Hello, I’m Hannah and welcome to my quick guide for Fraser Island (K’gari)! I’m 24 years old and from Dorset, Southwest UK. I have been backpacking for eight months in Australia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Sri Lanka. I have no plans to stop traveling anytime soon!
I was a primary school teacher for two years before this and loved it. I’ve always loved working with children and so I thought it would be a great career for me. However, I have always wanted to travel as well, as I grew up on my Mum’s travel stories from when she was in her 20’s. Thus, I decided to embark on my own adventure, quit my job and fly to Australia!
My Fantastic Experience on Fraser Island
During my seven weeks of backpacking the east coast of Australia, I visited loads of amazing places – one of which was Fraser Island or K’gari (meaning “paradise” to the Butchulla people). I booked a three day, two night tour there through Island Expeditions and loved it! I was picked up in Rainbow Beach, and then we packed up the jeeps we were going to use on the island and headed to the barge departure point in Inskip. As soon as we arrived in Fraser Island, we saw our first dingo on the beach!
K’gari is the only place on Earth where the subtropical rainforest grows entirely on sand. It was amazing to see these forests as we ventured to Lake Mckenzie (Boorangoora), which did not disappoint! This freshwater lake has crystal-clear blue water and is surrounded by white sand that is 98% silica!
The next day, we swam in the rock pools at Champagne Pools, wandered at the incredible Maheno Shipwreck and enjoyed tubing down Eli Creek. We also visited Lake Wabby which has this gorgeous olive green color. It’s surrounded by massive sand dunes and was an awesome place to relax.
In my opinion, everyone should visit Fraser Island! This World Heritage listed island is filled with beauty and culture that should be put at the top of everyone’s list. However, it’s important to learn about the history of the island, and to treat the Butchella people’s home with respect and care.
5 Awesome Things To Do on Fraser Island
1. Drive Your 4WD Down 75 Mile Beach
In your trusty 4WD, head down 75 Mile Beach – the main “highway” on the island. This iconic stretch of sand isn’t your typical highway, it’s a hard-packed wonderland where ocean breezes whip through your hair. Imagine cruising with the salty spray kissing your face, the vast ocean stretching to the horizon and the thrill of adventure coursing through you!
2. Swim in Lake McKenzie, Lake Wabby, Eli Creek & Champagne Pools
Fraser Island (K’gari) is a swimmer’s paradise! Dive into the legendary Lake McKenzie, famed for its impossibly clear rainwater and silica sand so soft it feels like silk. Explore Lake Wabby, a jewel-toned lake nestled beside the ever-shifting Hammerstone Sandblow. Take a refreshing dip in Eli Creek as well, the island’s largest flowing freshwater stream, perfect for a cool down after a day of adventure. Finally, soak in the naturally formed Champagne Pools, where crashing waves create a bubbly, invigorating experience.
3. Learn About the History of Fraser Island (K’gari)
Start with the Butchulla people’s creation story, where K’gari is named after a beautiful spirit. Then, explore how this island formed geologically. Learn how Europeans arrived in the 1800s – impacting the Butchulla way of life, and leading to mining and logging. K’gari served as a secret WWII training ground as well! Share this knowledge – spark others’ curiosity about this World Heritage Site – and be sure to respect the indigenous community.
4. Wake Up for Sunrise on the East of the Island
Don’t miss the magic of a sunrise! Head over to the east coast and witness the sky erupt in fiery colors as the sun peeks over the horizon. The ocean will shimmer and the island will come alive with a golden glow. But remember, Fraser Island is home to wild dingoes. Always be vigilant, stay in groups and carry a sturdy dingo stick for extra security. This way, you can fully appreciate the island’s beauty while ensuring safety.
5. Enjoy a Campfire and Go Stargazing
As night falls, trade in your swimsuit for a cozy camp chair by a campfire. The dancing flames will cast a warm glow, perfect for sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. But the real magic begins when the embers die down. With minimal light pollution, Fraser Island boasts a breathtaking night sky. Unfurl a blanket and gaze up at the Milky Way shimmering across the darkness. Spot constellations you’ve never seen before and try to identify shooting stars. Don’t forget your camera! With a clear view and a steady tripod, you can capture unforgettable photos of the starry sky.
Key Tips for Your Visit to Fraser Island
For accommodation on Fraser Island, I don’t know of many places but we stayed in a campsite close to the Maheno Shipwreck. Camping was an incredible way to experience the island and make friends with the insects!
In terms of getting to Fraser Island, visitors are presented with two options. We took the Manta Ray Barge from Inskip but you can also take the SeaLink car ferry from River Heads. I’m not certain how much both of these options cost, as the transfer was included in our overall tour price. However, a quick Google search says that it’s $140 AUD for a 4WD return from Inskip!
If you’re wondering when to vist, there’s no bad time as K’gari has a semi-tropical climate and is warm all year round. I went to K’gari at the beginning of September (at the start of spring) and I would 100% recommend going around this time. The average daily temperature was about 23°C and it wasn’t too busy, as it’s considered the shoulder season.
Make sure to pack summer clothes for your trip, as it doesn’t get too cold. If you’re camping, you may want to bring a jumper just in case but I didn’t use mine. Bring a swimsuit, as you won’t be able to resist going for a swim in Lake Mckenzie and the other spots! Make sure to pack a hat, water, and sunscreen as you will spend all day in the sun and the UV gets high.
Most of the time you will be walking on sand. So for most of my trip I was barefoot. I did wear my sandals occasionally as we sometimes walked through the forest and across rocks. So keep this in mind for footwear.
Our lunch and dinner was provided through our tour company. I’m vegan and they were able to cater for me without any problems. They offer veggie and meat options as well! Make sure to tell your tour company of your dietary needs before going, so they can adjust any meals to you.
