Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach is tucked into the base of the headland between Moffat Beach and Kings Beach, and that sheltered position changes everything about the water. While the open beaches cop the full brunt of the swell, Shelly gets a filtered, smaller and mellower version of the swell. Swimming is not recommended due to unpredictable waves and submerged rocks, so families with young kids are better off at Kings Beach.

The rock platforms at both ends of the beach are what set Shelly apart. At low tide they turn into natural aquariums. You can spend an hour poking around the pools finding sea stars, anemones, and small reef fish without getting your knees wet. Bring an old pair of shoes because the rocks can be sharp.

From June through November, the headland lookout above Shelly Beach is one of the best whale watching spots on the Sunshine Coast. Humpbacks migrate north along the coast and you can often spot them breaching and blowing from the boardwalk without needing binoculars. The coastal boardwalk connects Shelly to Kings Beach in one direction and Moffat in the other, so you can walk the full stretch and pick your favourite.

Parking is easier here than at Kings Beach, especially the free spots up near the headland car park.