Fraser Island

The world's largest sand island, Fraser Island spans 120 kilometres and features freshwater lakes, rainforests, shipwrecks and exceptional wildlife viewing including dingoes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering four-wheel-drive adventures and pristine natural beauty.

Things to do

• Lake McKenzie — Swim in this pristine freshwater lake with crystal-clear water and pure white sand beaches, accessible by four-wheel drive.
• Seventy-Five Mile Beach — Drive along this iconic hard-packed sand beach stretching the island's eastern coast, spotting shipwrecks and enjoying ocean views.
• Eli Creek — Wade through this warm freshwater creek that flows directly onto the beach, a refreshing stop during island exploration.
• Indian Head — Hike to this elevated headland to spot sharks, rays, and dolphins in the waters below while enjoying panoramic island views.
• Sandy Cape Lighthouse — Visit the northernmost point of Fraser Island featuring a historic lighthouse with scenic coastal walks.
• Central Station Rainforest Walk — Explore lush subtropical rainforest with towering satinay trees and freshwater streams in this protected forest reserve.
• SS Maheno Shipwreck — Examine the rusted remains of this Japanese passenger ship wrecked in 1935, visible on Seventy-Five Mile Beach.

Food to try

• Freshly caught barramundi — Enjoy locally caught barramundi prepared grilled or pan-fried at island restaurants and resorts.
• Mud crab — Sample sweet and tender mud crab harvested from Fraser Island's coastal waters, typically served steamed or in seafood platters.
• Macadamia nut dishes — Try locally sourced macadamia nuts featured in salads, desserts, and as toppings at island dining establishments.
• Queensland tropical fruit platters — Taste fresh local mangoes, paw paw, and pineapple served as refreshing platters at island accommodations.

Local customs & good to know

• Four-wheel-drive permit required — All vehicles on Fraser Island require a valid permit and high-clearance four-wheel drive is essential for beach and inland driving.
• Dingo awareness and safety — Keep a safe distance from dingoes, never feed them, and secure all food properly as these wild dogs are a significant part of island ecology and pose genuine safety risks.
• Tide and beach driving conditions — Always check tide times before driving on Seventy-Five Mile Beach as conditions change rapidly and soft sand can trap vehicles at high tide.
• UNESCO World Heritage respect — Stay on designated tracks and remove all rubbish to preserve the island's protected status and fragile ecosystem.