IHG Hotels Unveils Crowne Plaza Maroochydore: A Landmark Development on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast
Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast – August 2025 – The Sunshine Coast’s vibrant tourism and business landscape is set for a major transformation as IHG Hotels & Resorts, in collaboration with Felix Capital, officially announces the future opening of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, a luxury development poised to elevate the region’s accommodation and event hosting capabilities.
A Milestone in Queensland’s Tourism Growth
Located on the bustling Ocean Street in the heart of Maroochydore, Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is designed to be a flagship destination for business and leisure travelers alike. Featuring 180 upscale guest rooms, over 770 square metres of flexible event and conference space, and world-class amenities, the hotel is set to redefine luxury and functionality on the Sunshine Coast.
This development marks a strategic upgrade from earlier plans for a voco-branded property, reinforcing IHG’s commitment to the region’s fast-growing demand for premium accommodation and events infrastructure. The launch aligns with Queensland’s long-term tourism strategy, which anticipates a need for over 2,400 additional hotel rooms by 2032.
Designed for Events, Conferences, and Relaxation
At the heart of this project is a focus on conferences and large-scale events. The new hotel will include a 600-square-metre pillarless ballroom, additional breakout spaces, and function rooms that can host everything from weddings and corporate summits to exhibitions and community events.
Complementing the event spaces is a suite of premium guest amenities:
- 30-metre outdoor swimming pool
- Full-service spa and wellness centre
- Modern gym and sauna
- Secure underground parking across two levels
These offerings are tailored to meet the needs of both corporate and leisure travelers, making Crowne Plaza Maroochydore an all-in-one destination for relaxation and productivity.
Exceptional Dining Experiences
Food lovers will find plenty to celebrate with the hotel’s diverse dining offerings, including:
- A 210-seat all-day dining restaurant
- A 160-seat signature fine-dining venue
- An elegant poolside bar and lounge
- A stylish lobby bar for social gatherings
These venues aim to serve both hotel guests and local patrons, adding vibrancy to Maroochydore’s culinary scene and contributing to the precinct’s growing status as a lifestyle hub.
Strategic Collaboration with Regional Impact
Matt Tripolone, IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Managing Director for Australasia & Pacific, emphasized the importance of this partnership:
“This hotel is a direct result of thoughtful planning and collaboration with Felix Capital. We’ve designed a space that not only offers an exceptional guest experience but also becomes a key player in the regional events market.”
Michael Maroun, Director at Felix Capital, echoed this sentiment, stating:
“With additional land and expanded vision, we’ve created a hospitality experience that truly reflects the growth trajectory of the Sunshine Coast. Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will be a beacon for regional tourism, business events, and lifestyle experiences.”
This project is the second collaboration between IHG and Felix Capital, following the successful 2024 agreement to develop Holiday Inn & Suites Caloundra, which is slated to open in 2030.
Supporting Regional Growth and Economic Development
Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has emerged as one of Australia’s top growth corridors, both economically and demographically. Tourism Research Australia and the Queensland Government have identified the region as a key priority area for infrastructure and investment, citing an anticipated tourism surge leading up to major events like the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will play a critical role in meeting this future demand, offering much-needed capacity and quality accommodation in one of the state’s most dynamic coastal cities. Its central location along Ocean Street ensures proximity to retail, entertainment, and the planned Maroochydore City Centre—a major urban transformation project.
Construction Timeline and Opening Date
Construction on Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is scheduled to commence in early 2026, with an official opening projected for 2028. The development phase is expected to generate hundreds of construction and hospitality jobs, offering economic uplift well before the hotel begins full operations.
A New Chapter for the Sunshine Coast
With its prime location, innovative design, and wide-ranging amenities, Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is positioned to become one of Australia’s leading destinations for meetings, events, and coastal luxury getaways. Its arrival underscores the growing momentum of the Sunshine Coast as a globally recognised region for tourism investment and lifestyle appeal.
Travelers, business leaders, event planners, and locals alike can look forward to a world-class facility that complements the natural beauty and vibrant community spirit of Maroochydore.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
