Rumba Resort at Bulcock Beach, Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast is billed as Caloundra's only 5 star hotel. And while you pay for the pleasure, it's well worth the price.
Rumba Resort, Caloundra
We first visited the Rumba Resort in 2009 shortly after it opened. I'm not sure why the developers chose the name Rumba as the resort doesn't really scream sexy, Cuban-esque ballroom. But it does ooze sophisticated fun, even with the kids in tow.
We liked it so much that we resolved to stay there when the funds allowed or a deal was offered on the Sunshine Coast. We were lucky enough to visit again just recently.
Given the beautiful location right across the street from Bulcock Beach, Rumba Resorts had the opportunity to make the most of the scenery and they have done this very well. The majority of the one, two or three bedroom suites have views to the water (if not the ocean than at least the pool area). The resort has a total of 65 rooms, small enough so that you can meet new people yet big enough that you don't have to see them constantly.
View to Bulcock Beach
I like to think of a stay at Rumba Resort as being a true family holiday. And for me that means staying in some place clean, comfortable, accessible and with plenty to keep the kids entertained - because when those boxes are ticked it means mum gets to rest and relax as well.
Interior View - 2 bedroom Unit
We stayed in a two bedroom unit that includes two bathrooms and a well-appointed kitchen. There is an easy flow to the floor plan and plenty of space for everyone to spread out and relax. My seven year old, a seasoned hotel enthusiast, declared Rumba to be his favourite and has even asked to have his birthday there (ummmm, no honey, not this year).
Main Bedroom- cool, classic interiors
And we have to talk about the pool. The pool area is the icing on the cake, especially when you are travelling with kids. The resort has a large swimming pool with attached spa, a separate gated mega-spa and a lap pool. The lap pool is a favourite as it has a glass end panel which looks directly onto the Esplanade.
That's one cool pool!
The lap pool also has underwater port-hole windows in the sides and floor which look into the Hog's Breath Café underneath. These windows provide plenty of entertainment for the swimmer and the diner.
Rumba Resort Pool
View of pool windows in Hogs Breath Cafe ceiling
The resort provides secure undercover parking but if you are hanging around Caloundra, you probably won't need the car. Bulcock Beach is across the road, Happy Valley playground is a short walk and Bulcock Street (the Caloundra CBD) is two blocks away. You can access Kings Beach via the boardwalk but if you are schlepping tons of beach gear you may want to drive. If we packed light, we enjoyed the walk with our two kids both along the boardwalk when the tide was in and directly along the beach and rock pools when the tide was out.
Strolling along the Boardwalk
Happy Valley Playground
Other facilities include an on-site cocktail bar and direct access to pubs and restaurants downstairs. For the pure novelty of it, we had to have a meal at Hogs Breath Café directly under the pool windows. They do offer a kids eat free night, but be sure to book in advance. Grocery stores are a short drive away if you need to stock up the kitchen. And if you are driving up, don't forget the fishing rods. The boardwalk across the street is a great spot to chuck in a line with moderate success.
Caloundra rules!
