Mooloolaba, QLD

A north-facing beach sheltered from southerly swells — warm water, gentle waves, and the Sunshine Coast's most popular swimming spot.

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Friday 28 August is shaping up to be a beautiful day here on the coast, with partly cloudy skies and a gentle breeze blowing in from the southwest at 11 km/h. The current temperature is a comfortable 14C, and with the humidity sitting at 94%, it's feeling quite balmy. We're expecting a top of 25C today, so it's going to be a great day to get out and enjoy the sunshine.



Out in the ocean, the waves are looking like a lot of fun for surfers, with a wave height of 0.96m, which is perfect for longboarding. The water temperature is a pleasant 20.2C, so you can expect to be comfortable in just a spring suit or rashie. With high tide at 07:58 am and low tide at 01:50 pm, there are plenty of opportunities to get in the water and enjoy the ocean conditions.



If you're planning on getting active today, the conditions are looking great for a range of sports and activities. Surfers will love the gentle waves, while runners and cyclists will enjoy the cool morning air and partly cloudy skies. Anglers can expect a good day on the water, and paddleboarders will have a blast cruising around in the calm conditions. With a 30% chance of rain, it's a good idea to pack a light jacket or rain jacket, just in case.



As we head into the afternoon, the partly cloudy skies are expected to continue, with the temperature rising to a pleasant 25C. It's going to be a fantastic day to be outdoors, so make the most of it and get out there to enjoy the sunshine and the beautiful coastal scenery. With low UV levels, you don't need to worry too much about sun protection, but it's always a good idea to slip, slop, slap, and seek some shade if you're planning on spending an extended period outside.

About This Coastline

Mooloolaba is a central Sunshine Coast beach town where a protected swimming beach, active harbour and busy esplanade sit within a compact coastal centre.

It functions as both a destination and an everyday coastal environment, with its identity renewed through repeated local use.

The Vibe

The atmosphere is upbeat but easy-going.

Families favour the main beach, diners fill the esplanade and marina, and fishing boats and reef vessels give the waterfront a practical maritime life. Even at its busiest, the atmosphere is grounded by familiar routines: walking, swimming, checking the surf and gathering near the water.

The Local Anchor

The Mooloolah River entrance and The Spit form the local anchor, separating the beach from the harbour and its seafood businesses.

Point Cartwright, across the river, provides a lighthouse, headland walks and wide coastal views. The anchor is important because it links the visible landscape to a longer account of culture, work and public life.

The Landscape

Mooloolaba Beach curves towards the river mouth and is often more sheltered than nearby open beaches, though conditions still change with swell and tides.

Sand, harbour walls and the river channel create a layered shoreline rather than a single uninterrupted surf beach. Vegetation, geology and water movement combine to create a setting that changes markedly between calm weather and more exposed conditions.

It is this overlap of landscape, history and daily use that gives Mooloolaba its particular atmosphere.