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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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Tropical islands, good food & world-class shows: Your eventful guide to a holiday in Townsville

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
    Townsville is buzzing as the events capital of North Queensland, with a host of festivals, international sporting and arts events on offer.

    Perched between the Coral Sea, the towering pink monolith of Castle Hill, and fringed by ancient rainforest ranges, Townsville North Queensland is a genuine tropical playground.

    Here, find postcard-worthy landscapes all the way from nearby Magnetic Island to inland swimming holes and waterfalls – all dotted with an array of endemic wildlife. Get the heart racing with adrenaline water sports. Soak in a world-class arts scene. And take advantage of a culinary offering that punches well above its weight.

    And, then there’s the fact that Townsville has fast become the destination to an outstanding line-up of events – from live music to top-level sporting contests.

    Whether you have a weekend or weeks, there’s plenty here to fill your tropical getaway.

    Day 1: An eventful day

    Morning

    The Strand in townsville
    Explore The Strand.

    Daily flights offer easy connectivity from all capital cities to Townsville Airport, and within 10 minutes’ drive, you’re in the city centre. Start your stay by recharging with breakfast or coffee at the city’s newest spot, Botaniq Cafe, on the ground floor of the award-winning Bridgewater restaurant on the banks of Ross Creek.

    Start exploring on a breezy walk along the 2.5-kilometre foreshore of The Strand. Here, a waterfront path stretches all the way to the headland of Jezzine Barracks parklands. Admire more than 35 sculptures and artworks, as well as stunning views from the top of the park. Further along, Queens Gardens, established in 1870, offers a cool retreat and is Townsville’s oldest botanic garden.

    Stroll Gregory Street, off The Strand, for boutiques, homeware stores, cafes and restaurants, or follow a self-guided street art walking trail through the city centre, stopping to admire colourful works by big-name artists including Queenslander Fintan Magee.

    Afternoon

    concert in front of castle hill townsville events
    Time your trip for one of many Townsville events.

    For a casual lunch, stop in at Balabite for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired street food. Build your own pita with a choice of fillings, before enjoying a relaxing afternoon in preparation for one of Townsville’s big events.

    Whether it’s a concert from a big-name international band – think Foo Fighters or Guns ‘n’ Roses – or a night cheering on the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup, there’s plenty to entertain you.

    Time your visit for events like the Townsville Folk Festival (June 12-14), Supercars Townsville 500 (July 10-12), Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week (August 27-September 2), North Australian Festival of Arts (September 25 – October 11) or see the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup (coming in 2027).

    Day 2: Island dreaming

    Morning

    Pilgrim Sailing magnetic island
    Take a lunchtime sailing trip with Pilgrim Sailing.

    Fuel up with breakfast at Cbar on The Strand, looking out to your destination for the day: Magnetic Island (or ‘Maggie’ to the locals). Catch a quick ferry to spend the day exploring walking trails through national park, choosing from 23 beaches and trying a hand at the island’s water sports.

    The Forts Walk is the best place to see wild koalas in Australia, and you’re likely to find friendly wallabies at the Nelly or Geoffrey Bay headlands. Try guided snorkelling with Aquascene Magnetic Island or Pleasure Divers, or take a land-based tour with MI Ride Discovery Tours to the secluded west coast of the island.

    Pilgrim Magnetic Island offers four-hour lunchtime sailing trips aboard a 58-foot luxury yacht, dropping in to some of Magnetic Island’s remote bays for snorkelling or swimming and including gourmet grazing platters, drinks and ocean views.

    Afternoon

    picnic bay on magnetic island
    Head to Picnic Bay for delicious dining.

    Refuel after a morning of adventure. Seasalt Arcade at Picnic Bay has several good options. Savour craft brews and Latin tapas at Maggie Island Brewery, opt for bagels and light bites at Lava Lava cafe or fine dining at Restaurant Elsie.

    Now, it’s time to choose your own adventure. Stay the whole day on Maggie, or return to Townsville, where there’s plenty more to discover.

    Head to The Docks at Flinders Street Wharves for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or join Poseidon Adventures for water sport adventures.

    Evening

    Ardo's Rooftop townsville
    End your day watching the sunset from Ardo’s Rooftop.

    However your day looked, end it with cocktails and canapes at Townsville’s Ardo Rooftop. Find something more substantial at the hotel’s elegant but casual Chef-hatted Japanese restaurant Terasu, where each dish is a work of art.

    Day 3: Natural delights

    Morning

    couple holiding hands at the top of castle hill in townsville
    Join the locals for an early walk to the peak of Castle Hill. (Credit: My Colourful World)

    Join the local early morning pilgrimage to hike up Castle Hill for the best 360-degree views in town, before heading to breakfast at Spirited Goat for gourmet treats and locally brewed coffee.

    A trip to Townsville wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the outer Great Barrier Reef. For those with time, Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive runs full-day trips to the Museum of Underwater Art for snorkellers and divers to admire the reef’s stunning collection of submerged sculptures on John Brewer Reef, about two hours by boat from Townsville.

    Afternoon

    Shorehouse restaurant townsville
    Stop into the award-winning Shorehouse.

    Round off your Townsville getaway with lunch at Shorehouse, awarded Best Restaurant in the North Queensland People’s Choice Awards every year since 2023. Dine on the deck to catch the breeze and sample modern Asian cuisine as you watch the world go.

    Keen for something more to extend your stay? There are always more adventures –new, familiar and with a twist – in the events capital of the North.

    Plan your eventful visit to Townsville North Queensland at townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au.