Maroochydore Beach
An open surf beach close to accommodation, the Surf Club and the coastal pathway toward Alexandra Headland.
Explore Maroochydore
Surf outside. River inside. City in between.
Move from open Pacific waves to calm river water, leafy parks, island walks and modern urban play.
Beach & river
Find the water that suits your day.
Conditions change. Swim between the red and yellow flags where patrols are operating and follow local safety advice.
Cotton Tree
Sheltered river water, sandy edges, shady picnic lawns and family-friendly parkland near the river mouth.
Alexandra Headland
Follow the coast south for elevated views, open surf and a natural extension to a Maroochydore beach day.
Coastal & riverside walking
See Maroochydore at walking pace.
The coastal pathway connects Cotton Tree, Maroochydore Beach, Alexandra Headland and Mooloolaba, while riverside paths continue toward Picnic Point.
Choose a Cotton Tree park loop, follow the beach south to Alex, or cycle beside the river. Early morning and late afternoon bring softer light and cooler conditions.
- Carry water, sun protection and suitable footwear
- Use shared paths considerately around walkers and cyclists
- Check tide and beach conditions before entering the water
Things to see & do
Fill a day—or leave it beautifully empty.
Maroochy River adventures
Choose stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, boat hire or an easy picnic beside the changing tide.
Chambers Island
Cross the pedestrian bridge for a gentle island walk, fishing spots, sandy edges and a quieter river escape.
Sunshine Plaza & City Centre
Combine shopping, cinemas, family entertainment, waterfront dining, public spaces and seasonal events.
Family holidays
Simple wins for every age.
Mix patrolled beach time with Cotton Tree playgrounds, calm-water activities, parks and all-weather entertainment.
Maroochydore Beach
Swim between the flags, play on the sand and follow the foreshore path.
Cotton Tree
Picnic in the shade, paddle when conditions suit and let the playground burn off extra energy.
Sunshine Plaza
Switch to shopping, cinemas, indoor entertainment and an easy waterfront meal.
Nearby day trips
More of the Sunshine Coast, close at hand.
Driving times vary with traffic. Check official attraction, park and road information before setting out.
Mooloolaba
Head south for Mooloolaba Beach, The Wharf, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast and the seafood precinct.
Buderim
Climb toward the village for cafés, leafy outlooks and the short rainforest walk to Serenity Falls.
Mount Coolum
Travel north for a steeper summit walk or keep the day coastal around Marcoola and Coolum Beach.
Noosa & Eumundi
Plan a northern day around Noosa's beach and national park or match your trip with Eumundi market days.
Australia Zoo
A major family attraction near Beerwah and an easy addition to a longer Maroochydore stay.
Maleny & Montville
Head into the hinterland for mountain views, rainforest walks, galleries, produce and village dining.