Rainbow Beach

East of Gympie in Queensland, Australia's Wide Bay-Burnett region, lies a seaside community called Rainbow Beach. There were 1,103 people living in Rainbow Beach as of the 2011 census. It is a well-liked vacation spot both on its own and as a starting point for Fraser Island. Located 90 minutes' drive north of Noosa and directly across the lake from K'gari's southernmost point (Fraser Island), Rainbow Beach gives you a taste of the K'gari experience without the openness problems (and cost).

You (and the kids) will be engaged in the ocean side's gentle surf for a considerable amount of time. Ride them on a boogie board or appreciate them from the beach by bouncing on a pony. Climbing in and around Cooloola National Park is highly renowned, as is fishing in the area.

The Surf Life Saving Club and Sport and Rec Club both offer bistro-style dinners as food options. The Plantation Hotel offers a somewhat more upscale option, or just stop in for a sassy dusk G&T with stunning views of the ocean side.

Location: Queensland, Australia