Sand Features

There are over seventy-two different coloured sands throughout the island with the most spectacular array of coloured sands located along 35km stretch of beach north of Happy Valley. For centuries, the sand cliffs along this expanse have been exposed to the elements and blasted by winds to create the shapes appropriately called "The Cathedrals" and "The Pinnacles". Displaying rich combinations of yellow, red, and orange hues, these wind carvings are most impressive just as the smiling sun appears over the horizon to bathe them in a golden glow, enriching the colours all the more.

Sandblows are another major sand formation, caused by wind gradually shifting the sand across the island. The largest of the island's sandblows, "The Knifeblade", lies north of the "Maheno" wreck.

Indian Head, Middle Rocks and Waddy Point act as an anchor point for the build up of the island's sands and dune systems. Together they form a headland that separates Orchid and Seventy Five Mile Beach.

Indian Head is a magnificent basalt headland standing some 60 metres tall and provides an excellent lookout onto the beaches and dunes.

Further north the "Champagne Pools" of Middle Rock are deep natural rock pools, ideal for swimming. There are good views form the lookout at Waddy Point, a popular base for anglers and marks the beginning of Orchid Beach.