Suburbs in the spotlight: Bokarina
Bokarina is a small coastal suburb nestled north of Caloundra. Known to locals as ‘Bok Beach’ this small suburb boasts a pristine beach, lake, parks and more than meets the eye. Check out our guide to play, eat, see and do at Bokarina.
Play
Situated in close proximity to one of the Coast’s most popular surf beaches, Bokarina Boulevard Park is a tranquil oasis that beckons visitors seeking respite from the urban hustle and bustle.
The play space provides adventurous elements such as climbing walls, slides and swings, as well as a large net connected by a rope bridge. Extending from the playground area is the parkland – an expansive green area with large boulders as well as shaded space suitable for a range of community activities from family picnics to social sporting matches.
Turn the adventure up a notch with a visit to the Kawana Skate Park. The skate park is great for beginners to advanced skill levels and is suitable for skateboards, scooters or your bike. Shaded by trees and shade sails, it's great for year-round use. The skate park features grind rails, two flat banks, declining ¼ bank, banked ½ pipe, grinding block spine, mini ¾ bowl, triple hump and ¼ pipe.
Enjoy a splash next-door at the newly upgraded Kawana Aquatic Centre. Stage One of the aquatic centre upgrade is now complete and includes a new 20-metre, five-lane indoor heated pool for swimming all year round.
Eat
Nothing like a big ol’ scoop of ice cream to top off a play in the park or a dip the in the ocean. Opposite Bokarina Park you’ll find artisan ice cream and an Italian restaurant. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine or opt for takeaway, head back to the park and enjoy a picnic.
Keen for coffee or a lighter snack? Head north on Nicklin way for bakery delights and keep an eye out for the cutest little vintage caravan specialising in coffee, smoothies and treats parked at the Sunshine Coast Stadium off Nicklin Way.
See
Chase the waves and head for the epic breaks at Bokarina Beach via Beach Access 246. This beautiful stretch is patrolled by lifeguards on weekends, school and public holidays from September to May. Dogs are also welcome off-leash between 5pm and 8am.
Boasting several picturesque vantage points, enjoy the Bokarina stretch of the Coastal Pathway network, perfect for a bike ride or stroll. Offering an enjoyable shaded and slightly hilly path, this section of the pathway is nestled between popular surf beaches and the coastal dunal system.
Spot the brightly coloured crab sculptures around Bokarina Boulevard Park. The crab sculptures are inspired by one of our most recognisable coastal crustaceans, the Mud Crab, which can be found along the entire Queensland coast in sheltered estuaries, tidal flats and rivers lined with mangroves. How many orange crabs can you find in the park?
Do
Walk the lake and discover shaded picnic and fishing areas, the local Community Garden and you might even spot water sports on the lake. Follow the accessible path that hugs the lake, starting at the southern end of Sportsmans Parade, the walk is approximately 2km one way.
Each Saturday, Sunshine Coast locals descend on Kawana Waters State College to shop an abundance of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious treats thanks to local farmers, artisans, and vendors. Whether you're shopping for the week or looking for a fun outing, the local farmers’ markets have something for everyone.
Venue 114 is home to an exciting calendar of live music, stage shows, art and community events. Check out a taste of things to come by following Venue 114 on Facebook.
In the same area you’ll find a thrifter’s paradise with the local op-shop offering unique treasures and bargains.
