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Maroochydore, Queensland - Beaches, Relaxing River & Sunshine Coast Vibes
- Dec 21, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 31
Maroochydore, Queensland - Beaches, Relaxing River & Sunshine Coast Vibes
Set between the rolling surf of the Pacific Ocean and the calm curves of the Maroochy River, Maroochydore is the beating heart of the Sunshine Coast. Around 100 kilometres north of Brisbane, this vibrant coastal hub blends golden beaches, leafy parklands, creative culture, and relaxed seaside living. It’s a place where mornings begin with ocean swims, afternoons drift along riverbanks or bushland trails, and weekends revolve around markets and good coffee.
The highlights of our visit to Maroochydore were exploring Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach. We then wandered around the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens sculpture trail. On Sunday, we visited the Cotton Tree and Fisherman Road Markets.
Coastal Living at Its Best
Maroochydore sits right in the centre of the Sunshine Coast, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. With both ocean and river at its doorstep, Maroochydore offers the best of beach life and laid-back waterfront living, all wrapped in a friendly, local vibe.
Cotton Tree: Cafés, Calm Water & Coastal Charm
One of the highlights of our visit was spending time in Cotton Tree, a relaxed seaside precinct nestled between Maroochydore Beach and the Maroochy River. Cotton Tree is known for its village-like feel, with a great mix of cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. Calm river waters make it perfect for swimming and paddling, while the grassy foreshore offers BBQs, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
We enjoyed a coffee and brownie at Mojo’s Cafe, soaking up the easygoing atmosphere before wandering along the river and out toward the beach.
Maroochydore Beach & Surf Culture
Just steps away is Maroochydore Beach, a popular stretch of coastline loved by locals and visitors alike. The beach runs for around 1.6 kilometres, with golden sand and clear water ideal for swimming, walking, or catching a wave. It’s patrolled by the Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club, one of Queensland’s oldest surf clubs, adding to the area’s strong surf culture and community spirit.
Art & Nature - Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens
For a change of pace, we headed inland to the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, located about 15 kilometres from Maroochydore. Spanning 82 hectares of eucalypt forest and riparian bushland, the gardens feature creeks, lagoons, and an excellent network of walking tracks. It’s a peaceful escape that feels far removed from the coast.
Our first walk was the Sculpture Garden Walk, a gentle 700-metre circuit that winds through manicured gardens dotted with contemporary sculptures. From there, we followed the Lagoon Trail, a 900-metre circuit that meanders through bushland along the edge of the lagoon — quiet, scenic, and perfect for a slow wander.
Sunday Markets & Local Finds
Weekends in Maroochydore are made for markets, and Sunday morning offers plenty of choice.
The Cotton Tree Markets are held every Sunday from 7.00 am to 12.00 noon along King Street. These markets focus on local artisans and designers, with stalls selling handmade jewellery, clothing, books, toys, fresh produce, and plenty of live music drifting through the park.
For a bigger market experience, the Fishermans Road Markets run every Sunday from 6.00 am to 12.00 noon at the corner of David Low Way and Fishermans Road. It’s a large, lively market with everything from local fruit and vegetables to homemade goods, second-hand items, plants, and a wide selection of food stalls.
Why Maroochydore Is a Sunshine Coast Favourite
Maroochydore brings together everything the Sunshine Coast does best — surf beaches, calm river swims, green spaces, creative culture, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re strolling through Cotton Tree, exploring bushland trails, or browsing Sunday markets, it’s a place that feels easy to enjoy and hard to leave.
If you’re visiting the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore is more than just a stop — it’s a destination that captures the region’s laid-back energy and coastal charm perfectly.
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