Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world; with over 40km of sweeping sandy beaches. Spectacular pastel coloured cliffs, sand dunes, freshwater lakes, and rainforests make up the Great Sandy National Park of Fraser Island. Take respite in a wide range of accommodation options; including any of the eight campgrounds or various resorts along the island.
How to get to Fraser Island
To get there, you can take a barge from Inskip Point or River Heads; otherwise, fly in on a small plane with Air Fraser Island from Hervey Bay. On the ferry, you can pay an additional fee to take a 4WD vehicle on Fraser Island; but permits may apply. For more information about permits check out the Queensland Government website. Also, pay close attention to seasonal pricing and timetables that are subject to change.
4WD
4WD are the only vehicles permitted on Fraser Island and the driving is all on the sand. It is highly recommended that you check your vehicle is set up for this type of driving before venturing to the island. There are numerous 4WD tours and guided excursions for those who are less confident with this sort of terrain.
Fraser has so much to explore by 4WD including the most well known; 75 Mile Beach which is 105km of driving alongside the thundering coast starting at Hook Point. Making sure you pay attention to the tides and allow for pit stops along the way. For a more challenging drive; try the Northern Forests & Lake Garawongera Scenic Drive which starts at K’gari Camping Area and is 71 km long. This drive is tough going so would only be suitable for the experienced 4WD’er. Immerse yourself in the variety of freshwater lakes, rain forests and eucalyptus woodlands; by driving through a cross section of Fraser Island.
For a helpful map of Fraser Island click here.
Swimming holes
Inland you can explore Lake Mckenzie, a lake made entirely of rainwater surrounded by fine, white sand; and perfect for swimming due to its incredibly pure waters. Lake Mckenzie is one of 40 “perched” lakes on the Island; and is often referred to as “the Jewel of Fraser Island”. Lake Mckenzie is 5m deep and 1.2km length; with a slightly acidic quality, nothing lives in the water; making for some of the clearest, cleanest water in the world.
You’ll find Lake Wabby at the edge of Hammerstone Sandblow. This is the deepest lake on the island, in some parts reaching 11.4mtrs deep. Surrounded by white sand dunes; the dark green colour of the lake is quite a contrast. Unlike Lake Mckenzie, Lake Wabby is teeming with 12 species of fish. Look out for the rare honey blue-eye; which as the name suggests is a honey-coloured fish with blue eyes. Lake Wabby also has a 4km walking track with a lookout and panoramic view of the area.
If you’re strictly coastal, head to the bubbling Champagne Pools for an afternoon soak. These rock pools are almost like a naturally formed jacuzzi with seawater constantly topping them up. A trip here is a must when visiting Fraser Island.
Tours
Take an aerial tour by plane to view the island and its forests, lakes, and sand dunes from above. Or opt for the ocean, and take a cruise or boat tour; Fraser has some of the best whale watching between April and October. For the adventurous, take a tour at night navigating with the dingoes.
Fraser Island is a place that brings you back in touch with nature; with the help of various rangers, resorts, and campgrounds. As the world’s largest sandbank the terrain is unique; it’s one that both locals and tourists will find a treasure to be cherished.
