Rainbow Bay

Last updated August 2026

Rainbow Bay is one of the only north-facing beaches on the Gold Coast, which shelters it from the southerly winds that stir up chop elsewhere - the result is some of the calmest, most consistently protected swimming water in the region. A shallow sand-banked lagoon often forms right on the beach, ideal for toddlers to paddle in without needing to go near real waves, and the rock pools around the points at each end double as natural wading pools. Patrolled year-round. What to Bring Swimmers and sun protection A bucket/spade for the lagoon Reef shoes for the rock pools at the points Best Age Range 0-12 years - genuinely one of the best Gold Coast beaches for toddlers and young kids specifically because of how sheltered it is. Good to Know Free, no booking. Parkland right behind the beach has BBQs, shaded picnic tables, toilets, showers and a playground. Nearby Snapper Rocks (surfing/rock platform) and Kirra Beach are both an easy walk away.