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Rainbow Bay is the beach adjoining the famous surf break. On a southerly swell, 'Snapper Rocks' is renowned as one of the world's best right-hand point breaks. Commonly referred to as the Superbank, Snapper Rocks is home to professional surfers including Stephanie Gilmore and Joel Parkinson. Rainbow Bay Surf Life Saving Club is one of the best places to watch the surf. A perch on the balcony rewards you with views all along the point towards Burleigh and Surfers Paradise in the distance.
Rainbow Bay beach is surrounded by parklands that contain toilets, barbecues, tables, shade structures and beach showers. The Oceanway also passes next to the beach for those who want to walk around the headland.
Make sure you swim in the patrolled area between the red and yellow flags. Rainbow Bay has one patrol location. At times, a patrol may be closed due to dangerous swimming conditions, unsafe beach conditions or beach maintenance works.
Snapper Rocks Road, Coolangatta Patrolled by lifeguards between 8am and 5pm, every day year round
Rainbow Bay is part of the World Surfing Reserve and is the city's most famous point break. The dominant southeast swell refracts around Snapper Rocks creating an extended ride for surfers. The break at Rainbow Bay is fast-paced and attracts experienced board riders. Surfers should always assess conditions. If in doubt, don't paddle out. For more information, visit our Surfing page.
To view the facilities available at this beach including accessibility features, use our interactive map.
If you'd like to exercise your dog off-leash, there are plenty of designated areas across the Gold Coast – find one near you on the dog exercise area map.
Please note: Dogs are prohibited within 200 metres of flagged swimming areas.