10 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Rainbow Beach | Apr 2025
K'gari (Fraser Island) All Inclusive Day Tour
Spend an incredible day exploring the natural beauty of K'gari (Fraser Island), seeing highlights such as Central Station, Wanggoolba Creek, Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, 75 Mile Beach, The Pinnacles, and the Maheno shipwreck.
4.82 (2827 reviews)
From $181.33
Dingos 3 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag-Along Tour
Dingo's K'gari Adventures is a fun-filled, self-driven three-day adventure that allows you to experience all the highlights of K'Gari (Fraser Island) by 4WD.
4.90 (389 reviews)
From $374.54
K'gari (Fraser Island) Explorer 2-Day Tour
Explore the World Heritage-listed sights of Fraser Island on an award-winning two-day tour! K'GARI 2-DAY TOUR - From 1st June 2021, this new tour represents the BEST VALUE experience on Fraser Island in 2021! Focused on increased guest comfort, tours include small group experiences (maximum 30 guests) and upgraded accommodation to Standard Hotel Rooms at K'gari Beach Resort.
4.86 (854 reviews)
From $455.82
Discovery K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour - From Rainbow Beach
Explore the beauty of Fraser Island on a full-day tour from Rainbow Beach by purpose-built 4WD vehicle. Discover what makes the island a World Heritage-listed site with an experienced and passionate guide.
4.61 (31 reviews)
From $174.45
Dingos 2 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag-Along Tour
Our youth-style tag-along 4WD adventure is a great way to experience the exceptional natural beauty of K'gari (Fraser Island).
4.60 (45 reviews)
From $343.27
Epic Rainbow Beach Dolphin Kayak and 4WD Adventure Tour
Experience a 4x4 Drive by Local guides along the famous Coloured sands of Rainbow Beach to Double Island Point. This undiscovered part of East Coast Queensland is the Jewel destination of the region.
4.85 (46 reviews)
From $86.91
Epic Surf Lesson and 4WD Adventure to Australia's Longest Wave Rainbow Beach QLD
This rewarding surf experience is Australia's longest wave within a protected Marine Park with beginners riding waves 100's of meters long.
5.00 (11 reviews)
From $80.66
Tandem Paragliding Experience Rainbow Beach | Sunshine Coast
Embark on an exhilarating tandem paragliding adventure, defying gravity as you soar high and embrace the freedom of the skies.
From $218.85
3 Day Fraser Island Kingfisher Bay Resort HOTEL TWIN
Enjoy a small-group tour with a maximum of ten guests giving you a more personalized experience. Discover the beautiful sites on Fraser Island, including Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek and the Maheno shipwreck before relaxing in your hotel room and taking advantage of everything Kingfisher Bay Resort has to offer.
From $434.56
Epic Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson and Coloured Sands 4WD Tour Rainbow Beach
Experience stand up paddle tour in a protected Marine Park and see local and migrating wildlife in their habitat whilst enjoying an Ideal beginner location with flat salt water lagoons and expert tuition.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $93.17
What activities can I do in Rainbow Beach?
1. Explore the Great Sandy National Park: Rainbow Beach is the gateway to the Great Sandy National Park, which is home to stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches. Take a hike along the Cooloola Great Walk, visit the colorful Carlo Sand Blow, or go camping in the park. 2. Visit Fraser Island: Rainbow Beach is the closest mainland town to Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world. Join a guided tour or rent a 4WD and explore the island's unique attractions, including pristine freshwater lakes, towering sand dunes, and the famous Maheno Shipwreck. 3. Go horse riding on the beach: Rainbow Beach is renowned for its horse riding experiences. Saddle up and ride along the beach, taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery and enjoying the thrill of riding through the waves. 4. Take a scenic flight: Get a bird's-eye view of Rainbow Beach and its surroundings by taking a scenic flight. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, colored sands, and the stunning Fraser Island from above. 5. Go fishing: Rainbow Beach is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer beach fishing, rock fishing, or offshore fishing, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species, including snapper, tailor, and bream. 6. Try sandboarding: Experience the thrill of sandboarding down the towering sand dunes at Carlo Sand Blow. Rent a sandboard or join a guided tour for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. 7. Go whale watching: Rainbow Beach is a prime location for whale watching, especially during the annual humpback whale migration from July to November. Join a whale watching tour and witness these magnificent creatures up close. 8. Explore the Colored Sands: Take a walk along the stunning Rainbow Beach, known for its vibrant colored sands. Marvel at the natural beauty of the sand cliffs, which display a range of hues, including red, yellow, and orange. 9. Go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding: Explore the calm waters of Tin Can Bay or the Great Sandy Strait by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Paddle along the coastline, spot marine life, and enjoy the serenity of the water. 10. Relax and unwind: Rainbow Beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Spend a day at the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind with a picnic in one of the beachfront parks.
When is the best time to travel to Rainbow Beach?
The best time to travel to Rainbow Beach, Australia is during the months of April to October. This is the dry season in this region, with mild temperatures and less rainfall. The weather during these months is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the stunning natural beauty of Rainbow Beach. It is important to note that the summer months of December to February can be quite hot and humid, with increased rainfall and the possibility of tropical storms. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting Rainbow Beach during this time.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach, located in Queensland, Australia, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its colorful sand dunes, crystal-clear waters, and pristine beaches. One of the unique aspects of Rainbow Beach's travel culture is its emphasis on outdoor activities and adventure. The town is a gateway to the Great Sandy National Park and the southern tip of the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, camping, four-wheel driving, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Another notable aspect of Rainbow Beach's travel culture is its strong connection to Indigenous culture. The traditional owners of the land are the Kabi Kabi people, and there are opportunities for visitors to learn about their heritage through guided tours and cultural experiences. In terms of accommodation, Rainbow Beach offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. There are holiday apartments, resorts, caravan parks, and camping grounds available. Many visitors choose to camp near the beach to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The town also has a vibrant dining scene, with various cafes, restaurants, and bars serving up delicious meals and drinks. Seafood is a specialty in Rainbow Beach, and you can enjoy freshly caught fish and prawns at the local eateries. Rainbow Beach is also a popular spot for whale watching during the migration season, which usually occurs from June to November. Visitors can join boat tours or observe from the shore to witness these magnificent creatures up close. Overall, Rainbow Beach's travel culture is centered around outdoor adventure, appreciation of nature, and a connection to Indigenous heritage. It is a place where visitors can relax, explore, and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Australian coastline.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Rainbow Beach
When visiting Rainbow Beach, Australia, there are a few shopping lists or souvenirs that you can consider: 1. Aboriginal Artwork: Rainbow Beach is located near the traditional lands of the Gubbi Gubbi people, and you can find beautiful Aboriginal artwork that showcases their culture and heritage. Look for paintings, boomerangs, didgeridoos, or other traditional crafts. 2. Local Handicrafts: Rainbow Beach has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, so look out for locally made handicrafts such as pottery, ceramics, jewelry, or textiles. These unique items make for great souvenirs and support local artisans. 3. Surf and Beach Gear: Rainbow Beach is a popular destination for surfers and beach lovers. You can find a range of surf and beach gear, including surfboards, bodyboards, swimwear, and beach towels. Pick up some essentials to enjoy the beach to the fullest. 4. Natural and Organic Products: Australia is known for its natural and organic products, and Rainbow Beach is no exception. Look for shops that sell natural skincare products, essential oils, candles, or other eco-friendly items made from local ingredients. 5. Local Food and Produce: Rainbow Beach has a few local markets where you can find fresh produce, homemade jams, sauces, and other local food products. These make for tasty souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home. 6. Souvenir T-shirts and Merchandise: If you're looking for typical souvenirs, you can find Rainbow Beach-themed t-shirts, hats, magnets, keychains, and other merchandise at local shops. These items are often adorned with the iconic Rainbow Beach colors or local landmarks. Remember to support local businesses and consider the environmental impact of your purchases.
Rainbow Beach travel review
Rainbow Beach: A Gem on Australia's East Coast Nestled along the picturesque coastline of the eastern state of Queensland, Rainbow Beach is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable travel experience. With its pristine beaches, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant community, this coastal town has become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Rainbow Beach has something to offer for everyone. One of the main attractions of Rainbow Beach is its breathtaking coastline. As the name suggests, the beaches here boast a mesmerizing array of colors, thanks to the rich mineral deposits found in the sand. From the vibrant reds and oranges of the cliffs to the striking blues and greens of the ocean, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soak up the sun, or dive into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim. Rainbow Beach is also a popular spot for surfing and fishing, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world. For those seeking adventure, Rainbow Beach is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world. Join a guided tour and explore the island's unique ecosystems, including ancient rainforests, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking sand dunes. Experience the thrill of driving along the beach highway, where the sand acts as a road, and witness the island's diverse wildlife, including dingoes, turtles, and whales. Fraser Island is a nature lover's paradise, offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. Back in Rainbow Beach, nature enthusiasts can embark on a variety of outdoor activities. The Great Sandy National Park, which surrounds the town, is home to diverse flora and fauna, including kangaroos, wallabies, and over 300 species of birds. Explore the park's walking trails, go on a birdwatching expedition, or simply immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. The Carlo Sand Blow, a massive sand dune that overlooks the town, is another must-see attraction. Witness the stunning views of the coastline and catch the sunset for a truly magical experience. Rainbow Beach is not just about natural beauty; it also has a vibrant and welcoming community. The town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, who are always ready to share stories and recommendations. Explore the local shops and galleries, where you can find unique handmade crafts, artworks, and souvenirs. Indulge in the delicious local cuisine, with fresh seafood being a highlight. Don't forget to visit the Rainbow Beach Surf Club, a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, where you can enjoy a cold drink and soak up the coastal vibes. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a connection with nature, Rainbow Beach has it all. With its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant community, this coastal town offers a truly unique travel experience. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the magic of Rainbow Beach for yourself.