The hype
Travelers consistently praise the cleanliness and the comfortable beds, noting it's a step up from the average Holiday Inn Express.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast An Ihg Hotel
$100-170/ night
Book this if You want a reliable, modern base in the heart of Maroochydore with a free breakfast that actually fuels you up.
Why People Love It
- Smart, functional design that feels newer than most local motels
- Rooftop pool with glass fencing and genuine sunset views
- Free 'Express Start' breakfast includes both hot buffet and grab-and-go options
Quick Take: It’s a cookie-cutter corporate stay that executes the basics perfectly, but don't expect a resort vibe or ocean views from your bed.
Reviewed by @thesassyassy: I stayed here for a weekend getaway and was blown away by the value. The room was super clean and modern, but the real winner was the rooftop. Watching the sunset from the pool with a cold drink in hand felt like a 5-star experience on a 3-star budget.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'City View' rooms mostly overlook the street or Sunshine Plaza, and the elevators can be slow during the morning breakfast rush.
- You need a predictable, clean place to sleep while exploring the Sunshine Coast
- You appreciate a free, decent breakfast before hitting the road
- You are visiting for business or need to be near the new CBD precinct
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily and efficient; guests rarely complain about missed spots.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Grout is generally white and silicone is fresh.
- Maintenance: New building feel; very few reports of peeling paint or broken fixtures.
- Linens & towels: Crisp white linens, though towels can be on the thinner 'standard hotel' side.
- Odors & scents: Neutral and fresh; no lingering smoke or musty carpet smells.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway noise near elevators
- Occasional street traffic on lower floors
Before you book
Good to know
- Credit card payments incur a 1.5% surcharge (3% for Diners/JCB)
- Self-service laundry is available on-site, perfect for longer road trips
- The 'Grab & Go' breakfast is a lifesaver if you have an early tour booked
What to pack
- Beach towel (hotel towels are for the room/pool, not the beach)
- Walking shoes (it's a 15-minute walk to the actual beach)
- Keep cup for the coffee machine to reduce waste
Room Genie
Best picks
- High-floor rooms (Level 7+) for better light and less street noise
- Corner suites if you need a bit more floor space and a sofa bed
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms directly opposite the elevators (constant dinging)
- Lower floor rooms facing the main road if you are a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor (Level 7 or above), away from the elevators to minimize hallway noise. If available, a corner room would be fantastic.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there free parking?
No, self-parking is $20 AUD per day in a covered garage.
How far is the beach?
Maroochydore Beach is about 1.1km away—a 15-minute flat walk or a very short drive.
Is breakfast actually free?
Yes, the 'Express Start' breakfast is included for all guests, featuring eggs, bacon, pastries, and coffee.
Can I charge my EV there?
No dedicated EV chargers on-site; you will need to use public chargers nearby (check PlugShare).
Is there a pool?
Yes, a heated rooftop pool with glass fencing and city views.
Does the hotel serve dinner?
No, only breakfast. However, they have a 24-hour snack menu and are walking distance to Ocean Street dining.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Great Room' lobby area is actually a decent co-working space if you need to send emails.
- ✨
Walk to 'Cotton Tree' for a calmer river beach vibe instead of the main surf beach.
- ✨
Ask for a 'quiet side' room upon check-in; the staff know exactly which ones face away from the morning traffic.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'City View' is often just a view of the Sunshine Plaza mall roof.
💡The bathroom doors are sometimes frosted glass sliders that don't lock—awkward for friends sharing.
💡The coffee machine in the lobby is free and decent, beating the instant stuff in the room.
💡You can hear the 'ding' of the elevator from rooms right next to the lift lobby.
💡The blackout blinds are excellent, creating a pitch-black cave even at noon.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast An Ihg Hotel is located and what's nearby.