Point Cartwright is a rocky headland at the northern end of Kawana Beach, crowned by a landmark lighthouse overlooking the Mooloolah River mouth. While the exposed ocean side is known for its dramatic surf break and choppy conditions, the rocky shoreline and rock pools at the base offer a unique snorkeling environment for experienced water-goers. The reserve's grassy slopes, picnic spots, and panoramic views across Mooloolaba, Mount Coolum, and the coastline make it a spectacular setting, though snorkeling is only recommended during very calm conditions and at the user's own risk.
Point Cartwright (Mooloolaba)
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Wave Height 0.5 mSwell Period 6.0 sWind Speed 1.2 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
DANGER: Explicit Risks Present
Point Cartwright (Mooloolaba) has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Rough surf and strong waves danger
The ocean side of Point Cartwright is an unpatrolled beach with a powerful surf break, producing high waves and strong shore break that make entry dangerous.
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
High risk: Rough surf and strong waves
The ocean side of Point Cartwright is an unpatrolled beach with a powerful surf break, producing high waves and strong shore break that make entry dangerous.
Moderate risk: Rocky shoreline and slippery rocks
Access to the water is over loose and slippery rocks at the base of the headland, with a steep descent from the cliff top.
Moderate risk: No lifeguard patrol
The beach at Point Cartwright is unpatrolled — there are no lifeguards on duty and swimming is entirely at your own risk.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Nicklin Way, Kawana, turn onto Point Cartwright Drive, then turn left into Pacific Boulevard. The reserve carpark is at the end of Pacific Boulevard. La Balsa Park at the end of Harbour Drive provides river-side access.
Parking & facilities
Free carpark available at the end of Pacific Boulevard near the parklands. Additional parking at La Balsa Park off Harbour Drive.
toiletspicnic_tablesparking
No fees — the reserve is free and open during daylight hours.
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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