If you're looking for your next Queensland holiday destination on an Island Paradise, just a short 40 minute ferry ride from the Mainland of Hervey Bay, look no further than Fraser Island. Fraser Island is the largest all sand island in the world, home to 2 of Australia's most stunning beaches, native wildlife, ancient rainforest, impressive coloured sand dunes and so much more! If you're planning a visit here are 7 things you can't miss seeing.
How to get to K'Gari (Fraser Island): Start by getting to Hervey Bay
K'Gari (Fraser Island) is located off the coast of Hervey Bay, a short road trip from the Gold Coast, Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast. Located approximately 2 hours drive from Noosa, 3 hours from Brisbane and 4 hours from the Gold Coast. If you're driving and looking for a quick pitt stop along the way at one of Australia's 'BIG' things, we recommend a quick stop via the Big Pineapple on the Sunshine Coast or Big Matilda Kangaroo at Traverston Rest stop.
Alternatively, both Qantas and Virgin offer flights directly into Hervey Bay airport.
From Hervey Bay you have the option to either take Day trips to Fraser Island or take a ferry to the Island and say overnight there.
Fraser Island Ferry options: From Hervey Bay to Fraser Island via the Kingfisher Passenger Ferry
They Kingfisher Bay Passenger Ferry is the primary mode of transport to Fraser Island, operating 5 times daily departing from River Heads (earliest departure is 6.45 am) to Kingfisher Bay Resort, with the latest departure around 5 pm back to Hervey Bay. TheThe journey takes approximately 50 minutes, and has the option for both passengers and cars to cross on the Ferry. It includes and indoor and outdoor area as well as food and beverage outlets.
Costs: $60 return per adult, $190-$215 per vehicle return
Where to Stay when planning a trip to K'Gari: Hervey Bay or K'Gari Fraser Island?
This really depends on the style of holiday you want to have.
For an adventourus 4WD based holiday stay on K'Gari. The main accomodation option here is the Kingfisher Bay Resort, located right by the Ferry Terminal. However you can also check out the latest deals on Booking.com below. Be warned the roads are not easy to navigate through the soft sand on your own and there's high risks of getting stuck, so if you plan to drive you should have good experience. This personally wasn't the best option for us!
For easy access in getting around and to be closer to a wide selection of bars, restaurants and other day trips we recommend staying anywhere along the Hervey Bay esplanade or at the Boat Harbour Marina. We stayed in both of these 2 locations during our visit.
Our first stay was at Eden By the Bay located centrally along Esplanade at Scarness Beach. The apartment had a spacious bedroom, bathroom, laundry, kitchen, living area and balcony and was across the road from one of our favourite beachfront destinations, Enzo's sunset cocktail bar and the Scarness beach pier. The apartments also came with a car park space.
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Our second stay was at Mantra serviced apartments, located right on the Hervey Bay Boat Harbour Marina. This is the perfect location for if you have day trips booked for whale watching and Fraser Island. We loved the waterfront views, poolside and outdoor barbecue area. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurant to enjoy along the Marina without needing to drive anywhere. They have a large carpark too with free parking included.