Things to do in Marcoola: Where to Stay, Play and Explore
Planning a relaxing vacay to a quiet spot on the Sunshine Coast? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best things to do in Marcoola.
A laid-back beach holiday is a rite of passage for any Aussie and if you're keen to explore somewhere new, may we kindly suggest checking out Marcoola?
Marcoola is a charming seaside village located on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, just north of the Maroochy River and perhaps the area's best-kept secret. And while it might not be on your radar just yet, it soon will be! This hidden gem offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere without any overwhelming crowds, making it the ultimate destination for your next escape.
The main attraction in Marcoola is undoubtedly its stunning beach. This unspoiled, uncrowded beach is one of the most beautiful on the Sunshine Coast. If you can peel yourself away from the ocean, Marcoola also has a small but vibrant town centre that has a range of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Keep scrolling as we round up all the best things to do in Marcoola and just try and stop yourself from booking a holiday here after reading this!
Things to do in Marcoola: Stay
Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly Marcoola accommodation or something a little more special, we’ve got all bases covered. The best bit is, they're all ridiculously close to the beach!
Marcoola Beach Resort
This family-friendly resort offers comfortable and well-equipped apartments, as well as a large outdoor pool, BBQ facilities, and easy access to the beach and nearby cafes and restaurants.
885 David Low Way, Marcoola
Sand Dunes Resort
For a taste of seaside luxury, why not treat yourself to a stay at Sand Dunes Resort? They offer a range of beachfront self-contained apartments on the Sunshine Coast, perfect for couples, groups, or the whole family.
But the best part is the location - situated right on Marcoola Beachfront in the heart of the Sunshine Coast. You can set up camp here while being close enough to enjoy all the action nearby.
130 Mudjimba Esplanade, Marcoola
Atlantis Marcoola Beachfront Resort
Just a stone's throw from one of Queensland's most beautiful beaches, Atlantis Marcoola Beachfront Resort offers a choice of modern, self-contained apartments, ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxing beachside break.
The resort is decked out with a heated pool and spa, a tennis court and a basketball court.
903 David Low Way, Marcoola
Things to do in Marcoola: Explore
Whatever you're in the mood for - be it lazy days at the beach, more ambitious day trips, or perusing the local shops and markets, Marcoola may be small but there is so much to explore!
Beach Hop
Marcoola is known for its beautiful beaches, with crystal clear waters and pristine sand galore, you can spend hours every day beach hopping from one breathtaking beach to the next!
A few of our top picks include Marcoola Beach, and nearby Coolum Beach or Mudjimba Beach (Sitchu Tip: you can go snorkelling with turtles here).
Explore the Local Shopping Scene
Marcoola has a number of amazing local markets that offer a range of fresh produce, arts, and crafts. The Marcoola Twilight Markets are held every Friday from 4pm til 8pm where you can chow down on everything from dumplings, doughnuts, German hotdogs, and tacos right by the beach.
Meanwhile, on Saturdays between 8am to 12pm, stock up on the area's best and freshest produce at the Farmer's Markets.
In the main drag of town, you'll find a great offering of stores including gift shops, surf shops and cute boutiques. Happy shopping!
Images 2 & 3 credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Take it All in From Above
For the more adventurous traveller, why not book an aerial tour through Paradise Seaplanes? Take in all the stunning sights of the Sunshine Coast, from the beautiful national parks, nearby Noosa to Double Island Point to the north, the Glass House Mountains and Pumicestone Passage at Bribie Island in the south.
Riverside, 142 Bradman Avenue, Maroochydore
Plan A Day Trip
One of the best things about Marcoola is just how close it is to so many exciting tourist attractions.
For animal lovers, Australia Zoo is just a 30-minute drive away, while Sealife is only 20 minutes. Meanwhile, you could also pop into many of the other lush nearby towns like Noosa, Mount Coolum or Maroochydore.
Things to do in Marcoola: Eat and Drink
Off Tap Tapas
For good vibes and even better tapas, this is your joint! Menu standouts include patatas bravas, chorizo al vino, grilled prawns, and Spanish meatballs.
Another win? There are loads of vegan and veg options too.
914 David Low Way, Marcoola
Sole Restaurant
It's not a beach holiday until there's fish and chips and for the best offering in town, Sole has got it sorted.
Dine in and work your way through their extensive menu featuring taramasalata, freshly shucked oysters, salt and pepper squid and of course the fish and chips.
Or, if you'd prefer, you can get takeaway and enjoy it proper beach holiday style on the sand as you watch the waves crash.
10 Seaward Lane, Marcoola
Surfair Beach Hotel
If you're wondering where the best pub in Marcoola is look no further than the Surfair Beach Hotel. Situated right in front of the Pacific Ocean, you can kick back by the open-air cocktail poolside as you soak up the sun and salty sea breeze.
923 David Low Way, Marcoola
Bulli
What goes perfectly with a beach holiday? A big slice of delicious pizza of course - and local joint Bulli has been dubbed the best pizza on the Sunshine Coast. They're also open for breakfast, serving up pesto scrambled eggs, Spanish tortillas and toasted muesli.
1 Lorraine Avenue, Marcoola
Still wanderlusting? We've got all your travel inspo sorted. Why not have a look at our edit of the best places to visit in Australia? After that, take a squiz at our glamping in WA guide.
