History
The name Maroochydore comes from the Aboriginal word "Murukutchi-da" meaning "the home of the black swan". You will sometimes see a pair of black swans on the river or in one of Maroochydore's waterways, though pelicans are much more common.
At a glance
Maroochydore is the geographic and commercial heart of the Sunshine Coast. Few other Queensland holiday destinations offer their visitors the luxuries of CBD life combined with the ambience of a relaxed beachside town. And in true Maroochy style, Maroochydore offers this unique blend on a silver platter with a smile. Maroochydore's unique buffet of sensational shopping, first-class accommodation, exquisite dining and inspirational natural beauty make it a place to visit again and again.
Wrapped around the Pacific Ocean and the Maroochy River, Maroochydore is home to some of the most spectacular waterside havens on the coast. Stretching to Noosa National Park, the long and open Maroochydore Beach is the perfect choice for swimmers, splashers and surfers alike. There are glorious views south to Point Cartwright and north to Mudjimba Island (once owned by Sean Connery). Along the river you'll find idyllic picnic and still-water swimming destinations. Journey to the mouth of the river to marvel at Pincushion Island, a tall sand and rock formation famed for its fishing and mystery as it appears to change position in the river.
Inspirational natural beauty complete for one day, make the most of the metropolitan lifestyle with some retail therapy or a round at the golf course. Wind down the day by watching the tides come in and out from one of the exquisite waterfront restaurants, work off dinner on the dance floor at a nightspot and then stroll home to your choice of accommodation - from budget to absolute luxury.
That's the beauty of Maroochydore. You can hit the beach, cruise the river, clean out the shops and devour the restaurants all in the one day.
Taste
It all started in the 80s... top restaurateurs from "down south" started migrating to the Sunshine Coast for a lifestyle upgrade. After a couple of decades, Maroochy can now boast some of Australia's most innovative dining. Visit stylish Duporth Avenue and Cotton Tree for your choice of waterfront alfresco dining with an edge - try the Deli Co. for confit of duck, it's just delicious. Head to the Maroochy Surf Club for a family-friendly feast with incredible views, or Hathi Indian Restaurant for award-winning Indian cuisine.
Shop
Maroochydore is made for shopping. Not only is it home to the Coast's biggest shopping venue - Sunshine Plaza - but it also boasts a plethora of other specialty retail shops. If it's funky fashion boutiques or stylish homewares you're after, you can't go past Cotton Tree and Duporth Avenue - be distracted by The Wine Bar Restaurant and the Verve Lounge when you're spending it up in Sassi, or Elenbi Design. On Sunday pick up some local craft or fresh local produce at the Cotton Tree Markets.
Play
Maroochydore offers convenience and variety when it comes to deciding what to do with your day. Play a round at the Horton Park Golf Course, right in the heart of Maroochydore, or leave golf until after dark and perfect your swing on the full-size driving range. To try a green of a different kind visit Maroochydore Beach Bowls Club on Memorial Avenue. With Maroochydore Tennis Club located directly behind, the choice is yours. For a relaxing day the beach offers a natural playground that never goes out of fashion.
Explore
Whether you do it by land or water, the natural beauty of Maroochydore's main beach and river have to be explored. By surfboard, barbecue boat, jet ski, canoe or sailing boat, your exploration should begin at Swan Boat Hire on Bradman Avenue. They'll even help you pick the perfect fishing rod and bait! If you'd rather keep your toes dry then make sure you visit Chamber's Island. You won't be alone. Groups of local kangaroos regularly make their way to the island - by swimming! Have you ever seen a kangaroo swim?
Local knowledge
Fishing is all about local knowledge - the secret fishing spots that always deliver. The Cod Hole on the northern side of the Maroochy River Bridge is just that spot. Once fishing success is yours, make the most of the free barbecues at Picnic Point behind Duporth Avenue and enjoy a casual family dinner. From the ocean to the air, locals know that the best time to enjoy the immense birdlife along the river is first thing in the morning when the parrots, pelicans, cockatoos, swans and herons are at play.
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