Great Sandy National Park

Great Sandy National Park stretches along the wild, windswept coast of Queensland's Fraser Coast, protecting a stunning mosaic of landscapes from towering sand dunes and ancient rainforest to pristine beaches and heathlands. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed area is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, offering everything from four-wheel-driving on the world's largest sand island to peaceful walks through lush coastal forests.

Highlights & What to See

• K'gari (Fraser Island) – The park's crown jewel, famous for its 75-mile-long beach, crystal-clear Lake McKenzie, and the eerie Maheno Shipwreck. Explore by 4WD or join a guided tour.
• Lake McKenzie – A perched lake with brilliant white silica sand and impossibly blue water, perfect for a swim or picnic.
• Rainbow Beach – Named for its colourful sand cliffs, this coastal town offers access to the park and is a launching point for trips to K'gari.
• Carlo Sandblow – A massive, moon-like sand dune that provides panoramic views over the ocean and the Cooloola section of the park.
• Cooloola Great Walk – A multi-day hiking trail that winds through rainforest, heath, and along the coast, showcasing the park's incredible biodiversity.
• Whale Watching – From July to November, humpback whales migrate along the coast; spot them from the beach or on a boat tour.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience Great Sandy National Park, allow at least three to five days. Spend a couple of days on K'gari (Fraser Island) to explore its lakes, rainforests, and the famous beach highway. Then, head to the Cooloola section for a day of hiking and sandboarding at Carlo Sandblow. If you're short on time, a two-day 4WD tour can cover the highlights, but you'll miss the quieter corners.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hervey Bay – The main gateway to K'gari, with whale-watching tours and a relaxed waterfront vibe.
• Tin Can Bay – A sleepy fishing town known for its daily wild dolphin feeding and excellent seafood.
• Gympie – A historic gold-mining town with a charming main street, antique shops, and the Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum.
• Maryborough – A beautifully preserved heritage city, birthplace of author Mary Shelley, with grand colonial architecture and a riverfront park.
• Rainbow Beach – The closest mainland access to the Cooloola section, with colourful sand cliffs and a laid-back atmosphere.

Please check official sources for current details.