Visit the World's Largest Sand Island - Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia

[Nicholas Kontis]

Think all island in the world are the same or similar, think again. Ever dreamed of a protected island, complete with its unique bio-sphere, where you bring your rented 4-wheel drive from the mainland and pitch your own tent? Welcome to amazing Fraser Island, where part of the experience is getting there. Located 200 north of the hustle and bustle of busy Brisbane, approximately a three-hour drive, and a short ferry ride and you reached what any beach wanderer would call Shangri-La.

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world. So you say you like long beaches? Fraser Island is 75 miles of blissful beach paradise, and easily accessible from the mainland.  Fraser island is the only place on Earth where rainforest grows from sand. The island is filled with crystal clear inland lakes set among the sand dunes. The island has an abundance of animal species and a vast range of plant life indigenous only to Fraser Island. Although approximately 600,000 people visit Fraser Island annually, a beach this long guarantees that you'll find your own private slice of heavenly nirvana. Talk about getting away from it all. Crowded beaches are not a problem on this remote island.

Lake Birrabeen - One of many inland, fresh water lakes

THINGS TO DO: Hervey Bay, the gateway to Fraser Island is now famous for Whale Watching. But you come to Fraser Island to explore its beaches and the inland rainforest. Hundreds of sand tracks off the beach link you to inland lakes and lush tropical jungle to explore and get off the beaten path. Swimming in a fresh water lake just minutes from a beach in quite a memorable experience.

Discover the historic Maheno shipwreck in Happy Valley and see kangaroos, wallabies and possums on a bushwalk into the interior.

For an aerial view, take a plane ride over the island.

Take your 4-wheel drive and get lost on Cathedral Beach, Happy Valley and Orchid Beach. Float in Eli Creek straight into the ocean.

 

Hike to the island’s deepest lake, Lake Wabby, surrounded by a massive sand-blow and small, scenic Lake Allom where fresh-water turtles lie on the forest-fringed shore. Visit Lake Bowarrady, which is 120 metres above sea level, and Lake Boemingen, reputedly the largest perched lake in the world. On Fraser Island, you’ll find that nature offers a different exhibition each season - wild spring flowers, bright summer days, autumn colours and winter wilderness.

WHERE TO STAY: Stay in an eco-friendly resort where you can indulge in massages, cocktails and restaurant meals. Or enjoy the privacy of a beach front home surrounded by bushland and wildlife.  You’ll also find hotels and self-contained villas with hinterland and sea views. To really commune with nature, pitch your tent at a campsite at Central Station, Lake Boomanjin, Lake McKenzie, Dundubara, Waddy Point, Wathumba, Dilli Village or Cathedral Beach. Or find a spot of sandy solitude on the eastern beach.

Taking a dip in one of the four pools at Kingfisher Bay Resort.

KINGFISHER BAY RESORT: offers a rare ecotourism experience. The winner of numerous environmental, tourism and architectural awards, and in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings. Set in among the trees and part of the National Park Kingfisher Bay Resort offers unique Villa stays and a 4 Star Resort Hotel. With three restaurants and 4 pools and a number of Ranger Guided 4WD Tours of the island Kingfisher Bay offer something for everyone, from a luxurious massage at the Resort Salon to just relaxing by the pool. There are a number of guided short walks. And access to World Heritage Listed sites.

Set in among the trees and part of the National Park Kingfisher Bay Resort offers unique Villa stays and a 4 Star Resort Hotel. With three restaurants and 4 pools and a number of Ranger Guided 4WD Tours of the island Kingfisher Bay offer something for everyone, from a luxurious massage at the Resort Salon to just relaxing by the pool. There are a number of guided short walks. And access to World Heritage Listed sites.

WHERE TO EAT:  If your camping you will want to bring supplies with you. If your staying at one of the resorts on the island, food is provided. Campers can eat at the Kingfisher Bay Resort. The Maheno Restaurant by the  pool at Kingfisher Bay Resort, serves a seafood buffet on weekends.

 

For more information on Fraser Island visit the following web sites:

www.australia.com

www.tourismqueensland.com.au

www.kingfisherbay.com