7 blissful days in Hervey Bay with the family

Despite being the whale watching capital of Australia and the springboard to the world’s largest sand island at K'gari (formerly Fraser Island), Hervey Bay manages to still fly under the radar a little - and that's part of its charm.

This sleepy little Queensland town has woken from its slumber, keeping all the great traits of its laidback lifestyle and family-favourite activities, while adding a cool café culture, beachfront dining and even a new brewery or two. 

An easy 3.5 hours’ drive north of Brisbane, Hervey Bay is a destination where you’ll be rewarded by beautiful bay breezes upon arrival - and unbeatable ways to clock up some true quality time. 

Day 1: Swing into the sway of the bay

Morning

Locals have a soft spot for their yawning Esplanade which stretches some 17km along this beautiful bay, so arrive and join the throngs taking a leisurely morning walk along this pretty patch which boasts 12 parks, 10 barbecue areas, and a handful of welcoming beachfront cafes. Enjoy a cuppa at the aptly-named Aquavue, and if the kids are ready to dive into activities, rent watersports equipment such as kayaks, stand-up paddle boards or a bike from their adjacent activity centre.

Afternoon

It's time to check in. Relax by the pool at your choice of Hervey Bay accommodation - there's everything from holiday parks to waterfront hotels and self contained apartments. Discovery Parks and BreakFree Great Sandy Straits Hervey Bay are great options for families visiting the Fraser Coast. 

Eat

Hervey Bay has endless dining potential for every taste. Perched on the water’s edge like a pelican, Cafe Balaena is an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Try the barra burger or locally caught whiting - and save room for some sweets from the impressive cake display too.

Day 2: Embrace Indigenous culture

Morning

For a unique tour experience, join the Indigenous operators at Hervey Bay Eco Marine Tours There’s a swag of tours from which to choose including Turtle Discovery; Djinang Walking Tour; and whale watching at this family-run business which lets you explore nature through the lens of the Butchulla People of the region.

Afternoon

Take a wander through the shops at the Urangan Boat Harbour. For some cool souvenirs – t-shirts, water bottles, jewellery - with a conscience, shop at the Pacific Whale Foundation Australia where all proceeds support whale research, education and conservation.

Eat

It’s hard to beat the Hervey Bay Boat Club with its deck overlooking the Great Sandy Straits. Tuck into a hearty meal of seafood, pizzas and steaks, and take advantage of the huge range of entertainment on offer from trivia nights to live music. 

Day 3: Shop and splash

Morning

Hervey Bay is a market shopper’s paradise with five markets staged at various stages of the week and month. Check out the Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday at Pier Park Urangan, which has a host of arts and crafts as well as local produce. A lovely way to spend the morning is walking along the shopping side of the Esplanade, pausing at the plethora of homeware boutiques here. Check out The Ibis Next Door and Pocket.

Afternoon

For some splashy family fun, without the cost, head to WetSide Water Park along the Esplanade for its waterslides, water play area, TotSide for under 5s, FlipSide Board Rider, and Fountain Light Show on Saturday nights.

Eat

The queue is always long at Maddigan’s Seafood, but locals swear it’s the best fish and chips in town.

Day 4: Experience the wonder of K'gari

All day

One of the newest additions to Hervey Bay restaurants, Cauldron Brewing serves beer brewed inhouse. For some more on-tap craft beer, burgers and freshly roasted coffee under the one roof, while the kids will love Santini Pizza e Cucina and its adjacent gelateria.

In between bites, today’s the day to rack up some serious beach time. Hervey Bay’s beaches are calm and protected, perfect for kids of all ages. Head to Torquay (lifeguards on duty), Urangan (great for collecting shells) or Scarness beaches. Older kids craving a little surf will enjoy the beaches at Point Vernon.

Eat

Round off the day with a cheeky drop at 19XO Wine & Cocktail Bar along the Esplanade, with sunset hour 5-6pm daily.

Day 6: Slip on a snorkel or scooter

Morning

The Hervey Bay Dive Centre is jam-packed with adventure for the entire family. Whether it’s a snorkel or underwater scooter tour, or taking a deep dive of the local wrecks, a morning out on the boat is sure to be a highlight of your family holiday.

Afternoon

Built in 1913, the iconic Urangan Pier was once 1107 metres long but was repaired and reduced in the late 90s to 868 metres - though it remains one of the longest in Queensland. Join the locals for a spot of fishing, or simply wander along with an ice cream in hand. 

Eat

For a great breakfast or lunch spot overlooking the pier, and serving Hervey Bay’s famous scallops, head to Salt Cafe Urangan.

Day 7: Explore Point Vernon or go whale watching

Morning

Pack a picnic and drive to Point Vernon, renowned as Queensland’s largest rocky promontory on the coast between Noosa and Bundaberg. There’s plenty of swimming opportunities at Gatakers Bay and you can read all about the region’s shorebirds, sand dunes and vegetation in the park at The Gables. Keep an eye out for marine life here too.

But if you're here during whale watching season, this is your chance to head out on a tour. Here's how to pick the best whale watching trip for your family - some operators even offer the chance to safely swim with the whales. 

Afternoon

Late afternoon, just as the sun is about to set, look to the sky. Here you’ll see the nightly migration of thousands of bats and fruit flies as they make their way from the mainland back to K'gari.

Eat

End your adventure on a high note with a special set menu at Odyssey Bistro which serves produce locally-sourced between the Sunshine Coast and Bundaberg. 

Up for exploring even more of the region while you’re here? Check out these best day trips from Hervey Bay or head out on a sailboat with the whole family.