New Crowne Plaza Planned for Maroochydore to Boost Sunshine Coast Stays by 2028

On August 8, 2025, IHG Hotels & Resorts, together with Felix Capital, announced revised plans for building the Crowne Plaza Maroochydore. The new hotel will be situated on Ocean Street in the heart of the Sunshine Coast and will offer 180 guest rooms along with more than 770 square metres of event space, including a sizable ballroom. Building work is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the hotel anticipated to open its doors in 2028.

Originally intended as a different brand, the hotel concept was revised to better reflect demand for business and event-oriented accommodation in the region. The redesigned Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will offer:

• Over 770 square metres of flexible conference and meeting space including a large ballroom
• Wellness amenities such as a pool, gym and spa
• A range of dining options designed to serve both business and leisure travellers

The hotel's central location gives business travellers easy access to several key venues. Close by, The Hive Business Centre has spaces available for coworking and meetings, catering to professional use. Sunshine Coast Convention Centre is ideal for attending major conferences and networking events. Spark Bureau, a local innovation hub, hosts regular workshops, talks, and technology events that draw both entrepreneurs and corporate visitors.

For more informal business meetings or moments of downtime, the Cotton Tree Esplanade offers a relaxed riverside location that allows for both conversation and quiet reflection. The Wharf Mooloolaba combines waterfront dining with marina views, providing a setting suitable for business or team gatherings. Pincushion Island, lying at the mouth of the river, is a quiet place to step away for a walk between appointments.

As tourism continues to grow on the Sunshine Coast, this project aims to address the increasing need for accommodation, especially during busy travel seasons and significant local events. The addition of the new hotel is expected to improve local infrastructure and offer travelers more accommodation choices, playing a key role in helping Maroochydore establish itself as a popular destination for visitors throughout the year.