Crowne Plaza Maroochydore: A New Chapter for Sunshine Coast’s Tourism and Business Landscape

A groundbreaking partnership between IHG Hotels & Resorts and Felix Capital has set the stage for a major addition to the Sunshine Coast’s thriving tourism and business scene. The two companies have revealed their updated plans for the highly anticipated Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, a luxury hotel poised to transform the area’s infrastructure and become a key player in both regional tourism and corporate events. Situated on Ocean Street, the development promises to cater to a rapidly expanding market, combining world-class accommodations with state-of-the-art conference and event facilities.

The Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will occupy a prominent position in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, an area that has seen substantial growth in both leisure and business tourism. With its 180 well-appointed guest rooms, the hotel will provide a luxurious yet accessible retreat for both business professionals and holidaymakers. The accommodation options will be complemented by more than 770 square metres of flexible meeting and event space, including a grand 600sqm ballroom designed to host conferences, exhibitions, and large-scale events.

The hotel will be more than just a place to stay – it will be a destination in itself. A 30-metre pool and spa will offer guests a place to unwind after a long day of meetings or sightseeing, while a wellness retreat, gym, and sauna will ensure that health and well-being are prioritized. Two levels of secure basement parking will also make the hotel easily accessible, further adding to the convenience for guests.

A Culinary Haven with a Variety of Dining Options

Catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of its visitors, the Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will offer a rich selection of food and beverage experiences. The hotel will feature a 210-seat all-day restaurant, where guests can enjoy a variety of culinary delights throughout the day. A 160-seat signature dining venue will offer a more intimate experience, perfect for corporate dinners or special occasions.

In addition to these dining spaces, guests will be able to relax and socialize at the outdoor pool bar and lounge, providing a casual atmosphere for after-hours gatherings. A lobby bar will complete the hotel’s offering, ensuring that whether guests are attending an important business function or enjoying a leisurely holiday, they have the perfect venue to relax and unwind.

Meeting the Growing Demand for Conference and Event Spaces

The development of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is not just about providing exceptional guest accommodation, but also about meeting the Sunshine Coast’s growing need for top-tier conference and event facilities. Recognizing the demand for more quality meeting spaces in the region, IHG and Felix Capital have reimagined the original concept for the voco Maroochydore, shifting the focus to create a hotel that prioritizes business and event spaces.

According to Matt Tripolone, IHG Hotels & Resorts Managing Director for Australasia & Pacific, the decision to emphasize conference and event spaces was driven by extensive discussions with local stakeholders. It became clear that there was an opportunity to develop a venue that could serve both the local business community and visiting professionals, with a strong emphasis on providing a seamless and exceptional guest experience. The new hotel design aims to reflect this dual focus, ensuring that it can cater to the growing demands of corporate clients while still offering an inviting atmosphere for leisure guests.

The Sunshine Coast’s Economic Growth and the Need for More Hotel Rooms

As the Sunshine Coast continues to develop, there is an increasing need for additional hotel rooms to accommodate the region’s growing number of visitors. Local and state governments have estimated that by 2032, the region will require more than 2,400 additional hotel rooms, equivalent to around ten new hotels, to keep pace with economic growth. Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will play a crucial role in meeting this demand, providing a world-class venue for both business and leisure travelers.

This new development will not only provide accommodation for tourists but will also stimulate the local economy by attracting events and activations to the area. With its combination of conference rooms, a ballroom, and versatile meeting spaces, the Crowne Plaza will open doors for year-round events, meetings, exhibitions, and destination gatherings. The project will not only enhance the appeal of the Sunshine Coast as a business destination but also contribute to the local economy by attracting tourists from around the world.

A Vision for the Future of Maroochydore

Michael Maroun, Director at Felix Capital, has expressed his excitement about the expanded vision for the Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, which will include additional land and space for development. The original concept for the hotel was well-received, but the opportunity to secure more land allowed the team to expand their vision and create a truly dynamic space that addresses the needs of the region, particularly in the area of conferencing and events.

Maroun believes that the Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will not only serve as a premier venue for business events but will also elevate the Sunshine Coast’s status as a sought-after destination for international and domestic visitors. The development is expected to attract more visitors to the area and elevate the broader visitor experience, ultimately increasing the Sunshine Coast’s appeal as a year-round destination for both business and leisure.

A Strategic Partnership Driving the Vision

The partnership between IHG Hotels & Resorts and Felix Capital is one that combines international expertise in hospitality with local knowledge of the region. This is the second major collaboration between the two companies, following the signing of the Holiday Inn & Suites Caloundra, which is slated to open in 2030. Together, IHG and Felix Capital are helping to shape the future of the Sunshine Coast, ensuring that it remains a top-tier destination for travelers from all walks of life.

By aligning their vision with the evolving needs of the region, IHG and Felix Capital are setting the stage for a hotel that is not only modern and luxurious but also highly functional, catering to both business and leisure needs. With the Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, the Sunshine Coast will be better equipped to handle the growing demand for quality accommodation and conference spaces, ensuring that the region remains competitive in the global tourism market.

Construction and Timeline: What to Expect

Construction of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with an expected opening date set for 2028. The development timeline reflects the careful planning and attention to detail that has gone into the project, ensuring that the final result will meet the high standards expected by both IHG Hotels & Resorts and Felix Capital.

As the Sunshine Coast continues to grow and evolve, the addition of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will play a significant role in shaping the region’s future. This landmark development will not only provide a modern, luxurious hotel for both business and leisure visitors but will also help position the Sunshine Coast as a leading destination for conferences, meetings, and events in Australia.

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