Tannum Sands, Queensland: Things to do and attractions

Things to do in Tannum Sands near Gladstone in Queensland include the surf beach and family-friendly coastal parks. It’s a pleasant place to stay the night, but 1770 and Yeppoon have more to offer.

Tannum Sands in Queensland is just to the south of Gladstone. For most overseas visitors, this is in the area that people power through between Fraser Island and the Whitsundays.

But the drive from Hervey Bay to Airlie Beach is a long one and you’re probably going to have to stop for the night somewhere. Tannum Sands, about three hours drive to the north of Hervey Bay, is a half decent bet for this overnight stop. Particularly when you compare it to unashamedly industrial Gladstone. Beach towns tend to beat industrial cities.

For the best rates, book your Tannum Sands accommodation in advance.

Tannum Sands and Boyne Island are twin towns, separated by the Boyne River. Boyne Island is home to an aluminium smelter, and thus Tannum Sands is the more appealing option of the two.

Tannum Sands and the Boyne River crocodiles

It is by no means Queensland’s most appealing beach town. There are far better options for a beach holiday further south on the Fraser Coast, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. But Tannum Sands is far enough south to usually be free from marine stingers (box jellyfish). Crocodiles have been spotted this far south, however, so be wary. The Queensland Government’s Department of Environment and Science says the Boyne River is where crocodile territory starts on the Queensland coast.

Stay away from the river, however, and you should be alright. The foreshore at Tannum Sands is pretty family-friendly, with barbecues, playground equipment and a cycle path that heads over to Boyne Island.

Things to do in Tannum Sands, Queensland: Surf beach

There are a few beaches in the area, but Tannum Sands Beach is the only one patrolled by lifeguards. The Tannum Sands Surf Lifesaving Club is on the Millennium Esplanade. Gladstone regards this as its surf beach, although conditions are considerably better in south-east Queensland.

Tannum Sands beach at night — The beach at night in Tannum Sands, near Gladstone, Queensland. Photo courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland/Katrina Elliott

The other major attraction in the area is Lake Awoonga to the south. This man-made lake is a result of the Awoonga Dam on the Boyne River. There’s plenty of wildlife to be spotted nearby, but Lake Awoonga is best known for its fishing.

Tannum Sands accommodation

Tannum Sands accommodation is available at several motels, including the Reef Adventureland Motor Inn and the Tannum on the Beach Motel.

The main accommodation, however, is the Tannum Sands caravan park, run by Discovery Parks.

To choose a place to stay that suits you, head to a booking site.

Best places to stay in Central Queensland

Overall, Tannum Sands is a pleasant enough spot to spend the night, or a few days. But there are better options on the drive from Hervey Bay to Airlie Beach. If you’re taking it slowly, prepared to detour, then Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 further south have much more charm. If you’re prepared to chalk off a bigger drive in one stint, then perhaps aim for Yeppoon near Rockhampton. At least you’ve got the massive Yeppoon Lagoon to swim in there.

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