
Little Place of Paradise - Image: Elaine de Wet
I can't believe we've lived in this area for just over a year and have only now discovered this little place of paradise. Point Cartwright is a true testament to Mother Nature's treasure trove.

Which choice to make? - Image: Elaine de Wet
Flanked on one side by the ocean and the Mooloolah River on the other, Point Cartwright is an un-patrolled beach, located at the base of the headland at the northern end of Kawana Beach.

Let's start here - Image: Elaine de Wet
It's popular with surfers for its surfing point break and families enjoying the rock scrambling during low tide. There are stunning picnic locations, bush walks and the high cliffs in the coastal headland reserve provide sensational views of Mooloolaba, the Mooloolah River mouth, Mount Coolum to the north and Kawana Beach to the south. There's a perfect viewing platform for watching migratory Humpback Whales and turtles, and perhaps a ship or two entering or leaving the Port of Brisbane with views to the east. And, if you're really lucky you might even spot a peregrine falcon nesting along the cliff faces.

Striking Mural - Image: Elaine de Wet
Park your car at La Balsa carpark and take your choice of
walks, either the bush walk (we left this one for another day) or continue up to the Unitywater Reservoir with its striking mural, showing a whale, a turtle and fish swimming underwater, all beautifully captured by Joel Fergie, a professional street artist.

Point Cartwright Lighthouse - Image: Elaine de Wet
The Point Cartwright Lighthouse is located right next to the Reservoir and this is where the most exceptional views of the surrounding areas can be embraced. The balustrade around the edge of the cliff has memorial plaques remembering lost loved ones - I cannot think of a more beautiful place to be remembered.

What a Beautiful Place to be Remembered - Image: Elaine de Wet
Continue down through the vast grassed park area, ideal for those large family picnics, and down to the beach. We were fortunate it was low tide, so we could really enjoy the views upside down, so to speak.

Vast Picnic Area - Image: Elaine de Wet
Scrambling over the rocks, feeling the spray from the waves breaking just feet away, one can admire the cliff face from a different angle. It makes you realise how small and significant we really are in comparison to the millions of years of hard work that Mother Nature has put in for us to enjoy her present treasure trove.

Feel the Spray from Breaking Waves - Image: Elaine de Wet
PS Our furry family members are very welcome too - certain areas are off-leash as indicated at the entrance at La Balsa carpark.

Cliff Face - Image: Elaine de Wet