The Best Things To Do In Mooloolaba For A Coastal Break

Blending cultural awakenings with an idyllic backdrop, the best things to do in Mooloolaba offer so much more than your usual beach holiday.

The sweeping curvature and rolling waves of Mooloolaba Beach hypnotise me – but there’s so much more to life in this Sunshine Coast town than sitting on the sand. Over a week, I grow my understanding of, and appreciation for, the Kabi Kabi people’s extraordinary land, leaning into experiences beyond the tourist trail (though there’s always time for beachside cocktails, refined dining and retail therapy, if you ask me). Here, I break down the best things to do in Mooloolaba for a coastal escape unlike any other.

In short

If you only have time for one of the best things to do in Mooloolaba, make it a cruise along the Mooloolaba River with Saltwater Eco Cruises. The team offer me genuine cultural insight through the lens of Indigenous storytellers, all while I’m kicking back in style on a gorgeous sailboat.

1. Discover bush tucker at sea with Saltwater Eco Tours

Bush-Tucker by the River hosted by Saltwater Eco Tours — Enjoy bush tucker-inspired canapes with Saltwater Eco Tours. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There are a bunch of cruise operators in Mooloolaba, but I’ve long heard glowing reports about Saltwater Eco Tours – and my experience lives up to expectations. Simon Thornalley and his partner Jenna are instantly endearing, gaining the trust of Indigenous elders and local storytellers to join forces and offer a unique experience filled with creation stories, geographical history and a delicious taste of bush tucker (cheers to Skye, their onboard chef whose bubbly passion for cooking and native ingredients is infectious).

The crew’s newest offering, launched in July 2025, takes guests (even those with access needs, incredibly) out on the Mooloolaba River for 90 minutes in canoes, and the company’s ever-popular Bushtucker Cruise runs for two hours while serving canapes incorporating native flavours, bubbles and beer, as cultural commentary and a didgeridoo performance entertain. Check the website for more of their fabulous options.

2. Embrace whale watching season with Tallo Billa

whales swimming underwater, Sunreef Mooloolaba — Swim with humpback whales. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Mooloolaba is rapidly growing as a whale watching destination, so I time my visit to winter in the hope of spying a breach or few. What really catches my breath, however, is Sunreef Mooloolaba’s Tallo Billa experience, a light and sound show on Mooloolaba River that harmonises recorded humpback whale song to spectacular projected imagery and an authentic Indigenous perspective. The unforgettable cruise also incorporates live didgeridoo performances and creation storytelling from Kabi Kabi artist and key Tallo Billa collaborator Lyndon Davis. The event, which launched in June 2025, is staged sporadically between June and October, so check the website for upcoming dates.

3. Fuel your creativity at Frida’s Mooloolaba

friends posing for a picture while holding their artwork at Frida’s Sip n’ Paint — Sip and paint with friends at Frida’s.

Switch out those sea legs for on-land interaction with a local artist. Frida’s Mooloolaba invites professional artists from across the region to lead guests through a step-by-step painting session to recreate a featured work. The cherry on top? Giggles are guaranteed as BYO beverages are encouraged. Nibbles are provided, as is the chance to improve your talents among likeminded creatives.

4. Sample local seafood on a fishing trawler at Prawn Star

a woman enjoying local seafood at Prawn Star, Mooloolaba — Get your fill of Mooloolaba prawns. (Image: Katie Purling/Tourism and Events Queensland)

In town to wrap your lips around Mooloolaba’s famed prawn? I found some of the town’s freshest goods on board one of Prawn Star ’s awesome fishing trawlers. Totally kitsch and all-out fun, the beloved Mooloolaba restaurant is charming from end to end, permanently moored to dial up the novelty as fresh crustaceans and other catches load tables. I dig into tiger and king prawns this time around but promise to return one day for other fine picks like salmon sashimi, crayfish, bugs, oysters and huge seafood platters that combine it all.

5. Sip on cocktails at a beachfront wine bar

a cocktail drink on the table at WAT Den — Sip cocktails next to the beach at WAT Den.

Break up intense exploration with chilled drinks over the water. Holiday vibes are cranked at WAT Den , a narrow hole-in-the-wall located along the Mooloolaba Esplanade that shakes up crafty concoctions utilising every shade of the hard stuff. There’s also Casita Wine Bar , a Pinterest-perfect Mediterranean-inspired hot spot complete with olive trees, white-on-white furnishings and delicious small plates.

6. Wander the Mooloolaba to Alexandra Headland coastal walk

the Alexandra Headland coastal walk, Mooloolaba — Slow down and soak up the sunshine at Alexandra Headland. (Image: Mark Fitz/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Stretch your legs while soaking up some of Mooloolaba’s most incredible coastal vistas. Starting at the Mooloolaba River’s northern break wall and rolling on to the dramatically beautiful Alexandra Headland, the coastal walk follows the boardwalk at Mooloolaba Beach before passing a sprawling playground and the suburb’s main dining precinct, before climbing over a hill to the Headland, which is a magnet for surfers. Bring your togs to swim along the way.

7. Hang ten with XL Surfing Academy

Brush up on your longboard skills with one of XL Surfing Academy ’s surf lessons. From absolute amateurs to occasional dabblers and the far more confident, every style of surfer is welcome. The team, led by former pro surfer Robbie Sherwell and his family, run introductory group lessons, school holiday sessions and private lessons with multiple sessions staged daily.

8. Explore canals with Mooloolaba Canal Cruise

Woman onboard a Mooloolaba Canal Cruise — Listen to your knowledgeable skipper while you take in the sights of the canal. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Wind your way through the town’s tranquil waterways on a Mooloolaba Canal Cruise which departs daily. The historical timber ferries have been transporting visitors for more than 30 years and each trip is guided by an experienced skipper who offers commentary on everything you’re soaring past. Choose from a range of journeys including one-hour expeditions and sunset cruises or charter a ferry if you’re game.

9. Find your ultimate water sport with Sunreef Mooloolaba

a boat whisking past the wharf, Sunreef Mooloolaba — Elevate your coastal adventure with Sunreef Mooloolaba. (Image: Krista Eppelstun/Tourism and Events Queensland)

There’s more to Sunreef Mooloolaba than its Tallo Billa experience. If you’re licensed to dive, hit the team up for a spot of scuba. Haven’t got your PADI certificate? There’s something here for everyone. Kayaks, jet skis, SUP boards, snorkelling gear – you name it, these guys are the coastal suburb’s go-to, always eager to show you the ropes.

10. Feast on the region’s famed flavours

Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it at one of our favourite Mooloolaba restaurants. The Esplanade flows with superstars including the always-pumping Pavilion Mooloolaba which dishes up breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night aperitifs, Bella Venezia , which blew me away with authentic Italian despite its touristy facade, and Fish House , which opened its doors in August 2025 inside the old Fish on Parkyn spot just outside the town’s buzzing centre.

11. Swim at the protected Mooloolaba Spit Beach

surfing at Mooloolaba Spit Beach — Cool off at the Spit. (Image: Liam Brennan/Tourism and Events Queensland)

You can jump in right along beautiful Mooloolaba Beach, but I think the best swimming is at Mooloolaba Spit Beach. Patrolled conditions and protection from southerly gusts make for tranquil cooling off, plus there’s outstanding fish and chips to be ordered from Fisheries on the Spit on Parkyn Pde, best enjoyed while overlooking the waves.

12. Get pampered at a Mooloolaba day spa

You won’t walk far along central Mooloolaba Esplanade before running into yet another zen-inducing day spa. From Thalassa Spa , offering all the usual treatments plus float therapy, and The Waterfall Day Spa inside Landmark Resort, to Salt Caves offering salt therapy inside a salt-laced halo chamber, there’s always something ultra-soothing to indulge in.

13. Grab a classic pub feed at The Surf Club Mooloolaba

fish and chips at The Surf Club Mooloolaba — Snack on fish and chips by the water. (Image: Mark Fitz/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Blessed with prime real estate, The Surf Club Mooloolaba is a non-negotiable dining experience during every visit into town. Look past the beach views to peruse a menu of chicken parma and schnitzel, burgers, burritos and fish and chips, plus there’s a surprisingly fresh selection of fresh seafood (it’s a surf club so they’re obviously not renowned for fine dining, but their supplies seriously impress) and grilled meats. Grab a spot on the outdoor deck for pure holiday bliss.

14. Visit historical Point Cartwright Lighthouse

the Point Cartwright Reserve and lighthouse pictured from above — Point Cartwright Reserve overlooks the Mooloolaba River and the coast. (Image: Reuben Nutt/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Charge your camera battery because Point Cartwright Lighthouse , and the views it boasts, offers open-air enthrallment. Located right at the mouth of the Mooloolaba River, the 1897 landmark towers at 32.4 metres, however it’s the blue-on-blue out yonder that’ll really catch your eye. Spy the expansive river as well as the coastline and Mooloolaba Spit from this incredible spot I always struggle to leave.

15. Take a picnic to Alex Bluff Foreshore Park

Soak up your surroundings with a picnic or barbecue at Alex Bluff Foreshore Park . BYO supplies to spread across a sheltered picnic table or get your cook on at public barbecue facilities while stickybeaking historical landmarks including the HMAS Brisbane Memorial, the Korean War Memorial and the Australian War Dog Memorial. It’s a one-kilometre stretch that’s made for slow-paced downtime.

16. Go shopping at The Wharf Mooloolaba

Commemorate your visit by picking up something chic from The Wharf Mooloolaba . Home to an excellent edit of stores filled with clothing, homewares, jewellery, artworks and more, the delightful shopping mecca is located a little away from Mooloolaba Esplanade so it’s a nice change of scenery from the chaos.

17. Tour land and sea with Aquaduck Sunshine Coast

the Aquaduck Sunshine Coast hybrid vehicle touring the sea in Mooloolaba — Explore Mooloolaba aboard the amphibious Aquaduck. (Image: Krista Eppelstun/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Is it a boat? Is it a plane? Is it legal? Find answers to every burning question on board Aquaduck Sunshine Coast , the notorious hybrid vehicle also spotted on the streets of the Gold Coast. The flashy automotive tackles a street tour (hence the wheels) before embarking on a river cruise (hence the boat) to present a truly unique thing to do in Mooloolaba.

Beyond the sand, sea and food scene, Townsville is shaping up to be the new events capital of the Sunshine State.

Townsville is quickly making a name for itself as an events capital of Queensland. From worldwide sporting events to celebrations of the arts, there’s never been a better time to align your next tropical getaway with the unbeatable vibes of an event in Townsville.

The yearly calendar is full, meaning there’s an event for everyone. But these are shaping up to be some of the biggest events in 2025.

1. North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA)

24 Sep – 12 Oct 2025

While sun, sea and sand might be the first images conjured up at a mention of Townsville, the tropical city is fast making a name for itself as a cultural hub. Experience it at its best during the North Australian Festival of Arts.

Over several weeks, the famous Strand in Townsville will be bursting with colour, sound and energy as it celebrates the arts, culture and community. Catch theatre, cabaret, dance, circus acts and so much more. Stop to listen to world-class live music and even get involved with interactive workshops.

In previous years, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra performed a free outdoor concert and Brisbane Author, Trent Dalton, was there to share his latest book.

performers at North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA) — Catch live music and more.

2. Supercars NTI Townsville 500

11-13 July, 2025

Sports fans will be pleased to know that Townsville boasts more than just the NRL Cowboy’s. Those facing the comedown of this year’s Formula 1 can bounce back with the 2025 NTI Townsville 500. Each year, the event draws motorsport enthusiasts from around the country as Supercar racing takes over the streets of Townsville.

Off the race track, the weekend also promises plenty of car tricks and displays – think drifting, car builds and the MotorEx automotive expo – plus live music, ADF displays, freestyle motocross and more.

crowd watching Supercars NTI Townsville 500, townsville events — See supercars take over Townsville.

3. Australian Festival of Chamber Music

25 July – 2 Aug 2025

Clear your ears of the sounds of revving engines with one of the city’s longest-running events, The Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM). Here, some of the world’s most celebrated musicians head to Townsville to perform an impressive 30 concerts over nine days.

The best part? AFCM features exclusive shows that can only be experienced at the festival, like AFCM Concert Conversations, where visiting festival musicians share their personal and professional lives.

lead image for Australian Festival of Chamber Music, townsville events — Experience exclusive events at the AFCM. (Image: Andrew Rankin)

4. SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week

28 Aug – 2 Sep 2025

Just 20 minutes from the city, koala-filled Magnetic Island is a must-do at any time of year. Time the trip for the annual SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week to not only enjoy paradise, but also five days of tropical racing fun with a twist.

Every August to September, enjoy live bands, parties, beach festivals, markets, long lunches and even mud crab races. All while taking in tropical island views.

SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week — Enhance Magnetic Island trips with five days of tropical racing. (Image: TEQ)

5. Wedgwood: Artists and Industry exhibition

23 Apr – 24 Aug 2025

Hailing from England, Wedgwood has been a household name almost since the brand started in 1759 (by Charles Darwin’s grandfather). With over 260 years under the company’s belt since then, its ceramics and designs are popular all over the world.

And now, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry will showcase highlights of the brand’s history – straight from the UK’s Victoria and Albert Museum – at Townsville’s Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.

Wedgwood teacup — See the best of Wedgwood. (Image: Getty/ Photonewman)

6. Wallabies v Argentina

6 September

Rugby fans should time their Townsville getaway for September to add watching the Wallabies clash against Argentina from Queensland Country Bank Stadium to their itineraries.

The home ground of the NRL North Queensland Cowboys, this vibrant and stylish $185 million sporting venue in South Townsville is the perfect setting to enjoy sports.

aerial of Queensland Country Bank Stadium in townsville — See the rugby at Queensland Country Bank Stadium. (Image: TEQ)

Start planning your event-filled getaway at townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au .

18 things to do in Mooloolaba for a cultured beach break