By: TTW News Desk

IHG Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its latest addition to the Crowne Plaza brand, setting the stage for a new era in luxury accommodation and event hosting. The Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, located in the heart of Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast, promises an unparalleled experience with 770m² of versatile event spaces, perfect for everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale conferences. With 180 stylish luxury rooms and a variety of exceptional dining experiences, this new hotel is designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you’re looking to host a sophisticated event or simply indulge in a relaxing stay, Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is set to become a standout destination.

IHG Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Felix Capital, has unveiled revised plans for a major new project located on Ocean Street in the vibrant heart of the Sunshine Coast—Crowne Plaza Maroochydore.

The hotel will offer 180 modern guest rooms and over 770 square meters of versatile meeting and event space, including a 600-square-meter ballroom. Additional amenities will include a 30-meter swimming pool, a spa, a wellness center, a gym, a sauna, and secure parking across two basement levels. Guests will also enjoy a range of dining options, such as a 210-seat all-day restaurant, a 160-seat signature dining space, an outdoor poolside bar and lounge, and a lobby bar. These offerings are designed to cater to corporate events, weddings, family vacations, and community gatherings alike.

This development is an updated version of an earlier plan for voco Maroochydore, designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality conference and event facilities in the region.

Matt Tripolone, IHG Hotels & Resorts Managing Director, Australasia & Pacific, said: “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. 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.

“We’re proud to support Felix Capital’s vision to deliver an incredible asset that will draw people to the region for business, leisure, and everything in between,” said Matt.

Michael Maroun, Director at Felix Capital, said: “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.

Local and state authorities have projected that by 2032, over 2,400 additional hotel rooms—equivalent to approximately 10 new hotels—will be needed to accommodate the region’s economic growth. This development is crucial for meeting the anticipated demand. Situated along Ocean Street, the expanded precinct will not only support the rise in tourism and business travel but will also create opportunities for continuous events, meetings, exhibitions, and other destination activities that will benefit the local economy.

IHG Hotels & Resorts has introduced the Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, offering 770m² of flexible event spaces and 180 luxurious rooms. This stunning addition to the Sunshine Coast features exceptional dining experiences, catering to both business and leisure guests. The new hotel promises to be the perfect destination for unforgettable events and getaways.

The construction of Crowne Plaza Maroochydore is slated to begin in early 2026, with an anticipated opening in 2028.

This project represents the second partnership between IHG and Felix Capital, following the 2024 agreement for Holiday Inn & Suites Caloundra, which is scheduled to open in 2030.