Local in the Know: Nicole Mcloughlin from Rainbow Beach Hotel



Tell us a secret only a local would know:

We are a very dog friendly town... So don’t be afraid to holiday with your little (or big) companion. 

What is your favourite time of year on the coast and why? 

Winter. The beach is beautiful this time of year. The weather is lovely and sunny and the water is so clear and blue. It’s a great time for holidays.

What do you do to relax on the Sunshine Coast? 

A drive to Noosa is always nice and relaxing with lunch on the river perhaps.

When friends and family come and stay, what do you recommend for them to do during their stay on the Sunshine Coast? 

My family stayed at the Plantation Resort at Rainbow over Christmas and loved it. I would recommend this to anyone.

What is the your favourite aspect about living on the coast? 

The carefree relaxed lifestyle for sure. I know it sounds cliché but it is so true… Everything is just easy.

What is your idea of a perfect day spent on the Sunshine Coast from dawn to dusk? 

An early breakfast, swim at the beach and late lunch at the pub (Rainbow Beach Hotel). Then, take the dogs for a nice long walk, perhaps an afternoon beverage and finish with a BBQ at home with friends… Perfect!

Explain the vibe/atmosphere/surroundings of your restaurant:

The hotel has that charming seaside elegance, yet still keeps the traditional Queensland pub feel. It just works perfectly with the all the modern décor and then the huge timber verandahs and open plan spaces. 

Describe the style of food at the restaurant in five words:

Fresh, local, simple, delicious produce.

What is your signature dish? 

Paella, so fresh and vibrant…yum

Rainbow Beach Hotel

1 Rainbow Beach Road, Rainbow Beach, QLD 4581

P: (07) 5486 9090

E: Nicole@rainbowhotel.com.au
W: www.rainbowhotel.com.au

Best of the Best

BEST BEACH: Rainbow Beach

BEST MARKET: Eumundi Markets

BEST EATERY: Rainbow Beach Hotel

BEST ICE CREAMERY: Crème de la Crème 

BEST HINTERLAND TOWN: I like Montville and Maleny

BEST DRIVE: Anywhere that gets you to Double Island Point is worth it. Otherwise through Kin Kin is very pretty.