Come to the bustling Mooloolaba Esplanade to dine or shop with a view of the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Along with the beach, the boat harbor and rock wall of The Spit, this central strip is a highlight along the scenic Mooloolaba waterfront.
The Mooloolaba Esplanade is nestled between the Korean Veterans War Memorial Wall and Arthur Parkyn Park, where the Esplanade bends south to become the River Esplanade.
Start at the northern end of the esplanade and check out the marble statue of Steve Irwin with his children Bindi and Robert. Known as “The Crocodile Hunter,” the late TV star was famous for his close encounters with crocodiles, snakes and other dangerous Australian wildlife.
There is no shortage of boutique stores and galleries along the esplanade, so shop for fashion, jewelry and gifts from Australian and international brands as you make your way east.
Arguably the Esplanade’s quirkiest attraction is a Loo With a View. Its viewing deck offers superb views across the Pacific. The artworks on and around this public toilet is part of A Gallery By the Sea, an art project involving mosaics and sculptures with boats, the sea, fish and the wind as a theme.
Take a little detour to Beach Terrace and get your photo taken at the free-standing frame with the ocean as your backdrop.
At the southern end, visit the Mooloolaba Surf Club for a coffee, fish and chips or ice cream. Extend your walk by following the River Esplanade inland, as it follows the shoreline of the Mooloolah River.
To take a beach walk instead, head eastwards to the Rock Wall, the breakwater of the river inlet. This route takes you across boardwalks and through parklands for about 20 minutes and is a favorite with jogging locals and cyclists.
At sunset, choose from the wide variety of restaurants and cafés on the esplanade or make use of the barbecues with ocean views. Let the kids run wild in the nearby children's playground before it is time for bed.
Most of the Mooloolaba Esplanade is nestled between First Avenue and Beach Terrace. Note that parking spots can be hard to find in the heart of Mooloolaba and parking fees apply.
