Discover the Serenity of Cooloola Recreation Area
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cooloola Recreation Area, a national park offering stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures in Queensland.
A brief summary to Cooloola Recreation Area, Great Sandy National Park
- Beach access, Cooloola, Queensland, 4580, AU
- +61754863160
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Cooloola Recreation Area, part of the expansive Great Sandy National Park, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Stretching along the pristine coastline of Queensland, this national park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from towering sand dunes to lush rainforests and stunning beaches. Visitors can explore a variety of walking trails that weave through scenic landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding wilderness. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunity to spot unique species, including kangaroos, koalas, and an array of birdlife that inhabit this rich environment. The recreation area is particularly famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Teewah Beach and Rainbow Beach, where tourists can relax or partake in activities like swimming, fishing, and surfing. For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the park offers fantastic camping spots that allow visitors to experience the tranquility of the outdoors under a starlit sky. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or an adventurous hike through the bush, Cooloola Recreation Area caters to all levels of outdoor activity, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Accessible year-round, Cooloola Recreation Area provides the perfect backdrop for various outdoor pursuits, including hiking, birdwatching, and four-wheel driving. With its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity, this location truly embodies the spirit of Queensland's wild landscapes, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate the wonders of the Australian environment.
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited in the park.
- Plan your visit during the cooler months for a more comfortable hiking experience.
- Check local tide times if you plan to explore the beaches, as they can affect accessibility.
- Consider booking a camping spot in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Getting There
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Car
From your location in Great Sandy National Park, head towards the Rainbow Beach Road. If you're near the Noosa Heads area, take the Noosa River Road towards Tewantin and then follow signs to Rainbow Beach Road. Continue on Rainbow Beach Road until you reach the intersection with the Cooloola Way. Turn left onto Cooloola Way, and follow it until you see signs for Cooloola Recreation Area. Make sure to keep an eye out for the 'Cooloola Recreation Area' signs along the way.
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Public Transportation
To reach Cooloola Recreation Area using public transportation, you can take a bus from Noosa Heads to Rainbow Beach. Check the local bus schedule for the latest times. Once you arrive at Rainbow Beach, you may need to hire a taxi or use a rideshare service to get to the Cooloola Recreation Area entrance. Be aware that public transportation options may be limited, so plan your trip accordingly.
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Bike
For an adventurous option, you can bike to Cooloola Recreation Area. Start on the Rainbow Beach Road and take the scenic route through the forest trails. Ensure you have a mountain bike and are prepared for off-road conditions. It's a beautiful ride, but make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the way.
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Walking
If you're staying nearby and wish to enjoy a longer hike, consider walking to Cooloola Recreation Area. There are various walking trails leading to the area, but this requires good planning regarding distance and supplies. The main trails can be accessed from different points within Great Sandy National Park, including the Noosa North Shore. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear and carry a map or GPS device.
Attractions Nearby to Cooloola Recreation Area, Great Sandy National Park
- Freshwater day-use area
- Great Sandy National Park
- Double Island Point
- Seary's Creek Day Use Area
- Double Island Point Conservation Park
- Double Island Point Lighthouse
- Carlo Sand Blow
- Cooloola Great Walk
- The Small carlo sand blow
- Rainbow Beach Lookout
- Rainbow Stairs
- Rainbow Beach Swimming Beach
- Rainbow Beach
- Pipeclay National Park
- Tin Can Bay Ferry
Landmarks nearby to Cooloola Recreation Area, Great Sandy National Park
- Kinaba Information Centre
- Noosa National Park Carpark
- Little Cove Beach
- Noosa Heads Main Beach
- Noosa Spit Recreation Reserve
- Noosa Beach Castle
- Moonstruck Noosa
- Tingirana Noosa
- Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club
- Noosa Woods
- Miss Moneypenny's Noosa
- Noosa Visitor Information Centre
- Doggy Beach
- Locale
- Bella Casa Noosa