Rainbow Beach

Introduction

Rainbow Beach is a charming coastal town situated at the southern end of the Great Beach Drive, nestled between Inskip Point and Double Island Point. It is the nearest mainland access point to Fraser Island, making it a favored starting location for tours to the world’s largest sand island. The town is renowned for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and laid-back vibe, making it an ideal spot for a tranquil beach getaway.

History

Established as a surf life-saving club in June 1965, Rainbow Beach boasts a rich history. The town’s name is inspired by the vibrant sand dunes that grace the southern part of its expansive beach. These colorful sands are the result of sediment layers in the sand being exposed by coastal winds, creating a unique and stunning landscape.

How to Get There

Rainbow Beach is accessible by car from Noosa, a journey that takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Hervey Bay Airport, which is approximately a 3-hour drive away. The Great Beach Drive offers a quintessential Australian road trip experience, blending deserted beaches with lush rainforests.

Attractions

• The Beach and Coloured Sands: Discover one of the most breathtaking and serene beaches. A 20-30 minute walk from the Surf Club reveals the stunning colored sand cliffs. Don’t miss the black boulders on the sand, which are actually made of sand and feature carved messages and pictures.
• Carlo Sand Blow: A short walk from the car park leads to this massive sand dune, offering spectacular views of Tin Can Bay. It’s an ideal spot for watching the sunset.
• Sand Blow and Rainforest Walk: Behind the Holiday Village, a 10-minute walk through the rainforest unveils a vast open sand blow with a breathtaking view of Rainbow Beach bay.
• Sky Diving: Experience sky diving over Rainbow Beach, capturing stunning views of the bay and Fraser Island. Bookings can be made at the tour store on the main road.
• Surfing: Rainbow Bay is perfect for surfers of all levels. Take lessons in the bay where dolphins often swim. Locals favor Snapper Rocks or Duranbah Beach for surfing.
• Horse Riding on the Beach: Enjoy a ride along the sand with Rainbow Beach Horse Riding. Options include beach rides, country rides, or even a full moon ride, catering to all experience levels.
• 4WD-ing: Drive on the beach during low tide to enjoy the colored sand scenery. If it’s high tide, consider taking the inland track instead.
• Visit Double Island Point: Located about 30km south of Rainbow Beach, this spot offers some of the best ocean views. Depending on the season, you might spot dolphins, turtles, and other marine life.

Ticket Information

• Surf Life Saving Club Membership: Originally set at 1 pound 10 shillings in 1965, membership includes access to various club activities and events.
• Tour Packages: Prices for guided tours to Fraser Island vary by operator and activities included. Popular options include the K’gari Fraser Island Full-Day Coach Tour and the Kayaking with Dolphins and Beach 4WD Tour.

Tips for Visiting

• Safety First: Exercise caution when swimming at Rainbow Beach, especially in the central and northern areas where rips and strong tidal currents are common. Always swim between the flags and be mindful of deep rip channels and longshore troughs.
• Weather Conditions: The colored sands are most vibrant after windy or rainy periods. Plan your visit accordingly to enhance your experience.
• Accommodation: For camping, consider Holiday Village or Inskip Point campgrounds, both offering stunning views and unique experiences. Frasers Backpackers and Dingos are popular hostel options.
• Activities: Book sky diving and 4WD tours in advance to avoid last-minute cancellations. For horse riding, check the availability of different experiences and book accordingly.

Rainbow Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Australia’s coastlines. With its unique colored sands, serene beaches, and variety of outdoor activities, it offers something for every traveler.