Have you ever heard of islands made entirely of sand? Well, they do exist—and the largest one in the world is none other than Fraser Island. How big is it, you might ask? Just to give you an idea, it’s home to a multitude of impressive lakes like Lake McKenzie, rivers and streams like Eli Creek, and beach highways such as 75 Mile Beach (120 kilometers of beach/highway). It even features a shipwreck.
And there’s more—Fraser Island’s flora and fauna are abundant, with pristine, centuries-old forests, mangroves, kangaroos, dingoes… Fraser Island is, without a doubt, a true natural wonder and a must-see destination along your journey on the Queensland Pacific Coast Way.
Visit it aboard one of the many tours available, or better yet, explore it by driving an all-terrain vehicle, whether your own or a rental, and discover the hidden challenges of this unique island.
BEFORE YOU GO
General Information
Fraser Island is also known as K’gari by the Aboriginal people, which means “paradise.” And that name is fitting: it truly is a paradise of forests, jungles, mangroves, swamps, streams, lakes, beaches, and an incredible diversity of birds and animals.
K’gari is the name given to the island by its original inhabitants, the Butchulla people (throughout this post, we’ll use Fraser Island and K’gari interchangeably). The island has a population of 1,679, mostly concentrated along the coast.
The island is also home to the famous dingoes, or wild dogs, with an estimated 25 to 30 packs (about twelve dingoes per pack).
Part of the Fraser Coast, the island is 123 kilometers long and 22 kilometers wide. It is accessible by ferry from Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, making it a uniquely diverse island in Australia—and an essential stop on the Queensland Pacific Coast Way.
When to Visit Fraser Island
Fraser Island enjoys a mild climate year-round. You’re almost guaranteed good weather no matter when you go. So, choosing when to visit largely depends on your plans and your budget.
If you’re traveling on a budget, consider the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these times, the weather is still nice—though not as ideal as in winter or summer—so there are fewer tourists. Also, these months don’t usually coincide with school holidays (except for Easter), so the island tends to be less crowded.
However, if you’re visiting with a specific purpose in mind, take note of these seasonal highlights:
- Bird migration: July to November
- Whale watching season: July to November
- Fishing season: July to October
- Turtle nesting season: July to August
These seasons bring more visitors, so plan accordingly. Finally, summer (December to February) coincides with the school holidays, so expect K’gari to be especially busy during this period.
Visa to Travel to Australia
We know that the subject of visas can be somewhat confusing, especially for India, where obtaining one is an essential requirement for entry. In the article on how to obtain an Australian visa step by step (coming soon) you have information on how to apply for one online for up to 5 years.
Travel Insurance
It’s essential to travel to Australia with comprehensive insurance. We were among the first to offer the popular 5% IATI discount, and you can now get it with Heymondo Travel Insurance as well. You can find more information about both companies through the links provided above, or you can access the discount directly using the buttons below (in both cases, you’ll see the reduced final price on their website):
How to Get There
As mentioned, you can reach Fraser Island by ferry or on one of the tours we’ll recommend at the end. Whether you’re a pedestrian or driving a vehicle, you can catch a ferry from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay.
From Rainbow Beach (Inskip Point), the ferry takes just over 10 minutes and drops you off at Hook Point on the island’s southern tip. From Hervey Bay, the ferry takes about 50 minutes and arrives at Kingfisher Bay on the island’s western coast.
Which option to choose depends on your itinerary and budget, with The Inskip Point ferry being much cheaper. You can also opt for a light aircraft from Hervey Bay.
Driving from Brisbane to Hervey Bay takes about 3.5 hours, and from Cairns, around 16.5 hours. Getting to Rainbow Beach from Brisbane takes about 3 hours, and from Cairns, roughly 17 hours. It’s important to mention that direct flights to Hervey Bay are available from most major cities in Australia.
Australia eSIM with Internet
Nowadays, finding hotels, guesthouses, or restaurants with free Wi-Fi is pretty common. However, there are still those who prefer (or need) to stay connected at all times.
That’s why we’ll show you how to get an eSIM Australia card with internet— now also available with unlimited data.
WHAT TO SEE / DO
Drive on the Beach (a.k.a. the Beach Highway)
Before visiting Fraser Island, the idea of driving on a beach sounded surreal to us. But after cruising 75 miles (120 kilometers) of beach at speeds of up to 80 km/h, we realized it wasn’t just possible—it was absolutely amazing!
Whether you join a tour or drive your own 4×4, the sensation of speeding between the sea and towering dunes is unforgettable. Check out our post for essential 4×4 driving tips on K’gari.
And yes, 75 Mile Beach is officially classified as a national highway! You’ll cross creeks, dodge waves, spot wild dingoes, and in some areas, even share the beach with landing aircraft.
Swimming in Fraser Island’s Lakes
Be sure to visit the K’gari Lakes, prepare to be amazed by their stunning waters and cool off after a long day of traveling under the scorching sun. Here are our favorite lakes:
Lake McKenzie
One of Fraser Island’s most popular attractions—and for good reason. This freshwater lake is formed by rainwater, resulting in some of the clearest water we’ve seen anywhere in Australia.
The sand is pure silica, giving it an incredibly soft, silky texture and an almost blinding white color (Thea says it’s the whitest sand she’s ever seen). The water is safe for swimming, and especially during summer, wonderfully warm.
Lake Wabby
A stark contrast to McKenzie, Lake Wabby boasts emerald green water that’ll have you reaching for your camera.
The crescent-shaped lake is nestled between jungle on one side and towering sand dunes on the other. To take a dip, you’ll need to descend a steep dune—careful not to slip!
Lake Birrabeen
Like Lake McKenzie, Lake Birrabeen features white sand and clear waters, but it’s a bit more remote.
Don’t let that discourage you, though. While Lake McKenzie was packed with tourists, we had Lake Birrabeen all to ourselves—imagine an entire pristine lake, just for you.Don’t let that discourage you, though.
While Lake McKenzie was packed with tourists, we had Lake Birrabeen all to ourselves—imagine an entire pristine lake, just for you.
Float in Eli Creek
Eli Creek is a gem on the island’s eastern coast. Its waters are so pure you can fill a bottle directly upstream. This purity means the water is almost transparent.
Thanks to its clarity and shallow depth, it’s perfect for floating. Inflate a float and let the gentle current carry you, or do what we did—put on a snorkel mask and enjoy the underwater view without having to swim. It’s that easy!
Don’t worry about the depth of Eli Creek, the water rarely goes past your waist.
SS Maheno Shipwreck
Right along 75 Mile Beach lies the rusted hull of the SS Maheno, a popular tourist stop. You can get within 3 meters of the wreck from the beach (any closer is unsafe due to the corroded metal).
Stop by at sunset to enjoy the wreck bathed in golden light…
The most fascinating part of the SS Maheno is its history. Once a New Zealand warship, it served in World War I.
In 1935, during a journey to Japan to be sold for scrap, it was caught in a cyclone and washed ashore on Fraser Island. A sad end for such a historic ship.
Indian Head (Tukkee Wurroo)
Located at the easternmost point of K’gari, Indian Head is the only rocky outcrop on this massive sand island. In fact, this ancient formation is where sand, carried by the sea, began to accumulate millions of years ago—forming what we now know as Fraser Island.
Marcos, stop telling us how cool this rock is. Well, the rock itself isn’t that impressive. You can reach it via a small trail that leads you up its slopes to the top.
But as I said, the rock isn’t the highlight, the real attraction is the view. The sea, teeming with dolphins, turtles, and whales (if you visit during the right season); the endless beaches stretching inland; the dense forests and jungles…
Champagne Pools
Another wonder of Fraser Island is the Champagne Pools. Since sharks, crocodiles, and jellyfish inhabit the waters around Fraser Island, swimming in the sea is generally not recommended. But don’t worry, the Champagne Pools are the perfect alternative!
These natural pools, formed by volcanic rock, are ideal for enjoying saltwater safely. If you visit during low tide, you can even snorkel and discover the beautiful coral and fish hidden in their depths.
And why are they called Champagne Pools? Well, the waves crashing against the rocks create an effect just like opening a bottle of champagne—an explosion of foam and water!
Camping on the Beach
Yes, you can go camping on Fraser Island—and the best part is, you can do it right on the beach. There are plenty of campsites along 75 Mile Beach where you can enjoy this unforgettable experience.
What better way to end a long day than with a beer on the beach? No need to drive anywhere—just relax, de-stress, and have fun.
Plus, sleeping on the beach means you don’t have to wake up early to see the sunrise. Hahaha.
Of course, if you do camp on the beach, be aware that dingoes might be lurking nearby. We still remember the scare we got when we went stargazing and suddenly saw two glowing eyes following us. Luckily, nothing happened, but always remember: dingoes, while cute, can be dangerous. Never approach or interact with them!
Off-road Adventure to South Ngkala Rocks
If you’ve been enjoying off-roading along the beaches of K’gari, then South Ngkala Rocks is the ultimate challenge.
If you manage to pass through, you’ll unlock access to the stunning northern parts of Fraser Island. But if you get stuck—get ready for a serious challenge trying to get out. Either way, it’s a thrilling experience.
But if, like us, you’re not quite ready for this adventure—don’t worry! Watching others take it on is just as entertaining. When we went, we saw three different vehicles get stuck. We had a good laugh, haha.
Waddy Point
Waddy Point isn’t featured in many guidebooks, but we fell in love with it. It’s where the cliffs meet the sea.
You can follow various trails up and down the cliffs, discover secret beaches at low tide, or just sit atop the highest cliff and take in the coastal views.
The views were spectacular, and we also saw several whales in the distance, dolphins fishing right below our viewpoint, turtles swimming peacefully, and even a group of manta rays.
Don’t Miss Cooloola National Park and Rainbow Beach
If you’re traveling the Queensland Pacific Coast Way and taking the ferry to Fraser Island from Inskip Point, we recommend warming up at Cooloola National Park and Rainbow Beach first.
Rainbow Beach will captivate you with its colossal cliffs—up to 80 meters high—and its natural masterpiece of up to 72 shades of red, orange, and yellow. It’s no wonder it’s called Rainbow Beach.
Cooloola National Park is like Fraser Island’s training ground, with beaches also open to off-road driving. A trip to Double Island Point in your SUV is highly recommended for its scenic views of the sea and golden sands.
TOURS
Cruise to the East Coast of K’gari
Hop aboard this cruise and explore the remote eastern coast of Fraser Island. This day trip departs from Hervey Bay and includes hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling.
Highly recommended if you didn’t get a chance to explore the east coast during your stay, or if you’d like to enjoy the island without the stress of driving or getting sandy. By the way, if you go during whale season, you’ll likely spot several on the way to K’gari.
Fraser Island Off-Road Day Trip
Whether you’re departing from Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, this tour offers a 4×4 adventure to the Fraser Island’s highlights—including Lake McKenzie, the SS Maheno, Eli Creek, among others.
We especially recommend this tour for travelers short on time who want to see K’gari’s top sights in just one day.
2-Day Fraser Island Tour
Similar to the one-day tour but with more time to explore. This option includes a jungle hike, swimming in the Champagne Pools, and visiting Lake Wabby, all guided by a professional.
For an extra fee, you can even hop on a small plane for a breathtaking scenic flight over Fraser Island. The tour includes accommodation at the K’gari Beach Resort. Trust us—you won’t want to leave after two days!
3-Day K’gari Tag-Along Tour
If two days aren’t enough, don’t miss this tag-along tour where you can drive your own 4×4 around K’gari Island. A way to truly enjoy the Fraser Island experience.
Departing from Hervey Bay, the tour follows a guide in a lead vehicle. You can choose to drive or ride as a passenger. Perfect for groups of three or more looking for an adventure-packed experience.
SLEEP
Where to sleep on Fraser Island?
Hotels
Looking for hotels on Fraser Island? It couldn0’t be simpler. There are only two hotels on the island: K’gari Beach Resort on the east coast and Kingfisher Bay Resort on the west coast.
Both offer similar amenities: resort-style accommodation with private rooms, a restaurant, pools, and more. Prices are also comparable. So, the choice mostly depends on your itinerary and which side of the island you want to explore.
Campsites
Fraser Island’s campsites are fairly basic—but no less spectacular. There are different types depending on the amenities they offer, although we like to divide them into two categories: those with dingo-safe fences, and those without.
If you’re traveling solo or simply want extra peace of mind, go for fenced campsites. Some of the dingo-safe options include Central Station, Dundubara, and Waddy Point.
These are managed by Queensland Parks and Wildlife, and you’ll need to book them through their official digital platform. There are also private fenced campsites—though typically more expensive—such as Dilli Village and Cathedrals on Fraser.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to immerse yourself in nature without any barriers, you can camp right on the beach.
There are several designated beach camping areas, but again, you’ll need to reserve your spot through Queensland Parks and Wildlife. The standard price for these campsites is AU$7.25 per person.
Keep in mind that these sites have no amenities, so yes—you’ll have to dig a hole if nature calls. Also, free camping is not allowed anywhere on K’gari.
TIPS
How to Get Around Fraser Island
Let’s see if you’ve been paying attention—how do you get around Fraser Island? Exactly: by off-road vehicle. But before jumping on the ferry, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Only 4WD vehicles are allowed. If you’re bringing your own, you’ll need to obtain a permit through Queensland Parks and Wildlife (here’s the link to make it easy). Two-wheel drive vehicles are strictly prohibited, and even all-wheel drive vehicles are restricted to specific areas, such as within Kingfisher Bay Resort.
Another way to explore Fraser Island is on foot, following the K’gari Great Walk, a 90-kilometer trail through the island’s interior. This 6- to 8-day trek will take you past iconic spots like the McKenzie Trail. A great way to slow down and truly experience the island.
Lastly, you can join one of the tours we recommended earlier. It’s probably the most convenient way to explore the island—no need to worry about logistics, navigation, or getting stuck.
How Many Days to Spend on Fraser Island
We recommend spending between 3 and 5 days on the island. But if you have the time, consider staying up to 10 days. We spent a full week exploring K’gari, and honestly, it still didn’t feel like enough.
Final Thoughts and Conmochila Tips
Fraser Island truly has a lot to offer. It’s a natural wonder and an absolute must on your Queensland Pacific Coast Way itinerary. If you have a solid 4WD, don’t even hesitate—book a ferry and start the adventure.
If not, no problem. Join one of the many tours we’ve mentioned and experience everything this magical island has to offer.
And now, a personal touch. If you love the ocean as much as Thea does, is there a better way to celebrate your birthday than with the sea welcoming you? That’s how Thea felt on her birthday when we saw whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures swimming below the cliffs of Wabby Point. That’s why Wabby Point is her favorite place—and one she holds dear to her heart.
As for me, I’ll always go with Lake McKenzie. Its crystal-clear waters and nearly 10 meters of depth gave me the perfect chance to go freediving. It was unforgettable!
And as always, at the end of any guide, we leave you with a few recommendations and common-sense tips to help you make the most of your visit to Fraser Island—and avoid any mishaps along the way.
- “Be dingo-safe.” Don’t approach, feed, or leave food exposed for dingoes.
- Use sunscreen: it should go without saying, but it’s easy to forget.
- Driving on the beach? Lower your tire pressure and activate 4WD.
- Book campsites in advance—internet service on the island is unreliable.
- Visit an info center before boarding the ferry to get up-to-date maps, campsite info, and road closures.
- Respect speed limits—even on the beach. The area is patrolled.
- Know the tides, whether you’re driving or swimming in the ocean. Avoid driving two hours before and after high tide.
- Don’t drive at night.
Map
Click on the image and it will take you to a new Google Maps window with all the points of interest to travel to Fraser Island.
