Tucked beneath the northern face of Point Cartwright, this exposed 400-metre sandy beach on a rock platform is a renowned local surf break during south-east swells. The rocky headland and submerged reef create a challenging snorkel zone where experienced snorkelers can drift along the rock ledges in search of marine life. Unpatrolled and known for strong surge conditions, this spot rewards those who read the ocean carefully with a raw, off-the-beaten-track Sunshine Coast experience. Access is via the Point Cartwright Walkway or through the reserve from Pacific Boulevard.
Point Cartwright Beach
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.8 mSwell Period 6.0 sWind Speed 2.4 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
© -wuppertalerDANGER: Explicit Risks Present
Point Cartwright Beach has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Stonefish presence danger
Reported stonefish sightings in the rocky shallows. Wear protective footwear and never step blindly.
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
High risk: Stonefish presence
Reported stonefish sightings in the rocky shallows. Wear protective footwear and never step blindly.
Moderate risk: Unpatrolled beach — no lifeguards
Point Cartwright Beach is an unpatrolled beach with no lifesaving services. Snorkel at your own risk.
Moderate risk: Strong surf and surge conditions
Exposed to south-east swells with powerful wave action and surge around the rock platform, making entry and exit hazardous.
Moderate risk: Outgoing tide current
Tidal movement around the headland can create strong outgoing currents that sweep snorkelers away from shore.
Low risk: Rocky reef and submerged ledges
Snorkel areas consist of uneven rock platforms and submerged reef with sharp edges. Injury risk from scrapes and cuts.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Mooloolaba, follow the Esplanade south to Pacific Boulevard, Buddina. Use the Point Cartwright Walkway or enter through the reserve from the Pacific Boulevard car park. Beach access points 196-197.
Parking & facilities
Free car park available at Pacific Boulevard entrance to Point Cartwright Reserve.
parkingtoilets
Free entry. No fees apply.
Spot Map
Community
Gallery ┬╖ 3 photos
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports