9 reasons why a visit to K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) should be top of your list
List
By Danielle Reckless
K’gari is an island that has it all: good looks, plenty of substance, and a lot of charm. It's where adventure feels as rejuvenating as it does thrilling: no sealed roads, no WiFi. Just nature – and a lot of it.
Wander here and you’ll be stepping into the land of the Butchalla people, who have around 20,000 years of history on K’gari.
That’s just the beginning of why you need to visit K’gari.
1. It's got World Heritage status
Photo by @kyle_hunter
Don’t just take our word for it: K’gari’s significance runs so deep it’s recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage area. One of five World Heritage sites in Queensland and part of the Great Sandy National Park, K’gari is one of the most unique islands on earth.
K'gari owes its status to the thriving beauty and wildlife that call the island home – including the only known place on earth where rainforest grows on sand dunes, over half of the world’s perched freshwater dune lakes, and massive dunes that soar taller than the Sydney Opera House.
2. It's the world's largest sand island
Driving along the beach on K’gari
Stretching 123km long and 22km wide off the Fraser Coast, K’gari measures in as the world’s largest sand island – and every inch offers adventure.
A little further south, off the coast of Brisbane, Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) and Moorgumpin (Moreton Island) clock in as two and three respectively.
3. Going off-road is part of the experience
Beach driving on K'gari
Rugged and wild, K’gari is best explored by 4WD along its beach highways and sandy inland tracks. It’s also one of the best places in Australia to take a beach camping trip, so brush up on your beach driving skills before you go or learn from the best while you’re here.
Don’t have a 4WD? Don’t worry: there’s plenty of tours that’ll show you the sight in day trips and multi-day adventures.
4. There are endless spots to take a dip
Eli Creek, K'gari
This might be an island, but the best swimming spots are found off the beach due to the strong surf and currents that regularly hit the shores of K’gari.
Soak up a little serenity floating down Eli Creek, sink into the natural Jacuzzi that is Champagne Pools, or spend a few hours basking in the sparkling surrounds of Lake McKenzie – one of the 100+ freshwater lakes found on the island.
With water this inviting, you'll want any excuse to dive in.
5. It's a hiker's paradise
Lake Wabby, K'gari
While 4WD is the most popular way to get around, hikers will be more than satisfied after lacing up their boots. There’s short trails and day hikes that lead through the ancient Valley of the Giants, Lake Wabby, Central Station and other landmarks. Or, see it all on the rewarding 90km Great Walk.
6. It's the place for adventure
K'gari, Fraser Coast
If you want to chase thrills as well as natural beauty, K’gari has you covered. From sailing trips and Jet Ski safaris to scenic flights and kayaking the island’s wild side, there are unique ways to explore every corner.
7. You'll spot a dingo or two
Dingo on the beach, K’gari
Wildlife thrives on K’gari, but the dingo is one of its most famous inhabitants. As cute as they look, it’s best to keep your distance and admire from afar – they are protected here.
8. You'll find shipwrecks on the sand
SS Maheno shipwreck, K'gari
No dive gear is required to marvel this shipwreck. The S.S. Maheno beached on K'gari in 1935 and its rusting wreck makes for a great stop on your drive along the sand.
9. Visit K'gari in winter to watch whales play
Tasman Venture Whale Watching, K'gari
From August to October, you can watch humpback whales nurture their playful calves in K'gari’s protective waters. While Hervey Bay on the mainland hosts the lion’s share of whale watching tours, you can still jump on a wildlife cruise from K’gari. You can often spot breaches and blowholes from shore, too.
