From sunrise paddles to sunset dives, Mooloolaba is a playground for water lovers. With calm canals, a golden surf beach and easy access to coral reefs, there’s no better place to get out on – or under – the water. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a jet ski, the stillness of a stand-up paddleboard, or the magic of exploring an underwater world, here’s your guide to the best ways to make a splash in Mooloolaba!
Explore the Coast by Boat
There’s something liberating about captaining your own adventure. In Mooloolaba, you can hire everything from a casual BBQ pontoon to an offshore-ready fishing boat – no tour guide required.
If you’re keen to cruise the canals or drop anchor for lunch, Mooloolaba Boat Hire offers easy-to-drive pontoon boats right from The Wharf Mooloolaba. They’re perfect for family days or picnics on the water.
For something with more range, Boab Boat Hire Mooloolaba provides fully equipped boats (and jet skis) for licensed drivers keen to explore further along the coast – maybe even out to the reefs.
Paddle at Your Own Pace
Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are two of the most relaxing ways to explore Mooloolaba’s waterways. Glide along the calm canals, weave between moored boats, or head toward the river mouth for a little adventure.
You can hire SUPs and kayaks directly from Sunreef Mooloolaba at The Wharf, just steps from the water. They’ll give you gear, a quick technique rundown and tips on the best local routes – from short scenic paddles to longer explorations.
Learn to Surf the Mooloolaba Way
Mooloolaba Beach is known for its gentle waves and protected headland, making it an ideal spot for beginners learning to surf or bodyboard. The breaks here are friendly and forgiving – perfect for your first ride or brushing up on technique.
Local schools like Robbie Sherwell’s XL Surf Academy cater to all ages and skill levels, with soft-top boards, wetsuits and private or group sessions.
Dive Beneath the Surface
Few things rival seeing Mooloolaba’s underwater world up close. The region’s calm seas and rich marine life make it one of Queensland’s top dive and snorkel destinations.
Sunreef Mooloolaba and Scuba World offer everything from beginner snorkelling trips to advanced scuba dives.
For certified divers, the HMAS Brisbane Wreck is a must. Sitting just off the coast, it’s an awe-inspiring artificial reef teeming with coral, turtles and schools of fish. Sunreef and Scuba World both run regular dives there, complete with equipment hire and expert guides.
If you’d rather stay near the surface, snorkelling trips to Mudjimba Island or local reef systems are perfect for spotting rays, clownfish and even the occasional sea turtle.
For a once-in-a-lifetime encounter? Between July and October, Sunreef runs its famous Swim with Humpback Whales experience – one of the only places in the world you can safely enter the water near these gentle giants.
Go Your Own Way
Mooloolaba’s beauty is that there’s no one right way to enjoy it – you can mix and match your adventures.
Start your morning with a sunrise paddleboard, swap to a surfboard before lunch and finish the day with a snorkel among the coral. Everything’s within a short stroll or drive, you can plan it all in one stop.