Mooloolaba doesn’t just come alive with beaches and sunshine – the festive season brings a whole calendar of events, long lunches, special dinners and unique experiences across restaurants, bars and waterfront venues. From Christmas lunches to seasonal cruises and light-show evenings, here’s your go-to guide for festive dining this holiday period.
Christmas Lights Cruises on Mooloolah River
All December Long
Add some sparkle to your evenings with Mooloolaba Christmas Lights Cruises, run throughout December by local operators like Cavalier Cruises, Whale One and The Boat Mooloolaba. These cruises give you a magical way to see festive lights decorating waterfront homes and pontoons – a perfect pre- or post-dinner activity.
These relaxed cruises are ideal for couples, families or groups looking for a unique way to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere on the water.
Special Menus & Festive Dining at Local Restaurants
While many places won’t officially list “Christmas events”, lots of Mooloolaba’s best cafés, restaurants and bars host festive menus, seasonal specials or holiday trading hours in the weeks around Christmas – especially in the last two weeks of December. Explore these local favourites for holiday meals, dinners or casual gatherings:
Waterfront & Classic Dining
- The Wharf Mooloolaba – A vibrant precinct with multiple eat-and-drink venues; great for festive lunches, dinners and drinks by the river.
- The Dock Mooloolaba – Iconic waterfront dining with festive menus (including on Christmas Day itself).
- See Restaurant – Seafood-centric dining perfect for celebratory meals.
- Bella Venezia Restaurant Mooloolaba – Italian fine dining with scenic Esplanade views – ideal for a special Christmas outing.
Casual & Fun Spots
- The Savvy Squire – Great for chilled festive drinks and casual eats with friends.
- Backlane Bar and Street Food – Street-food-style eats and seasonal drinks for a relaxed holiday vibe.
- Psari Seafood Bar & Grill – Highly rated for seafood celebrations.
- The Velo Project – A great café for festive breakfast, brunch or lunch meet-ups.
Other Options
- Pavilion Mooloolaba, Augello’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, and Pier 33 are also worth checking closer to the date – many will adjust hours and menus for the holiday crowd.
Whether you want a relaxed long lunch by the water, a festive seafood feast, or a fun Christmas cruise under the lights, Mooloolaba’s festive period has something for every holiday vibe – from casual brunches and drinks to full seasonal celebrations.