Sunshine Coast Council

Enjoy pathways and vegetation variety through this 21 hectare bush reserve in central Caloundra.

SUITABILITY
Suitable for walkers out to see a range of native bush types in a small area.

HIGHLIGHTS
This hidden gem is so close to town yet feels like a natural bushland track. Perfect for those who like to leave the car at home as it's a five to ten minute walk from many Caloundra residents.

There are about a dozen interesting trails through the park ranging from 800m to 1100m return. (See maps at the Queen St entrance.) Start with the perimeter loop through several different vegetation zones. The Middle third is a rich rainforest. Other flora you'll encounter include: eucalyptus Melaleuca woodland, paperbarks, dry and wet heath, giant Tallowwood and Bribie Island Pines.

The park is a great place for bird watching and because of the botanical species in the park, it’s part of the Sunshine Coast Wildflower Festival held each August.

Note: During summer some of the lower tracks may be underwater.

All in all, this is a very family friendly and central piece of peacefulness with toilets, electric BBQ, tables and huts, medium grassed area and bitumen parking.

AFTERWARDS
Head to Kings Beach for a swim or the The Esplanade at Caloundra for refreshments – both locations are close by and part of the Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway, which you can walk or cycle.

HOW TO GET THERE
To the starting point: Ben Bennett Bushland Park (Also referred to as Botanical Park) is located just east of Nicklin Way. (But not accessible form Nicklin Way.) You need to access it from Queen Street. On the left hand side as you are going up the hill, just past Caloundra High School there is a sign for Ben Bennett Bushland Park. There you will see bitumen parking spaces and an information board.

To the end point: The end point is the same as your starting point. You can go in and back or do a larger circuit going via suburban roads and streets, coming out on Arthur Street or West Terrace.