Cotton Tree Beach Bar Visual Story

Arrival & Parking

The Cotton Tree Beach Bar is located at the bottom of Essence, a multi storey modern building on the corner of The Esplanade and Third Avenue. The bar is elevated above street level, providing a scenic view of the surroundings. On-street parking is available, along with eight underground car parks accessible via an internal set of stairs.

The bar features an outdoor seating area with high tables and chairs, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a coastal vibe. As a busy tourist location, additional time should be factored in to find a nearby carpark.

Sounds

Birds chirping
Vehicles & traffic sound
Footsteps
People chatting
Construction noise (distant)

Smells

Coastal air
Fresh air
Food aroma
Vehicle exhaust fumes (occasional)
Construction dust (minimal)

Feel

Breeze from the coast
Smooth table surfaces
Warm sunlight
Changing floor surfaces
Excitement

Sight

Modern architecture
Greenery
High-visibility clothing
Parked vehicles
Elevated seating area

Outdoor Dining

The outdoor dining area offers an elevated view overlooking the street, adjacent to Vic Perren Memorial Park with the Maroochydore River visible in the distance. The space is defined by concrete pillars and steel beams. White high stools and bar-style tables are arranged for outdoor dining.

The area is separated from the cafe counter and internal dining by concertina doors, which can be opened or closed depending on the weather. The floor transitions from tiles outside to timber in the counter and indoor dining area.

Sounds

Birds chirping
People chatting
Vehicle & traffic sounds
Coffee machine
Cutlery sounds

Smells

Fresh coffee
Coastal air
Baked goods
Grilled food aroma
Trees & greenery

Feel

Cool breeze
Elevated view
Solid concrete
Hungry & thirsty
External weather conditions

Sight

Modern architecture
Street activity
River in distance
Sunset view
Tables & chairs

Indoor Dining

The Cotton Tree Beach Bar indoor dining area is accessible via a manual glass door. Inside is a brightly coloured bar with palm frond artwork and cane decor, creating a coastal beach tone. Seating options include high stools, low stools, and couch-style bench seating, with furniture easily relocated to support access.

The space is well-lit with natural light from large windows, and the decor includes hanging plants and wicker light fixtures. The flooring is covered with timber wood, and the ceiling is predominantly black with exposed ductwork and wooden timber slats accent.

Sounds

Barista sound
Clanging plates
Directional instructions
People talking
Footsteps on timber floor

Smells

Coffee aroma
Liquor aroma
Cooking foods
Deodorants & fragrances
Cleaning products

Feel

Smooth wooden tables
Soft cushioned seats
Cool air from open windows
Textured cane decor
Hungry & thirsty

Sight

Palm frond artwork
Cane decor
Black ceiling
Hanging plants
Wooden timber slats

Access & Amenities

The Cotton Tree Beach Bar features three entry points from the street walkways: two separate sets of 8 steps, a ramp, and a lift system. The lift platform has a metallic, diamond-patterned surface and is positioned at the entrance, surrounded by glass panels and metal frames.

The accessible bathroom is located via ramped access toward the internal car park entrance and requires a key, attached to a large metallic spoon, available from staff. The bathroom is equipped with handrails, a sink, a toilet, and a baby changing station. The area is clean and modern, with tiled floors and walls, and ample lighting.