What it is
Because the beach faces north and is protected by the headland of Point Cartwright and the rock walls of the Mooloolah River mouth, the water is usually calmer than on the open coast, which makes it popular with families. Lifeguards patrol the beach, and swimming is safest between the red and yellow flags. A coastal path runs along the foreshore towards Alexandra Headland and Maroochydore.
At the river mouth, Mooloolaba Wharf has restaurants, the fishing fleet and the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast aquarium.
Getting there by bus
The stop Mooloolaba, River Esplanade, about 250 metres from the beach, is served by routes 600, 611, 615 and 616, which link Mooloolaba with Maroochydore and Kawana; route 600 continues to Caloundra. Route 600 also stops at Mooloolaba Wharf.
Further stops on Walan St and Brisbane Rd are a few minutes' walk from the Esplanade.
