We loved Maroochydore as it is more relaxed and not quite as touristy as Maloolaba. There are great shops and malls nearby and many cafés and restaurants within walking distance. There is an aquatic centre, bowling greens, sports clubs etc., all in easy distance. It is an easy drive to get to the motorway north or south and Noosa etc., is under an hours drive away. The marina/wharf and seafood restaurants are only a few minutes drive. Cotton Tree is a lovely little area with great cafés and shops and it's nice to have both the estuary and beach to choose from. There is a wonderful camping/holiday park right on the estuary in the heart of the village. The Alex Bluff Bar is great for live music, food and drinks and the Boat Shed riverside restaurant/bar is great for a relaxed afternoon meal by the river.

Cotton Tree is an excellent location for a short or long beach stay. No need to drive anywhere. Lots of cafes, restaurants, shops and other amenities in central street, which also has a Sunday market.

So much to see, a great place to visit. Beaches, rivers, restaurants and shops are all within walking distance. The unit we stayed was fantastic. The only problem is traffic in the area is bad, traffic lights take forever to change, if you are looking for somewhere quiet, then this is not the ideal place, otherwise can’t fault anything else.

Nice shops to browse at Cottontree, has a good vibe with variety of small food outlets. Recomend the fish n chips opposite campground. River frontage attractive , interesting market on Sunday morning. Great beach for swimming or walking,not crowded. Local surfclub very popular , good value for a meal and seaview.

The Majorca isle hotel had fabulous views, excellent facilities for our family of three. It was quiet in the evening and ideally located for the beach, especially if you wanted to surf or sup. It was a two minute walk away. Really helpful for a late check in and a secure place to keep the car. Pool was lovely but probably could be a little cold if it got below 20 degree C.

It was a very small town and main street, and not an esplanade along the beach but ran perpendicular . There is no view of the beach from the main street cafes and restaurants. It is a retirement style area with not a lot of activity. After visiting Mooloolaba a few minutes drive away, I think I would prefer to stay there next time.