The milestone will be marked by a sod-turning ceremony onsite, signalling the start of works on one of the region’s most significant new tourism and residential developments with construction expected to be completed by 2028.

The project comes as the Sunshine Coast faces a significant shortfall in hotel accommodation, with more than 2,400 additional rooms or around 10 new hotels required in the lead-up to 2032 and beyond.

IHG Hotels & Resorts will operate the hotel under its globally recognised premium Crowne Plaza brand, bringing international brand strength, powerful distribution and one of the world’s largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG One Rewards, to the Sunshine Coast market.

The development also includes AER Residences, which will comprise 24 luxury two and three bedroom apartments across the top four levels of the hotel with prices starting from $1,650,000. 

Crowne Plaza Maroochydore Sunshine Coast, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ premium portfolio, will feature 180 guest rooms alongside more than 900 square metres of premium, flexible meeting and event space, including a 600sqm ballroom. The hotel will also include a 30-metre pool, gym, sauna, and secure basement parking across two levels.

Food and beverage offerings will include a 167-seat all-day dining restaurant, a 180-seat outdoor pool bar and lounge, a ground-floor signature dining venue, and a lobby bar.