Key takeaways
- Rainbow Beach offers stunning views and vibrant local culture.
- Double Island Point is perfect for 4WD adventures and marine life sightings.
- The historic Double Island Point Lighthouse provides guided tours and scenic views.
- Carlo Sand Blow is great for sandboarding and sunset views.
- Watersports in Rainbow Beach include surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach fishing.
- Fraser Island, accessible from Rainbow Beach by car ferry, is ideal for guided tours and exploring natural highlights.
- The Cooloola Great Walk offers scenic hikes with diverse flora and fauna.
- Rainbow Beach has a variety of eateries and cafes serving fresh local cuisine.
Welcome to Rainbow Beach Holiday Village, your gateway to a stunning coastal escape. Our village offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure; Rainbow Beach has something for everyone.
This guide aims to provide insider tips on the best activities and attractions in Rainbow Beach, ensuring you make the most of your stay.
Discover the unique charm of Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach isn’t just another stop on your travels; it’s a unique destination nestled in the heart of the Cooloola National Park. This picturesque township offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture that sets it apart.
Its strategic location makes it a gateway to some of Queensland’s most breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
The town sits amid the expansive Cooloola National Park, providing easy access to numerous trails and natural wonders. O
One of the standout attractions is Lake Poona, a perched lake known for its serene beauty and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and a refreshing swim. The hike to Lake Poona is manageable and rewards visitors with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, the old rail track along the top of the dunes leading to Double Island Point (DIP) is a must-visit. This track offers a unique way to explore the area, combining historical intrigue with natural beauty. As you walk along the track, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the coastline and the lush greenery of the national park.
Rainbow Beach itself boasts a vibrant community with local shops, cafes, and restaurants that reflect the town’s laid-back yet lively spirit. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in nature, enjoy various outdoor activities, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
If you’re here for a short stay or a longer adventure, Rainbow Beach promises a memorable and unique experience making it the perfect holiday destination.
Must-see spots in Rainbow Beach:
Rainbow Beach offers breathtaking vistas perfect for photography. From the top of Carlo Sand Blow, you can see the expansive coastline and beautiful surf beach.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Great Sandy National Park, which surrounds Rainbow Beach and offers stunning rainforest and coastal views.
Local Culture:
The vibrant local community hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. From the annual Rainbow Beach Family Fishing Classic to the Rainbow Beach Music Festival:, there’s always something happening in this lively town. These events and activities are great opportunities to mingle with locals and enjoy the community spirit.
The main street has charming shops, cafes, hotels and restaurants where you can sample local cuisine and pick up unique souvenirs.
Photography Spots:
The best spots for photography include the cliffs along the beach, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the town. Seary’s Creek, with its refreshing swimming holes and picturesque setting, is another favourite among photographers. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography.
Explore Double Island Point
Double Island Point is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers. It is just a short 4WD beach drive away. This scenic spot is famous for its picturesque location and range of activities.
4WD Adventures:
Experience the thrill of driving along the beach and through the bush on the beach highway. A 4WD adventure to Double Island Point offers an exciting way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
The sandy tracks and wooded paths provide a mix of terrain perfect for an off-road adventure. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for 4WD, carry recovery gear, and check local guidelines. Always travel with sufficient water and supplies. Remember to check tide times and local regulations to ensure a safe trip.
Marine Life:
Double Island Point is teeming with marine life. You can often see dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and even whales during the winter months.
For the best chance of spotting these amazing creatures, try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they’re most active.
Scenic Views:
Enjoy the expansive ocean views and the coastline stretching from the headland in both directions.
Visit the historic Double Island Point Lighthouse
The lighthouse is a historic landmark that offers more than just a glimpse into the past. Built in the 1880s, this lighthouse has guided countless ships along the Queensland coast and remains an important beacon today.
Guided Tours:
Guided lighthouse tours are available and provide fascinating insights into its history and operation.
These tours often include access to areas not usually open to the public, offering a unique perspective on this historic structure. Booking a tour in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
Scenic Views:
The panoramic views from the lighthouse are stunning. You can see for miles in every direction, taking in the beauty of the coastline, the ocean, and the surrounding landscape.
Experience the wonder of Carlo Sand Blow
Carlo Sand Blow is one of the most unique and breathtaking natural attractions nearby. This vast expanse of sand, shaped by wind over thousands of years, offers spectacular views and a variety of activities for visitors.
Sandboarding:
For those seeking adventure, sandboarding down the dunes of Carlo Sand Blow is an exhilarating experience. The steep slopes provide the perfect conditions for a fun and thrilling ride.
Sunset Views:
Carlo Sand Blow is renowned for its stunning sunsets. The sky lights up with brilliant colours as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a magical atmosphere.
It’s a perfect spot for an evening picnic or a peaceful moment of reflection.
Gear up and capture the moment
Equipment rental options for sandboarding: Several local shops offer sandboard rentals, so get some tips on the best spots to sandboard.
Enjoy watersports in Rainbow Beach: Catch waves,
paddle the calm, and reel in the big one
The clear waters and stunning coastline provide the perfect backdrop for aquatic adventures.
Surfing:
Rainbow Beach’s beautiful surf beach is perfect for catching waves. Local surf schools offer lessons for beginners, while more experienced surfers can enjoy the consistent swells.
The best spots for surfing are often patrolled by professional lifeguards, ensuring a safe environment.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding:
Explore the serene waters around Rainbow Beach on a kayak or paddleboard. Seary’s Creek, just a short drive from Rainbow Beach, offers calm waters perfect for a leisurely paddle and a refreshing swim. Paddling along the coastline provides stunning views of the sandy beaches and the unique coloured sands.
These activities are a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the area.
Rentals and lessons are available from local providers, making it easy to get started.
Beach Fishing
Fishing from the beach at Rainbow Beach is a popular activity year-round. The gutters along the beach are known to hold Whiting, particularly at times, and Tailor during the spring.
The best spots include Inskip Point, where you can catch Bream, Flathead, and sometimes Tailor and Trevally. Another excellent location is the beaches along the Great Sandy Strait, providing a serene backdrop while you fish
Boat Fishing
For those who prefer boat fishing, Rainbow Beach offers excellent conditions and charter services. You can launch your own boat from Carlo Point at Rainbow Beach or Norman Point at Tin Can Bay.
Alternatively, you can join one of the many fishing charters available in the area. These charters take you to the rich, unspoiled waters offshore from Double Island Point and Fraser Island, where you can catch species such as Snapper, Pearl Perch, Red Emperor, Sweetlip, and seasonal species like Mackeral, Amberjack, and Wahoo
Take a guided tour of K’gari (Fraser Island)
K’Gari, previously known as Fraser Island, is the world’s largest sand island. It is just a short Vehicle ferry trip away and is a must-see destination. Known for its pristine beauty and diverse ecosystems, a guided tour is the best way to experience all K’Gari has to offer.
K’Gari top attractions
Taking a guided tour to K’gari lets you explore the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning and navigating independently.
These tours provide transportation and knowledgeable guides, and some include visits to iconic spots like Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek.
Lake McKenzie’s crystal-clear fresh waters and white sandy beaches are perfect for a refreshing swim.
Eli Creek, a natural freshwater creek, offers a tranquil spot for a relaxing float.
The Maheno Shipwreck and the coloured sands of The Pinnacles are also must-see attractions. For the adventurous, the island’s rainforest trails and dunes offer exciting hiking opportunities.
Discover island highlights
How to book a tour: Tours can be booked through local operators or online. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
What to bring for a day trip: Essentials include sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, a towel, and plenty of water. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
Hike the Cooloola Great Walk: wildlife wonders along the trail
The Cooloola Great Walk is a fantastic way to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Stretching from Noosa North Shore to Rainbow Beach, this 102-kilometre trail passes through various environments, from coastal dunes to lush rainforests.
It offers a range of scenic sections catering to different hikers’ levels. Many options are available, ranging from a short day hike to a multi-day adventure.
The walk is a haven for nature lovers, with diverse wildlife and plant life along the trail.
You might spot kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. The trail’s lush vegetation, including coastal heathlands and low woodlands, adds to its charm.
When to hike and how to prepare
The Cooloola Great Walk is best hiked during the cooler months, from April to September.
Ensure you have proper hiking gear, including sturdy shoes, a hat, and sun protection.
Carry sufficient water and snacks, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. It’s recommended to inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
Relax at the local eateries and cafes: savour local flavours
Rainbow Beach boasts a vibrant food scene perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
The main street, Rainbow Beach Road, is lined with various eateries. For a hearty breakfast or a quick coffee, head to a local cafe that serves delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
Popular spots include the Rainbow Beach Hotel for a laid-back meal with a view and the Arcobaleno on the Beach for Italian cuisine lovers.
Enjoy a taste of the region by trying dishes featuring locally caught fish, prawns, and other seafood delights. For something uniquely Australian, many places serve dishes incorporating bush foods and native ingredients.
Many family-friendly restaurants and cafes offer kids’ menus and relaxed atmospheres.
The Rainbow Beach Surf Life Saving Club is an excellent spot for families, with its casual dining and stunning beach views.
FAQs
- Double Island Point: 20 minutes via the beach by 4WD
- Carlo Sand Blow: 5 minutes.
- K’Gari: 10-minute drive to the ferry at Inskip Point.
- Seary’s Creek: 10 minutes.
- Tin Can Bay: 30 minutes.
- Poona Lake: 20 minutes to the trailhead, then a short hike.
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Water
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear and a towel
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Bug spray for hikes
- Carlo Sand Blow
- Local beaches along Rainbow Beach Road
- Seary’s Creek
- Great Sandy National Park
- Several shops in town offer rentals and lessons for surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Fishing gear is also available for rent.
- Visitors often spot dolphins, turtles, manta rays, kangaroos and various bird species. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife sightings.
Book your stay at Rainbow Beach Holiday Village today
We invite you to stay at Rainbow Beach Holiday Village for an unforgettable holiday experience. Rainbow Beach has something special for everyone, whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.
Our friendly staff are eager to recommend their favourite spots and ensure your experiences are as memorable as your stay. So book with us now, and let us be part of your unforgettable Rainbow Beach experience!