I love going for drives in Queensland, for I never know what gorgeous places we’re going to stumble upon.

This past weekend Bear and I were out and about running errands. It was a beautifully clear and crisp Spring morning and as we stepped out of the car in Cleveland, Queensland I turned to Bear and said, “Can you smell the ocean??!!” He started chuckling knowing that the very next words out of my mouth would be a plea to make a detour and follow our noses to the sea.

He is an accommodating fellow with my oft startling whims and after wrapping up our business, we headed straight for the source of the salty breezes.

We were so glad we did when this sight met our eyes.

Oyster Point Park beach

I had never seen a red beach before and my jaw dropped in wonder as I gazed out at the vivid expanse of brick red earth that stretched out to meet the sea.

I stood on a little spit of grass-topped red outcropping and spun slowly around in unabashed delight as the cool sea breezes danced and fluttered about me.

red beach Cleveland

Have you ever seen such colors at the beach before?

Bear and I spent a most happy time clambering down onto the still damp beach, stepping round sky blue puddles as we explored the red rocks finding all sorts of treasures: a motorboat hidden in the marsh, brightly colored leaves, and strands of vivid green seaweed.

Oyster Point Beach

This seashell masquerading as a butterfly made me smile.

shells on red beach

I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen such delicate seaweed – or are they grasses washed up on the beach?

seaweed on red beach

 

With all that brilliant sunshine and briny wind, I was deliriously happy, especially since we didn’t have to share the beach with another soul. We had it completely to ourselves.

Oyster Point Park

A secluded beach is pure happiness to me. I felt like Sarah Plain and Tall, Anne of Green Gables, and all those beloved ocean-loving heroines rolled into one.

Oyster Point red beach

One day I will return, journal and pen in hand, and sit at this idyllically placed picnic table.

I can’t wait.

picnic table at red beach

Do you like following your nose and finding new places? What is a favorite discovery you’ve made in your travels?