Things To Do in Mooloolaba

Mooloolaba, nestled on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is celebrated for its aquatic pastimes. The local beach unfurls for nearly two kilometres, accompanied by a river that courses through the town, beckoning water sports enthusiasts.
Renowned as a beloved spot on the Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba Beach captivates visitors with its stunning curvature, emitting a wide grin through its soft, white sands against the backdrop of the turquoise ocean. It stands as one of the most secure coastal stretches in the vicinity. Many enjoyable activities are available, including surfing, swimming, angling, stand-up paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. For those who favour tranquillity, there’s the option to immerse in the ambience at the water’s edge. Near the sandy beach, eateries and stores offering oceanic views are conveniently situated mere steps from the bustling Esplanade, allowing for leisurely interludes from the oceanfront activities.

You can visit The Wharf Mooloolaba

The Wharf Mooloolaba enjoys popularity as a prime spot, just a brief stroll from Mooloolaba Beach. This lively harbour hosts SEA Life Sunshine Coast and several dining establishments. It also acts as the launch site for various cruises and angling expeditions in the vicinity.
The dining scene here is particularly prominent. Many eateries offer splendid vistas of the marina and the Mooloolah River, with menus featuring various fare, from fresh seafood to Italian, Greek, and Asian street food delights. Treat yourself to some artisanal gelato or enjoy the confectionery delights at Fudgees to complete your dining experience.
For those inclined towards retail therapy, shopping is a delightful diversion at this location. Boutique stores present the creations of local fashion talents; one can discover specialty items, exquisite jewellery, and stylish home accessories. Should retail pursuits be at the top of your agenda, visit Sunshine Plaza in Maroochydore. This open-air shopping centre boasts a picturesque waterway weaving through it.
Activities at The Wharf Mooloolaba are varied, including whale-watching tours, snorkelling and diving adventures, serene sunset sails, and angling trips.
You can locate this attraction at 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, Queensland.

Enjoy the sunshine at Mooloolaba Beach

Mooloolaba Beach is regarded as a premier destination among the beaches on the Sunshine Coast. It boasts a lively setting with open-air coffee shops and dining venues close to the seaside. The picturesque Mooloolaba esplanade accompanies the beach, providing visitors with many aquatic and terrestrial sporting options.
On the Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba Beach is recognised for its secure environment and soft surf. The clear and tepid waters present an excellent spot for refreshing dips. The vigilant Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club monitors the beach, maintaining visitor safety throughout the year.
Renowned for its calm swells, Mooloolaba Beach is a favourite spot for novice surfers. Surfing instruction is offered from Robbie Sherwell’s XL Surfing Academy and the Maroochy Surf School, with many youngsters frequently spotted riding the waves with their boards during weekends and school breaks.
Playing beach volleyball is a favoured activity here, with practice meets and weekly matches on the sand. There are also evening competitions that are held under the illumination of floodlights.
Furthermore, Mooloolaba Beach provides excellent facilities, such as pavilions for picnics, lookout decks, and seaside showers, granting a picturesque shore view.

Take a stroll on the Mooloolaba Boardwalk

Taking a leisurely walk along the coastline is one of the delightful pursuits in Mooloolaba, where picturesque trails beckon. The route from Mooloolaba Beach to Mooloolaba Spit is particularly captivating for its views at dusk. As you stroll, the stunning coastal scenery unfolds before you.
The promenade at Mooloolaba Beach has recently seen enhancements. It snakes its way along the shore, skirting a favoured caravan site, and winds around a rocky breakwater that anglers particularly enjoy. This panoramic path is a favourite for various activities, including jogging, walking pets, family outings, or cycling. Wheel-based users, however, are reminded to dismount in the crowded stretches for safe passage.
You’ll find strategically positioned seating and vantage points to take in the coastal splendour along this passage. Youngsters in tow will find joy in the well-equipped playground facilities.
Should you crave a bite after spending time near the waves, head over to the marina on Parkyn Parade, where the catch of the day awaits. You can indulge in a waterfront picnic featuring the ocean’s bounty here. Furthermore, Pier 33 is one of Mooloolaba’s premier seafood dining establishments.
By wandering to the extremity of the breakwater, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the ocean and the iconic Point Cartwright, crowned by its historic lighthouse. Fishers favour this spot, and it provides an exquisite backdrop for sunset gazing.
The stroll from the Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club to the Spit generally spans 45 to 60 minutes, depending on how often one pauses to appreciate the surroundings. The pathway is well-lit throughout. For those desiring an extended expedition, the trail leads from Mooloolaba Spit to Alexandra Headland, offering a longer trek.

Discover marine life at SEA Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium

At the SEA Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium, guests can engage with various sea creatures, such as starfish, sea cucumbers, grey nurse sharks, seals, and jellyfish. The facility provides a captivating dive into an aquatic world.
This welcoming family venue features 11 distinctive zones visitors can traverse, including interactive tidal pools, a vibrant coral display, and a sanctuary dedicated to seahorses. Standout experiences include a lengthy 80-meter submarine corridor where one can marvel at sharks and rays from a short distance, observe charming tiny blue penguins, and watch a lively seal performance.
The aquarium allows visitors to partake in up-close animal experiences and hands-on activities that are especially delightful for kids. Opportunities abound, from feeding penguins by hand to enjoying a personal seal experience or diving with sharks for the adventure seekers.
This destination offers an ideal refuge for those searching for indoor activities in Mooloolaba when the weather is inclement. Moreover, a day trip to the nearby Australia Zoo, a mere 30-minute journey from Mooloolaba, is also worth considering for a chance to encounter a variety of land animals.
You can find this attraction at Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, Queensland.

One can hike the Point Cartwright Loop

The Point Cartwright Loop stands out as a favoured path in Mooloolaba, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the locale. This trail, extending over 1.8 kilometres, traces the outline of the land that protrudes like a fishtail into the ocean, with the distinguished Point Cartwright Lighthouse marking its terminus.
As part of the extensive 96-kilometer Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway, the Point Cartwright Loop is a highlight among the Sunshine Coast’s attractions. Nestled at the northern tip of the Caloundra stretch, it provides captivating vistas encompassing the river, the vast ocean, and the sandy expanse of Kawana Beach.
Commencing your tour is possible from the Reserve Carpark on Pacific Boulevard in Buddina. Alternatively, you might begin at La Balsa Park, near the riverbank. The track, lined with pandanus, meanders around the headland, cutting through lush parkland. Circling the water’s edge, the trail allows you to soak in the extensive views from the 32.4-meter lighthouse. Children often enjoy the climbable trees within the park’s green spaces.
For those accompanied by canine companions, it’s worth noting that this pathway welcomes dogs. There are provisions for off-leash recreation in certain zones after 4 p.m., though ensuring you clean up after your pet is essential.
Dotting the route are ample spots perfect for rest and recreation. The sound of paddles breaking the water’s surface from outrigger canoes, the sightings of seals, dolphins, and even whales, or the opportunity to snap an impressive shot of the lighthouse make for memorable moments. Furthermore, there are options to indulge in rock fishing, to revel in a leisurely picnic, or to delve into the marine life inhabiting the rock pools.
Yet, it’s the sunsets that genuinely astonish. This spot in Mooloolaba is celebrated for its spectacular display as the day’s last light paints the heavens.

Go on a Mooloolaba Cruise

Being enveloped by waters, Mooloolaba invites you to discover its beauty by boat, presenting a plethora of aquatic pursuits from tranquil voyages to adrenaline-fueled jet boat escapades. Embarking on a two-hour twilight sailing with Coastal Cruises Mooloolaba is possible throughout the year, where you also have the choice to relish a seafood lunch while cruising. Whale One offers an alternative for witnessing the sunset from the water from September to May. The one-hour Mooloolaba Canal Cruise is available for those desiring a briefer excursion. A local family enterprise runs this cruise and takes passengers through the canals on the MV Mudjimba, a classic wooden ferry from 1963. The trip is complemented with engaging and educational commentary throughout. Wildlife spectacles are abundant in the waters around Mooloolaba. Whether whale-watching excursions or dolphin-seeking tours, providers like Whale One, Sunreef, and Sunshine Coast Afloat are at your service. The prime time for whale observation spans from June through October. Snorkelling and scuba diving cruises are also available for those keen on a closer interaction with sea creatures. If a dose of high-speed thrill is what you seek, contemplate reserving a ride on the open sea with a jet boat thrill ride offered by Sunshine Coast Afloat or Adventure Rafting. These operators also host whale-watching tours when the season is right.

Dive HMAS Brisbane

The HMAS Brisbane constitutes an underwater sanctuary, having been sunk in 2005 to form an artificial reef off Mudjimba’s shore. It’s a renowned diving spot within Australia, frequented by a rich diversity of marine life with more than 200 fish species recorded.
Both Sunreef Mooloolaba and Scuba World organise diving expeditions to this famed wreck. The sunken vessel is now a thriving habitat for many sea creatures, including turtles, rays, leopard sharks, and octopi. Divers might also encounter Queensland groupers, snapper, lionfish, batfish, yellowtail kingfish, and red emperor. The site is equally adorned with various hard and soft corals and hosts a range of nudibranchs dwelling amongst them.
Spanning 133 meters in length, the wreck’s hull rests in the ocean’s embrace at depths between 15 and 18 meters, presenting an excellent diving location. Due to the consistently warm water temperatures throughout the year, the wreck can be dived into at any season. With visibility extending from 15 to well over 20 meters, this diving site is accessible to those who have attained open water certification or higher.
For snorkelling enthusiasts, Sunreef Mooloolaba also arranges tours around the reefs near Mudjimba Island, colloquially known as Old Woman Island. Here, snorkelers can revel in the presence of various aquatic beings, including turtles, wobbegong sharks, a myriad of reef fish, and a tapestry of lively corals.

Experience a scenic flight over the coast in a seaplane

Soaring over the coast offers a splendid opportunity to admire Mooloolaba’s picturesque shoreline and aquatic landscapes. The thrill of ascending and descending directly from the water’s surface in a seaplane makes for a remarkable adventure.
The Seaplane Adventure Flight grants its passengers the exhilaration of lifting off from the waters of the Maroochy River, coupled with the delight of observing the sights of Mooloolaba Beach, the winding Mooloolah River, Mooloolaba Spit, and the striking Point Cartwright from above. Live narration enriches the journey throughout the flight by shedding light on the landmarks below.
Flights with Paradise Seaplanes take to the skies in the historic Wilga Warbird. From this vantage point, guests have an unparalleled view of the azure waters and curvaceous coast via the aircraft’s expansive windows. This roughly 10-minute voyage promises to leave an indelible impression, etching itself into the memories of those aboard.

Swim with Whales

Between May and November, the migration of humpback whales is a spectacular event witnessed in the temperate seas surrounding Mooloolaba. Embarking on a whale-watching cruise provides a privileged vantage point to watch these colossal creatures.
Sunreef Mooloolaba schedules these whale-watching expeditions from June to November. Cruise times can fluctuate from 2.5 to three hours, subject to the day’s sea conditions. A unique aspect of their offering is a whale sighting guarantee, promising guests another cruise at no extra charge if no whales are encountered during the initial outing.
Sunreef Mooloolaba presents a 3.5-hour encounter that allows you to swim with the whales from July to October for those seeking proximity to these gentle giants. It’s an invitation to meet with these leviathans in their natural habitat.
Outside the whale-watching window, the Marine Discovery Lunch Tour is an alternative, offering glimpses of turtles, dolphins, and various sea life. Additionally, you can opt for the two-hour Dolphin Discovery Cruise, which includes a buffet lunch.
Other operators, such as Coastal Express and Sunshine Coast Afloat, also conduct whale-watching tours when the season permits.
Departures for these whale-watching adventures are conveniently available from the marina at The Wharf Mooloolaba.

Go Fishing

Situated close to water, Mooloolaba presents an array of angling activities such as river, deep-sea, reef, big-game, and shore fishing, allowing anglers to land an impressive catch.
Angling endeavours in Mooloolaba often revolve around the Mooloolah River. The Mooloolaba Rock Wall and the Point Cartwright area are sought-after spots for anglers. During the colder seasons, species such as bream, tailor, jewfish, and mulloway are frequently caught. Upstream in the Mooloolah River, anglers can pursue Australian bass, while mangrove jack and bream are regular catches within the canals.
Offshore fishing in Mooloolaba is gratifying, with the summer season offering the chance to reel in queenfish, various types of trevally, and both mackerel and longtail tuna. Additionally, catches can include emperor, tuskfish, pearl perch, and Spanish mackerel. Come the cooler seasons, snapper becomes the sought-after species. One might also encounter cobia and yellowtail kingfish all year round in these waters.
Big-game fishing is an additional pursuit on offer. Venturing further offshore could yield mahi-mahi and sailfish.
For those looking to fish in Mooloolaba, consider a guided fishing excursion. Mooloolaba Fishing charters both half-day and full-day expeditions. Likewise, Deep End Fishing Charters facilitates various angling adventures, such as half-day deep-sea reef fishing, full-day offshore fishing, nocturnal fishing ventures, and river fishing excursions. Both operators supply all necessary equipment and bait for a successful outing.

Explore the shops and restaurants on Mooloolaba Esplanade

The Esplanade at Mooloolaba attracts crowds of tourists year-round. It has many stores and dining spots along its expansive promenade, enhanced by streetside cafes that lend a touch of European charm. This site boasts direct access and is a stone’s throw away from the sandy shores of Mooloolabastone. Following a day of frolicking in the waves and basking under the sun, it’s the perfect spot to indulge in delicious fare. It’s the pleasures Mooloolaba provides: the chance to relax at a streetside table, enjoy a brew of coffee, and people-watch while relishing the picturesque beach vista enveloped by palm trees and towering Norfolk pines. Many gastronomic choices await, including eateries serving Italian and seafood specialties and relaxed coffeehouses. Additionally, a tempting Ben & Jerry’s ice cream cone is yours to delight in. Should the urge for shJerry’sstrike, the lane is peppered with chic boutiques, surf emporiums, and glittering jewellery outlets. One can stumble upon treasures tucked away on lateral roads, such as First Avenue.

Embark on the Aquaduck Voyage

For an accessible and economical touring alternative, the Aquaduck comes highly recommended. This sixty-minute amphibious excursion presents the splendours of Mooloolaba, covering terrestrial and maritime experiences. Board the Aquaduck for a session that is as enlightening as it is delightful. Navigate the sights of Mooloolaba Beach, the Esplanade, and the famed “Sunshine Strip” on solid ground before setting off on”a tranquil voy over the waters. Behold the marvels of Point Cartwright, the Mooloolah River, opulent riverside abodes, fishing vessels, and native fauna. The detailed commentary offers captivating insights into the local sights and attractions, ensuring that even the kids remain amused. This voyage is an optimal means to gain a preliminary understanding of the locality and identify spots you may want to revisit for extended periods.