Maroochydore is at the very centre of the Sunshine Coast, with Caloundra to the south and Noosa to the north. Cotton Tree, an ocean-side suburb on the Maroochy River, is a popular holiday spot, well-serviced by holiday flats and a caravan park. The rivermouth, which is a kite surfers paradise, was once the site of a large timbermill from where the local lumber was shipped to Brisbane by paddle-steamer. There are river cruises, and great fishing opportunities in this aquatic paradise.

The Maroochy area is blessed with 25 kilometres of golden sands and inviting ocean that embraces such famous surf beaches as Mooloolaba, Alexandra Headland, Coolum and Maroochydore. To balance the call of the sea, there is also 3722 hectare of municipal reserves and 2000 hectare of national parkland.

Distance from Brisbane (State Capital): 98 Kilometres.