Mooloolaba isn’t just a pretty coast; it’s a hub for memorable tours that showcase the region’s stunning waterways, lively marine life, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re after a relaxing river cruise with fresh seafood, a high-energy whale watching adventure, or an adrenaline-filled skydiving thrill, Mooloolaba offers a variety of options. We especially love the Sea Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium for its engaging marine exhibits and the Whale Watching Cruises that let you see these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The diversity of experiences makes Mooloolaba a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers — from families to adventure seekers.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 12 best tours, highlighting what makes each one special, practical details, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you want to enjoy a sunset cruise, learn about local wildlife, or get your adrenaline pumping with a tandem skydive, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise
For around $43 per person, the Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise offers a delightful way to enjoy fresh local seafood while soaking in the scenery along the sparkling rivers and canals of Mooloolaba. This award-winning tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes a generous seafood meal made from the best local produce. The fully licensed bar means you can sip on a drink as you listen to lively commentary about the sights passing by.
What makes this cruise stand out is its balance of good food, scenic views, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine a casual meal with a scenic float through Mooloolaba’s waterways. The reviews are excellent, with a 4.7/5 rating based on 425 reviews, highlighting how well the tour delivers both on taste and experience.
Bottom line: A solid choice for food lovers keen on a scenic cruise, especially if you enjoy sampling local seafood in a laid-back setting.
2. Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise
At number 2, the Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise offers a beautifully relaxing experience for just $30. This 1.5-hour cruise takes you through the harbor, river, and canals as the sun dips below the horizon. You can enjoy fresh seafood or cocktails while taking in the spectacular colors of the sunset, making it a perfect evening outing.
The highlight here is the opportunity to see the Minyama mansions along “Millionaires Row”, plus hear engaging commentary about the area’s landmarks. With a 4.8/5 rating from 275 reviews, this tour is praised for the peaceful atmosphere and picturesque views. The onboard food and drink options add to the relaxed vibe, making it an ideal choice for couples or small groups wanting a romantic or tranquil experience.
Bottom line: For a romantic sunset with stunning scenery and a touch of luxury, this cruise delivers exceptional value.
3. Mooloolaba: Canal Cruise with Commentary
Next, we have the Canal Cruise with Commentary, priced at just $23 for an hour-long tour. This experience offers a window into the luxurious homes and mansions lining Mooloolaba’s waterways. It’s a chance to learn about the region’s history and see the famous Croc One vessel associated with Steve Irwin.
What makes this cruise special is the live commentary that brings the sights to life—plus the chance to take the helm and steer the boat alongside the friendly skipper. The tour’s affordability and interactive elements appeal to those interested in local culture and the region’s fascinating waterfront homes. It’s a relaxed, informative way to spend an hour, especially for fans of the celebrity crocodile hunter or those curious about the local elite.
Bottom line: A compact, engaging tour suitable for anyone wanting an insider’s view of Mooloolaba’s stunning waterfront properties.
4. Mooloolaba: Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise
At number 4, this Sunshine Coast: Sunset Canal Cruise offers a one-hour escape into the calm waterways as the sun sets for just $23. It’s similar to the daytime cruise but with a focus on the magical evening light. You can enjoy a drink as your skipper shares entertaining commentary, and there’s even the opportunity to drive the boat if you’re feeling adventurous.
The highlight is the chance to see the famous Croc One vessel associated with Steve Irwin, along with the stunning sky colors. This tour is perfect for those wanting a quick, scenic experience with a relaxed vibe and engaging host. Rated 4.8/5 from only 85 reviewers, it’s clearly a popular choice for sunset lovers.
Bottom line: An affordable, charming way to enjoy the sunset with good company and a touch of adventure.
5. Mooloolaba: Whale Watching Cruise
For about $56, the Whale Watching Cruise offers a 3-hour voyage to see the magnificent humpback whales during their migration season. This tour is designed to give you the best vantage points from a comfortable boat, along with plenty of educational commentary. You’ll also glimpse the Mooloolaba coastline’s beauty and might even see turtles and eagle rays along the way.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to see large marine mammals and other sea life in their natural environment. The 4.4/5 review rating speaks to its consistency and quality. If you’re lucky, you could witness breaches, tail slaps, or even spy hops, making it an unforgettable experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and families wanting a closer look at whales and marine life.
6. Noosa: Tandem Skydive Experience
At number 6, the Tandem Skydive Experience from nearby Noosa is a 3-hour adrenaline rush for $230. Jump from 13,000 feet, enjoying up to 50 seconds of freefall. The professional instructors ensure your safety and guide you through every step, making it accessible even for first-timers.
This experience offers breathtaking views of the Sunshine Coast’s surf beaches. The thrill of freefall combined with the scenery makes it a top pick for adventure lovers. Reviewers praise the friendly instructors and the once-in-a-lifetime feeling of the jump. It’s a more expensive option, but for thrill-seekers, the value is in the unforgettable adrenaline rush and panoramic vistas.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a serious adrenaline boost and incredible views—definitely for active travelers ready to take a leap.
7. Sunshine Coast: SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Entry Ticket
For $25, the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium provides a fun and educational visit. It’s a great choice for families or anyone interested in close encounters with marine animals like jellyfish, sea horses, and colorful reef fish.
The aquarium offers an immersive experience where you can touch sea stars and learn about conservation efforts. With 92 reviews and a 4.6/5 rating, it’s popular for its interactive exhibits and engaging displays. The aquarium is a good value for a couple of hours of entertainment, especially if you want a break from the outdoors or are traveling with kids.
Bottom line: An accessible, family-friendly option to explore marine life up close and learn about local conservation.
8. Mooloolaba: Sunset Cruise with Live Music
If you prefer your sunset with a soundtrack, this Sunset Cruise with Live Music is a perfect fit. For $56, the 2-hour voyage combines stunning coast views with live acoustic tunes. The heritage-listed vessel adds charm, and you can sip on native-botanical cocktails and nibble on a gourmet grazing box.
Rated 4.8/5 from 43 reviews, this tour appeals to couples, friends, or families looking for a relaxing yet lively evening. The combination of music, scenic views, and drinks creates an unforgettable atmosphere. It’s ideal if you want to unwind and enjoy the sunset with good company.
Bottom line: A lively, scenic way to end the day, combining music, scenery, and drinks for a memorable evening cruise.
9. Sunshine Coast: 1-Hour Land and Water Tour
The Land and Water Tour is a quick, affordable introduction to the area for just $33. It combines an amphibious Aquaduck ride along Mooloolaba Beach, Esplanade, and Sunshine Strip with a canal cruise. It’s perfect for families or first-time visitors who want a mix of natural scenery and local sights in a short time.
Rated 4.7/5, it’s a fun, safe experience, especially for those with kids or limited time. It offers a good balance of beach, city, and water views, making it a versatile choice for a quick orientation.
Bottom line: Great for a family-friendly, fast-paced overview of Mooloolaba’s highlights.
10. Bushtucker Cultural Cruise
This Bushtucker Cultural Cruise combines culture and cuisine in a 2-hour journey for $65. A historical vessel takes you through waterways while you sample a 5-course Native Canape Menu made from local ingredients. The cruise features engaging commentary about the area’s cultural significance and traditions.
Rated perfect 5/5 from 10 reviews, it’s a family-friendly experience that offers more than just sightseeing — it’s a taste of local history and food. The specialty cocktails and local drinks add to the authentic flavor.
Bottom line: An immersive, culturally-rich cruise that combines storytelling, local flavors, and natural beauty.
11. Mooloolaba: Snorkel with Turtles Mudjimba Island
For $59, the Snorkel with Turtles at Mudjimba Island gives you a two-hour adventure in clear waters teeming with marine life. You’ll swim alongside turtles, stingrays, and starfish, with professional instructors guiding both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to get close to marine creatures in their natural habitat. The guided experience ensures you see the best spots and learn about the local ecosystem. Reviewers mention the abundance of marine life and the helpful guides that enhance the experience.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for underwater explorers eager to see turtles and vibrant sea life without needing advanced diving skills.
12. Mooloolaba: 2-Hour Whale Watching Adventure
For $59, this 2-Hour Whale Watching Adventure provides a focused, fast-paced experience to see humpbacks during their migration. The open vessel design offers excellent unobstructed views for spotting breachings and tail slaps. The educational commentary adds context to each sighting, making it more meaningful.
This tour is suited for travelers short on time but eager to see whales close-up. The reviews, though only four, praise the breathtaking encounters and the fast boat that maximizes whale-spotting opportunities.
Bottom line: An efficient, exciting choice for whale enthusiasts eager for a quick but impactful experience.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Mooloolaba
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and schedule. If you love relaxing with good food, the Seafood Lunch Cruise offers a combination of scenery and cuisine. For wildlife lovers, the Whale Watching Tours and Snorkelling are hard to beat. Adventure seekers should consider the Tandem Skydive, especially during peak whale migration seasons.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Canal Cruise or Land and Water Tour, both offering great value. If you want to indulge in cultural experiences, the Bushtucker Cruise provides a unique taste of local traditions.
Timing is key—whale watching is best from June to November, while sunsets and evening cruises are perfect for shoulder seasons. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Mooloolaba’s tours offer a wide spectrum of experiences, from laid-back cruises to adrenaline-pumping jumps. For families, the aquarium and canal tours make for easy fun. Adventure travelers will love skydiving or whale watching, while food lovers get a real taste with seafood cruises. Whatever your style, these tours promise memorable moments and plenty of opportunities to connect with the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Sunshine Coast.
To ensure your preferred experience, book early especially during peak months, and consider what best fits your interests — whether it’s spotting whales, diving into marine life, or simply enjoying a sunset with friends. With options for every budget and taste, Mooloolaba’s tours are well worth exploring.