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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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8 experiences that make Moreton Bay the best getaway

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience
Explore Bribie Island with G’Day Adventure Tours.

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Morgan’s Seafood
It doesn’t get fresher than Morgan’s Seafood. (Image: Ezra Patchett)

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

woorim beach bribie island
Hang 10, or relax, on Woorim Beach.

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park
Admire the landscapes of D’Aguilar National Park.

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay
Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay
Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine.  Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.