fraser island best tours

These 8 K'gari (Fraser Island) tours deliver the goods!

Kate Bettes

Travel Journalist

07 February 2024

It’s time to sit back and let the experts show how to really experience their slice of paradise.

Discovering remote swimming holes, hiking through lush rainforests, exhilarating 4×4 drives on white-sand beaches and diving into a crystalline perched lake. With so much to see and do on K’gari (Fraser Island), getting yourself organised can be intimidating!

Instead, treat yourself to some insider knowledge, and book one of these top-billing K’gari (Fraser Island) tours.

How long to spend on K’gari (Fraser Island)?

You can definitely see some of K’gari (Fraser Island)’s highlights on a day trip. But we should warn you: it will be tricky to fit everything in. This is particularly true if your itinerary includes more remote experiences, such as dipping in the Champagne Pools or hiking across the dunes to Lake Waddy.

To fully experience this UNESCO World Heritage-listed location, stretch out your trip to three or more days. As well as being able to see and do more, by sleeping overnight on the island, you get first dibs at famed K’gari (Fraser Island)’s beauty spots, like Boorangoora/Lake McKenzie when you beat day-trippers there in the morning.

K’gari (Fraser Island) tours from Hervey Bay

The nearest start-off point to Fraser Island, Hervey Bay is the other major location to visit for out-of-towners on the Fraser Coast . Once you’ve done the must-do meet-and-greet with the majestic humpback whales this coastline is famous for , it’s time to head to K’gari.

1. Blue Dolphin Marine Tours

Say ahoy to adventure and hop aboard one of Blue Dolphin Marine Tours’ sailing tours. Explore the coast of the world’s largest sand island and meet local marine residents like whales, dugongs and turtles over a half-day or full-day tour. Top off your day (and your glass) with the sunset yacht tour with all-inclusive bubbly.

See the marine life around K’gari (Fraser Island). (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

fraserisland

2. Fraser Island Hiking

Longing to do a hike on K’gari (Fraser Island), but wince at the idea of lugging around tent poles? Fret no longer, because Fraser Island Hiking has the tour for you. Go pack-free with all-inclusive meals over two days or do the Fraser Islands Great Walk in style over four days with deluxe accommodation and catering included. Committed to the burn (and saving dollars)? They also offer a full-on camping tour, with walking groups, hiking equipment and 4WD drop-offs.

Hike your way through K’gari. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

3. Tasman Venture: Remote Fraser Island Tour

Take the path less travelled on this one-day adventure tour of K’gari (Fraser Island)’s lesser-known spots . Snorkel in search of sting rays at Wathumba Creek, kayak through verdant mangroves, check out the teeming array of birds and dive into secret water holes. In winter, you can add a spot of whale-watching to your itinerary too.

Tasman Venture takes you to the amazing Wathumba Creek. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

4. Fraser Tours: K’gari Explorer

Driving your own 4WD is by no means the only way to explore the island. Instead, hop on a 4WD bus as part of the K’gari Explorer Tours one-day tour , sit back and be driven around the top sights. Highlights on this family-friendly tour include floating along Eli Creek and swimming in the perched waters of Lake McKenzie, as well as a heart-racing drive down 75 Mile Beach to spot dingoes and a stop at the fascinating Maheno Shipwreck.

Departing Rainbow Beach? K’gari Tours also offers some trips from there.

K’gari (Fraser Island) tours from Rainbow Beach

You can get to K’gari (Fraser Island) from its south side via the coastal town of Rainbow Beach. From there, visitors can either drive the 14km to the Inskip Peninsula to get to K’gari under their own steam or jump on a tour that has pick-up included.

5. K’gari Explorer Tours

K’gari Explorer Tours runs one and two-day tours from Rainbow Beach to the island, and three, four and even five-day tours that depart from Hervey Bay. As well as highlights such as Lake McKenzie, Central Station and 75 Mile Beach, the award-winning  K’gari Explorer Tours, also stop at sites like Lake Wabby, the Champagne Pools and Hammerstone Sandblow.

6. Dingo’s Fraser Island

Are you itching to get the keys in the ignition of a 4WD … but a tad nervous about getting bogged in all that sand? Dingo’s Fraser Island offers a 4WD tag-along tour, meaning you’ll be part of a convoy led by the tour guide.

Take the three-day tour and undergo the 4×4 driver training before setting off for an adventure that hits up all the top Fraser Island sites by day stopping only to camp under the stars at night ( learn more about K’gari (Fraser Island) camping in our guide ). Aimed at the 18 to 35 set, this tour is one for the young – or at least, the young at heart!

4WDs are essential on K’gari. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

K’gari (Fraser Island) tours from Noosa

Coming from the Sunshine Coast will take you just over two-and-a-half hours to a departure point for K’gari (Fraser Island). While this may add a bit of extra effort for the average daytripper, it is still very manageable to take a tour from Noosa to K’gari (Fraser Island) (particularly if you extend it to a few days).

7. Air Fraser Island

See the magnificent island and sparkling ocean from the skies, on a flight with Air Fraser Island . Options include a short scenic flight, a one-day flight/4WD exploration combo, and a multi-day island stay with accommodation. Air Fraser Island flights depart from the Sunshine Coast and Hervey Bay Airport, as well as from the island itself.

See K’gari (Fraser Island) from above. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

8. K’gari Fraser Island Adventures

Get in touch with nature with the eco-conscious tour company, K’gari Fraser Island Adventures . Offering a range of sustainable tours, options include tours that are partially guided (so some wriggle room to do your own thing), tag-along 4WD adventures, ones that focus on sharpening your photography skills, as well as an ‘Eco-Warrior’ conservation tour. Departs Noosa and Rainbow Beach.

Tours for the whole family. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Kate Bettes is a freelance travel writer. Whether having a picnic in Vietnamese jungle with new friends, or partying in the back of a limousine in Hollywood, Kate’s experiences have left her with the sneaking suspicion that the best travel memories happen when you least expect. It’s this feeling - and how to get it - that she loves to write about.

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THE 10 BEST K'gari (Fraser Island) Tours & Excursions

K'gari (fraser island) tours.

• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour

2. Remote Fraser Island Experience

3. Dingos 3 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) ​4WD Tag-Along Tour

4. K'gari (Fraser Island) Explorer 2-Day Tour

5. Dingos 2 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag-Along Tour

6. Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure

7. Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise

8. Fraser Island Whale Watch Encounter

9. K'gari (Fraser Island) Getaway 3-Day from Hervey Bay

10. Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) & Whale Experience

11. Hervey Bay: Half Day Whale watching & Island Stop Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay

Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise

Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns

Epic Rainbow Beach Dolphin Kayak and 4WD Adventure Tour

Hervey Bay Champagne Sunset Sail

Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure

Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise

Hervey Bay Whale Swim and Watch

Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watching Cruise

2 Hours Hervey Bay Funset Cruise

Epic Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson and Coloured Sands 4WD Tour Rainbow Beach

Epic Surf Lesson and 4WD Adventure to Australia's Longest Wave Rainbow Beach QLD

Epic Private Getaway Rainbow Beach

Tandem Paragliding Experience Rainbow Beach | Sunshine Coast

What travelers are saying.

• K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour
• Remote Fraser Island Experience
• Dingos 3 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) ​4WD Tag-Along Tour
• Dingos 2 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag-Along Tour
• Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure
• Pippies Fraser Island Tours
• K'gari Fraser Island Adventures
• Australian Sunset Safaris Day Tours
• Nomads Fraser Island Tours
• Sunrover Tours
• K'gari Explorer Tours
• Dingos K'gari (Fraser Island) Adventures
• Australian Offroad Academy

K'gari (Fraser Island) Tours & Vacations

Welcome to the world’s largest sand island

The World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island) on Queensland ’s East Coast isn’t your typical island getaway. It’s a place where sand roads replace tarmac, dingoes roam the shores and crystalline creeks weave through ancient rainforests. In other words, it’s made for adventures. Get your thrills on a four-wheel drive along 75 Mile Beach , hike the rugged headlands to spot sharks and rays in the shallows or bathe in the beautiful Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) — probably one of the bluest lakes you’ll ever see. In the language of the Butchulla people, the traditional owners, K’gari means ‘paradise’. Come find out why.

Our K'gari (Fraser Island) trips

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K'gari (Fraser Island) highlights

K'gari (fraser island) travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When was Fraser Island renamed K'gari?

Fraser Island was officially renamed K'gari in August 2022 after many years of campaigning from the Butchulla people, tourism bodies and government agencies. K'gari means 'paradise' in the Butchulla language.

How do you pronounce K'gari?

The pronunciation of K'gari varies among different family groups, but the most common is 'gurrie'. The 'k' is always silent.

How to get to K'gari

It takes a little over four hours to drive from Brisbane to one of the jumping-off points to catch the barge to K'gari. There are barges departing from Inskip Point and River Heads which is a 20-minute drive south of Hervey Bay. It's possible to take your 4WD on the ferry or walk on as a foot passenger.

Remember to get your 4WD vehicle set up to drive on sand before you get off the barge, or you could get bogged.

How do I get around on Fraser Island?

A 4WD is the only permitted vehicle on K'gari as there are no sealed roads. Driving is only recommended for more experienced 4WD enthusiasts as some of the tracks are steep and the sand can be deep and soft, particularly if there hasn’t been much rain.

Don't fancy driving? Join us on a K'gari tour.

When is the best time to visit K'gari?

Any time of year is a good time to visit K'gari. Summer is hot and humid and perfect for swimming. Spring and autumn are cooler and the island tends to be quieter. In winter, whales are frequently spotted swimming past the island. 

What should I pack for K'gari?

K'gari is a casual place so you can leave your fancy clothes at home. Layered clothing is the best option as it can be chilly when you set off in the early morning before it warms up. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are a must, even in winter, as the sun reflects off the white sand.

Any shoes you bring will almost certainly get sand in them, so sandals or thongs you can quickly shake the sand out of before you get back in your vehicle are best. Bring all essentials, including basic medications, with you as shops are few and far between on the island.

What should I wear on K'gari?

K'gari is all about action, adventure and enjoying the beauty of your surroundings. If you're going to eat dinner at the resort, as long as what you're wearing is clean and you've got shoes on, you're good to go. 

What is the internet access like on Fraser Island?

You will find a Wi-Fi signal on Fraser Island near major tourist hubs such as Kingfisher Bay Resort, Happy Valley, and Eurong.

There is limited or no Wi-Fi available in some parts of the island, particularly when you are traveling inland. 

Can I use my mobile phone on K'gari?

Mobile phones work on K'gari near major tourist hubs such as Kingfisher Bay Resort, Happy Valley and Eurong. However, it's unlikely you'll pick up coverage when you get outside of these hubs.

Is it safe to swim on K'gari?

It's safe to swim in K'gari’s recommended swimming spots, but it is not safe to swim in the sea.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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• 3 Day Beach Clean Ups
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• The Eco Retreat at Eurong
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• check in for your tour
• Guide to K’gari
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K’gari Fraser Island

Our guided tours, thank you….

to everyone at The K’gari Fraser Island Adventures (formally Dropbear Adventures) we really couldn’t of asked for anything more from our Fraser Island Tour! Welcoming hosts, cosy accommodation, super well organised & an authentic Australian experience on a magical island. Our guide Troy was super passionate/knowledgeable about the island and its history and people. We hit up all the hotspots on a flexible itinerary adapted to the daily conditions to get the best out of some of the awesome island spots! The boomerang lessons and paddle boarding on Lake McKenzie were definitely a highlight and no better time to visit as the wildlife was at its best, seeing plenty of Whales on our beach drives! 

K’gari is such a beautiful place..

K’gari Fraser Island Adventures did an amazing job of showing us around. Their accommodation is great – clean and cosy. We stayed in winter and they had hot water bottles and extra blankets in the room, which was much appreciated! Hannah and Mark are such great hosts. They truly care about the island and did a fantastic job of showing us around and telling us about the history of the island. I loved hearing about the Indigenous history of the island and their stories about it’s creation. The 4WDriving was so much fun too! I would recommend this tour to everyone – it’s truly amazing!!

K’gari Fraser Island Adventures is a tour company like no other, we don’t just “do Fraser Island tours”, we tailor a K’gari Fraser Island tour experience which will carve a memory in your mind that will forever.

There are many Fraser Island Tours to choose from but none quite like N oosa to Fraser Island adventures.  Having founded Drop Bear Adventures in 2010 that grew into an award-winning tour company before becoming a travel guide, we know what it takes to create and deliver one of the best tour experiences in the world.

Our scheduled and private Fraser Island tours offer so much more than a Fraser Island trip, we take care of everything you need along the way to feel comfortable, safe and entertained so you can relax and just take it all in.

Visit Fraser Island from Noosa with a company that cares deeply about our impact on the island and the environment as a whole. Dedicated to true sustainability, we do our best to live by the 1st law of the island, what is good for the land must come first. We invite you to respectfully explore K’gari with us. Let your mind wonder as we share stories of the island’s history and her peoples. It’s important that we protect the worlds most fragile eco systems and thats why we founded the Community Beach Clean Ups and dedicate $10 of every ticket to our clean up events.

FOLLOW THE LEADER STYLE 4WD FRASER ISLAND TRIP

Tag along in our 4WD’s for the best Fraser Island tour from Noosa and experience an amazing adventure. We take care of all of the logistics as we lead the convoy of up to 4WD’s around the island. All cars are in full radio contact and you can choose from a variety of driving conditions to learn all about 4WD on sand.

Our Toyota 4WD’s are rugged and reliable vehicles that are geared up perfectly to suit beach driving and they all have automatic transmissions so you can concentrate on taking in all the sights of the most beautiful scenic drive in the world.

See K’gari Fraser Island Differently

Every K’gari Fraser Island Tour will show you the highlights of the island but not like us. We’ll take you to crystal clear waters of Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie), to the salty rock pools named Champagne Pools and of course to the ‘natural lazy river’ of Eli Creek but you wont feel like a visitor, you will feel like a local. Our K’gari Fraser Island Adventures are backed by our love of fun, flare for story telling, respect for culture and passion for protecting our planet.

We care deeply for this island, it’s where our love story began. It’s our home, our hobby and our happy place. The Butchulla peoples translation for K’gari is paradise, and though she can be a tricky place to navigate, losing yourself in island time is always breathtaking. We also offer private F raser Island tours so do reach out if you have something super special in mind. 

Best Tour Highlights Include:

• Crystal clear waters of Lake Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie)
• Cascading sand blow and emerald green waters of Lake Wabby
• 360 o  views of Tukkee (Indian Head)
• Picturesque rusty icon of the Maheno Shipwreck
• The frothing rock pools of Champagne Pools
• The lazy river of Eli Creek
• Towering Central Station Rainforest
• Coloured sands of Rainbow Beach (only with tours departures from Noosa)

Our K’gari Fraser Island Tours depart from…

Our K’gari Fraser Island Tours Depart from Noosa and Rainbow Beach.

If you are looking for a Fraser Island Tour from Hervey Bay,  we can arrange transfers for groups of 4 or more people or you can drive to Rainbow Beach to meet us.

If you are looking for a Fraser Island tour from Brisbane, drive to Noosa. It’s only a shortish drive in Australian terms and we promise, our K’gari Fraser Island Tours are totally worth it.

If you are looking for K’gari Fraser Island Day Tours, don’t do it, the island is too magic to spend just one day here. Trust the locals, 3 days is the absolute minimum amount of days you should spend on the island. In fact if you can spend even longer! Check out our 4WD hire car and accommodation packages .

IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT OUR EXPERIENCES 

• AGE 15+ FOR TOUR GUESTS 
• AGE 25+ FOR ACCOMMODATION STAYS AT THE HAVEN 
• 4WD HIRE FOR 25+ PICK UP FROM NOOSA ONLY 
• PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE FOR 9+ (subject to a availability) 
• MEDIUM FITNESS REQUIRED 
• COMMON DIETARY REQUIREMENTS CATERED FOR ON ALL TOURS

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Best Fraser Island Tours

Best fraser island tours for 2023. we have many different fraser island tours (k'gari) on offer here at real aussie adventures. here we detail on to choose the best fraser island tour for you..

What is Fraser Islands indigenous name?

K’gari is pronounced “gurri” and means paradise. Fraser Island was officially renamed K’gari in 2021. Butchulla dancers and community representatives came together at Kingfisher Bay Resort to celebrate the renaming of Fraser Island to the K’gari (Fraser Island) World Heritage Area. K’gari is among many places around Australia that have returned to their Indigenous names. One of the most famous examples is Uluru . 

Thinking of visiting Fraser Island soon? 

Here we detail our fraser island tours operating in 2022 and which might be the best for you to join. plus when is the best time to visit fraser island , read on to find out more. .

“The ultimate adventures on the largest sand island in the world. “ Real Adventure Group

Difference between our Fraser Island tours.

First, let us explain the difference in styles of our Fraser Island tours here at Real Aussie Adventures. When you take a glance they can all look similar with 1 day, 2 day and 3-day offerings. However, on closer inspection we have fully guided, camping, self-drive and resort stay options. 

Plus we have tours starting from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Bech. So deciding where to head over to the island from is also a consideration. 

Best Fraser Island Tours in 2022

1 day fraser island guided tour, 3 day fraser island self drive adventure.

2 Day K’Gari Fraser Island Tour from Hervey Bay

A great way to see the highlights of Fraser Island (K’Gari) from Hervey Bay staying at Eurong Beach Resort on Fraser Island in comfortable lodge accommodation. The perfect overnight getaway to the island with some of the highlights visited on your two days of touring the island. 

3 Day K’Gari Fraser Island Tour from Hervey Bay

This is our newest tour offering to Fraser Island. Suitable for those who like a little comfort and have 3 days to spare. You will head over to the island on the first day and with no touring planned stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort for a pre-night. Here you relax by the pool or grab something yummy at the restaurant. Or go for a stroll on the beach and take in the sunset at the jetty. The next morning your picked up from Kingfisher Bay Resort for a fun day of touring Fraser Island. Night 2 you will stay at Eurong Resort and with the 3rd day full of touring you then take the ferry back over to Hervey Bay. 

How many days should I spend on Fraser Island?

Three days on Fraser Island is about the right amount of time to see all the highlights., If you are short on time a 2 day 1 night trip would be perfect. 

Fraser Island is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. The question of how many days to spend on the island depends largely on your interests and priorities, but in general, most visitors spend at least two to three days exploring the island.

If you’re short on time, a one-day tour can give you a taste of what Fraser Island has to offer, but it won’t give you enough time to truly experience all the island has to offer. A two-day tour can provide a more in-depth experience, with opportunities to explore the island’s beaches, lakes, and forests. This is a great option for those who are short on time but still want to experience some of the best that Fraser Island has to offer.

If you have more time available, three to four days on Fraser Island is ideal. This will give you plenty of time to explore the island’s top attractions, including the stunning freshwater lakes, the sandy beaches, and the unique wildlife that calls the island home. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a range of activities, including hiking, four-wheel driving, and even camping.

For those who are looking for a more relaxed experience, five or more days on Fraser Island is the perfect option. This will allow you to take your time exploring the island, and really immerse yourself in the unique culture and natural beauty of the area. You can take your time to discover the lesser-known spots on the island, and enjoy some of the more remote and secluded areas that most visitors never get to see.

In the end, how many days you spend on Fraser Island will depend on your priorities and interests. However, no matter how long you stay, Fraser Island is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience that you’ll never forget.

What is the best time of year to go to Fraser Island?

Fraser Island is an iconic Australian destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. However, choosing the best time to go can be a bit challenging, as the island’s weather and conditions can vary throughout the year.

The best time of year to go to Fraser Island is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and mild, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The skies are clear, and there’s less chance of rainfall, which makes it a great time to explore the island’s many natural wonders.

The dry season is also the best time to take part in outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and 4WD tours, as the conditions are more favorable, and the roads are easier to navigate. However, keep in mind that the winter months from June to August can be quite chilly at night, so make sure to bring some warm clothes with you.

If you’re looking to avoid crowds and enjoy cheaper rates, the best time to go is during the shoulder season, which runs from April to May or September to November. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer tourists around, which means you can enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful trip.

Overall, the best time to go to Fraser Island is during the dry season, but regardless of when you go, this stunning island is sure to impress with its natural beauty, unique wildlife, and endless adventures.

In Summary:

The best time to go to Fraser Island is from May to October, which is the dry season. During this time, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and low humidity levels. This is also the best time for outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking, and 4WD tours, as there’s less chance of rain and the roads are easier to navigate. Keep in mind that the winter months (June to August) can be chilly at night, so make sure to pack warm clothes. If you’re looking to avoid crowds and enjoy cheaper rates, consider visiting in the shoulder season from April to May or September to November. However, if you don’t mind the occasional shower and want to see the island’s lush vegetation, the wet season from November to March can be a good option. Just be prepared for higher humidity, hotter temperatures, and the possibility of road closures due to flooding.

Can you explore Fraser Island on your own?

Check out all our Tours to Fraser Island here:

• Tours to Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a highlight to visit on the East Coast of Australia.

For more places to visit on the East Coast check out: Best places to visit in the East Coast Australia.

Our Best East Cost Australia Tours which include Fraser Island.

Sydney to Cairns East Coast Essentials Package

15 Day Brisbane to Cairns

28 Day East Coast Adventure

21 Day East Coast Sydney to Cairns Tour Package

Real Aussie Recommendations

• The best Fraser Island tour is the one you take! So even if you are short on time book your Fraser Island tour today, you wont be disappointed. 

The BEST Fraser Island trips!

20 Day Brisbane to Cairns Tour

3 Day K’Gari 4WD Camping Tour

3 Day K’Gari Getaway from Hervey Bay

3 Day Fraser Tagalong Tour

3 Day K’Gari Self Drive Fraser Island Tour

2 Day K’Gari Fraser Island Tour from Rainbow Beach

2 Day K’Gari Fraser Island Tour from Hervey Bay

2 Day Fraser Island Tagalong Tour

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Top Tours in K'gari (Fraser Island), Australia

K'gari (fraser island) tours.

• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour

2. Remote Fraser Island Experience

3. Dingos 3 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) ​4WD Tag-Along Tour

4. K'gari (Fraser Island) Explorer 2-Day Tour

5. Dingos 2 Day K'Gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag-Along Tour

6. Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure

7. Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise

8. Fraser Island Whale Watch Encounter

9. K'gari (Fraser Island) Getaway 3-Day from Hervey Bay

10. Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) & Whale Experience

11. Hervey Bay: Half Day Whale watching & Island Stop Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay

Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise

Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns

Epic Rainbow Beach Dolphin Kayak and 4WD Adventure Tour

Hervey Bay Champagne Sunset Sail

Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure

Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise

Hervey Bay Whale Swim and Watch

Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watching Cruise

Island Hopper

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A Guide to Visiting Fraser Island, The World’s Largest Sand Island

Fraser Island is not the tropical island paradise that you might imagine when picturing the islands off Australia’s Queensland coast. No, you won’t find swinging palm trees here, as Fraser Island is instead home to untamed beaches, ancient forests, dune lakes, shipwrecks and more, making it one of the best adventure experiences that Australia has to offer.

As mentioned in the title of this blog post, Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world, stretching 122km long. In case you were wondering: yes, a sand island is an island that’s made up of sand. That being said, Fraser isn’t just sand — there’s actually a lot to see!

Fraser Island is one of the “must-dos” on the east coast of Australia travel trail and you’ll find a ton of backpackers camping here. You’ll also find a lot of locals here too, especially those that love 4×4 drives and multi-day camping activities.

If you’re interested in seeing this incredible destination for yourself, here’s my guide to visiting Fraser Island!

Fraser Island’s 4×4 tag-along tours

Many backpackers travelling Australia’s east coast head to Fraser Island for multi-day camping and 4WD adventure packages, which is exactly what we did.

Half the fun of visiting Fraser Island, which lacks sealed roads, is the challenge of driving through the forests and along the beach. This can be intimidating for some, so it’s for this reason that many visitors opt for a 4×4 tag-along tour.

Led by an experienced guide who knows the island well, you’ll cruise the island in a convoy of jeeps, sleep in the national park, and explore the island’s best spots.

But with so many tour operators to choose from, which should you go with?

Drop Bear Adventures: Drop Bear’s signature 3D2N Fraser tour is one of the most popular options — tasty food, reliable 4WDs, beach cabin accommodation and a cracking tour guide to show you around. Book here.

Dingo’s: I personally went with Dingo’s and loved every second of it. The 3D2N tour was led by Jeff, a super knowledgeable, witty and all-around great tour guide. We stayed at a campsite and enjoyed campfire vibes in the evening, after days spent cruising our 4WDs, swimming in lakes, tubing down rivers and more. Book here.

Nomads Fraser Island: Another hugely popular option is Nomads Fraser Island. Book here.

It is possible to visit Fraser Island for one day; there are day tours that offer this. However, I truly feel that it deserves more than that in order to explore everything it has to offer. The most popular tour operators recommend their 3-day, 2-night tours, and I felt that this was an ideal length of time.

Travelling Fraser Island independently

Despite what I said above, it’s totally possible to explore Fraser Island independently without a tour group. This will give you the flexibility of exploring the island at your own pace and will crank up the adventure factor big time.

That being said, travelling Fraser Island independently will require some planning and may work out to be more expensive, unless you’ve got a group of you to split costs. If you’re a solo traveller, joining a 4×4 tag-along tour will definitely be cheaper than going independently.

You’ll absolutely need a 4WD vehicle to get around — if you have your own, great! You can book a ferry transfer for your vehicle and will also need to obtain a vehicle access permit , which costs $52.75, then you’re free to drive around the island at your leisure.

But like most people visiting Fraser Island independently, you’ll probably need to rent a 4WD.

Aussie Trax appears to be the cheapest 4WD rental service. That being said, it’s still far from cheap at $350 per vehicle per day and also has quite bad reviews. If you’re travelling with a group, the price will be reduced, but the cost of the 4WD rental, along with the ferry and accommodation, means that independent travel to Fraser Island is not cheap.

Independent travel to Fraser Island will involve:

• Renting a high clearance 4WD
• Acquiring a vehicle permit
• Booking a return ferry from the mainland to Fraser Island
• Booking accommodation
• Acquiring a camping permit if choosing to camp

Tip: When driving around Fraser Island independently, watch out for the tides. You’ll need to plan your whole trip around them. There are a few spots that can’t be passed during high tide, meaning you may be stuck on one side of the island until the tide goes back out. For instance, Eli Creek joins the sea and gets really deep during high tide. Trying to cross may just ruin your 4WD!

Where to stay on Fraser Island

If you’re heading to Fraser Island on an organised tour, then accommodation will be taken care of for you. Depending on the operator you’ve chosen, you’ll likely be staying in beach hut accommodation or at one of Fraser’s many campgrounds.

If you’re visiting independently, you can choose from a variety of accommodation options. There are a dozen or so hotels available on Fraser Island , which you can book ahead of your stay. These range from the luxurious Kingfisher Bay Resort to small holiday homes and beach huts.

You can also choose to stay in one of the campgrounds on Fraser Island — you can find a list of these here . If you are planning on camping, you’ll need to book camping permits in advance ($6.75 per person per night).

How to get to Fraser Island

Fraser Island is separated from mainland Australia by the Great Sandy Strait and so visitors must get there by ferry.

Hervey Bay and Rainbow Beach are the main launching pads to reach Fraser Island, and you can catch a ferry from either of these locations.

If you’ve booked a Fraser Island 4×4 tag-along tour, you’ll be picked up from Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay (depending on the tour you’ve booked) and taken to the ferry, so you don’t have to worry about booking/getting the ferry yourself unless told otherwise.

If you’re travelling to Fraser Island independently, you can drive your 4WD to either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay to catch the ferry. The choice is yours!

Rainbow Beach: To get to Fraser Island from Rainbow Beach, you can drive to Inskip Peninsula to take a ferry across the channel, which will bring you to the most southern point of the island. Inskip Peninsula is about 14 kilometres from Rainbow Beach.

Hervey Bay: To get to Fraser Island from Hervey Bay, you’ll need to take the ferry from River Heads, which is 20 minutes south of the town. This ferry will drop you off at Kingfisher Resort on Fraser Island.

Things to do on Fraser Island

Drive along 75-mile beach.

As I mentioned before, there aren’t proper roads on the island, only narrow tracks that zigzag through the forest, and a beach that acts as a sort of “highway”. This beach is known as 75-mile Beach, and it stretches along Fraser’s east coast, allowing visitors to navigate up and down the island with ease. I absolutely loved cruising along the beach in our 4WD!

Swim in Lake McKenzie

If you’ve heard of Fraser Island before, then you’ve probably also heard of Lake McKenzie. Situated in the centre of the island, this lake contains water so clear you can see your feet perfectly, and is surrounded by sand so white that you’re almost blinded by it.

The sand here is almost pure silica, so our guide told us we can exfoliate with it, and even wash our hair and teeth with it. I gave this a go, and my hair felt so soft and silky afterwards — you certainly can’t find sand like this in many places around the world.

Lake McKenzie is what’s known as a “perched lake,” which means that it’s filled only by rainwater, rather than being fed by a river.

Lake Wabby + Hammerstone Sandblow

Lake Wabby is a beautiful, green-coloured freshwater lake. It was really quite beautiful but sadly, the lake is situated adjacent to the Hammerstone Sandblow, which is gradually moving into the lake and will eventually completely bury it. Lake Wabby was lovely to swim in, especially as it required a 45-minute hike through the forest to reach it!

Visit the Maheno Shipwreck

The SS Maheno was a 5000-tonne ocean liner that traversed Australia and New Zealand in the early 1900s. At the break of World War I, the Maheno was converted into a hospital ship and carried sick and wounded soldiers before being returned to her owners at the end of the war.

In July 1935, she was sold to a Japanese shipbreaker but never made it to Japan due to a raging cyclone. The ship and crew were helplessly washed onto the shore of Fraser Island, where attempts to refloat her were unsuccessful. She was left abandoned here and remains to this day.

You can freely walk in and around the wreck at your leisure. It’s located on the beach highway and is visible from quite a distance — you can’t miss it!

Go tubing down Eli Creek

Eli Creek is a fantastic spot. There’s a boardwalk that will take you a few hundred metres upstream, from where you can hop into the river and slowly float back down. The tour we went with supplied inner tubes for us to use, but be sure to bring your own if you’re travelling independently! This was possibly my favourite activity we did on Fraser; tubing down a natural lazy river in the sun…

Look out for dingoes and other wildlife

Fraser Island is one of the few places in Australia where it’s possible to see wild dingoes. We saw four or five during our time on the island, all of them along 75-mile Beach.

They’re beautiful animals, native to Australia, and a protected species. Seeing them in their natural habitat is certainly a privilege, and while you shouldn’t be afraid of them, they have been known to be aggressive. Observe from afar, and enjoy watching them run about!

As well as dingoes, you might also spot dolphins and whales frolicking in the ocean. Crocodiles have also been observed in the west of the island.

Take a dip in the Champagne Pools

  The ocean surrounding Fraser Island is pretty treacherous – rip tides, undercurrents, stingers and sharks make it too dangerous to swim. However, there is a cluster of rock pools formed by volcanic rock called Champagne Pools which you can visit to swim in the saltwater. The pools are quite a popular swimming hole, where the ocean crashes over the rocks into the pools to provide a beautiful place to swim. We spent a couple of hours swimming here, and found the water to be pretty warm and peaceful.

View the scenery from Indian Head Lookout

Located on the eastern end of 75 Mile Beach sits a coastal headland known as Tuckee, which means ‘stone’ to the Aboriginals who lived on Fraser many years ago. The headland was named ‘Indian Head’ by explorer Captain Cook, who saw aboriginal people assembled here when he passed by.

Indian Head serves as a great vantage point, offering beautiful 360 views of the island to those who climb up to the top. The headland here is also a fantastic place from which to spot wildlife — whales and sharks can sometimes be seen in the ocean below.

Where to next?

• Check out my east coast of Australia road trip itinerary
• Explore tropical Magnetic Island
• Visit the iconic Great Barrier Reef

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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Oh my goodness, I am so bummed I missed this when I was in Australia! The water all over looks so clear and gorgeous! I bet it was nice and warm too. I guess I’ll have to go back 😉

Yes you will 😉

I used to camp on Fraser all the time when I was a kid. I really need to go back for a visit.

Ah I’m jealous- you must have gotten to explore so much of the island! There is definitely a lot more of it I’d love to see.

Wow, what an awesome island to 4WD on! I’ve heard so much about it but never actually been. I’d especially love to see the Maheno Shipwreck and go for a swim in that beautiful, blue water!

It really was amazing to drive around the island- a little scary in parts as you needed to have pretty good control of the vehicle but it was a lot of fun!

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Fraser Island Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Fraser Island. We've got 17 trips going to Fraser Island, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 28 days. The most popular month to go is July, which has the most tour departures.

17 Fraser Island tour packages with 17 reviews

Oz East Coast Adventure 28 Days

Shannon as a tour leader was perfect in every way. She took care of everyone and held the group together in a good way! This tour was amazing, of course there were some parts that was hard, but we made it through and had a lovely time!

• Christmas & New Year

City to Surf (8 Days)

Great way to see Sydney and tick off some Australian bucket list items!

• Wildlife & Nature Photography
• Kayak & Canoe

Best of the Coast - Sydney to Cairns 16 Day Flashpacker Adventure Tour

Not long home from a fantastic trip and still can’t believe how much Via Travel manage to pack into the time…koalas, kangaroos, Aussie bbq, beaches, snorkelling, scuba-diving (so glad I braved it!), racing against the tide on K’Gari, stunning Whitsundays (even in the rain), and the most perfect sunny day on the Great Barrier Reef….to name just a few of my highlights. Our tour guides, Cara (week1) & Justin (week2), were great too - enthusiastic, friendly, informative & so helpful. Being a small group tour, they had time to get to know everyone and ensure we were all having the best time! I’d highly recommend Via Travel to anyone and definitely use them again if I ever get back to Australia.

• Sightseeing

Oz East Coast + Work 20 Days

Had an amazing time on the 20 day east coast tour and saw some incredible places with the best people. Eilish did a amazing job organising everything and made it such a fun and stress free experience :)

Fraser Island Beach House Tag-Along 4WD Tour 3-Day

• In-depth Cultural

Couples 4wd Camper - 3 Days K'gari (Fraser Island)

Fraser Dingo were very informative and well-organised in the lead up to the trip giving you all details you needed for an amazing adventure! The car was so much fun to drive across the island and the bed in the back was comfy! We were provided with all camping equipment for the stay as well as detailed information about the itinerary, tide times, weather etc. It couldn't have been easier! Fraser Island is stunning and a must-visit in Queensland. I highly recommend this trip with Fraser Dingo!

Oz East Coast + Work 28 days

Oz East Coast Adventure 20 days

Couples 4wd Camper - 4 Days K'gari (Fraser Island)

East Coast Islands and Rainforest (2025/2026, 12 Days)

Best Beaches, Rainforest and Islands – 13 Day Flashpacker Adventure Tour

My boyfriend and I travelled from Brisbane to Cairns with Via travel two weeks ago and had the trip of a lifetime! The tour had the perfect balance of sight-seeing and relaxing so it really felt like a holiday while also seeing and experiencing some amazing places! It was fun, well-organised and stopped at all of the must-see places on the East Coast! Our tour guide, Jason, was friendly and informative and had an outrageous amount of knowledge on everything East Coast, from local knowledge, information about the wildlife, history and culture to restaurant and bar recommendations! His energy kept us going, even when we were tired, and made sure that everyone had a great time! Although everywhere we visited was amazing, some of the highlights for me were Magnetic Island (our favourite!!), which gave us the chance to see koalas, wallabies and lots of wildlife up close and in their natural habitats, snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, where we saw incredible aquatic life and coral (an absolute must do!!) and our Indigenous culture experience with Kuku Yalanji tours where we were completely out of our comfort zone but learned so much and got a real insight into local culture. We absolutely loved the small tour group size too, which allowed us to get to know everyone really well within a couple of days and make friends from all corners of the world! The group dinners and nights out that we had were so much fun! Whether you're a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking to explore the beauty of the East Coast, this tour with Via travel is a must-do experience and one that I will be recommending to all of my friends!!

Icons of Australia by Private Jet Melbourne Return (2024)

Fraser Island Camping Adventure 3D/2N (from Rainbow Beach)

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Hiking & Trekking

Pack-free Camping: Blue Lakes Eco Hike - 3 Days

Pack-Free Camping: Rainforest Eco Hike - 3 Days

What people love about fraser island tours.

Amazing 4 weeks in Oz! The organization of the hostel check-ins and the Greyhound rides were very good. Shannon was the most lovely tour leader and always ready to help with everything, which made the trip even better. Also the time we spent in each place felt just right. Only thing I would change about the itinerary are a bit more activities and less full free days. But overall it was a great experience!

I joined this tour in Brisbane and thoroughly enjoyed it. My fellow travellers were a fabulous mix of nationalities and we gelled together well. The trip included great beaches, amazing snorkeling, and natural wonders together with a friendly , fun guide Justin who made sure we were informed and supported. Definitely book with Viatravel for a great tour.

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31 Best Things To Do In Fraser Island (K’gari) 2024 Guide

Looking for the best things to do in Fraser Island (K’gari) and wondering how to spend your time when visiting one of the best places on the East Coast? Having recently visited, I’m sharing my travel guide for what to do in K’gari.

Expect to read about the best tours in Fraser Island, the best ways to get around the island, best Fraser Island attractions as well as how many days you should spend on Fraser Island and whether you can visit without a car needed.

Table of Contents

What is Fraser Island best known for?

K’gari, formerly known as Fraser Island is best known for being home to the world’s largest sand island. Home to the Butchulla people who lived on the island for 5000 years, K’gari is a magical island with so much history including 500 Indigenous archaeological sites, exceptional wildlife being famed for bird life, dingos and whale watching, as well as spectacular outdoor adventures for some of the best best driving in the world.

As one of the best places to visit on the East Coast of Australia, it’s no wonder visiting Fraser Island really does live up to the hype. With that in mind, let’s get started with some of the ways you can visit Fraser Island.

How many days should you spend on Fraser Island?

Unsure about how many days you should spend on Fraser Island? If you’ve not been before, you might be wondering if a day trip is worth it? If you’re coming from Hervey Bay, check out our guide for the 7 Best Fraser Island Day Trips From Hervey Bay . And yes, you can certainly tick off the main attractions in one day, but I highly recommend staying longer.

We spent three days on Fraser Island and while we saw all of the main sights at a leisurely speed, I could have easily spent a few more days there.

1. Jump on a tour instead of driving yourself

If you’re unsure if you feel confident to drive on a 100% sand island, then check out our Best Fraser Island Tours vs Tag Along vs Self Drive Options where I break down all of the pros and cons.

Make sure you read this guide because I learnt a lot about the tag along and self drive options on my recent visit, that I would definitely re-consider whether they are the best option for first time visitors and for anyone who has never driven on sand before.

Join a tour with K’gari Explorer Tours

I did the 3 day, 2 night Fraser Island tour with K’gari Explorer Tours which is a 4WD coach tour around the island. Now, I wouldn’t usually pick a coach tour but we loved it, especially when I saw one of the self-drive cars I was initially interested in. It was so small, I don’t even know how we would have slept in it or even driven it on sand!

Read our 3 Day K’gari Explorer Tour Review to find out everything you need to know about what this tour was like. I break down literally every aspect of the tour so you can see if it’s right for you. If you’re interested, you can book the 3 Day K’gari Tour here .

They also run 2 Day tours , which is where you’ll miss out on staying at the fantastic Kingfisher Bay Resort. This is an amazing resort, full of loads of activities like the incredible Bushtucker Talk & Taste which I’ll talk more about in this guide.

And if you’re stuck for time, check out their 1 Day K’gari Explorer Tour which is a day trip from Hervey Bay. You’ll see the same sights as you would in the 2 day and 3 day trip, except for Lake Wabby and Kingfisher Bay Resort, but you won’t get much time at each spot.

2. Take a tour to Pelican Banks

Looking to do something a little different on K’gari, formerly Fraser Island? Why not explore the remote Western side of the World Heritage listed K’gari by jumping on this day tour which includes kayaking, snorkelling, swimming and hiking as well as lunch.

3. Swim with whales

Hervey Bay and K’gari (Fraser Island) is home to some of the best whale watching tours in Australia. Jump on this affordable 9 hour day trip to swim with whales ! You’ll also get an opportunity to kayak in the crystal clear waters of Awinya or Bowarradt Creek while cruising along the pristine Great Sandy Strait in Fraser Island.

4. Stay at least a night at Kingfisher Bay Resort

I would highly recommend staying at Kingfisher Bay Resort which is located next to the car ferry on the West Coast. We’ve stayed at a lot of resorts on various islands on the East Coast, and Kingfisher Bay Resort is up there as being one of the best. Wanna know why? The resort is located in an amphitheatre opposite the beach and immersed in the incredible Wallam Wetlands area.

The hotel is relatively modern with three restaurants to choose from, plenty of daily activities and super comfy beds. Need I say more? You can check out our guide, My Honest Fraser Island Kingfisher Bay Resort Review to find out more details about our stay there.

Below are some of the highlights for staying at this resort.

5. Learn about the native plants and medicinal powers on the Wallam Walk

As soon as we arrived at Kingfisher Bay Resort, we jumped on the Ranger guided eco walk around the Wallam Westlands. Now, I can’t believe I have never done a walk like this before, because we learnt so much about the native plants and medicinal powers the Butchulla people would have used when they lived on the island for 5000 years. We were totally blown away by everything we learnt from our knowledgeable guide.

6. Bushtucker talk and taste

After we finished the Wallam Walk, we went straight into the Bush tucker talk & taste experience which was the perfect thing to do. We had a plate full of of plants, seeds and fruit to try and it was such a cool experience, especially as they give you the recipe for the amazing pesto you get to try!

You’ll discover how these foods are sourced, prepared, and used in traditional cooking. It’s an awesome experience that offers a deeper understanding of the island’s Aboriginal heritage and their connection to the land, along with the chance to try unique flavours and dishes.

7. Go on a ranger guided segway tour

While you’re at Kingfisher Bay Resort, jump on a segway tour led by a ranger to learn about the island’s eco-system and how all of the water used on the island comes from the underground system. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to explore, suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

8. Night walk at Kingfisher Bay Resort

A night walk at Kingfisher Bay is an experience that reveals the nocturnal side of Fraser Island. Guided by a ranger, you’ll venture into the darkness, discovering the island’s wildlife that comes alive at night on a Night Walk .

If a night adventure is your kind of thing, then the sounds of the forest, the rustling of leaves, and the possibility of spotting unique creatures like nocturnal birds, reptiles, or even dingoes, make this walk an exciting adventure.

9. Sunset cruise at Kingfisher Bay Resort

We had planned to do a sunset cruise but unfortunately the weather wasn’t on our side. The sunset cruise from Kingfisher Bay Resort is the perfect way to end a day on Fraser Island.

As you sail along the calm waters of the Great Sandy Strait, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the sunset over the island and the mainland. It’s a peaceful and picturesque experience that showcases the natural beauty of Fraser Island from a different perspective.

10. Or watch the sunset from the Sunset Bar

Walk down to the jetty and pop by the Sunset Bar for a drink to watch the sun setting over the water (a rare opportunity on the East Coast of Australia!). We stopped by for a quick drink before we had to leave the island and if the weather was on our side, we would have totally come down here for the evening.

11. Eat at Dune Restaurant

If you’re staying at Kingfisher Bay, make sure you make a booking for Dune Restaurant , serving up Asian cuisine. It’s a popular restaurant and mains cost around $30-$40 with big portion sizes. We ordered the drunken noodles and green curry and both were good.

Top Attractions to see on K’gari (Fraser Island)

12. visit the most popular spot: lake mckenzie.

When you visit Lake McKenzie, you’ll soon realise it is a crown jewel of Fraser Island and the most popular place to visit in K’gari. This perched lake, with its unbelievably clear water and pure silica sand, is a natural wonder (and one of the softest sands in the world with Whitehaven Beach beating it to the top spot). Ideal for swimming, its gentle, crystal-clear waters are both invigorating and soothing.

The fresh water lake has minerals in it that will make your skin feel super soft and the turquoise colour which gets lighter closer to the shore is visible due to where the lake bed has been worn away by people paddling close to the shore.

You’re not allowed to bring any food or drinks (except water) down to Lake Mckenzie due to the dingos roaming around the area. If you take any food down there, you could be fined. There is a picnic area at the top by the car park to use if needed as well as toilet facilities.

To find out more about this lake, check out our guide for 13 Things You Might Not Know About Lake Mckenzie in Fraser Island .

13. Float down the stunning Eli Creek

Eli Creek is an amazing spot for a floatie experience down the largest creek on Fraser Island. As the largest freshwater creek on the eastern side of the island, it pours millions of liters of water into the ocean daily.

You can wade or float down the gently flowing creek, enjoying the cool, clear water and the lush vegetation that lines its banks. If you’re on a tour, floaties will be provided, otherwise bring your own. This is a popular activity for kids especially, but watch out as we saw quite a few dingos hanging around. We’ve written more about this unique place in our guide, 10 Tips To Know Before Visiting Eli Creek In Fraser Island .

14. Visit the historic Maheno Shipwreck

The Maheno Shipwreck is a hauntingly beautiful and historical landmark on 75 Mile Beach. This once-luxurious ocean liner, beached during a cyclone in 1935, now stands as a sinking relic against the backdrop of the ocean.

Exploring the shipwreck offers a glimpse into the past, making it a must-see for history buffs and photographers alike. Go on a scenic flight with Air Fraser like we did and you’ll land right over it which is super cool!

One thing to note is you can’t get closer than three metres to the Maheno shipwreck or climb on it. Trust me, people have done it which is basically contributing towards the demise of this historic site. Please do not stand on it, that’s just crazy! Check out our guide, Tips For Visiting The Famous Maheno Shipwreck In Fraser Island before you go!

15. Swim at the Champagne Pools

I was really looking forward to seeing the Champagne Pools which is renowned for its jacuzzi experience. It’s a short walk down to the rock pools from the carpark, and while natural rock walls provide a barrier from the shark infested waters, it is a fun and unique spot for a refreshing dip, with the added thrill of waves splashing over into the pools.

Just be careful with the tides when visiting. When we visited, the weather wasn’t great and the water was quite rough. The rocks in the rock pools are very sharp and we saw a lot of people with their legs and backs cut up from them. I would recommend you check out our 12 Crucial Things To Know About The Champagne Pools In Fraser Island Guide before you go.

16. Visit the stunning Lake Wabby

Lake Wabby is a unique and ecologically significant spot on Fraser Island. This deep, green lake is bordered on one side by a massive sand dune and on the other by eucalyptus forest, creating a striking contrast.

It’s the deepest lake on the island and is slowly being taking over by the advancing sand dune. Swimming in Lake Wabby is a beautiful experience due to the magical energy here, with the clear, green waters offering a cool and refreshing escape. The lake is also a home for several fish species, adding to its ecological importance.

It took us about 40 minutes to walk to Lake Wabby and we just adored it. Honestly, make sure you go.

17. See Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek

We were blown away by Central Station which was once the heart of the logging industry on Fraser Island. Now standing as a testament to the island’s history and natural beauty, the nearby Wanggoolba Creek, with its crystal-clear, silently flowing waters, is honestly one of the most pinch me moments for being in a rainforest setting.

There’s an 800m board walk which takes you through the world’s only rainforest built on sand. You’ll see the cabins which were used for the logging industry in the early 1900s which is where a community lived as well as school and much more in the area.

18. Drive along 75 Mile Beach

The 75 Mile Beach is not just a beach; it’s an iconic highway, an airstrip, and it honestly feels like you’re driving on another planet. Driving along this sandy stretch is an adventure in itself. You’ll pass by coloured sand cliffs, shipwrecks, and bubbling fish-filled rock pools.

Just be careful if you’re driving in a hire car or tag along tour as you may come across flooded creeks to pass or uneven sand which could blow your tyres.

19. But don’t go swimming in the ocean

While Fraser Island’s beaches are stunning, swimming in the ocean is not allowed on the East Coast of 75 Mile Beach because it’s home to strong currents, dangerous rips, and a population of sharks, making ocean swimming risky.

Instead, Fraser island offers many safer alternatives for swimming, such as the places mentioned above like the perched lakes, Champagne Pools, and creeks, where you can enjoy the water’s beauty and refreshment without the dangers of the open ocean.

20. Visit The Pinnacles

The Pinnacles on Fraser Island are a stunning display of nature’s artistry. These coloured sand cliffs showcase a spectrum of hues – from reds to oranges and yellows, formed over thousands of years. Local Dreamtime stories add a layer of mystique to these natural formations which is also a women’s only area. Please respect this and men please avoid the lookout. The view from the beach is actually better, so you’re not missing out.

21. Red Canyon

Red Canyon down the beach from The Pinnacles offers a unique and less frequented natural attraction on Fraser Island. The canyon’s walls, composed of red and yellow sand, create a striking natural feature.

Walking through this area feels like stepping into a different world, with the colours and formations providing a stark contrast to the typical beach and forest landscapes of the island.

22. Take a scenic flight over Fraser Island

You know, we nearly didn’t do a scenic flight over K’gari (Fraser Island) because we didn’t think it would be worth it. But you know what? We ended up doing it and loved the experience. It cost us $100 each for a 15 minute flight over Fraser Island.

We visited lesser known lakes like the amazing Butterfly Lake and did an epic landing flying right over the Maheno shipwreck which was super cool. I would highly recommend seeing the island from above, it’s a great experience no matter what the weather looks like.

23. Check out the 1200 year old trees on the island

When we were on our way back to the ferry on the West Coast, we passed by the Valley of The Giants which is home to to the largest and oldest trees on Fraser Island. The wider the dimension of the trees, the older they are. We saw some that are 1200 years old which is pretty remarkable!

24. Stay Dingo safe

Fraser Island offers a unique opportunity to photograph wild dingoes in their natural habitat but don’t get close to them and be careful because they are dangerous. These animals, significant to the island’s ecosystem, can often be seen roaming the beaches or the bushland. They will certainly hang around any picnics or anywhere you’re serving up food, so be very careful. There have been a lot of dingo attacks and it’s best to remember there are wild animals, not dogs.

You’ll notice Dingo sticks around various areas of the island which you can use to protect yourself if you feel threatened by one.

25. Star gazing on the beach

Fraser Island’s remote location and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot for stargazing. Lying on the beach under a canopy of stars offers a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. The clear night sky, filled with constellations and the Milky Way, is a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the beauty of the natural world in the World Heritage site.

26. Go Fishing on Fraser Island

Fishing is a popular activity on Fraser Island, with the island’s waters teeming with a variety of fish species. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, fishing here can be both relaxing and exciting. From beach fishing to exploring the island’s creeks and estuaries, there are plenty of spots to cast a line and enjoy the thrill of the catch.

27. Sunrise at Eurong Beach

If you’re staying at K’gari Beach Resort or in the area, wake up that little bit earlier and watch the sunrise at Eurong Beach which is a spectacular experience. The early morning light painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, reflected on the calm ocean, is a sight to be seen.

It’s a perfect spot for those who appreciate the simpler joys of nature – the sound of waves crashing, the soft sand underfoot, and the fresh ocean breeze. Eurong Beach at sunrise isn’t just a visual treat; it’s a moment of serenity that sets a tranquil tone for the day.

28. Enjoy the views at Indian Head

Indian Head is the largest spot on the most easterly point on Fraser Island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s coastline and the ocean. As you stand atop this rocky outcrop, keep an eye out for marine life like sharks, rays, and dolphins.

The view from Indian Head, especially during migration season, can include sightings of humpback whales. It’s not just a viewpoint but a window into the rich marine ecosystem surrounding the island.

Lesser known hidden gems to visit on K’gari

Discover some of the lesser known hidden gems you won’t find on a tour around K’gari (Fraser Island).

29. Lake Birrabeen

Lake Birrabeen is Fraser Island’s serene secret, a perfect escape for those seeking peace away from the crowds like you’d see at Lake Mckenzie. This clear, turquoise lake, surrounded by soft, white sand, invites you for a refreshing swim or a relaxing day under the sun.

It’s less known than Lake McKenzie or Lake Wabby, offering a more private experience. The surrounding greenery adds a touch of wilderness, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic or a quiet moment with nature.

30. Watch turtles at Lake Allom

Lake Allom is a hidden spot, famous for its resident freshwater turtles. Here, you can quietly observe these graceful creatures as they swim and surface in the clear, tannin-stained waters. The lake is surrounded by a lush rainforest, creating a serene and secluded environment.

31. Hike the Fraser Island Great Walk

The Fraser Island Great Walk is one of the best treks in Australia, spanning 90 kilometers through some of the island’s most stunning landscapes. This 6-8 day hike takes you through ancient rainforests, around serene lakes, and along scenic coastlines.

It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you choose to do shorter sections or the entire trail, the walk offers a unique perspective of the island’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife, making it a must-do for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

I would love to do this hike, but I think I would be slightly nervous about coming across dingoes on the track. Check the Queensland Parks website for more information about the walk before you consider it.

Where to stay in Fraser Island (K’gari)

Wondering where to stay in Fraser Island? Here’s our top picks if you’re not doing the Fraser Island camping experience and looking for hotel accommodation.

• Kingfisher Bay Resort : located on the West Coast, Kingfisher is an upmarket resort with heaps of daily activities, multiple swimming pools and restaurants to choose from.
• K’gari Beach Resort (formerly Eurong Beach Resort) – Located at Eurong, this centrally located hotel is perfect for those looking to tick off all the 75 Mile Beach attractions.
• Fraser Island Retreat – located in Happy Valley, this retreat offers bungalows as well as a swimming pool and an onsite bistro and bar.

More K’gari travel guides

Looking for more travel guides for K’gari? Check out our Queensland page for all of our content, but you might like to check out these popular guides first.

• 31 Best Things To Do In Fraser Island (K’gari)
• 7 Best Fraser Island Day Trips From Hervey Bay
• Best Fraser Island Tours vs Tag Along vs Self Drive
• What The K’gari Explorer Tour To Fraser Island Looks Like
• 15 Things To Know About Planning A Fraser Island Trip
• 10 Tips To Know Before Visiting Eli Creek In Fraser Island
• 13 Things You Might Not Know About Lake Mckenzie In Fraser Island
• 12 Crucial Things To Know About The Champagne Pools In Fraser Island
• Tips For Visiting The Famous Maheno Shipwreck On Fraser Island
• My Honest Fraser Island Kingfisher Bay Resort Review

Things to do in Fraser Island

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The Best Backpacker Tours on Fraser Island

Raise your hand if you're travelling the East Coast of Australia! Looking for the best options to see Fraser Island on a budget?

The best value Fraser Island tours for backpackers are Fraser Dingo or Pippies all-inclusive tag-along tours that offer the opportunity to drive on the longest sand highway in the world, or the Cool Dingo Guided Tour where you can sit back and relax in a 4WD adventure bus. Groups can save even more by hiring a Fraser Dingo 4WD and completing their own personalised single or multi-day Fraser Island itinerary - a sure way to see all the best bits!

Here are our picks for the best value Fraser Island tours for backpackers packed full of fun, adventure and inclusions:

Fraser Dingo Tag Along Tour

2 days / 1 night.

For the best value 2-day Fraser Island tour, you can’t go past Fraser Dingo. This eco-tourism operator offers a fun and action-packed itinerary visiting all the hotspots such as Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek and the Maheno Shipwreck. Travel the beach and rugged inland tracks in a 4WD with 6 other like-minded travellers for a Fraser Island experience you will never forget. All meals are included (vegetarian, vegan and allergy-free options available) and you will stay overnight in a private beach house with dorm-style rooms - the perfect place for beach sports, nighttime wildlife viewing or spectacular sunrises for the early risers.

Pippies Tag-Along Camping Safari

3 days / 2 nights.

If you have a little more time up your sleeve, we would definitely recommend choosing a 3-day Fraser Island tour to be sure you don’t miss out on any of the highlights. Pippies offers an excellent value Tag-Along Camping Safari for up to 20 guests including all meals, vehicle fuel, sandboarding, nightly campfires and more. An extra day on Fraser Island will allow you to travel further and explore areas such as Indian Head and the Champagne Pools - a bubbling natural wonder not to be missed. After full days of adventure, relax at your private campsite at Cathedrals on Fraser featuring hot showers and flushing toilets or take a short walk to the cafe, bottle shop or beach nearby for spectacular stargazing. Pippies also offer free luggage storage at Pippies in Rainbow Beach.

Cool Dingo Guided Tour

Are you someone who enjoys adventuring by day but a bit more comfort at night? Cool Dingo’s eco-accredited guided tour offers a fun and affordable Fraser Island experience with accommodation at the Wilderness Lodge in Kingfisher Bay Resort with access to all resort facilities. After your free welcome drink, travel in style on a fully air-conditioned 4WD tour bus to must-see Fraser Island destinations such as Lake Wabby,  The Pinnacles, Eli Creek, the Champagne Pools and of course the beautiful Lake McKenzie where it will be hard to avoid taking a refreshing dip in the crystal clear water. This all-inclusive tour visits the highest number of destinations around Fraser Island and even features a FREE bush tucker experience where you will have the chance to try emu, kangaroo and crocodile plus assorted fruits and berries! 

Fraser Dingo 4WD Hire  

Single or multi-day hire.

The ultimate budget group adventure has to be hiring your own automatic 4WD to navigate the rugged wilderness of Fraser Island at your own pace and camp under the stars. This option is ideal for those travelling as a family or group as you can spend as long as you like at each destination and can plan to avoid the crowds. Fraser Dingo offers cost-effective group vehicle hire rates including return barge transfers, vehicle and camping permits and a stress-free personalised itinerary designed by their expert staff who know just how to make the most of the local tides and weather. You can even hire all your camping equipment at an extra cost through Fraser Dingo if you need to.

There are great options for every type of budget and experience on Fraser Island. If you would like more information on which Fraser Island tour will be best for you, talk to our friendly travel experts, they are more than happy to provide all the information you need and point you in the right direction!

Ready to book your perfect Fraser Island holiday at the best price? Chat to our friendly Fraser experts or call +61 74914 2425 anywhere in Australia! Ask us how you can package Fraser Island and the Whitsundays to SAVE even more!

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Fraser Island Day Trip: The Best Way To See K’Gari in 1 Day

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Visiting K’gari, otherwise known as Fraser Island, was one of those moments in life when the world reveals to you how magically perfect it is.

Known for being the world’s largest sand island where the only way around is to drive by four-wheel drive down the seventy-five mile beach, anyone planning to take a trip to K’gari will not leave disappointed.

It’s an adventurer’s paradise.

But what if you only have a day free in your Australia itinerary? What is the best way to explore Fraser Island in a day?

In this guide, we reveal how you can embark on a Fraser Island day trip and list the best day tours you can take.

The Maheno Shipwreck

Discovery fraser island tours from noosa, when is the best time to see whales on fraser island, is a fraser island day trip worth it.

But first, is Fraser Island worth visiting for one day? If you’re only able to do a day trip to Fraser Island, you won’t be able to see everything, so you’ll need to be ok with that before visiting.

However, many people do it, and it’s possible to see a lot of the highlights in one day if you’re prepared to drive fast and get up early.

We do think that Fraser Island is best seen over two or three days. If you have more time at your disposal, it would be wise to spend more time here so you can really take it all.

Why is Fraser Island so special?

Fraser Island stretches 123 km long and 23 km wide. The largest sand island in the world was dumped over 800,000 years ago from places as far as Antarctica when it was still joined with Australia.

It’s a World Heritage Site because it’s constantly moving and evolving. Fraser Island is the only place in the world where tall rainforests are found growing on sand dunes at elevations of over 200 metres.

Later on in the day from above the island through the window of a small Cessna we saw how the wind and sand have worked to shape this island.

A massive dune slowly makes its way through the middle of the island, claiming the forest as it goes. Dead tree stumps can be seen proudly standing amongst some of the dunes, the last visual reminder of the forest that was once there.

It’s a forest that grew from a pile of leaves on the sandy floor. The perfect, couldn’t-recreate-it-if-you-tried conditions to have towering trees, ancient ferns, and the crystal-clear waters running through streams.

Places To Visit on Fraser Island

If you only have one day on Fraser Island, be sure to visit the below places.

Water so clear, you only know it’s there when a leaf floats past you. It’s water that’s been filtered by the sand for up to 100 years – OMG the purity!

There are several creeks to visit and marvel at. Eli Creek is the most famous for wading, tubing, or swimming through. Eli pumps nearly 3.5 million litres of fresh water into the ocean every hour.

There is no place in the world like it.

Lake Mackenzie

In the middle of the island is Lake Mackenzie.

A lake that holds the key to youth. Water that is said to keep you younger.

It was too cold a day for me to test out that theory, but my feet sure liked it. I could see them easily enough – not a murky streak to be found.

Crystal clear water that glows iridescent blue and white silica sand so powdery soft waiting for you to clean your jewellery and exfoliate your skin.

Stay awhile.

Lake Mackenzie, while perhaps the most special lake on Fraser, is not the only one. The island has over 100 freshwater lakes.

Champagne Pools

The Champagne Pools are a natural swimming hole off 75-mile beach, between Waddy Point and Indian Head. 

These natural pools sit right on the water’s edge and are great for swimming since a rocky formation protects them from the rough waves of the ocean.

Grab your towel and your swimming costume and cool off in these refreshing pools.

The Pinnacles

The Pinnacles are an example of the natural beauty of Fraser Island. These natural limestone structures that were formed 25,000 – 30,000 years ago. They were formed after the sea receded back into the ocean, leaving behind a deposit of shells.

When the coastal winds removed the sand, these unique pillars were left exposed.

They are a marvel to witness.

The National Highway (75-Mile Beach)

It was fun to drive up and down 75 Mile Beach on the eastern side of the ocean, it’s one of the top things to do on Fraser Island .

It’s the wild and pounding side, in contrast to the Western side where the clear and calm water laps gently onto the soft, white sand.

75 Mile Beach is classed as part of the Bruce Highway so strict road rules apply. There are cops around ready to nab those who speed or drink drive.

It’s also important you understand how the tides work when driving this stretch so you don’t get cut off. Due to the constant movement of sea and sand, it’s not always exactly 75 miles long and the width changes dramatically.

You want to drive it when it’s flat and hard, then it becomes easier driving as long as you’re paying attention to the steady stream of 4WDs, the roaming dingos, the ambling tourists, and the joy flights taking off on the beach.

Fraser is the off-road driver’s dream and it is strictly only made for serious 4WDs.

Our Nissan X-Trail, whilst it’s been a nice suburban family 4WD didn’t have the necessary clearance from the ground to take on Fraser, which is why we now found ourselves on a personalized tour in a Toyota Prado being expertly driven along the sand by Kevin from Fraser Explorer Tours , organized through Kingfisher Bay Resort .

It’s a highlight tour on an island full of highlights. We only barely scratched the surface and I’m keen to return to explore so much Fraser has to offer.

We set up a picnic at Central Station, once a forestry township for about 150 people. We took a stroll along the boardwalk next to Wanggoolba Creek, which carries clear water through a tranquil rainforest filled with ancient ferns.

A short walk after lunch through the Pile Valley shows us some of the older and bigger Satinay trees – the ones that were spared from the forestry felling.

Fraser’s sand continues to amaze us as we drive alongside The Pinnacles , a small section of coloured sandy cliffs along the Surf Beach (I can’t believe they’re made from sand!)

Right near here washed up on shore at Happy Valley is one of the most photographed and visited sites on Fraser, the Maheno Shipwreck.

The Maheno, a former Trans-Tasman luxury liner, and a World War 1 hospital ship was washed up on shore in 1935 when she was being towed to Japan and a cyclone viciously ripped her from the chain and spewed her up on Fraser.

Sunrises are meant to be picture-perfect here with the Maheno in the foreground.

Best Fraser Island Tours for One Day

If you want to make the most out of your Fraser Island day trip, then booking a tour is a great way to see it all and learn about the formation and history in a short amount of time.

Plus you get to enjoy the comfort of being taken around, instead of stressing to fit everything in.

Here are some tours we recommend…

Kingfisher Bay Resort Day Tours

We stayed at Kingfisher Bay Resort which can organise 4WD tours of the island or a 4WD rental so you can do it yourself.

We opted for a guided tour since we were on limited time and wanted to know as much as possible. As we were bouncing around in a 4WD along the tracks on the white sandy beaches, expertly driven by our guide, Kevin, the girls squealed in the back, hands in the air as we went down another dip.

“It’s a roller coaster!”

We drove through an ancient forest of towering box brush and satinay trees, their roots digging down into the ground that deceived you into thinking it was rock-solid dirt.

Propping it all together was just a pile of sand. Except for a couple of rocks on a few points along the beach, there’s no rock on this island. The scenery was amazing.

I can’t believe Fraser Island is just sand.

The same statement was tossed around many times throughout the day by myself, Craig, and even Kevin. He’s been running tours here for over 15 years and the wonder and awe still run through him.

“What about how great my office is?” he’d keep asking us.

Yep, it’s pretty special.

Kingfisher Bay Resort offers the following options:

• Self drive with Aussie Trax Hire car. Rental prices start from $175.
• Full day Beauty Spots Tour (4WD bus tour takes in Lake McKenzie, Central Station, Pile Valley, 75-Mile Beach, Eurong Beach, Eli Creek, The Maheno, The Pinnacles coloured sands). Full day tour includes lunch, morning tea and national park fees. $160 adults, $110 for children and $495 for a family of 4.
• Full day Champagne Pools Tour (4WD Bus tour takes in the eastern beach sites including 75-Mile Beach, Kooloro Sandblow; Indian Head; Champagne Pools; Stonetool Sandblow and Red Canyon). Full day tour includes lunch, morning tea and national park fees. $160 adults, $110 for children and $495 for a family of 4.
• Personalised Tour of Fraser Island is only restricted by tides and time – if you have particular interests (like bush walking, bird watching etc), your guide will tailor your itinerary to suit. Tours take place in a Resort 4WD and include a gourmet lunch hamper. Price $1100 for full day including National Park fees, lunch, personal driver, vehicle permit, morning and afternoon tea.

For more information on the above tours click here . You can also see what people on Tripadvisor think about Kingfisher Bay Resort. Read our full review of the Kingfisher Bay Resort.

Fraser Explorer Tours (For those not staying on Fraser Island)

If you don’t plan on staying on Fraser Island, then Fraser Explorer Tours operates one and two-day tours of the island leaving from Hervey Bay , Rainbow Beach , the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, and Brisbane .

These are the best tours for those looking to take a Fraser Island day trip as you can be picked up and dropped off at the place you are staying.

Each one-day tour of Fraser Island is led by an experienced local guide, and takes you to sights such as Lake McKenzie, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient rainforest, Central Station, Eli Creek, The Pinnacles, along the 75 Mile Beach, and to the iconic Maheno Shipwreck.

For all their tour info click here , or see reviews on TripAdvisor .

K’gari Explorer Tours (Coach Tours)

If you enjoy coach tours, then K’Gari Explorer Tours offers a full day coach tour leaving from Hervey Bay.

Explore the island on a 4WD bus and visit sights such as Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, 75 Mile Beach, The Pinnacles, and the Maheno Shipwreck.

While you’re exploring, your local guide will provide expert commentary on the sights. If you don’t speak English, then you can download a free app that will give you a tour in your own language.

You’ll get to stroll along the Wanggoolba Creek boardwalk and learn about the ancient plants and fauna, such as king ferns, ghost gums, and pine trees.

This tour comes with all the ferry transfers and transport included. They will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation.

Check out availability and prices for the 4WD coach tour here!

Air Fraser Island (For Scenic Flights)

When you take a scenic joy flight with Air Fraser Island , you’ll see the pretty Butterfly Lake, surrounded by forest that looks like heads of broccoli. Air Fraser run 15 minute joy flights from 75 Mile Beach all day long.

Kalyra was enthusiastic until the plane began to turn. Because you know in a small plane, you feel every inch of the turn, so much so that you think it’s going to roll.

“Get me out of here!” she screamed, barely audible above the noise of the engines.

“I want to go back. The plane is going to roooolllll.”

You really shouldn’t want to laugh at your child’s terror, but the knowing she was safe and the look on her face made it so difficult to control the outburst and short bursts of giggles kept escaping. I quietly talked her out of her fear, letting her know if I was not scared then she shouldn’t be.

Thankfully below us in the ocean, a baby humpback whale swam gracefully next to her Mama.

“I’ve never seen a whale like this before Mama.”

A slight bit of joy for the flight returned. (But didn’t last long. She swears she’ll never do another!)

It’s a stunning flight with beautiful views over beach, sand dunes, coastal forest, and even a butterfly shaped lake that can only be seen from above.

Air Fraser Island run 15-minute joy flights from 75 Mile Beach all day long for $80 p/p.

Tasman Ventures (Whale Watching Experience)

If your plan is to visit Fraser Island for whale watching only, then you might enjoy the whale watching cruises from Tasman Ventures.

Tasman Venture cruises are known to get you  up close to the whales (when booking the tour during whale season, of course).

Departing from Hervey Bay Marina you’ll pass through the Great Sandy Strait and past remote islands before heading to a popular playground for whales off the coast of Fraser Island.

Keep your eyes open for dolphins, turtles, dugongs, birds, and dingoes on their amphibious watercraft, which can drive right onto the beach.

The watercraft will take you to Wathumba Creek, Awinya, or Bowarrady Creek, followed by opportunities to snorkel with turtles, go kayaking, tubing, sand dune climbing, or simply walk on the beach.

They also serve morning tea, afternoon tea with biscuits as well as a full lunch. Snacks, soft drinks, and beer are available on the boat too.

Check out cruises from Tasman Ventures here!

If you’re staying in Noosa and fancy taking a Fraser Island day trip, then the one day tour by Discovery Fraser Island Tours might be the best option for you.

Just like the other tours on this list, you will enjoy a 4WD adventure on Fraser Island, driving down the 75-mile beach to check out sites like Lake McKenzie, the ancient rainforest, Central Station, Pile Valley, and Wanggoolba Creek.

But this tour has the added thrill of driving along the Great Beach Drive , a beach highway from Rainbow Beach to Noosa .

Guests will be picked up from your hotel, and driven along the Great Beach Drive through Toolara Forest and Great Sandy National Park, before taking the ferry over to Fraser to explore some more.

Then you will travel back to Noosa via the beach highway.

What an adventure!

Check out day tours from Noosa with Discovery Fraser Island Tours here!

FAQs About Visiting Fraser Island

Here is what people usually ask us about visiting Fraser Island…

Where is The Best Place to See Dingoes on Fraser Island?

Dingoes travel for 45km a day in search of food, so it’s likely you will see them anywhere on Fraser Island.

It’s estimated there are 20-30 packs of dingoes, so you should keep an eye out for them at all times.

Dingoes are tamer than they should be here on Fraser, but do keep an eye on your children.

Thanks to the poor choices of humans, they’ve learned not to respect people and so keep their distance. You’re bound to have dingos coming pretty close to you on the beaches, particularly near Eli Creek, sniffing for food.

Despite signs warning of the danger all over the island, we see tourists moving close to them to get their shot of the cute wild dogs. We preferred to rely on our 300mm zoom lens to do the trick from afar.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during whale season (July – September), you might be lucky to be greeted by a baby whale breaching out of the ocean just offshore.

Not only will the land blow your mind on Fraser Island, but so will the wildlife.

Humpback whales, dolphins, and tiger sharks like to chase the fish just beyond the waves. The currents don’t run through here so they pool out the back. I wouldn’t bring your surfboards and I’d save your swimming for the lakes and creeks.

We saw plenty of whales from 75 Mile Beach, from the lookout at Indian Head, and on a whale watching tour from Hervey Bay – the whale capital of Australia. (It’s on the west side of Fraser Island)

Final Thoughts on Fraser Island Day Trips

Everything is picture-perfect on Fraser Island.

You leave behind only your footprints that quickly absorb into the sand, but in your heart remains the memory of a place that revealed to you a story of a Universe that is so magical that it conspires to bring the most perfect elements to create wonderlands that baffle.

It’s a moment that draws your awareness to miracles – the trees, the air, and of course, even yourself. One day a tiny sperm met a tiny egg against all odds – when conditions were just perfect. We’re all just as amazing as the sand that trees can grow out of.

We all need to travel more to experience such awe and wonder. You sure will thrive if you do.

Disclaimer: We visited Fraser Island in partnership with Kingfisher Bay Resort & Tourism Queensland

Video of Fraser Island

Watch our video of our experience at Fraser Island here…

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About The Author

Caroline makepeace.

Fraser Island Tours

Fraser Island is a great sandy island off the east coast of Queensland.

• About Fraser Island
• Fraser Island Facts
• Fraser Island History
• Getting to Fraser Island
• Fraser Island Weather

Fraser Island is an iconic destination with so much to to do and experience.

• Fraser Island Experiences
• Rain forest and Plantlife
• Whale Watching
• Beach Driving + 4WD

Fraser Island has a wide choice of accommodation from budget to pure luxury.

• Fraser Island Accommodation
• Hervey Bay Accommodation
• Fraser Island Camping
• Kingfisher Bay Resort
• Eliza Fraser Lodge
• Eurong Beach Resort

Fraser Island Tours Experience more of Fraser Island.

It is possible to book various types of Fraser Island tours that will help you discover the island’s many natural wonders. Boasting abundant wildlife and magnificent sights, Fraser Island is an absolute paradise for anyone who wants to submerge himself right in the midst of nature.

Indeed, this island is teeming with a plethora of rare bird species, whales, dolphins, sharks, aquatic turtles as well as centuries-old trees and other rare plants.

Here are just some of the best tours on Fraser Island…

Best Fraser Island Tours

Fraser Explorer Day Tour Ex-Rainbow Beach features free pick-up service from your hotel or accomodation, along with barge transfers to the island.

In this tour, you will be able to experience some of the best Fraser Island landmarks such as Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek, where you will be able to enjoy the wonderful coolness of the subtropical forest.

Following this expedition, the tour will take you for a refreshing dip in Fraser Island’s Lake McKenzie. The expedition additionally include a visit to the Pinnacles Colored Sands, Maheno Shipwreck and Eli Creek.

The tour departs from Rainbow Beach at 8am and leaves Fraser Island at around 4.30pm. It is also possible to select a full day 4WD tour for added thrills.

For a supplement, a buffet lunch at the world-renowned Eurong Beach Resort is also included.

Extremely popular among thrill-seekers, Dingo’s Three Day Tag Along Fraser Island 4WD Tour departs every day from Rainbow Beach Hostel.

Dedicated to providing you with three days of fun, adventure and exploration, Dingo’s offers a self-driven 4×4, along with a private and well-appointed campsite where you will be able to comfortably spend the night.

During those three days, you will benefit from the expertise of an experienced tour guide who will keep you entertained with insightful information while pointing out Fraser Island’s most spectacular landmarks such as Lake Wabby, Champagne Pools, Indian Head, Maheno Shipwreck, Eli Creek, 75 Mile Beach, among others.

Camping sites are all equipped with fully-functional restrooms and showers. All your luggage and valuables can safely be stored at Dingos Resort.

Through the award-winner Fraser Experience Tours company, visitors will be able to enjoy a full day of custom-guided adventures on Fraser Island. Because this company sticks to smaller groups, you can be sure to enjoy a fully personalized service from the tour’s friendly guides.

Indeed, groups never exceed 17 people, providing you with the chance to make the most out of your day. Tourists will travel in air-conditioned and highly comfortable bus that can easily travel on various types of terrains. Delicious, nutritious meals, as well as water bottles are provided all through the day.

The One-Day-Luxury Hummer Tour, for example, is limited to no more than four people per group and will take you across the island on the company’s exclusive H3 Hummers. This tour starts off from Hervey Bay on a daily basis and it is limited for a maximum of four participants per tour.

Picnic hampers are provided for lunch while tea-time is fueled by champagne, strawberries, chocolate and of course, tea.

Map of Fraser Island

Explore more with our Fraser Island map and find your way around Australia’s world famous sand island. Zoom in on the map to discover more.

Facts + Weather

How big is Fraser Island? How was Fraser Island made? Where is Fraser Island? How did Fraser Island get it’s name? This special iconic place invokes so many questions – see our Fraser Island Facts page to get all the answers.

Weather Fraser Island is gloriously mild and sunny, enabling visitors to enjoy just about any type of activity during their stay.

How to get there? Located off the coast of Queensland, heritage-listed Fraser Island is easily accessible by road and sea.

History Learn about the cultural history of Fraser Island and find out more about Captain James Fraser.

Australia's great sandy island

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• Uluru Australia
• Blue Mountains
• Great Ocean Road
• Lord Howe Island
• Hunter Valley
• Kangaroo Island
• Port Stephens
• Australia's Best Beaches
• Wiki Australia
• Kimberley Australia

About 'Fraser Island Australia'

Fraser Island Australia is a 'Web Magazine' website that is dedicated to all things related to Queensland's iconic great sandy island. We are passionate about Australia's great natural wonder, its vast beaches and lakes, its incredible vistas, its natural beauty and the unforgettable experiences that are waiting for all who visit. Our aim is to discuss Fraser Island, its history, its environment, its wildlife and its spectacular destinations. We hope that this website will inspire all who visit, just as much as Fraser Island has inspired us.

Travel web design

Travel and tourism website design by Jimmyweb Sydney website design by Jimmyweb Blue Mountains website design by iVent