Maroochydore Beach

Maroochydore Beach is a long, patrolled surf beach in the town of Maroochydore on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, stretching north from Alexandra Headland to the Maroochy River mouth at Cotton Tree. Managed by Sunshine Coast Council and patrolled by surf lifesavers, it is known for its wide sandy shoreline, consistent surf breaks, and urban esplanade with parks and cafes. The beach forms the central coastal attraction of Maroochydore and is a hub for swimming, surfing and coastal walks.

Visitors can expect a wide, sandy ocean beach with an open surf zone, a patrolled swimming area marked by flags, and a paved esplanade and parklands backing the dunes. The southern end near Alexandra Headland offers rocky headland views, while the northern end at Cotton Tree is calmer near the Maroochy River mouth. The foreshore has grassy reserves, picnic areas, playgrounds and cafes, with views north to Mudjimba Island and along the Sunshine Coast coastline. The area is urban and easily walkable.

Maroochydore developed as a seaside holiday area in the early 20th century, with the name derived from an Aboriginal word often associated with the black swan. The Cotton Tree area at the river mouth was an early camping and recreation reserve and remains a historic foreshore park. Surf lifesaving services were established to patrol the ocean beach as the town grew into the commercial centre of the Sunshine Coast.

The Maroochydore coastal area lies on the traditional lands of the Gubbi Gubbi (Kabi Kabi) people. The beach and Maroochy River mouth have long been valued for coastal recreation and community gatherings and today serve as a central public open space for residents and visitors.