History

The headland was originally named Pott's Point after John Potts - a prominent land owner and businessman - until it was renamed in honour of Queen Alexandra, the wife of King Edward VII. 

At a glance

Alexandra Headland is lovingly known by the locals as 'Alex'. This casual nickname is an indication of what makes Alexandra Headland different from everywhere else in Maroochy - it is the essence of beach culture. Untarnished and awesome in its natural beauty, Alexandra Headland is where people come to worship the beach and the relaxed and addictive culture it inspires. Built on sandy foundations, Alex offers a range of resort and apartment-style accommodation, most of which honour the ocean with views.

Taste

If you love dining alfresco, you'll love Alex. With the majority of restaurants and cafes running along Alexandra Parade, the road that runs parallel with the beach, dining becomes a true sensory experience with the sights, sounds and smells of the ocean combined with sophisticated fine fare. Mouth-watering modern Australian cuisine, Asian fusion and, of course, fresh and fabulous seafood are all on the menu. But if you are tired of dining out but still want to enjoy dinner with the best view in town, head up to the BBQ areas at Alex Bluff.

Shop

Bordered by the shopping precincts of Maroochydore and Mooloolaba, Alex leaves more room for plates and glasses than coat hangers. Beach fashion is readily accessible though there is only a small amount of boutiques and surf shops gracing the eatery strip. But go on, splash out on a new bikini or that pair of trendy beach thongs. In fact, there is no better place to forget about your city business suit and fashion fads than Alex.

Play

Alexandra Headland's biggest playground is also the biggest playground in the world - the Pacific Ocean. Where better to take your first surfing lesson, body-surf the waves or check out all the action while lazing on the beach.  Families can feel safe as the beach is patrolled by the Alexandra Headland Surf Club. If you need a break from the fresh salty air, Alex is also the home of the best skate park on the coast, located right alongside the beach. Or you could encourage a little family competition at Suncity Tenpin on Mari Street.

Explore

Alex is easily explored by foot or bike, which means you get to set the itinerary. Paths that run from Cotton Tree to the Mooloolaba Spit are a great place to start, and will make sure you don't miss the natural wonder of local parklands. If your legs get sore then it's time to don your mask and snorkel and dive the rock pools nestled beneath the pandanus-lined headland. These hidden treasures open themselves up to visitors and provide a secluded alternative to the beach.

Local knowledge

Locals make an effort not to forget about their fantastic view, so a reflective sit-on-the-rock-wall at 'The Corner' or on the boardwalk overlooking legendary surf spot 'The Bluff' is a must at dusk. By day Alex life is best observed from a bar in the Alexandra Headland Surf Club, known locally as the 'Bird Watchers Bar'.  Just 20 metres from the beach where some of Australia's best iron men and women train, yachts race, whales migrate and helicopters patrol - there is always something interesting to keep an eye on. 

Click here to discover a day in Alexandra Headland