Things to do in Marcoola: Where to Stay, Play and Explore

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!

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or something a little more special, the accommodation in Marcoola has all bases covered. The best bit is, they're all ridiculously close to the beach!

Ramada by Wyndham Marcoola Beach

This gorgeous beachfront resort offers modern and spacious rooms with ocean or garden views, as well as a range of on-site amenities, including a large lagoon-style pool, a restaurant and bar, a gym, and a day spa. The resort is conveniently located right on the beach and just a short drive from both the Sunshine Coast Airport and Noosa if you fancy a day trip. 

From $199 per night

923 David Low Way, Marcoola 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.

From $231 per night

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. 

From $260 per night 

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. 

From $152 per night

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 everyday beach hopping from one breathtaking beach to the next! A few of our top picks include Marcoola Beach and nearby Coolum Beach and Mudjimba Beach (pro 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!

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.

From $125

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. 

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 and swell in front of you. 

Cuba St. Roasters

For the best coffee in town, look no further than Cuba St. Roasters. These guys take their coffee very seriously and roast their own blend in-house. Grab your mug of Joe and a fresh pastry, muffin, cake or bacon and egg roll while you're at it. 

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 by 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 in 2023? After that, take a squiz at our glamping in WA guide.