Maroochydore | Mooloolaba

Maroochydore and Mooloolaba are at the heart of the Sunshine Coast, offering the perfect blend of energy and ease. Maroochydore impresses with its surf-friendly beaches, riverside parks, and bustling dining scene, while Mooloolaba charms with its calm bay, scenic esplanade, and vibrant café culture. Both towns offer easy access to water sports, shopping, and coastal walks, making them ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

Whether you’re after sunrise swims, local seafood lunches, boutique shopping, or simply soaking up the laid-back atmosphere, Maroochydore and Mooloolaba offer the best of both worlds — a vibrant coastal lifestyle and the space to unwind at your own pace

The atmosphere in Maroochydore is more urban and energetic, considered the commercial hub of the Sunshine Coast. Think surf beaches, riverside walks, a thriving café and nightlife scene, and the buzz of Sunshine Plaza.It has a youthful, city-meets-coast feel that appeals to both locals and holidaymakers looking for variety and vibrancy.

Mooloolaba, by contrast, is more relaxed and resort-style. It has a family-friendly vibe, with a calmer beach ideal for swimming, a scenic beachfront esplanade lined with cafés and boutiques, and a strong focus on leisure and lifestyle. It’s a place where people slow down, stroll the foreshore, and enjoy long lunches by the sea.

Signature experiences in Maroochydore and Mooloolaba blend vibrant coastal energy with laid-back luxury. Along the Mooloolaba Esplanade, you’ll find boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and the iconic Mooloolaba Beach – perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. The Mooloolaba Wharf is a go-to for fresh seafood, local breweries, and lively bars, while also offering whale-watching tours, sunset cruises, and diving experiences like the ex-HMAS Brisbane wreck.

In Maroochydore, the Cotton Tree precinct offers riverfront picnicking, paddleboarding and kayaking on the Maroochy River, and access to both surf and calm waters. The Sunshine Plaza delivers a mix of major retailers and independent stores, complete with a river running through the centre where you can hire paddleboats. Add in coastal walking trails, regular local markets and a growing arts and live music scene – you’ve got a destination that balances nature, culture and lifestyle in one unforgettable coastal escape.

Maroochydore and Mooloolaba are among the most conveniently located spots on the Sunshine Coast. Both are just 10–15 minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport, making arrivals and departures easy and stress-free. They’re also only 30–40 minutes’ drive south of Noosa, giving guests quick access to the region’s northern highlights while enjoying a more central base.

From these towns, it’s an easy drive to top Sunshine Coast attractions like Australia Zoo, the hinterland villages of Maleny and Montville, Eumundi Markets and the Glass House Mountains. Public transport, walking paths, and bike hire add to the accessibility, making it simple to get around without needing to travel far for great food, beaches, shopping, or adventure.

Belle Escapes properties in Maroochydore and Mooloolaba are thoughtfully curated to reflect the laid-back luxury of the Sunshine Coast. Many are a short distance from the beach, offering direct access to the sand and surf. Others are centrally located, placing guests within walking distance to vibrant dining precincts, boutiques and waterfront attractions.

Designed with comfort and style in mind, these homes often feature spacious open-plan layouts, entertaining decks, private pools, and well-equipped kitchens – perfect for gatherings or longer stays. Whether you’re after a romantic retreat, family-friendly accommodation, or a stylish base for exploring, Belle Escapes delivers a seamless blend of lifestyle, location, and liveability.