A rooftop bar overlooking the ocean will open ahead of the Easter long weekend, marking a major addition to the Coast’s beachfront hospitality scene.
The Pavilion Mooloolaba rooftop has been long anticipated ahead of its launch on April 2.
The 364sqm rooftop sits above the existing Mediterranean-style venue and forms a major expansion of the popular restaurant.
Creative director Alex Millington said the opening day will set the tone for what the space is all about.
“From 12pm, it’s open doors with DJs, drinks and energy flowing through to late,” he said.
“It’s designed to feel effortless, somewhere you can walk into, grab a drink, find your spot and settle in as the day rolls into night.”
The development was first lodged in late 2022, when owners proposed an outdoor rooftop space inspired by a European summer. It was approved by Sunshine Coast Council in March 2023.
The project has been years in the making, with early timelines suggesting a mid-2025 opening.
“It’s been a long road to get here,” Mr Millington said.
“This space has been in the works for a long time, and we’ve been very intentional with every detail from design through to the build.
“There’s always challenges with a project like this, but for us it was about getting it right rather than rushing it.
“Now that we’re here, there’s a real sense of pride across the whole team. We know what we’ve built, and we’re excited to finally open it up.”
The venue is owned by Shane Hepburn, whose company Good Bean Franchising opened The Pavilion Mooloolaba in September 2021.
Designed by Wylde Co, the rooftop continues the venue’s architectural style with archways, textured finishes and earthy tones, alongside a subtropical, sustainable design and uninterrupted ocean outlooks.
“The anticipation has been huge. We’re getting asked about it daily, through socials and from guests in venue,” Mr Millington said.
“Mooloolaba is a special place for a lot of people, and I think our regulars have seen the level of care that’s gone into both the restaurant and now the rooftop. There’s genuine excitement around finally experiencing it.”
A spiral staircase provides access, with the expansion set to increase capacity and allow for larger events.
“The vision from the start was to create a space where people can walk up, find a spot and stay as long as they like,” Mr Millington said.
“Previously, operating just level one, we were heavily bookings-driven. That works for dining, but it doesn’t always allow for a more relaxed, social experience.”
He said the new rooftop changes that.
“Now you can come in for a meal at Dune, then head upstairs and ease into drinks without feeling rushed.
“It gives both spaces a clear identity and lets people choose the kind of experience they want.”
Looking ahead, Mr Millington said the rooftop reflected broader changes in Mooloolaba’s hospitality scene, with growing demand for casual, beachside venues.
“We see Mooloolaba as having real potential to be a place where you can come straight off the beach and into the beach bar,” he said.
“There’s a lot happening here right now and it’s exciting.
“The Coast is evolving, and we think the rooftop is a step towards creating more energy and options for both locals and visitors.”
