tourist drive 12 hervey bay

• Visitor Information

Fraser Coast Tourist Drive 12

• Destinations
• Fraser Coast

Fraser Coast Tourist Drive 12 is a 95-kilometre drive, starting from the Maryborough exit heading north on the Bruce Highway. The tourist drive follows through Maryborough before heading north to Hervey Bay. From Hervey Bay, the drive heads west towards Toogoom before heading back towards the Bruce Highway to finish in the township of Howard.

The tourist drive signs at the different ends shows different distances. In Maryborough the brown sign states 105 kilometres, while in Howard the brown sign states 73 kilometres. It seems that it is neither and the distance is somewhere in between, around 95 kilometres. However, the earlier sign may be the more accurate after taking in all the detours off the main drive along the way.

There are quite a few brown signs through Maryborough that are not on the main tourist route. You would miss Cherry Tree Lane with the Mary Poppins Museum for example. Hervey Bay have some that are off the tourist route, however, there are a lot along the foreshore the route follows through it.

From Maryborough To Howard

Start of tourist drive.

The Bruce Highway has a brown sign for the tourist drive approaching the Maryborough Exit not long after passing Tinana South Visitor Information (Lychee Divine) . The start of the Fraser Coast Tourist Drive 12 is found along Gympie Road, Maryborough Exit.

From the start of the Maryborough exit follow Gympie Road for approximately 2 kms and Big Ned Kelly stands proud in front of Ned Kelly’s Motel and Ned’s Service Station.

Big Ned Kelly

If you are looking for big things, the first stop is Big Ned Kelly .

The seven-metre tall ‘big thing’ is an oddity in Maryborough. The Kelly Gang were killed in a fiery shootout in Victoria, with the exception of the wounded and captured Ned Kelly. Queensland was never a part of the Kelly Gang history, or was it?

Continue on Tourist Drive

From Big Ned Kelly continue following Gympie Road for 1.4 kms, turn right at McGregor Street then immediate left at Sunrise Drive. Drive to the end and you will reach Pioneer Park.

Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park is a reserve on the south side of the Mary River in Tinana of Maryborough. It is one of two brown signs leading to two different entrances of the reserve.

From McGregor Street continue north on Gympie Road over the Mary River, Gympie Road then becomes Ferry Street. Continue along Ferry Street for 600 metres and turn left into Ann Street. There will be a brown sign for the Fraser Coast Tourist Drive on the left just before Ann Street.

Follow Ann Street for 650 metres to the end where you will reach Ululah Lagoon Water Bird Sanctuary.

Ululah Lagoon Water Bird Sanctuary

Ululah Lagoon is a key feature of Anzac Park in Maryborough, abundant with wildlife that make the lagoon their home. The lagoon was an important freshwater  billabong  for the local Aboriginal people. For those who love to participate in Parkrun on a Saturday morning the Maryborough Parkrun takes place in the vicinity of Ululah Lagoon.

Left Lions Drive

Right Queen Street

Right Neptune Street

Right Alice Street

Left Pallas Street

Right Kent Street

Elizabeth Rose Gardens

Left Lennox Street

Cherry Tree Lane

Point Lookout

Left Woodstock Street

Right Saltwater Creek Road

Cross Mary River Straight Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road

Susan River Homestead Adventure Resort

Right Roundabout Booral Road

Straight Elizabeth Street

Right Boat Harbour Drive

Left Charlton Esplanade

Dayman Park

Left Miller Street

Right Pulgul Street

Left Kent Street

Veer Right King Street

Right Elizabeth Street

Left The Esplanade

Hervey Bay Foreshore Parks

Otto Merchel Park

Ron Beaton Park

Bill Wilkin Reserve

Nielsen Park

Scarness Park

Adventure Side

Large playground with 7.3 metre high sky towers and giant spider web.

Skate park designed to cater for beginners to advanced enthusiasts.

Wetside Water Park

Waterpark with slides and a wave machine

Big Fighting Whiting

There are a few big things in Maryborough. The Big Fighting Whiting is one that has been around for a while.

The Big Whale

Left Martin Street

Left Tooth Street

Right Old Maryborough Road

Straight roundabout Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road

Right Pialba-Burrum Heads Road

Left Burrum Heads Road

Right Burgowan Road

Steley Street

Brooklyn House

Left William St

Historic Howard

To get there.

The map is provided by Booking.com . If you can't see accommodation options on the map, search for accommodation on Booking.com .

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14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Hervey Bay

Written by Karen Hastings Jul 15, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Nature rules in Hervey Bay. Sitting in the center of the UNESCO-recognized Great Sandy Biosphere Reserve, about a 3.5-hour drive north of Brisbane, this friendly Fraser Coast town is one of Queensland's best places to visit for exhilarating wildlife adventures.

Ever wanted to swim with a whale , or come eye to eye with one from a boat? You can tick it off your bucket list in Hervey Bay — it's the whale watching capital of Australia . Swimming with manta rays? You can do that, too, on a day trip to ravishing Lady Elliott Island. Craving a 4WD safari adventure? Hervey Bay is the gateway to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island (K'Gari) , the largest sand island in the world, home to crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and fascinating wildlife.

Aquatic activities are another highlight in Hervey Bay. Thanks to its calm waters and sunny, subtropical climate, the area is a wonderland for water sports year-round. Sailing, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and swimming are all top things to do in Hervey Bay, and the placid, fish-rich waters make it one of the best fishing destinations in Australia .

Traveling with children? Hervey Bay's family-friendly beaches are perfect for paddling with the kids. Plus the region's top places to visit are refreshingly uncrowded compared to other coastal hot spots, so you'll find plenty of space to spread out and enjoy life by the sea. Plan a picnic in the botanical gardens, bike along the waterfront paths, and cool off in the bay-view water park.

If you're interested in history, you won't be disappointed. Hervey Bay Historical Village & Museum provides plenty of hands-on activities for the whole family. Also try to save time for a day trip to charming Maryborough , one of Queensland's oldest towns. Here, you can learn about the region's coal, sugar, and timber industries; visit the house where Mary Poppins creator P. L. Travers once lived; and pay your respects at one of the country's most important war memorials.

Whether you're planning a family vacation, eco-adventure, or romantic escape, find inspiration with our list of the top things to do in Hervey Bay, Queensland.

1. Come Eye to Eye with Humpback Whales on a Whale Watching Cruise

2. get back to nature on k'gari (fraser island), 3. stroll or bike along the hervey bay esplanade, 4. sail into the sunset, 5. swim, stroll, and paddle along hervey bay's beaches, 6. wander along the urangan pier, 7. book an eco tour with an indigenous butchulla guide, 8. plan a picnic at hervey bay botanical gardens, 9. cool down at wetside water park, 10. step back in time at hervey bay historical village & museum, 11. visit lady elliot island, 12. go fishing, 13. take a day trip to maryborough, 14. dive the ex-hmas tobruk and the roy rufus artificial reef, map of things to do in hervey bay.

In 2019, Hervey Bay became the first place in the world to earn a World Cetacean Alliance designation as a Whale Heritage Site . Once you visit here during whale season, you'll see why.

Sheltered by K'Gari (Fraser Island), the calm, shallow waters off Hervey Bay provide a sanctuary for humpback whales. Instead of just swimming by the area, the whales stop here during their long migration to rest, mingle, and teach their calves, using the bay as a humpback nursery . And lucky visitors get a front row seat to all the action.

Curious and gentle, the whales sometimes approach within inches of the boats, breaching, spy hopping, and "mugging" the vessels (staying near the boats for extended periods of time), thrilling wildlife watchers with their acrobatics and up-close encounters.

Wondering when to go? The best time for whale watching in Hervey Bay is from late July through early November , and the prime months to see the mothers and calves lingering in the bay are August through October.

Around 11 tour operators offer whale watching cruises from Hervey Bay, ranging from three-hour tours to full-day adventures. Most of these are equipped with hydrophones, so you can hear the whales communicating underwater, and some, like Blue Dolphin Marine Tours, offer an in-water platform for close-up experiences.

On the Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise , you can choose from a four-hour or 5.5-hour catamaran cruise around the calm waters of Platypus Bay, accompanied by an expert commentary. During your tour, you'll look for humpback whales and other marine life, and glide past the beaches of K'Gari (Fraser Island).

Ever wanted to swim with a whale ? Hervey Bay Dive Centre and Hervey Bay Whale Watch & Charters offer this exhilarating adventure, usually from mid-July through early September.

If you're not visiting during whale season, no worries. You can take an eco-cruise or sunset cruise to see other marine species. Dugongs, loggerhead and green turtles, orcas, Australian humpback dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and seabirds are other residents you can spot year-round.

Visiting World Heritage-listed K'Gari (Fraser Island) is one of Australia's top outdoor adventures , and it's less than a 50-minute boat ride from Hervey Bay.

What makes this island so special? First of all, it's the largest sand island in the world , stretching for more than 123 kilometers in length.

Second, you can drive for days along the wild, windswept beaches — 75 Mile Beach is like a sandy highway, and it's one of the few places in the world where you can land a plane on the beach. The island's unique landscapes range from striking blue lakes with bleached white shores to giant sand blows, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests.

Adding to all this beauty is a fascinating cast of wildlife. On land, you might spot dingos, wallabies, echidnas, kangaroos, snakes, and a dazzling diversity of birds. Aquatic life is equally diverse — dolphins, dugongs, turtles, whales, stingrays, and sharks all swim these waters.

Outdoor lovers will be in heaven. Besides four-wheel-driving on the beach and looking for wildlife, popular things to do on Fraser Island include fishing and swimming in the lakes and creeks. Plus, you can hike for days through rainforests and along the windswept beaches on the Fraser Island Great Walk .

If you only have time to visit Fraser Island on a day trip, the All-inclusive Fraser Island Day Tour is a great option. It includes a stop at the top attractions: a swim in Lake McKenzie, a float down Eli Creek, driving on 75 Mile Beach, a walk through the rainforest, an optional scenic flight, and more.

But once you spend time on K'Gari, you'll want to stay much longer. Kingfisher Bay Resort and Eurong Beach Resort are the island's two most popular places to stay. Alternatively, you can book a vacation rental or pitch a tent at one of the island's picturesque campsites.

Hervey Bay is full of simple pleasures, and strolling along the Hervey Bay Esplanade is one of them. It's a great way to soak up the friendly vibe and gorgeous sea views of this unpretentious little town.

Stretching for 16 kilometers, the waterfront walking path is a favorite with locals and tourists alike. You can bike, jog, skate, or cruise along here, and stop wherever your heart desires.

To the east, nature puts on a show: white sand stretches to the sparkling blue sea, and lush parks make the perfect picnic spots. Stop at the beach for a refreshing dip. Tone up on the free exercise equipment peppered along the path, or linger and absorb the beauty on one of the strategically placed benches.

On the other side of the esplanade, shops, cafés, and Hervey Bay accommodations make the most of the waterfront views. Feeling peckish? Grab a bite to eat or a coffee at a local café. Enzo's on the Beach offers dreamy bay views, and other favorites include Eat@Dan and Steph's and the funky Cody's Coffee Shack . If you're looking for lunch or dinner, The Bear on the Esplanade serves up hearty Canadian-inspired food.

You can also pop across the road to some of the local shops and galleries. Browse some vibrant local art at Ashleigh Manley Studio Gallery , including original watercolors and hand-pulled silk-screen prints. They make perfect gifts.

And if you're walking around later in the day, make time for a sunset drink at the marina, or pick up some take-away fish and chips from Maddigans Seafood and enjoy a classic Aussie picnic on the beach. If you're looking for things to do in Hervey Bay at night, the esplanade is home to some of the area's top restaurants, though life wraps up fairly early in these parts.

Traveling with bouncy kids? Stop at one of the children's playgrounds in the waterfront parks. Better still, pack their swimmers and make a beeline for the Wetside Water Park .

Calm waters, year-round sunshine, and offshore islands: Hervey Bay offers all the ideal ingredients for cruising bliss. Better still, you don't need to cross a bar here, so you can cruise right out into the ocean safely and easily.

Choose from a variety of vessels, ranging from sailing catamarans to multi-deck cruisers. Most cruises also include refreshments and nibbles, and some include a stop for a swim at Pelican Bank , a sand island surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters.

While you're cruising along with the wind in your hair and a smile on your face, keep a lookout for marine life. Whales, dolphins, dugongs, and seabirds are among the many animals you might spot while you're out on the water.

If you're traveling with that special someone, this is one of the most romantic things to do in Hervey Bay. Cruises depart from the Great Sandy Straits Marina.

Hervey Bay's beaches are perfect for families and nature lovers. Protected by World Heritage listed (K'Gari) Fraser Island, the waters are typically calm, safe, and great for kids to splash around. You can kayak on the calm waters, build sandcastles along the shore, hunt for crabs at low tide, and paddle in the shallows.

Pialba is the first beach you'll probably see when you arrive. Wetside Water Park is located along this stretch, and you'll find plenty of cafés nearby, as well as a lovely waterfront park and playground. Dog owners can also walk their dogs here in designated areas.

Scarness Beach skirts the central area along the Esplanade, steps from popular cafés, shops, and hotels. The popular restaurant, Enzo's on the Beach, sits right on the edge of the sand here.

Urangan beach is home to the iconic pier. The waters here are ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Locals also come here to cast a line, and tourists love to browse the market stalls back from the beach. If you're looking for somewhere to stay nearby, one of Hervey Bay's best hotels, Oaks Hervey Bay Resort and Spa , is just across the road.

Dundowran beach offers a little more solitude. Located just outside Hervey Bay, this long stretch of sand and sea is perfect for crab hunting, fishing, kayaking, beach strolling, and off-leash doggie fun. Nature also rules at Point Vernon Beach . Here, you can potter in the rock pools, look for birds, and snorkel the rocky reefs. Dogs are also allowed off-leash here.

Feel like a refreshing swim? Torquay Beach is a favorite thanks to the lifeguards who patrol here from September through April. You'll also find a boat ramp and beachfront caravan park, as well as plenty of shops and cafés if you want to grab a bite to eat. Shelly Beach is another popular swimming spot, and its shoreline is peppered with thousands of — you guessed it — tiny shells.

Walk out into the ocean without getting wet on the famous Urangan Pier. At almost a kilometer-long, this iconic pier is one of Australia's longest and oldest — it celebrated its centenary in 2017.

Once the departure point for exporting timber, coal, and sugar, Urangan Pier is now a favorite spot to cast a line, go for a stroll, and soak up stunning views of the bay. While you're walking here, keep a lookout for pods of dolphins, stingrays, and schools of fish. You can also capture great photos of Hervey Bay from the end of the pier.

If you time it right, you can visit the Urangan Pier Park Community Markets . Held every Wednesday through Saturday from 7am to 1pm, these little Hervey Bay markets are a great spot to pick up a souvenir. You'll find everything here from local produce, flowers, and fresh-caught fish to arts and crafts, clothing, toys, and jewelry. Live entertainment and children's activities add to all the fun.

Few people are more equipped to guide visitors through this region than the Indigenous Butchulla people who have lived on this land for thousands of years. You can learn all about their way of life and their intimate relationship with the land on a Hervey Bay Eco Marine Tour.

Choose from three different Indigenous tours: The Turtle Discovery Tour takes you on a glass-bottomed boat to spot these gentle creatures swimming in the local waters, and you'll keep a lookout for other animals such as dolphins and dugongs. During the tours, you'll hear Dreamtime stories from your Butchulla guide about the land and the animals, providing a whole new dimension to your wildlife watching.

The Milbi Sunset Cruise adds the thrum of the didgeridoo to the Dreamtime stories, wildlife spotting, and nature experience. And if you prefer to stay on land, the Djinang Cultural Walking Tour takes you on a 90-minute stroll with a Butchulla guide, where you'll learn about sacred and significant sites around town, sample local bush tucker, and hear a creation story shared by your Butchulla guide.

Official site: https://www.herveybayecomarinetours.com.au/

Right in the heart of town, the 26-hectare Hervey Bay Botanical Gardens is a peaceful oasis of lily-topped ponds and lush gardens. It's the perfect place for a picnic.

The garden features plants of the Wide Bay and Sandy Straits regions, with bridges and paths linking wetlands, bushland, rainforest, and formal gardens.

Green thumbs will love exploring the themed gardens. Chill out in the Chinese garden, ogle colorful blooms in the Orchid House, learn about the food sources of the Indigenous Butchulla people at the Bush Tucker garden, or enjoy a walking meditation in the labyrinth.

Kids will love exploring the Nature Garden and looking for turtles in the ponds. Best of all, admission is free.

Address: 62-105 Elizabeth Street, Urangan, Queensland

Fizzing fountains, waterslides, wave machines, whale sculptures, tipping buckets, and splash pads — Wetside has kids covered when it comes to water thrills.

Sitting right on the Esplanade, steps from the beach, this waterfront attraction is the perfect place to take the kids on a hot day. Tiny tots can splash around in the dedicated area for kids under five. Older kids can zoom down the slides. Parents can sit in peace and soak up the beach and bay views while the kids run wild. Friendly lifeguards are on hand to help.

Looking for things to do in Hervey Bay at night with the kids? Check the times for the "Light Show Spectacular" when colored lights illuminate the water fountains, all set to a musical soundtrack.

After all the water thrills, you can enjoy a picnic in the adjacent park or pop into one of the nearby cafés.

This popular tourist attraction is one of the best free things to do with kids in Hervey Bay , although there is a small fee for the two large waterslides. Note, though, that the water park is closed during the colder months (May through September). Check the website before you visit for details.

If you're looking for something to do with the kids on a rainy day or when the water park is closed, Reefworld Aquarium is also worth a visit. Green sea turtles, reef fish, sharks, and crabs are just some of the underwater critters you can see here.

Address: 267 Esplanade, Pialba, Queensland

Official site: https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/wetside-water-park

Are you curious about the history of Hervey Bay? Take a stroll back through time and discover Hervey Bay's humble beginnings at this fascinating historical village.

One of Hervey Bay's hidden gems, this is a wonderful place to visit with the kids. Spread across 1.2 hectares, the 21 buildings host demonstrations on valuable skills from the region's early days. See the sparks fly as a blacksmith makes horseshoes. Learn interesting facts about corn products, and help shell and grind the corn during your visit, or try your hand at rope-making or wood turning and make your own miniature goblet or spinning top.

To make the most of your visit, try to time your day around these interactive demonstrations (usually Sundays from 1-3pm) — especially if you have kids in tow.

After exploring all the exhibits, you can cook up a barbecue on the grounds and purchase a souvenir from the gift shop. The museum is open on the weekends and Queensland school holidays, but check the website before you visit for specific times.

Address: 13 Zephyr Street, Scarness, Queensland

Official site: https://herveybaymuseum.com.au/

Hervey Bay is also a gateway to one of the most unspoiled islands on the Great Barrier Reef: Lady Elliot Island. Short on time? Luckily, Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort runs day trips to the island.

Enjoy the island from multiple perspectives on these activity-packed excursions. Scenic flights from Hervey Bay allow you to soak up the beauty of this pristine coral cay from the air. Then, after a tour of the island on arrival, hop aboard the glass-bottomed boat for a snorkeling trip. The fish-filled coral reefs at this southern end of the Great Barrier Reef are among the healthiest on the entire reef. Keep an eye out for turtles and dolphins, and if you time it right (May and June), you can even swim with manta rays.

After your snorkeling adventure, enjoy a buffet lunch at the resort's restaurant. Then the rest of the afternoon is at your pleasure: from basking on the beach to exploring the island's rich birdlife, before hopping aboard your 40-minute return flight to Hervey Bay.

Official site: https://ladyelliot.com.au/day-trip-ex-hervey-bay/

Hervey Bay forms part of the Great Sandy Biosphere , one of the best fishing nurseries in Australia. Species diversity is a major bonus of fishing in Hervey Bay — you'll find both northern and southern species here, as well as a range of habitats, from ocean flats to sheltered bays and fertile rivers. Protection from Fraser Island also means the waters are typically calm, creating fantastic conditions to cast a line.

Sportfishing is a highlight. Target species include blue and black marlin, barramundi, mangrove jacks, longtail tuna, sailfish, snapper, and golden trevally.

Beach fishing is also fantastic. You can head to the eastern shores of K'Gari (Fraser Island) for the annual tailor run from August through October, and the summer months bring dart, whiting, and flathead.

Prefer river fishing? Head to the banks of the beautiful Mary River for barramundi, threadfin salmon, and Australian bass, among other species.

Land-based fishing is also easy. Cast a line off Urangan Pier for flathead, garfish, or whiting, and if you're lucky, you might even hook tuna, trevally, or queenfish.

Choose from a range of charter options. Hervey Bay Fly and Sportfishing offers half-day, full-day and week-long charters, as well as camping trips on Fraser Island. And if you need to buy fishing gear and tackle, or just want to chat with the friendly locals about the hot fishing spots, head into Fisho's Tackle World Hervey Bay.

Maryborough makes the perfect complement to a Hervey Bay holiday. This picturesque historic town on the banks of the Mary River is one of Queensland's oldest towns . It was a major industrial center at the turn of the 20th century, building railway rolling stock and naval ships. Today, its rich history seeps from the handsome heritage buildings and the poignant memorials and museums peppered throughout town.

When you arrive, stop by the Maryborough Visitor Information Centre . Housed in the 1908 heritage-listed City Hall, the center dispenses helpful information on the area's top tourist attractions, as well as maps for the walking tour and driving trail.

A must-see Maryborough attraction is the Walk with the ANZACS Gallipoli to Armistice Memorial in Queen's Park, one of the most important war memorials in the country. Maryborough's son, Lieutenant Duncan Chapman, the first ANZAC to come ashore at Gallipoli, is among the many soldiers honored here, and you can learn some of their stories through the moving audio-guide — the sounds of marching boots echo along the trail.

Next, head to the Military Museum . Here, more than 10,000 artifacts tell personal stories of those who fought and died in battles, from the Boer War to Afghanistan. Highlights include the original Victoria Cross medal group for Gallipoli and some of the heart-wrenching letters these heroes wrote home — some of them represent their final words.

Fans of the popular children's book, Mary Poppins will be pleased to learn that Maryborough is the birthplace of the creator, P. L. Travers. Save time to tour the home where she was born, The Story Bank , which has been carefully recreated in the style of that period and transformed into a creative, exhibit-packed museum. All the hands-on activities here keep little hands busy and delight visitors young and old.

While you're wandering around Maryborough, keep an eye out for the 37 colorful art installations on the Maryborough Mural Trail . These bold pops of art tell the story of the town's fascinating history and make great Instagram shots as you tour.

Insider's tip: Free guided walking tours depart at 9am Monday through Saturday from City Hall.

Wreck divers take note: In 2018, the 127-meter former Naval Ship was scuttled, and began its new life as a top Queensland dive site. After just a few years, the wreck already brims with life. Sharks, giant barracudas, turtles, manta rays, Spanish mackerel, gropers, and cod are among the many species you can spot here, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of "Larry" the octopus.

Cruise time to the wreck is about 75 minutes from Hervey Bay. The wreck sits between 10 and 30 meters deep, and dives take place in two 45-minute sessions on the slack tide. Visibility is excellent — around 15 to 25 meters.

Best of all, this dive is suitable for all skill levels. Certified open water divers can access the shallowest part of the wreck, and more advanced divers can explore the whole wreck. Access areas are wider than most battle class military wrecks due to its former purpose as a transport vessel for armored vehicles and tanks.

Divers can also explore the underwater life on nearby Roy Rufus Artificial Reef . Established in 1968, this area offers five wrecks to explore, a quick 10- to 30-minute boat ride from Urangan marina. A highlight here is K'Gari. This 43-meter-long logging shipwreck makes a rewarding night dive, with the chance to spot roosting green and loggerhead turtles, hawksbills, and eagle rays.

Even more wreck dives await at Simpson and Hardie reefs, also easily accessible from Hervey Bay.

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Fraser island day trip from hervey bay: itinerary and travel tips.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Fraser Island is one of the most beautiful destinations in Australia . It’s the world’s biggest sand island in the world and home to beautiful landmarks.

The eco-system and nature on Fraser Island are absolutely beautiful and if you are visiting Queensland, it must be on your bucket list!

If you are short in time (or budget) you can opt for a day trip instead of spending several days. If you can spend at least 2 days on Fraser Island, that’s highly recommended. But going for a day is nice too!

Don’t have time to read everything?

This K’Gari Day Tour from Hervey Bay is the perfect tour to book.

You’ll see the best of the island and don’t have to worry about a thing!

Prices here

Hervey Bay is known as the gateway to Fraser island which is why it’s the best place to depart from.

In this article, we tell you everything you need to know to go on a Fraser Island day trip from Hervey Bay.

🔎 Table of Contents

Why should you go to Fraser Island from Hervey Bay?

You can also choose to go on a day trip to Fraser Island from Noosa or Rainbow Beach, however, Hervey Bay is the best departure point.

From Rainbow Beach and Noosa, you will be taking the ferry from Inskip Point which arrives at the most southern point of the island.

From there, it takes a couple of hours to get to the main attractions.

If you leave from Hervey Bay you will arrive on Fraser Island at Kingfisher Bay Resort which is directly opposite Eurong Beach Resort.

This is way closer to the best places to visit on Fraser Island.

In short, if you leave from Hervey Bay, you will be spending less time in the bus/car and will get to visit way more places than if you are travelling from Rainbow Beach or Noosa.

How to go on a Fraser Island day trip from Hervey Bay

There are 2 ways you can get to Fraser Island from Hervey Bay. You can either choose to go by yourself or with a tour.

Please note, you must have a 4WD vehicle to visit Fraser Island. You will also need to be aware of tides and driving condition.

Driving on the sand can be tricky.

If you are only going to Fraser Island for a day, I highly recommend opting for a day tour from Hervey Bay . It’s way easier and you won’t have to worry about anything. In terms of budget, it actually works out cheaper too.

But driving will give you more freedom and flexibility.

Here is a quick overview of both options.

Day tour Fraser Island from Hervey Bay

Opting for a Fraser Island day tour from Hervey Bay is the easiest way to go to the island for a day.

If you are travelling solo or with someone else, it will also work out way cheaper.

The best day tour from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island is the Full day tour with Fraser Island Explorer.

Why going on a day tour?

• Your lunch will be included
• Your driver is also a tour guide and s/he will give you plenty of information about Fraser Island
• You have nothing to worry about, everything will be organised and planned for you
• You don’t need to buy a permit
• Ferry is included
• You don’t need to worry about being able to drive on the sand and check the tides
• It’s way cheaper than self-driving
• It’s great value for money

Click here to see the latest prices.

If you book the tour, you will be leaving from the Hervey Bay Marina in Urangan in the morning. You will be on board of a 4WD minibus all day.

From Hervey Bay, you will go down to River Heads to take the ferry. The ride is 40 minutes long.

Once you get to the island, you will first stop at Central Station where you will learn more about the history of Fraser Island. You will also go on the Wanggoolba Creek boardwalk.

After that, you will go to Lake McKenzie , one of the clearest lake on Earth!

After your swim, you will head back to the carpark for lunch. Your driver will have prepared everything!

In the afternoon, you will hit the famous 75-mile beach and discover the Maheno shipwreck and Eli Creek.

You will then go back to the ferry to catch the last ride at 5 pm and make it back to Hervey Bay between 6 pm and 7 pm.

Click here to see the latest prices and book.

Self-driving and ferry

If you have a 4WD, you can choose to go to Fraser Island for a day by yourself.

Before you do so, you will need to prepare a bit.

Firstly, you need to buy a permit to drive on Fraser Island. Info here.

Also, make sure to check the tides on the Bureau of Meteorology website.

You can’t drive on the beach when the tide is high and being aware of the times is very important. A lot of people get stuck on Fraser Island, you don’t want that to happen to you.

Then, you need to book your ferry ticket. This part is not an obligation. You can also do so on-site. They don’t take online booking anyway but it’s always worth giving them a ring.

The return ticket for a standard 4WD cost between $180 and $205. The driver is included but you will have to add another $5 per passenger.

You can find more information on their official website.

Now that we’ve got that covered, let’s dive into it!

From Hervey Bay, drive 20 minutes to River Heads. That’s where you will find the ferry terminal.

Once you get there, go buy or pick up your ticket. No matter what, you must check-in at least 20 minutes in advance.

There are only 4 departures from River Heads to Kingfisher Bay Resort so make sure you don’t miss the ride!

The departure times are: 6.45, 9.00, 13.00 and 15.30

After 40 minutes on the ferry, you will finally arrive on Fraser Island and can start exploring from there!

Fraser Island one day itinerary from Hervey Bay

There is a lot you can do on Fraser Island in one day from Hervey Bay. Here is the perfect Fraser Island 1-day itinerary!

8 am: Leave Hervey Bay and drive down to River Heads. It takes about 20 minutes.

8:20 am: Pick up your ferry ticket, check-in and board the ferry. If you are on a tour , you won’t need to do this as the guide will do it for you.

9 am: The Kingfisher Bay Ferry leaves.

9:40 am: You arrive on Fraser Island. Drive 40 minutes inland to Central Station.

Central Station used to be a logging station. There is a lot of history there. Make sure to also stroll along the Wanggoolba Creek boardwalk. The plants and trees are so unique! There is also a beautiful creek with crystal-clear water.

Please note that there is a huge population of dingoes on Fraser island so keep an eye on your surroundings as you are walking. Under no circumstances you should take food with you.

11 am: Drive up to Lake McKenzie (20 minutes). From the carpark, walk down to the lake and enjoy the beautiful views.

Lake McKenzie is also a great place to swim!

Make sure you put your swimming costume on before getting there. There are toilets in the carpark but once you get to the lake you won’t find any facilities.

Pack a towel and your camera. It’s a beautiful place and you will want to take loads of photos. If you have a GoPro , take it!

12:30 pm: Go back up to the carpark for lunch. There is a picnic area where you can eat safely.

1 pm: Drive to the Eastern side of the island and hit the 75-mile beach. On Fraser Island, the beach is a national highway! You must respect the same rules than on any other road in Australia.

Drive up for about 40 minutes to get to Eli Creek.

1:45 pm: Stop at Eli Creek, go for a swim and walk along the boardwalk.

2:30 pm: Go back to the car and drive another 5 minutes north on the beach to get to the Maheno Shipwreck.

You can park on the side and get closer to the shipwreck. The S.S. Maheno used to be an ocean liner used during the first world war.

It has been on Fraser Island since 1935. It’s a pretty unique thing to see. You can walk around the ship, however, make sure to stay a bit away and not to touch it.

Some parts of the ship are degrading badly and it can hurt you.

3 pm: Drive back to Kingfisher Bay Resort. It will take about 1h40 to get there so make sure to leave by 3 pm maximum! Otherwise, you won’t be able to catch the last ferry which is at 5 pm.

5 pm: Take the Kingfisher Bay ferry back to River Heads.

5:40 pm: You arrive in River Heads. Drive back to Hervey Bay.

6 pm: You made it back to Hervey Bay!

Fraser Island Itinerary Map

What to take on a day trip from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island

During the day, you will be doing a lot of walking and swimming so make sure to wear the following items:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimming Costume
• Eco-friendly sunscreen
• Shorts and T-shirt

You will also need to take:

• Camera and photography gear

Finally, I recommend taking a jumper in case you get a bit cold. Also, check the weather forecast beforehand. If it’s going to rain, you may want to consider taking a light raincoat.

Here was everything you needed to know about going on a Fraser Island Day trip from Hervey Bay!

You may also be interested in:

• Fraser Island day trip from Noosa
• The Perfect 2-Day Fraser island Itinerary for First Timers
• Visiting Lake McKenzie on Fraser Island: Ultimate travel guide
• Visiting the Champagne Pools on Fraser Island: Ultimate Guide
• Pet-friendly accommodation in Rainbow Beach, QLD

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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Visitor Information

One of the great things about Hervey Bay is that whilst it feels like you have travelled afar to find absolute paradise, it’s actually very accessible and easy to get to, some say it's one of Queensland’s best kept secrets. 

Imagine hearing the gentle waves lapping the white sandy beaches as the pace of life immediately slows ... and it's only taken an easy 35-minute flight from Brisbane or 90-minute flight from Sydney to get here.

Alternatively, to get away for a few days with the family, it's a leisurely 3.5-hours drive north from Brisbane, or an even shorter 2.5-hours drive north from the Sunshine Coast Airport. 

When you arrive, time stops and you will feel one with nature. You'll be reminded of the friendliness of regional coastal towns whilst you still have access to the creature comforts and everything you like to enjoy.

There’s lots of tours and experiences to be enjoyed, amazing food, or you can just take it easy and unwind or explore at your own pace.

'Experience Hervey Bay' is a locally owned & operated Online Visitor Information & Booking Service ready to help you plan one of your best ever Experiences!

Getting To Hervey Bay

Transport + Hire

Weather + Tides

Hervey Bay Lifestyle Find out why so many are calling it home!

There's a quiet sea-change movement taking place in Hervey Bay with many visitors deciding to relocate here permanently after experiencing it's wonderful coastal & friendly lifestyle.

We could talk all day about how awesome Happy Hervey Bay is to live (of course why else would we live here!).  But to help you consider whether it could be the place for you to visit or live, here's a snapshot of what you'll love.

"The jet ski tour was a fantastic day! It is a superb showcase of the marine park and the Hervey Bay waterways. Stuart is an extremely professional guide and ensured every aspect of the trip was a great experience. We all loved it and will be back again."

"I just wanted to let you know I had a great time on the Island. Thank you so much for arranging it for me. Having everything organised for me was definitely the best way to go. I would not have been able to organise all that by myself."

"Thank you so much for all your effort in getting us to K'gari, it was an amazing trip. Thank you especially for offering to drive us to the collection point, thankfully it all worked out but I really appreciate your help! Best regards and a have a wonderful day!"

"We took our Mum to see the whales to tick off an experience she has always longed for. Mum is almost 90 and in a wheelchair. The staff on Quick Cat were absolutely amazing and attentive making sure she had a wonderful time. Thank you so much loved every minute." 

"Our favourite tour was the remote west coast of Fraser Island. It was amazing and such a surprise how beautiful it is."

"I have always wanted to see Fraser Island and the day tour we booked here was perfect, we want to come back for longer!"

"It was so easy to see all the whale watching tours in one place and choose the right one for us. Thanks for your help."

"Expert and passionate knowledge of Hervey Bay and its surroundings. Highly recommended."

"Haven't been to Hervey Bay in years. I have been reminded how awesome Hervey Bay is thanks to experienceherveybay.com.au. Trip booked. See you soon Hervey Bay!!"

"Hervey Bay is heaven on earth. Can highly recommend 'Experience Hervey Bay' as the people to meet all your needs and help you to make the most out of your Hervey Bay holiday. The team are so friendly, knowledgeable and go above and beyond to ensure that you have the best time. Thank you, can’t wait to visit again."

Happy Hervey Blog

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Top Things To Do In Hervey Bay 2023

Marine Mecca!

• Places To Go
• Willi Willi
• Stuarts Point
• Frederickton
• Yarrahapinni
• Grassy Head
• Macleay Valley Hinterland
• Crescent Head
• South West Rocks
• Top 10 Macleay Valley Coast Beaches
• Things To Do
• Macleay Valley Coast Art Trail
• Nature Trails of the Macleay
• 4WD & Off-Road Driving
• Itineraries
• National Parks & Reserves
• Bird Watching
• Walking & Hiking
• Activities & Adventure
• Festivals & Events
• Aboriginal Tourism
• Arts & Culture
• Beaches & Surfing
• Food & Drink
• Walking The Macleay
• Places to Stay
• Plan Your Trip
• Places to stay
• Getting to the Macleay Valley Coast
• Getting around the Macleay Valley Coast
• Information Centres
• Maps & Brochures
• Permits & safety information

12 ways to experience the magic of tourist drive 12

• Travel Inspiration

12 Ways to experience the magic of Tourist Drive 12

• Out on the water in the Macleay Valley Coast
• Top 10 Adventure Activities on the Macleay Valley Coast

Top surf spots on the Macleay Valley Coast

• Bag a Bargain at Macleay Valley Coast Op Shops
• Best Kept Food & Drink Secrets for the Macleay Valley Coast
• Explore the Macleay Valley Coast with your Pup!
• Hiking Gems on the Macleay Valley Coast
• Getting Reel on the Macleay Valley Coast

Relax & Get your Glow on

Beginning at Crescent Head, Tourist Drive 12 follows the meandering Belmore River through lush farmland to South West Rocks, highlighting some of the Macleay Valley Coast’s best coastal attractions and scenery along the way.

1. Get your caffeine hit

Every road trip begins with great coffee start your journey, stop off at South Kempsey Corner Store for your caffeine hit then onto locally made Akubra to buy an iconic hat for your time on the road. 

2. Soak up the ‘70s vibe at Crescent Head

Begin your journey at Crescent Head , a laid-back village known for having one of the few official surfing reserves in Australia. Grab a coffee and watch the waves peel off the point or climb Little Nobby to look out for whales.

3. Stop for farm-fresh veggies along the Belmore River

Follow the beautiful Belmore River Road out from Crescent Head towards Gladstone . Be sure to grab some change to take advantage of the little farm gate stalls selling eggs, condiments and seasonal produce.

4. Discover the cafes & galleries of Gladstone

Listed as a Creative Community on the Arts Mid North Coast Trail , Gladstone is a little village that punches above its weight when it comes to cafes, galleries and boutiques. Don’t miss the Gladstone Hub for artisan gifts, art, healthy food and great coffee.

5. long lunch in frederickton

Take a quick detour and cross the river from Gladstone to Smithtown to find the Nestle Milo factory and savour lunch overlooking the Macleay River at the Garden Bar & Kitchen in Frederickton. Or if you prefer to grab a bite and keep travelling, then Fredo’s Pies & Cafe is the perfect place to stop – Home of the famous Crocodile Pie for over 20 years! 

6. Walk the short Korogoro Track at Hat Head

At Kinchela, take the turn off to Hat Head, where you can get your legs moving on one of the most stunning headland walks on the coast – the short yet challenging Korogoro Track . Afterwards, cool off with a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Korogoro Creek.

7. Pick up some fresh seafood

Follow the road along the Macleay River (where you’ll find more farm gate stalls full of fresh produce) towards South West Rocks, stopping in for fresh, locally caught seafood at the Macleay River District Fishermen’s Co-operative outlet in Jerseyville. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to watch fisherman unloading their morning haul.

8. bird watching

Take in in the wealth of bird life at the Boyters Lane Bird Hide on the way into South West Rocks. Built on an old dairy farm, the bird hide is placed within a tranquil area of rehabilitated bushland, mangrove and saltmarsh. Stroll along the recently built walkway, read the information board and be sure to being your binoculars!

9. GET OUT ON THE WATER

SUP, dive, fish and swim at one of the many South West Rocks spectacular beaches.

10. Experience Trial Bay Gaol

No visit to South West Rocks is complete without a visit to the world-class attraction of Trial Bay Gaol , which is located within beautiful Arakoon National Park. Ramble around the ruins and be sure to say hello to the site’s ubiquitous kangaroos!

11. learn the local dunghutti culture

Marrgaan Cultural Experience offer visitors, locals and groups the chance to approach wellness from a holistic perspective, something that is central to the local Dunghutti culture. Please contact them directly for private or bespoke cultural experiences. 

12. Take in the views from Smoky Cape Lighthouse

Ascend the steep staircase to Smoky Cape Lighthouse in Hat Head National Park to be treated with magnificent 360 degree views of the surrounding coastline. This is also your best chance of spotting whales between May and September.

Related Articles

Best places to eat & drink in crescent head, best places to eat & drink in gladstone, 3 days in & around south west rocks.

20 fabulous things to do in Hervey Bay

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: July 10, 2019  - Last updated: June 8, 2023

Hervey Bay is a 3.5-hour drive north of Brisbane. It’s a popular holiday spot for families and an ideal stopover on a road trip up the east coast of Australia. Read on for an extensive list of things to do in Hervey Bay from whale watching to the UNESCO world heritage listed Fraser Island.

We’ve been heading up to Hervey Bay and beyond for over a decade now and have seen its appeal as a destination for visitors grow consistently over that time.  Many Brisbane families have been holidaying there for their annual beach getaway for generations but there is now an increasing appeal to couples and solo travellers.

Video: Things to do in Hervey Bay

Table of Contents

1. Whale Watching

2. fraser island, 3. urangan pier, 4. sunrise on dundowran beach, 5. get out on the bay, 6. botanic gardens, 7. wetside water park, 8. arkarra lagoon, 9. torquay beach & reef, 10.  sunset across the water, 11.  relax on the deck at hervey bay boat club, 12. mingle with locals at the weekend markets, 13. stop off to see nala, 14. birds and wildlife, 15.  lady elliot island, 16.  walk or cycle the esplanade, 17.  coopers boardwalk, 19. explore the marina shops and cafes, 19. community celebrations, 20. bundaberg, where to stay in hervey bay, 20 top things to do in hervey bay.

This is a regular stop for us with family living in the area and it being what we think is one of the best places anywhere in the world to see whales in the wild so close to shore.  This is our list of the 20 best things to do in Hervey Bay.

Possibly the thing Hervey Bay is best known for is the whale watching.  The whales don’t just pass through here on their annual migration to their breeding grounds on the Great Barrier Reef but it’s like a stopover for them, resting, playing and generally putting on quite the display for the appreciative human audience.

The operators have a strict code on how close they take the boats to the animals and how far the animals must be away before they can restart the boat.  We’ve found them so inquisitive in the bay that on a couple of trips we’ve been delayed departing back to the marina because the whales were still busy inspecting us and the boat.

We’ve done a lot of whale watching trips in various places but this is where we will continue to come back to.  In the linked article we share more about our whale watching experiences in Hervey Bay .

Check prices for whale watching.

With a position on the UNESCO world heritage list as the worlds largest sand island Fraser is pretty special.  The 123 km long island provides shelter to the Wide Bay coastline on the mainland and has a host of fun and fascinating things to see and do.  Explore rainforests that sprouting directly from the sand, swim in crystal clear lakes, see unique rainbow-coloured cliffs and climb giant sand dunes.

There are no roads on the island but you can drive your 4-wheel drive on the beach and interior tracks or join a tour.  There are also several places to stay on the island that offer a range of tours and activities and enable you to explore this unique destination once the crowds have left for the day.  The Kingfisher Bay Eco-Resort has won a range of tourism awards and is conveniently located to the ferry, another popular choice is Eurong Beach Resort located on the eastern side of the island and provides great value budget options.

Spending time on the island is highly recommended.  You’re going to need a few days to see it all but even a day tour is highly recommended, on one we did we travelled through the rain forest and along the beaches in 4-wheel drive vehicles, saw wild dingo and huge goanna, swum in the crystal clear lakes and got to see the colourful sand cliffs.

READ MORE:  2 days on Fraser Island with Fraser Explorer Tours

Perhaps the heart of Hervey Bay is the Urangan Pier area.  The historic pier began construction back in 1913 to transport cargo between rail and the deepwater ships.  Originally over 1 km in length it’s now reduced slightly to 868 m and has been fully restored.  It’s a popular spot for fishermen and a stroll in the sea air with great views, we tend to walk it most days when we are in the area.

There’s plenty of covered picnic areas and BBQ’s nearby, an ice cream shop called Sundaes at the Pier across the road is one of my faves and Migaloo’s cafe is a good spot for a caffeine fix after your walk.  If the breeze gets up in the afternoon you can watch kite surfers putting on a great display and on the right tide, you can weave along the sand bars getting a good distance out from the shoreline with barely wet feet.

Sunrise is always a magical time of day especially when you can find a twist in the east coast shoreline that enables you to see it over the water.  Over the years I’ve had the privilege of watching many sunrises over Dundowran beach just north of Hervey Bay over the years and it goes on my list as one of my favourite spots for it.

The beach here is sheltered by Fraser island so it’s calm water and the drop off is very flat which means the tide comes in and out super fast but even on the full tide you can wade out a good distance without going over your knees.  Splashing along in the shallow water as the sun comes up should absolutely rate a spot on your travel itinerary.

If you prefer to be out on the water rather than looking at it then there are plenty of choices along the beachfront in Hervey Bay.  Options include a sailing adventure or exploring the Great Sandy Strait and Fraser Island from a Jetski.

Aquavue cafe in Torque offers a stunning spot to sit with coffee watching the world go by or you can hire a Jetski, kayak, SUP or catamarans right on the beachfront here.  They also run a range of guided Jetski tours including one that heads out to Fraser Island.

Cruises, fishing, whale and dolphin watching trips run out of Boat Harbour Marine at Urangan.

The Hervey Bay botanic gardens are a short walk from the Beach in Urangan and provide a relaxed space to spend a few hours.  Relax by the fountain, explore the orchid house or wander the garden paths.  Plants from across the region are displayed here in a variety of different sections ranging from manicured park grounds to edible bush tucker gardens, an oriental garden and bush tracks down the back with a variety of birds and wildlife making themselves at home.

Our articles on the Hervey Bay botanic garden provides more information on adding this to your itinerary.

The water play park is a whole lot of fun for younger kids with a large water play area that’s free to use.  There’s a nice cafe here for parents to keep watch too and water slides available at an affordable $5 for 10 rides.

This lagoon and wetland area is at Dundowran Beach, just north of Hervey Bay.  The beach itself is beautiful here but the lagoons offer a different area of interest to walk around.  They are popular with Birders for the variety of wildlife and birds that are resident or visitors here.  There’s a cafe on site and it’s a good spot for a walk or to bring a picnic to enjoy by the front lagoon.

Read more:  Visitors guide to Arkarra Lagoons

Torquay Beach is an ideal section of the coast for a family day at the beach.  It’s flat and sandy, ideal for swimming or as a base for water sports.  There are parklands and facilities, across the road are shops and eateries.  Walk the boardwalks, have a picnic or cycle along the promenade.  The jetty here is also a popular spot for fishing.

The Torquay shallow water reef is located off the coast here only a couple of hundred meters offshore.  For confident snorkellers, the best access is directly off the beach at Neilsons Park.  At low tide as little as a metre of water covers the healthy reef which runs towards Gattakers Bay and is home to coral, fish and diverse sea life.

If getting up for sunrise just feels a bit too difficult while on holiday then there are some good options for sunset instead.   And yes you can watch the sunset across the water on the east coast of Australia, there are plenty of bays and outcrops that offer a good vantage point.  The wharf at Urangan is an interesting one facing back towards town but the curve of Gattakers Bay offers a variety of other options for watching the sunset over the water.  It’s also a great spot for a BBQ.

The Boat Club has a fabulous spot on the marina with a huge deck.  You can grab a coffee or drink and sit out watching the activity.  There’s a large restaurant inside too with a nice outlook but you really can’t beat the open air.  The club is open to the public but you’ll be asked to sign in and follow the low-key dress code.

The Pier markets are on twice a week, the Wednesday market is around half the size of the weekend one and the focus is mainly on craft and clothes, the Saturday market adds many more options for fresh local produce including fruit, vegetables, mushrooms, honey, small goods, and olives.

Other stalls offer clothing, leatherware, woodworking, candles, pens, and a variety of other crafts and gifts. Several food trailers offer snack foods and drinks to eat on-site or in the nearby park picnic shelters. There’s a bandstand in the middle of the area with live entertainment and seating is set up around it.

When: Every Wednesday (craft) and Saturday (full market) from 7 am until noon

Where: In the park adjacent to the Urangan Pier

It’s very hard to miss the 22-tonne whale sculpture as you drive through town. It was created by artist Ross Bradbury and represents Nala, a female whale who was first recorded visiting Hervey Bay with her new calf, Simba, back in 1992.

The huge sculpture was crafted from Ironbark and stainless steel and seems sure to get a spot amongst the ‘big things’ circuit around Australia. Make sure you stop to get a photo with the spectacular artwork and symbol of Hervey Bay.

There are 290 species of birds spotted in the area including many migratory waders that come down for the summer.  Hervey Bay has an active bird watching group who will be happy to point interested twitches in the right direction if you’re visiting the area.  If you prefer to do things on your own some great places to start are the botanical gardens, Arkarra lagoon, Gattakers Bay and Burrum Heads.

Daily seaplane tours run out of Hervey Bay to the Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort located on a beautiful coral cay on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef.  Another option is to make an early start, drive to Bundaberg and take a boat at 7 am from the Bundaberg Port Marina.

You can see turtles all year round out on the reef out here, whales during the migration and many other species of fish and sea life. 

The waterfront walkway and cycle path runs for around 15 kilometres from the boat harbour at Urangan through to Gatakers Bay.  It’s a wide walkway that is mostly flat with sections sheltered by trees and includes many places to stop in the parks and rest stops along the way.

In Queensland, you need to wear a cycle helmet whether cycling on the road or the path, both options are allowed.  Bikes and scooters need to keep left, slow down and sound their bell when they approach people and are required to give way to pedestrians.  If you are on foot avoid blocking the path for others.

It’s a really beautiful walk or ride through here, most of the way you can see the water or catch glimpses through the trees providing areas of shade over the path.

The boardwalk first opened in 2015 and was extended in 2017.  The shaded walk starts from Neilson Park in Torquay and runs through the trees with seats and spots for quiet contemplation of the beachfront along the way.  The walkway was named for Cooper Christensen, a 6-year-old local boy who tragically lost his battle with brain cancer.

While you are here why not extend your day in Torquay with lunch from a local institution.  Maddigans on the Esplanade is directly opposite Neilsons Park and it’s where the locals will tell you to head for the best fish and chips in town.  Portions are generous, good variety and reasonable prices.  Who doesn’t love this easy and iconic Aussie lunch or tea, plus there are the park and beach just across the road to enjoy them with the perfect ambience.

Madigan’s is located at 401 Charlton Esplanade, Hervey Bay, Queensland 4655.

Balaena cafe is a stop you must make when in town whether for coffee and cake or a full meal, it’s a gorgeous position over the water, the food is excellent and the service keeps us coming back.  It’s a fave of ours when we’re in town.

There are a few shops, booking offices for the various tours and a number of restaurants and cafes here.

Find Balaena cafe at 7 Buccaneer Dr, Urangan QLD 4655

Timing your visit to Hervey Bay around the annual festivals and community celebrations is also a great idea, everyone is welcome to join in.  A couple of recommendations are the Blessing of the Fleet in July or the Hervey Bay Seafood Festival held in August.

The blessing of the fleet is a tradition that has been around for centuries in Europe where it’s held to ensure a safe and prosperous season on the water.  July is when the whale tours start and the event involves live music, market stalls, a sail-by of the boats, plenty of food vendors and it ends with a fireworks display.

The Seafood Festival is held in Fisherman’s Park in Urangan and is a celebration of the local Wide Bay seafood, regional wines, beers and great music.

It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive from Hervey Bay to Bundaberg.  It’s a straightforward drive on the highway most of the way with rest stop options clearly marked.  While well worth a few nights stop here if you have the time you can also easily day trip it from Hervey Bay.   for its own range of things to see and do, not to mention so fabulous foodie surprises that will keep me coming back

If you are heading up to Bundaberg either from Hervey Bay or continuing your drive up the east coast then we have loads of options for things to see and do in our Bundaberg visitors guide .

There are a wide variety of options to stay in Hervey Bay from hotels and apartments to beachfront camping.

Hotels & Apartments

Our pick is The Oaks Resort near the Urangan Pier, the facilities are great and we like the location of this one.  The access to the pier is great, there are a variety of eating options nearby, great coffee and ice cream is only a few steps away, safe swimming and the weekend markets.  It’s a nice walk from here along the waterfront to the marina and cruise boats.

The Mantra Hervey Bay also has a waterfront location along at the Marina with some good views out to Fraser.  You can choose from hotel-style rooms or apartments with a private balcony, again good restaurant and cafe options are right outside the gate and if a whale-watching cruise is on your plan you are well-positioned for that.

There’s an excellent range of campgrounds on or near the waterfront in Hervey Bay.  These are really popular with families, many have been coming up here in the summer for generations.  They are also busy right through the mild Queensland winter with the ‘grey nomads’ who spend several months away from the cold and wet of the southern states through the middle of the year.

On the waterfront is the Fraser Coast Beachfront Tourist Park in Torquay and Pialba plus the new Pier Caravan Park opened in mid-2018 in Urangan.  I’d like to take a look around next time we are up there, the position is a short walk through the park to the pier and having watched it being built their facilities look good.

Interested?  Save these images to Pinterest

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Linda jones

Tuesday 28th of September 2021

Hi movng to Hervey bay in a couple of weeks any tips on the area please like best place to live that doesn't flood sorry am wary about water love the beaches from the posts and pics cheers all

Toni Broome

Thursday 30th of September 2021

There are lagoons and waterways that manage the water runoff well on a year to year basis for most areas but you can also search online for something like 'flood zone maps Hervey Bay' and that will give you the council disaster inundation mapping for an initial indication. If purchasing a house I'd get the assessment for the individual property. Quite a few years ago now there was a storm surge warning with a cyclone, it's like a tsunami but caused by weather conditions rather than seismic shifts, it didn't eventuate but if it ever did it would have a major property impact. At the moment the issue is more low rain levels, we were out at Lenthalls Dam, the water source for the area a month back and it can't have been more than half full and everywhere is looking very dry in town.

I hope you enjoy your shift.

Jared Janke

Wednesday 8th of September 2021

Don't forget you can do a helicopter flight from as cheap as $65. The longer flights take you out over Fraser Island!

That sounds great Jared, that's something we haven't done, I'll look up some more information.

Saturday 19th of June 2021

What about Bamboo Land!!! That place is amazing and is free. It has 15acres of display gardens and an amazing nursery.

Definitely! We haven't been for a couple of years and I believe it's even better now. Will have to add that to our own list to revisit next time we are up there.

Jatin Arora

Wednesday 21st of August 2019

Wonderful pictures Toni! I have not been to Hervey Bay before. I would love to visit this place for sure. Thanks for this post. I will surely add this place to my bucket list. Keep Blogging :)

Sunday 4th of August 2019

Next time you are travelling this way, you are welcome to stay at Mango Lodge at Fraser Coast RV Park at River Heads, just 15 minutes away.

Tuesday 6th of August 2019

Thanks Suzanne, we'd love to see your park. What a great location you have for access to the Fraser Island ferry and the Mary River mouth too. We saw our first Australian humpback dolphins just down the road from you there.

Contact Fraser Coast Council via phone or email.

• 1300 79 49 29
• [email protected]

Opening Hours

Hervey bay visitor information centre.

Hervey Bay has often been called the jewel in Queensland's crown. It is also referred to as the Whale Watch Capital of the World. A scenic 3 ½ hours drive north of Brisbane and only 45 minutes by air from Brisbane, Hervey Bay is an easily accessible holiday destination.

Named after an English Casanova, it's no wonder that Hervey Bay's seductive charms are difficult to resist. Its warm subtropical climate, long sandy beaches, calm blue ocean and a relaxed, unpretentious local community lure all sorts of travellers to its shores – from backpackers to families and retirees. Throw in the chance to see majestic humpback whales frolicking in the water and the town's convenient access to the World Heritage–listed Fraser Island, and it's easy to understand how Hervey Bay has become an unflashy, yet undeniably appealing, tourist hotspot.

Fraser Island shelters Hervey Bay from the ocean surf and the sea here is shallow and completely flat – perfect for kiddies and postcardy summer-holiday pics.

Trains that take you there

​quicklinks.

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Townsville to Hervey Bay drive

Townsville to hervey bay road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Townsville to Hervey Bay. If you're planning a road trip to Hervey Bay, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Townsville drive for about 1 hour

11:11 am   Ayr (Queensland) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:11 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

2:33 pm   Airlie Beach stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:33 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 5.5 hours find more stops

9:00 am  leave from Mackay drive for about 4 hours

12:46 pm   Yeppoon stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:46 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

3:14 pm   Tannum Sands stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:14 pm drive for about 2 hours

6:24 pm   Apple Tree Creek stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:24 pm drive for about 49 minutes

8:12 pm  arrive in Hervey Bay

day 2 driving ≈ 8 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Ayr (Queensland) Airlie Beach   (10 answers) Mackay   (7 answers) Yeppoon Tannum Sands   (2 answers)     questions about Tannum Sands:         What is your favorite restaurant in Tannum Sands? Apple Tree Creek

What are some things to do in Hervey Bay?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Hervey Bay.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Hervey Bay to Townsville drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Townsville to Hervey Bay . Or get a full Townsville to Hervey Bay flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Townsville well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Townsville!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Townsville to Hervey Bay

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Booking Enquiries

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(07) 41 289800

(07) 41 253 287.

We are situated at: Shop 1 Buccaneer Drive Urangan at the entrance to the Whale Bay Marina, Hervey Bay. We're open from 7am to 5.30 pm every day of the year except Christmas Day

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Honest tourism information about Australia

Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip: Distance, time & best stops

• David Whitley
• Practicalities

The Melbourne to Hervey Bay drive covers a distance of 1,846km in a driving time of around 20h30m. Top road trip stops to add to the itinerary include Nagambie, Parkes, Dubbo, Goondiwindi and Kingaroy.

Planning a Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip itinerary

A road trip from Melbourne to Hervey Bay takes you through some lesser explored areas of country Australia. But there’s a surprising amount to see and do along the route.

Before leaving, you may want to tick Melbourne Cricket Ground  tours , Yarra River  dinner cruises  and cross-city  hot air balloon flights  off your Melbourne wish list. To track down the best Melbourne accommodation rates,  head here .

👇 7 great day trips while you’re in Melbourne 👇

• Great Ocean Road tour – with koalas 🐨.
• Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary and Phillip Island tour – with penguins 🐧.
• Yarra Valley wine tour – with gin, cider and cheese 🍷.
• Grampians National Park tour – with bushwalks and LOADS of kangaroos 🦘.
• Mornington Peninsula tour – with hot springs bathing 🛀.
• Wilsons Promontory tour – with all manner of native wildlife 🦘🐨.
• Dandenong Ranges steam train ride – plus wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary and chocolate-tasting in the Yarra Valley.

Why not BROWSE THE BEST DEALS – with instant confirmation and hassle-free, mobile-friendly tickets?

Hervey Bay is the major gateway to  K’gari  (formerly Fraser Island) in  Queensland .  K’gari tours  are best booked ahead of arriving in the city.

Hervey Bay  also offers  sunset cruises ,  whale-watching  and  wildlife cruises  in the Great Sandy Strait. To pick out Hervey Bay experiences that pique your interest,  look here . For Hervey Bay accommodation,  nosy around here .

This guide should help you plan your perfect Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip itinerary .

Click through on the individual places and attractions for more detailed, specific information.

If you need to hire a car,  find the best rental deals . And don’t forget to do all your  pre-road trip shopping .

Melbourne to Hervey Bay distance and driving time

By car, the distance from Melbourne to Hervey Bay is 1,846km. This makes for a driving time of around 20 hours and 30 minutes. Obviously, you may want to make a few road trip stops along the way. This guide should help you plan your itinerary.

14 fantastic experiences that make the most of your free time in Melbourne

• Get the very best views – on a hot air balloon flight over the city.
• See the changing colours of the river – on a sunset kayaking tour – with dinner. (Highly recommended ✅ )
• Feast and see the sights at the same time – on a four course dinner cruise along the Yarra River.
• A genuinely excellent street art tour , led by prominent street artists. (Highly recommended ✅ )
• The also superb Aboriginal heritage, plants and bush food tour in the Botanic Gardens . (💲 Great value 💲)
• Best of Melbourne bike tour – you can see more on two wheels than walking.
• Hidden laneways bar crawl OR foodie discovery tour OR chocolate and dessert tour .
• Combo ticket for Australian Sports Museum and MCG tour.
• Hassle-dodging advance tickets for the Melbourne Skydeck , Melbourne Zoo , the Ice Bar (with cocktails) and Sea Life Aquarium .

The first leg of the journey, from Melbourne to Shepparton , is 190km long, and passes through Victoria ’s Goulburn Valley.

Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip: Melbourne to Shepparton

Decent stops along the way which require little to no detour include the Mount Ridley Lookout in Craigieburn at the edge of the city sprawl, and the walking trails of Mount Disappointment .

There are also wineries such as the Trawool Estate around Tallarook , plus the  Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk  and  Seymour Railway Heritage Centre in Seymour .

It’s another 81km from  Seymour to Shepparton , with Nagambie the best journey-breaker along the way. Take your pick from craft beers at the Nagambie Brewery or wine-tasting and Aboriginal art at the Mitchelton Winery .

Top Nagambie accommodation options

The best places to stay in Nagambie are:

• For a luxurious winery hotel: Mitchelton Hotel Nagambie .
• For a good quality lakeside motel: Nagambie Waterfront Motel .
• For a budget stay: Nagambie Caravan Park and Motel .

The  best things to do in Shepparton include  Aquamoves  near Victoria Park Lake, the Shepparton Art Museum and the Lower Goulburn National Park.

Shepparton accommodation recommendations

These are the best places to stay in Shepparton .

• For grandeur and lake view rooms: Carrington Hotel .
• For a holiday park with lots of kid-friendly facilities: Big4 Shepparton Park Lane Holiday Park .
• For high quality apartments: Quest Shepparton .
• For a good value motel with a pool: Peppermill Inn Motel .

Melbourne to Hervey Bay drive: Shepparton to the New South Wales border

The next leg of the Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip crosses into New South Wales .

Before entering New South Wales, you might like to take a look at the massive collection of cacti at Cactus Country in Strathmerton , or go for a swim in the Murray River from Thompsons Beach in Cobram .

There are more river beaches in Tocumwal , where you join the Newell Highway .

The best accommodation in Tocumwal , NSW

The best places to stay in Tocumwal are:

• For a no-frills (but decent) motel with bargain rates: Tocumwal Hotel Motel .
• For a pool, gardens and golf: Tocumwal Golf Resort .
• For a family-friendly holiday park: Boomerang Way Tourist Park .
• For good value, free parking and a pool: Kingswood Motel .

Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip: Tocumwal to Narrandera

It’s another 165km from Tocumwal to Narrandera, and it’s a pretty boring stretch of highway in all honesty. Jerilderie has a couple of accommodation options for an overnight stop, but you may as well keep going to Narrandera on the Murrumbidgee River, which has more going for it.

On the outskirts of Narrandera, the Koala Reserve is one of the best places in Australia for  spotting koalas .

Other  things to do in Narrandera  include kayaking on the Rocky Waterholes, admiring the giant mural on the Narrandera Water Tower and taking a self-guided walking tour of the town’s heritage buildings.

The top accommodation in Narrandera , NSW

The best places to stay in Narrandera are:

• For overall quality: Narrandera Club Motor Inn .
• For an outdoor pool and BBQs: Bishops Lodge .
• For a solid motel with low prices: Camellia Motel .

Click through to the next section: Narrandera to West Wyalong.