Don’t miss the chance to discover the idyllic coastal gem of Rainbow Beach. From its sparkling shores to its jaw-dropping views, this is one place you'll want to add to your itinerary. Keen to find out what to do when you get there? We’ve got you covered.
1. Take a dip at the beach
Couple at Rainbow Beach, Gympie Region, Sunshine Coast
You can’t come to Rainbow Beach and not enjoy the beach. The surf beach is patrolled year-round, making it a great spot to head in for a swim. If you're in the mood for an iconic photo to mark your visit, take a stroll over to the vibrant rainbow stairs leading down towards the ocean.
2. Visit Carlo Sand Blow
Carlo Sand Blow, Rainbow Beach, Great Sandy National Park
Moonscape vibes and VIEWS await at Carlo Sand Blow. A short stroll from the car park along a pretty bush trail will take you to the top of the dune. From there, stroll along to catch a great view of Double Island Point, Rainbow Beach and beyond. Golden hour here is magical.
3. See the coloured sands
Rainbow Beach Coloured Sands, Great Beach Drive, Rainbow Beach
These huge striped dunes extend along the beach from the cliffs down to the ocean below, starting about 2km from the Rainbow Beach Surf Club. They are formed by layers of sediment in the sand becoming exposed due to coastal winds. The colours are even better after a windy or rainy period.
4. Visit Seary's Creek
Seary's Creek, Rainbow Beach, Gympie Region
Make sure you pull up at Seary’s Creek, located less than a ten-minute drive from Rainbow Beach in the Cooloola Recreation Area of the Great Sandy National Park. There’s a reason this spot is so iconic... and once you glimpse the eye-catching golden water flowing through the day-use area, you’ll quickly see why.
5. Try 4WD-ing
Great Beach Drive, Rainbow Beach, Gympie Region
Low tide is the easiest time if you want to try some driving on the beach, and also the best time to thoroughly enjoy the coloured sand scenery. If you’re driving at high tide, you can still reach the beach campsites, but you’ll have to consider the inland track instead.
6. Visit Double Island Point
Lighthouse at Double Island Point, Gympie Region. Photo credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Double Island Point is about 30km south of the town of Rainbow Beach. On the cliff where the lighthouse stands, you can catch a jaw-dropping ocean view that'll have you filling your camera roll in no time. Top tip: make sure to keep an eye out for pods of dolphins or passing whales, depending on the season.
Next up, discover more Rainbow Beach inspiration here.
