Mooloolaba
The Basics
If you want to hit the beach by day, dine on seafood at sunset, then party all night, Mooloolaba is the place to come. It’s just over an hour from Brisbane, so it makes an easy day trip. Highlights include a canal cruise, browsing the shops along the Esplanade, or a seaplane flight over Mooloolaba and Maroochydore. Mooloolaba Beach is a great spot to swim, learn to surf or scuba dive, or enjoy activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, and skydiving.
Things to Know Before You Go
All of Mooloolaba’s sights can be reached on foot.
The Australian sun is strong and it’s worth bringing a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses even if you’re visiting outside of the summer season.
As with all Australian beaches, only swim at patrolled beaches in the designated areas (between the red and yellow flags).
How to Get There
Mooloolaba is located 61 miles (98 kilometers) north of Brisbane or just over an hour’s drive along the Bruce Highway. Buses run from Brisbane to Mooloolaba via Landsborough and also between Mooloolaba and Sunshine Coast towns such as Noosa Heads and Caloundra.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The busiest time to visit Mooloolaba is during the summer months (December–January), when it’s best to book accommodation and tours in advance. With year-round sunshine, it’s still possible to enjoy outdoor activities in the cooler months, and temperatures rarely fall below 50°F (10°C) even in the middle of winter.
Highlights of the Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba is ideally situated for exploring the rest of the Sunshine Coast. Perhaps head north to Noosa Heads, visit the renowned Eumundi Markets, or explore the magnificent landscapes of Glass House Mountains National Park. Fun family activities include a visit to the famous Australia Zoo, run by the Irwin family; the Ginger Factory theme park; Mooloolaba’s Sea Life Underwater World, one of Australia’s top aquariums; and the Aussie World amusement park.
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