Queensland's Rainbow Beach is the ultimate one-stop destination for the sun seeker with an adventurous streak. The world’s largest sand island, Fraser, is just a short ferry ride away, and the spectacular coloured sands that provide this unblemished area with its name line the coastline here. Surfers, kite surfers and kayakers take advantage of the tremendous swell, but it is just as enjoyable relaxing on the sandy beaches and soaking up the sun and scenery.

Hiring a campervan is the ideal choice to visit this region as it gives you the freedom to pick and choose your favourite location to base yourself and spend the rest of your holiday enjoying the idyllic surroundings. Located only a short three hour drive from Brisbane, it is easily reached via the Bruce Highway just past Gympie. It is often regarded as the gateway to Fraser Island and is nestled amongst the incredible Great Sandy National Park. The final stretch of road into town is surrounded by dense tall trees, and there is green forest as far as the eye can see, which creates a beautiful contrast when they meet the white beaches.

When it comes to places to stay here, there are two caravan parks that stand out from the rest. Rainbow Waters Caravan Park is easily accessible just as you enter the town, and Rainbow Village Caravan Park is ideally located right in the heart of town. Both of these parks offer a unique atmosphere and cater to most travellers. Rainbow Waters is expansive and spacious, and the trees and grass surrounding you create an instantly relaxed feel.

Great news! Camp fires are permitted, allowing you to enjoy a true camping experience. You can sit on the nearby jetty and watch the fishing boats coming in, all the while enjoying the pelicans that wait on the river bank to greet you. There are excellent amenities, a kiosk and restaurant nearby. This truly is an ideal spot for boaters and fishermen wishing to get out on the calm and inviting water. Misquitoes do come out at dusk so remember the insect repellent!

For families seeking convenience, Rainbow Village will be just right for you. There is a swimming pool and a playground to keep the kids happy, and the beach is just a stones throw away. BBQ areas and other modern facilities ensure your stay will be comfortable, relaxed and filled with good times. After a scrumptious Aussie BBQ, head to the beach in the afternoon to fish for dinner and enjoy the beach air.

Another great thing about Rainbow Beach is its close proximity to a wide range of tourist attractions. The coloured sands are the most popular, with bright red, orange and yellow sands amazing to look at. You can climb to the top of some of these sand dunes for incredible panoramic views of the coast. The combination of colourful sands with the long stretches of beach and deep blue, crystal clear waters is what attracts visitors from all over the world to stay in this hidden paradise. This little town has not been negatively affected by mass tourism, so it still provides a peaceful and quiet getaway, despite its large appeal.

You can’t visit Rainbow Beach without taking the ferry over to Fraser Island to have a look around. Being a sand island, you need a 4WD to travel around, so a good option is to look at some of the day trips on offer. There are hiking, adventure or short day tours available which can be easily organised from the mainland. The ferry leaves from Inskip Point, which is also a haven for campers and fishermen.

Whatever the weather, Fraser Island remains beautiful. There is thick birdlife in every direction, giant trees that stretch to the sky, and freshwater lakes that are like an oasis within an oasis. Lake McKenzie is the most popular, the white sands setting of the blue of the lake beautifully. Lake Wabby is the deepest lake on the island, and can only be reached by trekking through some bush. This lake is surrounded by sweeping sand dunes and somewhat resembles a pretty, big blue puddle!

If you have the time, it is worth driving further north to visit Tin Can Bay, a rustic little seaside town which is home to unique attracions such as dolphin feeding. The drive is fantastic and offers some stunning sights of the coastline.

Rainbow Beach is unique and diverse in many ways, and is the ideal holiday destination. Its subtropical location makes it a perfect spot to visit at any time of the year. So start planning your trip to one of the most beautiful places in the world because you won't be disappointed!

Christine Barton