A Super Saturday of Sport, Culture and Colour 

Our Saturday started bright and early, with a quick stop to drop our pup Shari off at Kim’s dad’s place. He was already up and about, chainsaw in hand, trimming trees while Shari took on the role of supervisor for the day—tail wagging and eyes alert, of course. With our furry friend in safe hands, we hit the M1 and headed south toward the Gold Coast for a big day ahead.

Sunrise, Pastries & Riverside Wanders: A 7.3km Brisbane Sunday Adventure 

There’s something special about Brisbane on a Sunday morning – when the air is crisp, the river glows gold, and the city hums quietly before waking up. Our Sunday began just like that – early, peaceful, and full of promise.

A Très Magnifique Day Out – Le Festival at South Bank, Brisbane 

“You haven’t lived until you’ve eaten hot cheese scraped by someone in a tricolour apron.”

Some Saturdays start with a yawn. Ours started with a bonjour and a double shot of espresso.

Cruisin’ Into the Weekend: A Saturday at Cooly Rocks On, Coolangatta 

This past Saturday, we hit the road early, chasing the golden glow of dawn down the M1. With clear skies and the promise of a vibrant day ahead, our first destination was Kirra Beach, a favourite spot of ours for a quiet sunrise.

Weekend Escape to Moffat Beach 

The weekend couldn't come soon enough. As the first blush of dawn coloured the sky, we hit the highway, heading north towards the Sunshine Coast. There’s something about those early starts — the promise of adventure, the peace of empty roads, and the salty scent of the ocean already in our minds.

Our destination was, as always, our favourite: Moffat Beach. 

When we arrived, the world was bathed in a soft orange glow. The ocean stretched endlessly, glimmering gold under the sunrise. Waves rolled and crashed with a steady rhythm, and surfers dotted the water, already chasing the perfect ride. Along the foreshore, people were soaking in the new day, coffees in hand, smiles on faces. 

Kim wasted no time unclipping Shari’s leash. Our little pup tore down the beach with sheer joy, tail wagging like mad, darting across the sand to meet other early risers — four-legged and two-legged alike. It was pure happiness in motion. 

Meanwhile, I made my way up to The Pocket Espresso Bar, a local gem tucked just a short stroll from the beach. The smell of fresh coffee drew me in like a magnet.

With a hot latte warming my hands, I wandered back down to capture some shots of the morning magic — surfers silhouetted against the rising sun, kids squealing as they chased the waves, and Shari splashing through the shallows. 

With appetites kicking in, we decided it was time for a proper breakfast and headed up the hill to Chill 89 Café. Tucked along Seaview Terrace, just a block from the water, Chill 89 had that relaxed beach vibe we loved — timber finishes, breezy open spaces, and tables spilling onto the footpath so you could sit back and watch the world go by. Their breakfast menu was a winner too. Kim went for the Omelette  with extra, ham and mushrooms, and I had the breaky burger with a side of bacon and a hashbrown for Shari. After her bacon and hashbrown Shari dozed happily at our feet, the queen of chill. 

After a satisfying meal, we needed to walk it off. We made our way down to Shelly Beach, just south of Moffat. Low tide had exposed the rocky shelves, creating natural pools that shimmered in the morning light. Shari was in her element, splashing from pool to pool, leaping with wild abandon into the deeper ones. We lingered, exploring the hidden nooks and crannies, finding little crabs and starfish tucked amongst the rocks. 

Feeling relaxed but still keen for a bit more adventure, we drove over to Bulcock Street in Caloundra. The place was buzzing — families wandering in and out of shops, live music playing down near the cafes, and the tempting scent of coffee and sweet treats filling the air. Kim indulged in some much-needed retail therapy, browsing the eclectic finds at a couple of op shops and the coastal-chic treasures at Luxebungalow. I followed happily, coffee in hand, people-watching as the foot traffic ebbed and flowed like the tide. 

Eventually, arms full of small treasures and hearts full of sunshine, we decided to call it a day. We piled back into the car, Shari quickly curling up in the backseat, and set course for home. As we drove, windows down and sea breeze in our hair, we agreed — there’s no better way to spend a weekend than at Moffat Beach. 

Highlights of the Day 

Other Things to Do in Caloundra 

While Moffat Beach and its nearby spots are the heart of the area, Caloundra offers plenty of other things to see and do: 

Caloundra is a perfect blend of relaxation, nature, and local charm, making it an ideal weekend escape. Whether you’re into beaches, shopping, or just taking it slow, there's always something to enjoy. 

Our adventure at Moffat Beach was pure magic — sunrise skies, crashing waves, and surfers dancing on the water. #SunriseAdventure #MoffatBeachMagic #WavesAndSurfers #OceanVibes #MorningByTheSea