Cotton Tree

In a place FULL of beaches it can be hard to explore them all at once but Cotton Tree is a great place to start.

This area is protected from the bigger east coast swell by a break wall at the mouth of the river, offering a calm and relaxing swim.

Cotton Tree is an ideal spot to come with younger children and, with it's gentle waves, it is also the perfect place for those wanting to learn how to surf.

In peak periods and on the weekends, you may struggle for a minute to find a park but once you do, you can set up for hours with large, flat sandy areas for your beach brolly.

If you want it even calmer, walk around the bay past the caravan park and you will find beach access to the lagoon-like river. Big groups of paddle-boarders is a common sight here and I can't wait to try it out!

Cotton Tree also has a central location to Maroochydore should you need supplies or are looking for a cafe for lunch in between swims.