The Carlo Sand Blow is near Rainbow Beach

Carlo Sand Blow was named by Captain Cook after one of his deck crew named Carlo. The unique “moonscape" sand mass covers over 15 hectares and overlooks the towering coloured sands. From the Rainbow Beach water tower at the top of Cooloola Drive, a walking track passes through woodlands to the expansive natural sand blow.

It’s an excellent spot to watch the sunrise or sunset. The 360 degree views are spectacular, to the East has magnificent views of the ocean where one can often see the migrating whales from August to October. To the S.E. is Double Island Point and the cliffs of coloured sand. Fraser Island and Inskip Point are to the North, while Tin Can Bay and the Great Sandy Straits lie to the West.

A bush walk up to Carlo Sand Blow is a must for every visitor. Drive to the reservoir at the top of Cooloola Drive. The Blow is an easy 600m walk from the car park. Spectacular views of the Coloured Sands, Double Island Point and Tin Can Bay are a bonus for your efforts.

When the thermals are right, you will often see Hang Gliders taking off and landing at this beautiful piece of Nature’s sculpture.