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Coastal Pathway: Mooloolah River to Alexandra Headland

Walking Cycling3.3 kmEasyOne-way 5

A great section of the coastal pathway with great beach views and a lot of playgrounds and supporting facilities.

Suitability

Suitable for walkers and recreational cyclists. Great Walk/Ride for the youngsters out there.

Highlights

After parking near one of the many great playgrounds start by heading out to the end of the northern break wall of the Mooloolaba River. You can then head north from here all the way to Maroochydore and beyond. A good first go is to head toward Alexandra Headlands, as you get to explore a range of different views and experiences along this section. On the way back stop for breaks at the many playgrounds, finishing back where you started with great lunch options. All up, it’s one of the best family leisure ride experiences out there.

During the warmer months there is always a beautiful breeze and a shady tree to relax under. More often than not, you’ll see the local population of bearded dragons sunny themselves along the pathways. There are also many bush turkeys foraging through the scrubby areas.

There is a section of boardwalk that council has recently improved to a high standard, but you still must walk your bikes. Indeed the challenge of this section is managing the interactions with other users but with good etiquette there is room for everyone.

Afterwards

What to say there is a whole range of things to do before, during , and after this walk/ride. Just look around and you will find something to do on this part of the coast. Sunsets are particularly popular on Alex headland – locals and tourists gather on picnic blankets and watch the surfers as the sun goes down.

How to get there

To the starting point: Try and find parking at the end of Parkyn Parade or at any of the many parking areas along the road into the area as they all have a access point to the pathway nearby.

About this place

  • Suitable for walking
  • Suitable for recreational cycling
  • Drinking water available
  • Barbeque on site
  • Picnic table on site
  • Toilets on site
  • Playground on site
Walking track grade
Grade 2
A formed track with gentle hills and the occasional step. Clearly signposted, and no walking experience needed.

Graded on the Queensland Parks walking track scale. Walk with care(opens in a new tab)

Managed by
Sunshine Coast Council

To report damage, a hazard or another problem with the trail:

Safety

In an emergency, call 000. Always adventure safely!

  • Always follow any local signage, it contains key information and conditions can change at any time.
  • Use the trails with consideration for your abilities, be prepared for the adventure ahead:
    • Be aware of the weather conditions, found here: Bureau of Meteorology — Queensland(opens in a new tab)
    • Always wear appropriate clothing, focus on good footwear.
    • Always bring more water than you think you will need.
    • Be Sun Safe!
    • Always let someone know where you are going that isn't going with you.
  • Just getting started try this site for good useful information: Trail Hiking Australia — hike safety(opens in a new tab)
  • Sunshine Coast Council does its best to keep this information current, but things change, so be aware that a trail may not be as listed here.

3 ratings
Review by Jessica7 years ago

Lovely walk for the whole family! It can get very hot and I recommend early morning, afternoon or winter. Lovely views and wonderful coffee shops to stop at along the way.

Review by sharyn7 years ago

This is a family favourite walk that has plenty for the kids to keep them entertained. We prefer to do this walk in the later afternoon (or very early morning in winter is lovely too). Some times it is busy other times you can be lucky and it is quite quiet. Can highly recommend this for one for families.

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