Great ocean views, side trails to secluded bays and excellent spots along the way to stop for a snack. Point Arkwright is a convenient turning point. There are amenities here that provide a convenient toilet stop and views further south towards Maroochydore and beyond.

Rhys7 years ago

Very worthwhile walk - Natural trail with great views and opportunities to spot whales and turtles. Shady and cool under the forest canopy