Sunshine Coast property to target conference and events demand

IHG Hotels & Resorts and Felix Capital have announced updated plans for Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, a significant new development on Ocean Street in the heart of the Sunshine Coast.

Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will feature 180 guest rooms alongside more than 770m² of premium, flexible meeting and event space including a 600m² ballroom.

The hotel will also include a 30m pool and spa, wellness retreat, gym and sauna. Its F&B offering will include a 210-seat all-day restaurant, a 160-seat signature dining venue, an outdoor pool bar and lounge, alongside a lobby bar that will collectively create a destination equally suited for corporate events, weddings, family getaways and local gatherings.

The project has been reimagined from a previous concept for voco Maroochydore, recognising the opportunity to deliver a hotel that responds to the region’s fast-growing demand for quality conference and event infrastructure.

“We worked closely with Felix Capital to reimagine this opportunity, thinking strategically about the elements that will create the best outcome for the hotel and the Sunshine Coast region,” says Matt Tripolone, IHG Hotels & Resorts Managing Director, Australasia & Pacific.

“Through discussion and feedback, it became clear that there was real value in delivering a hotel that puts conferences and events at its core as well as delivering an exceptional guest experience.”

Michael Maroun, Director at Felix Capital, adds: “The response to our original vision was overwhelmingly positive, and securing additional land gave us the chance to think bigger. With Crowne Plaza at the heart of this development, we can now create a space that truly meets the needs of the region, particularly in the conferencing and events space.

“We’re confident this hotel will not only attract events and activations to the Sunshine Coast but also elevate the broader visitor experience and boost the region’s appeal as a year-round destination.

With local and state governments estimating the region will require more than 2,400 additional hotel rooms – equating to around 10 new hotels – by 2032 to support its economic development, this project will play an essential role in addressing future demand.

The expanded precinct on Ocean Street will not only cater to growing tourism and business travel, but also unlock opportunities for year-round activations, meetings, exhibitions, and destination events that contribute to the local economy.

Construction of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is expected to commence in early 2026 with a targeted opening in 2028.