What a surprise packet Tannum Sands is!

I’ve driven past the turn off to this coastal town numerous times, but was never tempted to drive in and have a look.

This time though, we were off to visit family who had recently moved into the area – so we put the blinker on (not Lyle’s strong suit) and took the turn off.

Tannum Sands is an easy 8km drive from the highway. 

To say our first impressions were a nice surprise is probably an understatement.  I’m not sure what we were expecting, but better to be impressed than underwhelmed.

We drove straight to our accommodation – as it was right on the beach front.  What a fabulous motel – Tannum on the Beach. Their website even states “Queensland’s Best Kept Secret”.  Natalie and Wil, the owners, were so helpful and the rooms were spacious, spotlessly clean and great value for money.  We had views over the pool to the beach.  Very nice indeed.

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As we had been driving all morning, we decided to stretch our legs and go for a walk along the beachfront. 

The beach is patrolled and there were lots of people in swimming.  We walked south along the pathway, through parks, gardens and bbq areas to Wild Cattle Creek.  The esplanade area is so well maintained and we really loved all the individual bbq pavilions along the way.

The walkway continues to the north as well and goes all the way through Canoe Point Wetlands to Canoe Point.

The wetlands were stunning and brimming with bird life and once again we just loved the well maintained walkways and the beautiful scenery. 

The population of Tannum Sands is around 7,000 people, so there are some great facilities including shops and restaurants.

We went to the Tannum Sands Pub for dinner (the website doesn’t do it justice!)  The food was 10/10 and the views the same.  The specials included lots of seafood dishes. I had the seafood fettuccine which included half a bug. Yum. Their cocktail list was impressive – I tried the Mojito – another 10/10!

Gladstone is a 25km drive from Tannum Sands through Boyne Island. The port area is being redeveloped and looks amazing and well worth a visit. 

We would certainly recommend a visit to Tannum Sands and staying a few days to explore the many waterways, pathways and national parks (and the cocktails at the pub).

There is a Discover Holiday and Caravan Park at the southern end of the beach that is popular with families and grey nomads.

Tannum Sands is just over 400km from Sunshine Coast and 500km from Brisbane.

So next time you are heading north on the Bruce Highway, put your blinker on and take the turn to Tannum Sands. You won’t be disappointed.

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