Maroochydore Beach
About the Beach
Maroochydore Beach sits where the Maroochy River meets the ocean, and that river mouth shapes everything here. Currents can run hard after rain. The outgoing tide creates strong rips near the channel that catch people off guard. Respect the flags if it's been wet.
The Cotton Tree section, just south of the river mouth, is where most families set up. Cotton Tree Park runs right along the beach with shady trees, BBQs, playgrounds, and a caravan park that's been there for decades. You can rotate between the surf, the park, and the river all day.
The surf is consistent. Several named breaks line the beach, and banks shift with sand pumping and river flow, so local knowledge pays off. After heavy rain the river pushes sand around and banks can change overnight. What worked last week might be a close-out.
Ocean Street and the new Maroochydore City Centre development are adding cafes, shops, and apartments. Maroochydore is the commercial hub of the Sunshine Coast, so there's more going on behind this beach than anywhere else on the Coast.
Conditions at 6:01 am
Strong southerly winds around 27km/h with a solid 1.3m swell from the south-east. A cool 15°C in the air with cool 20°C in the water, and a falling tide. Clear skies with a minimal UV index of 0.
Includes weather data from Google
Getting There
Maroochydore, 4558, QLD
Cotton Tree beachfront parking is paid, with free street parking available nearby, some with time limits. Additional parking in surrounding streets. Excellent facilities throughout Cotton Tree precinct. Easy walk to Ocean Street dining and shopping.
Parking available nearby
What's On
Horizon Festival
Annual · Next: Friday 1 May 2026
A major arts and culture festival held across Maroochydore, exploring the intersections of art, people, and place, with programming at beachfront, waterfront, and esplanade locations.
www.eloueratower.com.au