The suburb and beach were named after James Campbell Moffat, a chemist from Brisbane, who acquired 20 acres (8.1 ha) of coastal land at Caloundra on 18 August 1882.

A year later, he built a holiday house c. 500 metres south-east of Moffat Beach on the headland which now also bears his name.

[citation needed] Cafes, restaurants and takeaways as well as gift shops, an art gallery and craft brewery are located in Seaview Terrace and around the corner into Roderick Street.

[citation needed] The Queensland State Government tourism website refers to Moffat Beach as "the Sunshine Coast's hidden gem".

[11] Shade along the beachfront in the park is provided by a line of iconic Norfolk pines, believed to have been planted around 1928, that the local council notes have cultural and heritage significance to the Caloundra region.

Barbecue facilities and picnic shelters are provided, as well as a children's play area and easy access to Moffat beach.

[citation needed] Queensland Tourism summarise as follows: "Peaceful and serene with shade provided courtesy of the pine and pandanus trees that line the shore, breezy Moffat is one of the Sunshine Coast’s top picnic spots.