8 Epic Fraser Island Experiences

A prized World Heritage site, Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island located off the coast of Queensland. Not only is it spectacular because of its size, but it’s also the only place on Earth where tall rainforest grow on sand dunes at elevations of more than 200 meters and it has half of the world’s perched lakes (40 to be exact!). These are lakes that are formed when depression in dunes fill permanently with rainwater.

For our visit to Fraser Island, we decided to go with a tour. We chose Pippies Beachhouse 3 Day/ 2 Night Fraser Island Tag- Along Tour. With that we were able to visit all the Fraser Island highlights, ride a 4WD along the beach and stay at the campsite which included hot showers, flushing toilets and campfires. As far as food went, we split into two groups. One night one group cooked while the other cleaned and we switched it up the following night.

Expansive stretch of beach on the eastern side of the island which we were able to drive along during our tag along tour.

If you do decide to do a self drive of the island, it’s best to get a lesson first about how to drive on sand. You need to let some of the air out of your tires. It’s also important to understand how        the tides work as you don’t want to get stranded. Low tide is best time to drive on the sand and be careful not to drive during the two hours on either side of high tide.

Because it’s classed as a highway, there are strict road rules. There’s also police present on the beach.

One of our first stops on the island, Lake McKenzie is known for its changing hues and pure white silica sand. The lake is so pure, it’s unsuitable for many species. But the water is said to keep you younger as it holds the key to youth. So far, I feel like I’m still looking pretty youthful so we’ll see if it’s true or not. Check back with me in a few more years!

A coastal headland, this cliff sits directly at the top of 75 Mile beach. The views from up here are absolutely breathtaking of the sand stretch that spans Fraser Island’s eastern edge. The area was named by Captain James Cook because as he was sailing his ship the Endeavour, he spotted a group of Aboriginals standing on the headland.

Champagne Pools A popular swimming spot on the Island, known for its pools of bubbling water caused by waves crashing over volcanic rocks.

This natural lazy river is an estuary outlet flowing down to the sea at a pace that allows you to perfectly float along with it. The river is so clear, you also aren’t aware there is water in it. This is because the water has been filtered by the sand for up to 100 years. Surrounded by subtropical rainforest, it’s a great way to enjoy a relaxing afternoon floating down the river.

Maheno shipwreck Located along 75 Mile Beach, this is one of the most photographic spots on the Island. It is a famous wreck of a trans-Tasman luxury liner and a WWI hospital ship that was washed ashore during a cyclone in 1935. You’ll notice it as you’re driving along 75 Mile Beach as there tend to be a crowd there taking pictures

Lake Wabby Located at the bottom of a dramatically sloping sand dune, this is a deep freshwater, green colored lake where you can enjoy a nice swim and a fish pedicure. I read somewhere that the lake will be gone in 100 years or so, so you best go enjoy it now!

The Pinnacles colored rocks This is a small section of colored sandy cliffs, just north of the Maheno. The colors are mesmerizing, but what’s more fascinating is that it’s made of sand!

Bonus: Scenic Flight of the Island While we didn’t do this, you can also take a flight over Fraser Island for an extra $75 p/p. You’ll get incredible views of the coast as well as views of the massive sand dunes inland.

Budget: $459 AUD pp, but if you book a packaged east coast deal, you can get this discounted

Best time to visit: year round, but July – October has the lowest chance of rain.