Nestled between Moffat Head and Tooway Lake on the southern Sunshine Coast, Moffat Beach is a compact, scenic stretch of sand that transforms into a quality snorkelling spot when conditions are right. The main draw is off Moffat Headland, home to Dicky's Reef — an extensive reef system well-protected from southerly swell and winds. On a calm, clear day the water clarity can be excellent, offering snorkelers a broad area of rocky reef to explore. The beach is also linked to Shelly Beach via a coastal pathway over the headland, and its surf break ("Moffats") is popular with experienced surfers during larger swells.
Moffat Beach
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.7 mSwell Period 6.0 sWind Speed 4.3 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Southerly swell and wind exposure
Moffat Beach can be affected by southerly winds and swell; best snorkelling conditions occur when winds are light and from the north.
Low risk: Surf break at the southern point
The 'Moffats' break can produce strong waves during high swell, which may be hazardous for snorkelers near the headland.
Low risk: Variable water clarity
Like nearby Shelly Beach, water clarity can be poor after rain or windy periods; best on calm, settled days.
Low risk: Southerly swell surge
While the headland is well-protected from southerly swells, occasional surge around the rocks can occur on bigger sea days.
Low risk: Rocky reef terrain
Sharp rocks and reef formations along the headland require care when entering and exiting the water, especially at low tide.
Low risk: Variable visibility
Water clarity can be poor after rainfall or on windy days, reducing visibility significantly.
Wildlife Guide
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Gallery
7 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Moffat Beach is located in Caloundra, about 90 km north of Brisbane on the Sunshine Coast. Take the Nicklin Way (State Route 6) to Caloundra, then turn east onto Queen Street and follow it to Moffat Beach. Beach access points 272-275 provide entry.
Parking & facilities
Street parking is available along Moffat Beach Parade and nearby streets. The beachside parks (Eleanor Shipley Park, Moffat Beach Park, Ma and Pa Bendall Park) provide additional parking options.
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Free entry. No fees for beach access.
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Gallery ┬╖ 7 photos
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports