The name Maroochydore comes from the Yuggera language word 'Muru-kutchi', meaning red-bill: the name of the black swan, commonly seen in the area.

Today Maroochydore claims the title of the Natural Capital of the Sunshine Coast as a new emerging and vibrant city takes shape.

Maroochydore contains a popular surf beach. The Maroochy River's southern bank forms a virtually unbroken stretch of parkland and picnic spots in the area. Maroochydore is also a major commercial area of the Sunshine Coast with most shopping precincts located in the central business district. It is home to the Sunshine Plaza shopping centre, the Sunshine Coast Airport, and the Sunshine Coast's major bus interchange for TransLink services on Sunshine Coast.

Maroochydore is also a venue of major surf sport carnivals, and is a popular holiday point from which to travel the rest of Queensland.

Award-winning retreats, B&B’s and motels will welcome you home after a day of exploring one of the finest art galleries on the Sunshine Coast or native flora and fauna.