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The 17 dreamiest Mooloolaba accommodation picks

Spanning luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-busting retreats, made-to-fit Mooloolaba accommodation is just a click away.

For a small coastal suburb no larger than four square kilometres, mellow Mooloolaba packs a serious punch when it comes to Sunshine Coast accommodation. Spanning state-of-the-art apartments, boutique villas and beachfront caravanning, stellar stays flow throughout the Sunshine Coast beach town.

I’ve shortlisted the best Mooloolaba accommodation (including one very exciting hotel in the works) to help you get there hassle-free.

In short

If you can only choose one Mooloolaba accommodation, make it Sea Pearl Mooloolaba. It ticks all the boxes: central location, a resort pool overlooking the beach, and an on-site day spa.

Hotels and resorts

1. Sea Pearl Mooloolaba

a spacious apartment with scenic sea views at Sea Pearl Mooloolaba
Treat yourself to a luxurious open-plan apartment stay at Sea Pearl Mooloolaba.

Price: $$$$

The only five-star resort in town, Sea Pearl Mooloolaba is as fancy as you can go (until early 2026, that is, when a five-star hotel finally lands – more below).

Located on Mooloolaba Esplanade, the location is unbeatable, and I love that they’ve got two and three-bedroom configurations to choose from. Ocean views abound no matter where you land, as do high-end furnishings like spa baths, open-plan kitchens with European appliances, rain showers and coffee machines. This Mooloolaba accommodation also stands out for its incredible in-room dining experiences, spanning a visit from a personal chef or sommelier to work their magic right on-site. Facility-wise, there’s an ocean-fronting heated pool, private cinema, steam room, gym, day spa and underground parking.

Address: 87 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba

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2. Avani Mooloolaba

While Mooloolaba is awash with luxurious stays, I’m pretty excited about Avani Mooloolaba opening its doors at the beginning of 2026. The sleek hotel chain will unveil the beach town’s only true hotel just 100 metres from the sand. In fact, it’s the first international hotel to arrive on the Sunshine Coast since 1988 so you can imagine how stoked regular holiday makers are. Soaring up 12 storeys and offering 180 rooms and suites, the build will also feature a rooftop pool, restaurant and bar, plus wellness facilities and a kids’ club (yet another total Mooloolaba game-changer for parents). Watch this space for more.

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3. Landmark Resort and Spa

a heated lagoon pool at Landmark Resort and Spa, Mooloolaba
The heated lagoon pool is the resort’s biggest drawcard for families.

Price: $$

Another most-loved, amenity-heavy Mooloolaba accommodation pick, I steer towards this one for its heated lagoon-style pool and water feature. It makes the Landmark Resort and Spa incredibly family-friendly, plus you’re right on the Esplanade. If you’re travelling with toddlers, like I was the first time I visited, you’ll appreciate the kids’ wading pool right next to the pool’s big kid territory. Sun loungers are hard to nab so get there early in the morning for pole kid-minding position. Additionally, there’s a rooftop spa to sink into between hangs in your studio suite or one-, two-, or three-bedroom stay. A 10-person sauna, gym and day spa provide extra creature comforts.

Address: 11 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba

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4. Mantra Mooloolaba Beach

a suite with ocean view at Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
Soak up sweeping sea views from your suite. (Image: Supplied)

Price: $$$

Just a 10-minute walk from the ocean, Mantra Mooloolaba Beach is one of the original luxury stays in the area, embracing the beauty of its surroundings. While the facilities are slightly dated compared to newer Mooloolaba accommodation picks, all 188 one-, two- or three-bedroom stays offer private balconies with ocean or hinterland views. Go for the three-bedroom penthouse for the best on ground. There’s a rooftop observation deck, heated outdoor pool and indoor pool, spa, sauna, business facilities, barbecues, a gym, and undercover parking. Plus, they do room service – a major lazy holiday win.

Address: 7 Venning St, Mooloolaba

5. Pandanus Mooloolaba

a balcony with pool view at Pandanus Mooloolaba
Stay in a spacious apartment with a balcony at Pandanus Mooloolaba.

Price: $$$

Offering comfortable resort-style living for families, Pandanus Mooloolaba is home to 35 roomy apartments spanning one-, two-, three- or four-bedroom configurations. They’re all built with large lounge and dining areas so there’s plenty of space for self-catered family meals. Elsewhere, you’ll find a pool, spa, gym, and secure parking, plus you’re on a quiet street within walking distance from the Esplanade so you’re central without the crowds.

Address: 21 Smith Street, Mooloolaba

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6. Oceans Mooloolaba Beach

Price: $$$$

Oceans Mooloolaba is a glorious choice for holiday seekers craving all the amenities. Home to 46 apartments and penthouses, each decked out with modern interiors, plush bedding, and Nespresso coffee machines, the Mooloolaba accommodation features a 25-metre lap pool, kids’ wading pool, heated spa, gym, undercover parking, and a small theatre with leather chairs.

Address: 101-105 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba

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Caravan parks

7. Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park

the beach next to Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park
Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park offers convenient access to the beach.

Price: $

You don’t need to be cashed up to enjoy a slice of breezy Sunshine Coast beach life. Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park, a short drive away from the main beach, is a sensational option for budget-conscious families, situated right next to The Surf Club Mooloolaba and within walking distance to The Wharf’s thriving marina precinct. While there aren’t any cabins, powered caravan and camping sites are available right on the beach and there’s a camp kitchen, amenities block, laundry facilities, and free wi-fi.

Address: 100 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba

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8. Alex Beach Cabins & Tourist Park

the pool at Alex Beach Cabins & Tourist Park, Mooloolaba
Relax poolside on a deckchair with a drink in hand. (Image: Alex Beach Cabins & Tourist Park)

Price: $-$$

Just a short drive up north of the Esplanade lies Alexandra Headland, a beautiful, quiet part of the coastline that’s mostly free of crowds. Soaking up the serenity isn’t costly at Alex Beach Cabins & Tourist Park, which offers powered sites for caravans and motorhomes plus a variety of villas and cabins. A heated outdoor pool, playground and games room will keep little ones busy, while grown-ups will appreciate the undercover barbecues and camp kitchen, plus an amenities block with coin-operated washing machines and dryers.

Address: 21-23 Okinja Rd, Alexandra Headland

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Holiday homes, apartments and Airbnbs

9. Breeze Mooloolaba Beach

a modern suite with ocean views at Breeze Mooloolaba Beach
Stay in a two-bedroom apartment with panoramic ocean views at Breeze Mooloolaba Beach.

Price: $$-$$$

I spot its unique curvilinear design a mile away, set right off the Esplanade so the ocean shimmers in the backdrop. I love Breeze Mooloolaba Beach for so many reasons (including the little branded notepads by the phone that serve as momentoes) but its calming interiors and ocean views are arguably my favourite bits. Every architecturally designed apartment, spanning one- or two-bedroom stays or three-bedroom ground-level ones, features state-of-the-art technology, private balconies and modern kitchens, while a pool, spa, secure undercover parking and barbecues unleash superior comfort.

Address: 3 Meta Street, Mooloolaba

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10. The Peninsular Mooloolaba

stunning sea views from the balcony of an apartment at The Peninsular Mooloolaba
The Peninsular Mooloolaba puts you close to the beach as possible.

Price: $$-$$$

You’ll score easy access to the best Mooloolaba restaurants and bars with a stay at The Peninsular Mooloolaba. Located in the heart of the Esplanade, the apartment and penthouse accommodation is a skip over the road from the beach. One-, two-, and three-bedroom self-contained rooms, including penthouses, are up for grabs, and while the fit-outs aren’t new, they’re stacked with ample amenities and sweeping water views. Expect a heated pool, spa, sauna, gym, tennis court and undercover parking.

Address: 13 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba

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11. Mantra Zanzibar Mooloolaba

Price: $$$

Yet another Mantra property (there are three in total in Mooloolaba), Mantra Zanzibar is located right on the Esplanade, so I love this one for its proximity to the action. Choose from two and three-bedroom self-contained apartments and penthouses, each with clean, coastal interiors, private balconies, roomy lounge and dining areas, and plenty of natural light. Facilities include a heated pool, gym, spa, business services and barbecues.

Address: 47-51 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba

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12. Mantra Sirocco

a spacious suite with ocean views at Mantra Sirocco, Mooloolaba
Mantra Sirocco offers a great base right on the Esplanade.

Price: $$$

A slightly more stripped-back Mantra compared to the chain’s Mooloolaba counterparts, Mantra Sirocco is still brilliantly situated in the heart of town on the Esplanade. Rooms range from two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments to the top-tier penthouse. All are spacious and well-appointed, but those looking for a bit of luxury should dive right into that penthouse as it comes with a private rooftop spa and barbecue. There’s a heated pool and spa for relaxing while admiring ocean views, plus a gym, a poolside entertaining area, and undercover parking.

Address: 59-75 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba

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13. Coco Mooloolaba

Price: $$$

A comfortable stay located on one street behind the Esplanade, Coco Mooloolaba is modern and caters to groups. Choose from one and two-bedroom apartments, each fitted with large balconies, fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and modern bathrooms. When it’s time to kick back, take advantage of its heated pool, jacuzzi and undercover barbecues, plus the team loan out beach cabanas, beach carts, beach chairs, and beach toys if you’re keen to hit the sand (which is within walking distance).

Address: 79-83 First Avenue, Mooloolaba

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14. First Light Mooloolaba

a modern apartment with sea views at First Light Mooloolaba
Wake up to stunning ocean views from bed. (Image: First Light Mooloolaba)

Price: $$$

Looking for a state-of-the-art self-contained apartment to live out your executive living dreams? First Light Mooloolaba is endlessly slick and located just one street behind the Esplanade. A collection of one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments feature secure floor-to-ceiling glass doors that let sparkling ocean views flow in. There’s also a pool, deck chairs, barbecues, a gym, and secure undercover parking.

Address: 25 First Avenue, Mooloolaba

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15. The Villas Mooloolaba

a coastal-chic villa in Mooloolaba
Check into a coastal-chic villa in Mooloolaba.

Price: $$$

I enjoyed shaking up my usual serviced apartment stay with a booking at The Villas Mooloolaba on a recent family holiday. Located on a quiet Mooloolaba backstreet, the accommodation features four beautifully styled villas, scattered with coastal-chic finishes and Instagram-friendly interiors. Each villa features two bedrooms and modern bathrooms plus there are either balconies or private terraces to lounge upon. A circular plunge pool and outdoor shower are arguably the stars of the show, and there are several grassy areas for little ones to explore. If you’ve got a large group, you can even rent out the entire space, which sleeps 16 people.

Address: 2 Barooga Crescent, Mooloolaba

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16. La Vida Airbnb

a bedroom with pool view at La Vida Airbnb, Mooloolaba
La Vida Airbnb offers a simple yet stylish accommodation option in Mooloolaba.

Price: $$$$

Sleeping up to six guests, La Vida is an idyllic coastal oasis for groups, providing total privacy within a short stroll from the beach. The Mooloolaba Airbnb is perfectly set up for summer getaways with its swimming pool, sunlounges, and outdoor dining setting. Inside, you’ll find luxurious bathtubs and stylish touches throughout including linen sheets, a 50-inch television, a Nespresso coffee machine, and beach essentials including towels, an umbrella and snorkelling gear.

Address: 2 Lawrence Street, Mooloolaba

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17. The River Cottage Airbnb

The River Cottage next to a canal in Mooloolaba
Unwind on the water’s edge at this chic Mooloolaba Airbnb.

Price: $$$$

Kick your shoes off and stretch out overlooking a quiet canal at The River Cottage. The three-bedroom, impeccably styled Mooloolaba Airbnb is a Pinterest dream, all rattan and white, while the backyard flows right out onto the canal. The owners have conveniently placed an umbrella-shaded pair of deck chairs right on the water’s edge to encourage serious unwinding (however families with children under eight are not encouraged as there’s no fencing at the water). Expect a tight but tidy kitchen, wall-mounted TV in the lounge, a deck that flows onto the grass, and bedrooms with soft linen and subtle plant life.

Address: Mooloolaba (directions released upon booking)

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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What it’s really like to stay on the world’s largest sand island

Exploring the world’s largest sand island starts with the perfect K’gari homebase.

The morning light is still soft, but it’s already a perfect sunny day. We left our K’gari homebase at Kingfisher Bay Resort  with our guide, Peter Meyer, at 9 am to make the most of our time to explore all that the world’s largest sand island holds. The size of K’gari is hard to grasp until you arrive here. This is no sandbar. Stretching 120 kilometres, unique lakes, mangrove systems, rainforest, 75 Miles of beach, historic shipwrecks, small townships and even one of Queensland’s best bakeries are all hidden within its bounds.

But first, one of the island’s most iconic sights: the pure silica sand and crystal clear waters of Lake McKenzie.

Laying eyes on it for the first time, I’m finally able to confirm that the photos don’t lie. The sand is pure white, without the merest hint of yellow. The water fades from a light halo of aqua around the edges to a deeper, royal blue, the deeper it gets (not that it’s particularly deep, six metres at most). The surface remains surprisingly undisturbed, like a mirror.

Arriving with our guide before 10 am means that no one else is around when we get here. Which means we have the pleasure of breaking the smooth surface with our own ripples as we enter. As a self-confessed wimp with chilly water temperatures, my fears are quickly assuaged. Even in the morning, the water stays around 23 degrees – perfect for lazing about all day. But we have more sights to see.

Exploring K’gari

ariel of in lake mckenzie on k'gari fraser island
Relax in the warm waters of Lake McKenzie. (Image: Ayeisha Sheldon)

This was the Personalised 4WD tour offered by Kingfisher Bay Resort, and my absolute top pick of experiences. Over the course of the day, we had the freedom to create our own bespoke itinerary (plus a provided picnic lunch along the way), with an expert guide who had plenty of stories and local expertise to give context to what we were looking at. From the history of the SS Maheno shipwreck, which survived the First World War only to be washed ashore by a cyclone in 1935, to a detailed description of how an island made of sand could sustain such diverse flora.

If it’s your first time to K’gari, the Beauty Spots Tour is another great option. Departing daily from Kingfisher Bay Resort (you’ll start to notice a trend, as many of the tours do start and end here), an air-conditioned, 4WD bus takes guests to the island’s most iconic locations, including the best places to swim, like Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek. The latter offers a gentle current, perfect for riding with a blow-up tyre out towards the ocean.

The next day, for a look at a completely different side of K’gari, I joined one of Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Immersive Ranger-guided tours to kayak through the mangroves of Dundonga Creek. This long, snake-like stretch of creek winds its way inland from the ocean outlet we entered by, at times too narrow for three kayaks to be side-by-side. Small insects buzz from leaf to leaf, while birds call overhead. Occasional bubbles indicate we’ve passed some fish that call this place home.

kayak tour through the mangroves at k'gari island
Learn about the island’s mangroves from your Ranger. (Image: Reuben Nutt/ TEQ)

If kayaking isn’t for you – or if, like me, you simply want more – other ranger-led experiences include nature walks and a dedicated Junior Eco Ranger Program for kids ages five to 12 (these run every weekend, and daily over the peak December holidays). Just ask for a timetable of upcoming tours when you check in.

While during whale season, Hervey Bay Whale Watch & Charters operates tours from the hotel’s jetty to get up close to the famous Humpback Highway of Hervey Bay, from 7 November to 31 May, attention turns to the Aqua Oasis Cruise . Departing from the resort every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for resort guests, adventure along the island’s remote western coast, pointing out wildlife like dolphins, turtles, flying fish and eagles along the way.

The cruise drops anchor so guests can jump into the water using the boat’s equipment – from SUP boards to inflatable slides and jumping platforms. Then refuel with a provided lunch, of course.

Unwind at sunset

two people drinking cocktails at sunset bar, kingfisher bay resort
Unwind at the Sunset Bar. (Image: Sean Scott)

As much as days on K’gari can be filled with adventure, to me, the afternoons and evenings there are for unwinding. Sunsets on K’gari are absolutely unbelievable, with Kingfisher Bay on the west side being the best spot to catch the colours.

The Sunset Bar , located at the start of the resort’s jetty and overlooking the beach, is the ultimate location for sundowners. Let chill beats wash over you as you sip on cool wines, beers and cocktails in a relaxed, friendly vibe. Personally, a cheese board was also absolutely called for. As the sun sinks, the sand, sea and horizon turn a vibrant shade of orange, with the jetty casting a dramatic shadow across the water.

When the show is over, head back to the hotel for dinner at the Asian-fusion Dune restaurant, or the pub-style Sand + Wood. But if your appetite is still whetted for more lights and colours, the evening isn’t over yet.

Settle into the Illumina stage for Return to Sky, an immersive light and sound show leading viewers on a captivating journey through K’gari’s stories and landscapes.

Indulge and disconnect

woman setting up massage room at kingfisher bay resort Island Day Spa
Find bliss at Island Day Spa. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Of course, there is a type of traveller who knows that balance is important, day or night. While Kingfisher Bay Resort offers more than one pool for guests to spend all day lounging by (they’ll even serve you food and drinks while you do it), you’ll find me at the Island Day Spa.

The masseuses could match the magic hands of any big city spa, and I felt the warm welcome as I walked into the light, breezy reception. Choose from a range of botanical facials, beauty treatments and soothing massages using traditional techniques (obviously, I couldn’t go past a relaxing massage). All products used contain organic, native botanical ingredients with nutrient-rich plant extracts to soothe skin and mind. To really indulge, try out one of the packages, couples treatment or even a pre-wedding day offering.

Getting there

kingfisher bay resort 4wd tour driving passed ss maheno on k'gari island
The world of K’gari awaits. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Getting to K’gari is shockingly easy. Find daily flights into Hervey Bay from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Kingfisher Bay Resort offers a shuttle bus between the airport, their headquarters in Hervey Bay and the ferry to take you to K’gari.