{"id":205,"date":"2022-12-18T10:16:44","date_gmt":"2022-12-18T10:16:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/everywhereaustralia.com.au\/?p=205"},"modified":"2023-02-13T01:29:54","modified_gmt":"2023-02-13T01:29:54","slug":"things-to-do-in-rockhampton","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/everywhereaustralia.com.au\/things-to-do-in-rockhampton\/","title":{"rendered":"13 Fun Things To Do In Rockhampton, Australia"},"content":{"rendered":"

Going on a Rockhampton trip and want to know all the fun things to do in Rockhampton, Australia? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best Rockhampton attractions as well as the top Rockhampton things to do options to plan your ultimate trip.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the oldest cities in Queensland and in Northern Australia, Rockhampton has been known under some weird nicknames!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Initially referred to as the City of the Three S\u2019s – Sin, Sweat and Sorrow – symbolising the construction of the town\u2019s port in the late 1800\u2019s at the start of the North Australian gold rush, fast forward to today and it\u2019s known as the Beef Capital of Queensland. Thanks to supposedly 3 million head of cattle within the region, you can be sure that beef is on the menu!<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Welcome<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Yet the city is equally famed for its historical and cultural institutions such as the Rockhampton Art Gallery and the Rockhampton Heritage Village. The town is the gateway to the famed Capricorn Caves and Mount Archer National Park, and to regions such as Yeppoon – filled with unbelievably stunning beaches – and Great Keppel Island, one of the best island getaways on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Basically, there\u2019s so much stuff to do in Rockhampton!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A booming city, full of modern twists together with relics from its colonial past, set alongside a peaceful riverside setting, Rockhampton is bordered by the Berserker Ranges. This is great for outdoor adventurers, thanks to epic cycling tracks, hiking trails and the stunning Nurim Circuit Elevated Boardwalk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And with Outback experiences at your doorstep, Aboriginal history explored at the Dreamtime Cultural Centre and Kangaroo encounters at the Zoo, you\u2019re definitely in the land of Oz!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Below, you will find everything you need to know about the best Rockhampton tourist attractions, all the best things to see in Rockhampton as well as the best places to visit in Rockhampton for your ultimate holiday!!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top 13 Fun Things To Do In Rockhampton, Australia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are the best things to do around Rockhampton. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore The Rockhampton Botanic Gardens<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Rockhampton<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Much more than just your average gardens, The Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are heritage-listed and one of the oldest public gardens in all of Queensland. And with Queensland\u2019s tropical climate and free entry, we found it a great place to start our Rockhampton discovery and our pick of things to do in Rockhampton for free!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taking over 50 years to build, work on the gardens commenced back in 1873 and was finally completed in the 1930\u2019s. There\u2019s over 33-hectares to discover, across a series of gardens that incorporate both natural and planned designs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Split into lower, upper, outer gardens, and the war memorial and arid gardens, our favourites included the Japanese tranquility garden, and the sombering Cenotaph honouring Australian soldiers. Check out the Hugo Lassen Fernery – home to rock gardens and an exotic fern collection unlike anything we\u2019d ever seen before!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The gardens are bordered by the Murray Lagoon and the Yeppen-Yeppen Lagoon which only adds to the abundance of birds around the area. And for younger visitors there\u2019s a children\u2019s playground that\u2019s shaded by stunning weeping figs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll also find a grilling area here if you fancy a bbq or check-out the nearby \u2018Gardens Tearooms\u2019, hidden away under a 150-year old banyan fig tree. But we chose to take along a picnic and ate next to the Murray Lagoon, chilling out for the afternoon enjoying the splendid views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Back among the gardens, search out the old buildings such as the original curator\u2019s cottage and the finch aviary that dates back to circa. 1880. There\u2019s also a Kiosk from 1912 and the War Memorial from 1924 is also worth a look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Altogether this is a relaxing place to visit, whether for a family picnic, a romantic stroll through the gardens, to give the kids a chance to let off steam at the playground, or simply to search out some quality \u2018me\u2019 time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Enter the gardens from Spencer Street through ancient iron gates or the less busy entrance from Ann Street which takes you through an avenue of bunya pines and glorious bougainvillea. Open daily from 6am to sunset, the gardens are also home to the Rockhampton Zoo making this a terrific full day out venue and the pick of free things to do in Rockhampton!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spot Wildlife At Rockhampton Zoo<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Entry to Rockhampton Zoo<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Perhaps the premier attraction in Rockhampton and perfect for things to do in Rockhampton school holidays, the Zoo – located within the Botanic Gardens – was first established in 1925. Over the years the variety of animals have grown from just a handful of monkeys, possums, guinea pigs and peafowl, to today over 60 species of Australian and exotic animals!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cheeky chimpanzees, cute otters, snappy crocs and cuddly koalas are just some of the array of animals on display at this peaceful and green zoo. Habitats have been carefully and considerately crafted, making this a great zoo to explore for all ages but especially a top family Rockhampton attraction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We enjoyed the uniqueness of the Australian Wetlands zone, with a massive saltwater crocodile known as \u201cThe Colonel\u201d. And Kangaroo Country enclosure is full of the iconic bouncy marsupials, delightful to see up close. There are many feeding sessions to join and afternoon daily Keeper Talks will resume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Altogether there\u2019s a whole load of family fun to be had here for a full day out with zero entrance fees! And don\u2019t forget, the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens has a magical setting for lunch at the Garden Tearooms set under 150-year old banyan fig trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prior to your trip, download the Zoo Visitor Map here<\/a>. Open every day except for Christmas Day, 10am-4pm with free access, this is our No.1 selection of things to do with kids in Rockhampton.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

See Spectacular Views From Mount Archer<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Great view of Rockhampton from Mount Archer<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

When planning our own itinerary, a visit to Mount Archer (Nurim) National Park was top of our list of things to see and do in Rockhampton. Protecting bushland remnants of the Berserker Ranges – the scenic backdrop to Rockhampton – at 600 metres above sea level Mount Archer is the highest peak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With over 4250 hectares of open forests, woodlands, plus dry rainforest at Moores Creek Valley, the park is truly a nature-lovers dream. Named after the Archer brothers that explored the Fitzroy area in 1853, the region has been a national park since 1994.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Perhaps the most famous of attractions in Rockhampton (and the one that we all wanted to experience!) is the treetop boardwalk Nurim Circuit. Top of most Rockhampton bucket lists, the boardwalk extends off (yes, really!) the side of Mount Archer. This 500-metre walk offers spectacular views of the city and Fitzroy River, stretching way off into the distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s some handy signage along the way which explains about the local Darumbal culture, and you can choose to visit for either sunrise or sunset as both are equally spectacular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After the quick Nurim Circuit, it\u2019s best to plan out a longer hike as there are stunning views from the trails that crisscross up and down the summit. With a combination of 45 minutes to 5 hour walks, graded as easy, moderate and difficult, just select what\u2019s best for your group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We chose the lengthy one-way Zamia Walk down from the summit that was one of the highlights of our visit. We saw so much of the vegetation that the park is famous for: dry vine forests, rainforests on the lower slopes, yellow stringybark forests at the summit, plus lemon-scented gums, pink bloodwoods and forest she-oaks\u2026 in all an epic hiking trail and something we highly recommend for things to do at Rockhampton!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And of course there\u2019s wildlife galore too, with blue-tongued lizards, yellow-faced whip snakes (not dangerous), skinks, and in the trees lorikeets, honeyeaters, owls and glossy black-cocatoos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re around at sunset, why not follow the Nurim Circuit with a picnic – easily arranged from any of the local cafes – and sit at the top of Mount Archer or at the amphitheatre.  This is a favourite pastime for locals and visitors – one of the best things to do in Rockhampton at night – so you can expect a fun time and there\u2019s often events such as sundown yoga classes or live music happening. Nocturnal animals come out to play, such as brushtail possums, flying foxes, and you\u2019re surrounded by the sound of northern brown bandicoots that run through the leaves as they search for their meals!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And if all that doesn\u2019t tempt you, how about checking out the side of Mount Archer where you\u2019ll find the oddly named, First Turkey. Rockhampton\u2019s premier mountain bike trail network, there\u2019s over 30 trails – so something for all abilities – and definitely top of the adrenaline activities in Rockhampton!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The park is open most days of the year and only closes temporarily for heavy rain. Hike, cycle or simply relax and enjoy the views!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit The Rockhampton Heritage Village<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Entry to Rockhampton Heritage Village<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Take a step back in time at this township museum that showcases Rockhampton from the 1850\u2019s to the 1950\u2019s. Quaint village life is colourfully reconstructed and it\u2019s a delight to wander through this slice of Australian history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The sprawling site, across 10 hectares of bushland, displays the colourful history of the town with a charming township and timber cutters camp with original and recreated homesteads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wander the wide streets, atmospherically aided by a handful of vintage cars parked throughout the site. Dive into an old fashioned blacksmith\u2019s shop, cottages, the fire station, and various other shops and dwellings. Check out the vintage machinery and, a firm favourite for younger visitors, choose to avoid or pet the friendly farm animals that are calmly wandering the village!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have the time, plan your visit well as every two months the Rockhampton Heritage Village hosts markets with a variety of stalls selling locally produced arts, crafts, produce and native plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for things to do in Rockhampton today you might need to miss this one out – as of June 2021 the Heritage Village is temporarily closed. Thus before planning your visit check out their Facebook site<\/a> for the latest news on the planned refurbishment and reopening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located at 296 Boundary Road, Rockhampton.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check Out Archer Park Rail Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Archer<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

The Archer Park Rail Museum looks back at the construction of Rockhampton\u2019s railway in 1864 through to the closing of Archer Park Station in 1970. Train and history buffs will relish the many exhibitions displayed, all (of course!) with a railway or tramways theme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rollingstock (locomotives, carriages and wagons) and rail memorabilia are on display. And there\u2019s a unique digital soundscape system that thumps out sound effects and commentary that really brings to life the experience as you make your way through the lifelike exhibitions, filled with section cars, trolleys, signal boxes, Station Office and Refreshment Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And, as with many museums, the building containing the Archer Park Rail Museum is just as impressive as its interior items! Built in 1899, this architecturally stunning building was once the Central Railway Station for Rockhampton. Used until the mid-1920\u2019s, the building became home to the Archer Park Rail Museum in 1999.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make a note that this is one of the select things to do in Rockhampton this weekend – or any weekend – as if you visit on Sundays between 10am-1pm in Feb-Nov you\u2019ll enjoy a ride on the fully restored early 1900\u2019s Purrey Steam Tram, thought to be the oldest one of its kind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stroll Along Kershaw Gardens<\/h3>\n\n\n
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My favourite of the things to do in Rockhampton for kids is to visit this park. There\u2019s a fabulous playground designed for all ages along with a water play area, in beautiful surroundings. My four year old spent hours here and could have spent longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is also one of the lovely Rockhampton places to visit for adults too. With walking tracks, a waterfall, wetlands and more, it\u2019s a great place to escape the city or to take a break from the A1 that runs along the edge of the park.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Kershaw<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

There is also a free campground here and we found quite a few caravans making use of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Admire The Artwork Collections At Rockhampton Art Gallery<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Opened back in 1967, the Rockhampton Art Gallery showcases permanent collections that track Australia\u2019s modernist movement. Artworks from Charles Blackman, Arthur Boyd and John Brack are just some of the displayed pieces that altogether amount to one of the most significant collections in regional Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Throughout the year diverse exhibition programmes run, taking works from in-house curated projects, touring exhibitions from international or national galleries, and are also drawn from the Gallery\u2019s permanent collections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Gallery also prides itself on a busy calendar of programmes, whereby you can learn more at art classes or workshops, and there are even special events arranged for children to get an early appreciation of art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Currently closed, the Art Gallery is transitioning to the new Rockhampton Museum of Art and is due to reopen late 2021. Look out for our reviews of this later in the year as it\u2019s bound to remain one of the top things to do in Rockhampton.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Enjoy A Tour At Dreamtime Cultural Centre<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Dreamtime<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

One for all the family now, as the Dreamtime Cultural Centre introduces you to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history and traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only indigenous Cultural Centre in all of Central Queensland, here you\u2019ll enjoy hands-on cultural activities. Select from face-painting, didgeridoo demonstrations and dance routines which helped to make this our pick of things to do in Rockhampton for teenagers who are looking to learn more about Australian heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spread across 12 hectares of land, set out with native plants, trees and a large waterfall, enjoy an interpretive walk through the gardens. And, after you\u2019ve failed miserably as we did at the didgeridoo, cross to the Nola James Building to search for authentic take-home gifts from the Bimbi Artefacts shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next up, pay a visit to the Ted Mitchell Gallery which contains the renowned Vanishing Culture Of The Sandstone Belt Display. This is a quite remarkable 34-metres of reconstructed sandstone caves that depicts traditional people and the culture of the Central Queensland Sandstone Belt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We also enjoyed the Torres Strait Islander\u2019s Complex with traditional huts, the giant dugong and unique plants native to the region. And equally popular is the Aboriginal Traditional area with replica burial sites, rock art, gunyahs and a showcase of traditional ceremonial sites of the Darambul people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Educational, inspiring and amusing, there\u2019s lots to be enjoyed and admired here for all age groups. Guided tours operate Mon-Fri, at 1030am and 1pm, or you can simply choose to self-discover.  Located on the northern outskirts of Rockhampton on the Bruce Highway, this is deservedly one of the top attractions in Rockhampton.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore The Capricorn Caves<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Capricorn<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Just 23km north of Rockhampton you\u2019ll find the dramatic limestone Capricorn Caves. First discovered in 1881 by a Norwegian migrant, the caves are today one of the largest privately owned cave systems in Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Breathtaking acoustics, dramatic caves and lots of adventures to be had here, including abseiling, rock climbing, suspension bridges, fossicking (in search of gold!), plus a climbing wall and adventure rope obstacle course…  Capricorn Caves rock!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tours of the cave system run hourly from 9am until 4pm, whilst other activities need pre-booking. The most popular tour is the Cathedral Tour which takes you down a 1 kilometre walk through the caves, ending with an adventurous narrow, zigzag water-formed passageway only lit by candlelight or your hand-held torch. Claustrophobic?  Fair to say, this is not for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other tours include Capricorn Explorer and Capricorn Adventurer – both bucket-list style adventures that provide breathtaking views from the summit and take you to some of the best kept hidden secrets such as the deep vault cave and sections where your only source of light is from your headlamp. Surely one of the most thrilling activities in Rockhampton to do during your vacation!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And there\u2019s an abundance of native wildlife along the routes which your guide will help you discover. Plus listen in as your guide relates captivating stories about this ancient Australian landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Winner of various ecotourism awards, the Capricorn Caves are one to add high on your list of adventure things to do in Rockhampton. And after your cave adventures, why not cool off in the onsite swimming pool, wander the visitor centre filled with interesting facts on the local geology, bats and community history or simply relax over lunch at their licensed cafe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a really unique adventure, if you have the time and freedom, why not experience an overnight bush stay – with cabins, camping and caravan stays available at Capricorn Caves. Campfires, the spectacular Australian sky twinkling full with stars, early morning native bird song, and wild wallabies\u2026 Can you really say no to all of that?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And if you\u2019re travelling as a couple, we found a stay overnight here to be high on the list of romantic things to do in Rockhampton.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wander Along The Riverside Precinct<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Rockhampton Riverside Precinct<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

At the heart of the city, the Riverside Precinct is a modern design – sitting alongside the city\u2019s strip of heritage listed buildings – and has revitalised the Riverside district.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Offering fabulous views of the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) and the surrounding mountain ranges, the Riverside Precinct is currently the most hip of places to go in Rockhampton, being an urban public park area with playground, playful water features, amenities, local artwork and terraced landscaping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s shaded and outdoor seating for picnics or we can recommend The Boathouse – a modern restaurant serving fresh seafood and with a wonderful deck that hovers over the Fitzroy River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rich, earthy colour schemes abound, inspired from the region’s history of prosperous goldmines. Natural materials are favoured, such as stone, timber, metal and glass. Stroll along the heritage soaked sandstone boulevard on Quay Street and across the lower bank boardwalk surrounded by lush plants, artworks and a picturesque boat dotted river scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And if you\u2019re travelling with youngsters there\u2019s a modern precinct playground that\u2019s ripe for offloading your kid\u2019s unspent energy, and can be followed by a run through the cooling pop-up water jets of the Rod Laver Plaza!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take On A Countryside Escape At Alkoomi Adventure Farmstay<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Alkoomi<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Perhaps the epitome of Australian adventures, Alkoomi Adventure Farmstay seems to have it all! Another of the best things to do in Rockhampton and one to add to your itinerary!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fancy rustling up some cattle, taking a wagon sunset tour, going on a bushwalk, or perhaps horse riding or motorbike rides are more your thing? …and all in the spectacular Aussie Outback.  Alkoomi Adventure Farmstay is your one-stop Rockhampton fun destination for unique Australian experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Billed as a \u201cfun-loving Aussie family\u201d, the owners welcome you to their cattle farm just 30 minutes south of Rockhampton. And there\u2019s nothing fake here, instead expect to get down and dirty on this working farm, participating in the real day-to-day activities that make it tick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Assist with the animal feeding (for free!), where your younger family members can learn how the farm operates by collecting eggs, feeding the cattle and generally hanging out with the farmers. Oh, and there\u2019s pony rides too for children from 2-5 years of age. And there\u2019s more free adventures to be found at the dam, with swimming or a play on the kayaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Up the adrenaline with an ATV or motocross bike ride through the beautiful Central Queensland bush. Or take a ride out on their well trained horses through what feels like remote, arid lands that seem to stretch on endlessly in all directions. And the silence is notable, giving way to an understanding of just how massive Australia is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

End your day as we did, with a family Chuck Wagon Sunset Tour. It comes with some yummy cheeses, along with chilled wine or beers; the perfect way to end the day as you take in the dramatic change of colour that comes with the disappearing sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Staying on overnight? Would be silly not to\u2026 As the sun sets, everyone converges around the campfire pits, feeling the chill in the evening air yet relishing the warmth from the fire. And it\u2019s now time to get going with your purchased Alkoomi Beef BBQ packs for dinner!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overnight accommodation options vary from non-powered camping sites to donga style rooms with ensuite that sleep up to 3 pax. All bookings include access to a fully equipped camp kitchen, free electric BBQ, fridge\/freezer, kettle, microwave and toaster. There are free hot showers, toilets and many of the activities are thrown in for free too when you stay overnight!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a fantastic night\u2019s sleep – with perhaps the most awesome star-studded sky we\u2019ve ever seen – breakfast was a wonderful fry up of bacon and freshly laid eggs! …followed by a guided bushwalk where we encountered lots more wildlife and again couldn\u2019t get over the amazing Australian scenery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If staying overnight, arrive by 2pm and before 6pm. Check-out is 10am. Bookings are mandatory and are made by phoning 0423216412, not via email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t miss a stay here as definitely high on the list of the top 10 things to do in Rockhampton!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit The Beach At Yeppoon<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Yeppoon Beach<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

After all your Rockhampton activities, you\u2019ll probably be in need of a relaxing day at the beach. You\u2019re in luck with Queensland\u2019s Capricorn Coast star town of Yeppoon less than 40 minutes away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With warm weather and no bad seasons to note, this stunning coastal town is your perfect beach destination. Yeppoon\u2019s Main Street and esplanade are full of chic boutiques and surf stores, and adorned with street art murals. There\u2019s a wide range of restaurants and cafes, plus a fun water-park at the foreshore: the Keppel Kraken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And there\u2019s Yeppoon Main Beach – right in the heart of the town. The main tourist beach in the region, it offers 1.4km of sparkling sand and amazing facilities. BBQ and picnic areas, a famed Surf Club, and the Keppel Bay Sailing Club are all beachside. There\u2019s also a new lagoon pool at the southern end of the beach with a children\u2019s playing area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, there are so many beaches along this famed coast that you might prefer to check out some of the other less well known spots. You\u2019ll find long and plain sandy beaches, rocky and wilder beaches great for swimming and surfing, and some bays ideal for canoeing or kayaking. Occupying more than 95km of the coastline, it\u2019s not surprising you\u2019ll feel spoiled for choice!<\/p>\n\n\n

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Shell World Yeppoon<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Some of the best include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n