There’s something special about a great local – the kind of place where you can settle in for a long lunch, meet friends for a drink, or bring the kids along and know everyone will feel welcome. In Maroochydore, that place is The Sands Tavern, and after a thoughtful refresh, it’s ready to welcome the community back.
Reopening on 13 April 2026, The Sands Tavern has evolved from a traditional pub into a relaxed, multi-purpose venue designed for locals of all ages. While the heart of the venue remains the same, the update brings a fresh energy, new spaces, and a stronger focus on families and community connection.
The new beer garden alone is worth the trip, think a sprawling, open-air area built for the Sunshine Coast lifestyle. It’s an easy place to spend an afternoon, whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying a meal with the family, or settling in to watch the game on the big outdoor screen. For families, there’s the added bonus of a dedicated kids’ play area and a half basketball court, giving little ones room to play while you sit back and relax.
Boy enjoying a burger at The Sands Tavern
The newly renovated bistro at The Sands Tavern
Inside, the bistro is doing pub classics the way they’re supposed to be done – proper schnitzels, a saucy chicken parmy, and a juicy beef burger worth coming back for. It’s the food you actually crave after a big week, and the space has had a serious glow-up to match. We’re talking fresh fit-out, better flow, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels as good as the food. If you’re also there for the game, the upgraded sports bar has screens so good you’ll wonder why you ever watched from your couch. Cold drink in hand, mates around the table, big game on, it’ll be your new go-to in no time.
To mark the reopening, the venue is hosting a Locals Launch Weekend from 1–3 May, with a full program of live music, family entertainment, games and giveaways. Across the weekend, there’ll be something for everyone – from relaxed afternoons in the beer garden to activities for the kids and live music sessions that carry into the evening. It’ll be the kind of weekend that starts with “we’ll just pop in for a bit” and ends with the kids not wanting to leave. Get in early, soak it up, and consider it your official re-introduction to your new favourite local.
The new playground at The Sands Tavern, Maroochydore
That sense of community continues past the locals weekend, with a line-up of regular entertainment and offers designed to suit all kinds of locals. Think classic pub specials like steak and parmy nights, weekly trivia, and live music across the weekend. Sundays are especially family-friendly, with dedicated kids’ entertainment alongside the usual relaxed atmosphere.
It’s this balance that makes The Sands Tavern feel like a true local. You can come for the food, stay for the music, bring the kids, meet friends, or simply enjoy a quiet drink – all in a space that feels welcoming and unpretentious.
More than just a place to eat or drink, The Sands Tavern is part of the fabric of Maroochydore. With its refreshed look, family-friendly additions, and easygoing atmosphere, it’s ready to take its place once again as a go-to spot for the community.
Kids playing basketball at The Sands Tavern, Maroochydore
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE REFRESHED SANDS TAVERN HERE
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