Things to see and do

About Fraser Island

Just off the coast from Queensland’s Hervey Bay, is World Heritage Listed Fraser Island – the largest sand island in the world and the only place on the planet where rainforest grows on sand! Over 120 kilometres long and over 30 kilometres across at its widest point, the Island has developed over 800,000 years and is a unique natural environment. Named ‘K’gari’ (meaning paradise) Fraser Island was home to the Butchulla people who lived on the island for over 5,500 years. Their heritage is evident in archaeological sites, midden heaps, ceremonial bora rings, and stone implements. European history credits Fraser’s discovery to Captain James Cook. The island was named after Eliza Fraser in remembrance of her dramatic shipwreck. Fraser Island boasts a wealth of natural attractions: pristine fresh water lakes such as McKenzie, Boomanjin, Allom and the spectacular Lake Wabby; crystal clear creeks – Eli Creek being the most well-known; Champagne Pools – wonderful swimming rock-pools; the amazing coloured sand formations known as The Cathedrals and the Central Station rain forest area. On the eastern beach, near Happy Valley you will discover Fraser Island’s own shipwreck – The Maheno. Fraser Island is home to thousands of species of birds and its warm waters attract dugong, dolphins and turtles. The magnificent humpback whales can be seen as they migrate up & down the coast between June and November.
beach and rock fishing at fraser island

Beach and Rock Fishing

Fishing is a popular pastime so ensure you pack your beach rod. There is over 150km of beach on the eastern and western sides of the island to fish. You can fish the gutters up and down the beach or try other popular spots such as Sandy Cape, Waddy Point, Indian Head. Fish include Tailor, Whiting, Trevally, Flathead, Bream, Trevally. Tailor fishing season runs from June to October when the massive schools of Tailor spawn in the beach waves. Mud and sand crabs can be caught on the western side of Island.

You can gather your own bait off the beach where pippies and sand worms are abundant.

champagne pools fraser island

Champagne Pools

Take the children for a dip at Champagne Pools. These naturally formed volcanic rock recreational pools make this a popular salt water swimming destination for the whole family. The Champagne pools are situated between Indian Head and Waddy Point. There are timber walking tracks and steps for easy access.

lakes and creeks fraser island

Lakes and Creeks

The Lakes and Creeks are the favourite attractions of the island with it’s natural abundance of water. With around 40 lakes, as well as numerous lagoons and swamp areas. Popular Eli Creek, pumps millions of litres of fresh water into the ocean every hour. Stroll along the boardwalks which rim the creeks edge, or take a dip in the crystal-clear water. The famous Wangoolba Creek at Central Station is a must see for all visiors with its crystal clear water, rainforest and unique King Ferns. The beauty of Lake McKenzie will etch the memories of many travellers. Other popular lakes are Wabby, Birrabeen, Benaroon, Boomanjin, Garrawongera, Bowarrady and Ocean Lake Many are surrounded by rainforest, the glistening white sand is set off by the lakes intense blue fresh water. Others are strained brown by the tea tree vegetation
sandhills fraser island

Sandhills

The Island has huge sand blows and sandhills for children (of all ages) to climb and then slide or toboggan down.

walking tracks fraser island

Walking Tracks

For the energetic there are a number of walking tracks around the lakes and through the forests. The “Fraser Island Great Walk” is a 5-6 day 80klm walk which starts at Happy Valley and finish at Dili Village. Track details are available from epa.

fraser island driving in the seashore to explore the long sand of the island

Exploring by 4WD

The Island has many kilometers of 4WD tracks to be explored and many wonderfully places to visit.

dingoes at franser island seashore

Dingoes

Dingoes are a common sight on Fraser Island and are the purest strain in Australia. Remember they are wild animal and can be dangerous when provoked. It is illegal to feed them and penalties apply.

bird watching at fraser island seashore

Bird Watching

Fraser Island is a bird watchers paradise with many native and migratory birds