Tuesday 11 August 2026
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Mooloolaba Guide: Beach, Sea Life and the Esplanade

Mooloolaba is one of the Sunshine Coast's most popular beach towns, situated at the mouth of the Mooloolah River in Maroochydore. The main beach is patrolled and faces northeast for reliable surf and swimming conditions, and the Esplanade behind the beach is lined with cafes, restaurants and ice-cream shops. SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast (formerly Underwater World) on the Esplanade is a major aquarium attraction with sharks, rays and an underwater tunnel walk. The boat harbour on the river side of the Esplanade has several operators offering whale-watching tours in season (June to November), river cruises and fishing charters. Parking at Mooloolaba is limited in peak season and paid during busy times.

Dog-Friendly Sunshine Coast: Beaches, Parks and Cafes That Welcome Dogs
Related guide: Dog-Friendly Sunshine Coast: Beaches, Parks and Cafes That Welcome Dogs
  1. 1

    Mooloolaba Beach

    Mooloolaba

    A long, north-facing beach with calm, clear water, consistent swell for learner surfing and a well-developed foreshore esplanade with cafes and restaurants.

  2. 2

    The Wharf Mooloolaba

    Mooloolaba

    A marina-side dining and retail precinct with restaurants, a pub, a day-spa and views over the Mooloolah River, the most active social precinct in the southern Sunshine Coast.

  3. 3

    SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast

    Mooloolaba

    An award-winning aquarium at The Wharf, with a 14-metre ocean tunnel, shark dive experiences and a popular Sea Turtle rehabilitation program.

  4. 4

    Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club

    Mooloolaba

    A large SLSC with a public restaurant and bar on the beach front, popular with families for Sunday sessions and market brunches.

  5. 5

    Mooloolah River National Park Walk

    Mooloolaba

    A short bushland walk into the heath and scribbly gum woodland behind the Mooloolaba township, with coastal dune views and banksias in flower.

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