If you’re searching for paradise in Australia, look no further than K’gari (formerly Fraser Island). Spanning 123 kilometres in length and 22 kilometres in width, this World Heritage-listed treasure reigns as the largest sand island on Earth. But that’s just the beginning of its accolades. Here, you’ll find the fourth most crystal-clear waters in Oceania, half the world’s perched dune lakes, the purest colony of dingoes on the planet, and the only place on Earth where rainforests grow on sand dunes.
If K’gari isn’t already on your great Aussie bucket list, what on Earth are you waiting for?
When did Fraser Island change its name to K’gari?
For almost 200 years, this World Heritage-listed wonder was known as Fraser Island. However, on June 7, 2023, it was rightfully renamed K’gari (pronounced “garrie”), to honour the Butchulla people, the Traditional Owners of the land. K’gari translates to paradise in the language of the Butchulla people – and paradise it sure is.
Where is K’gari (Fraser Island)?
K’gari is located just off Australia’s east coast in Queensland, approximately 360 kilometres or a six-hour drive north of Brisbane. Alternatively, it’s just 15 kilometres offshore from Hervey Bay.
How do you get to K’gari (Fraser Island)?
You can reach K’gari by a scenic 40 minute ferry ride from the mainland in Hervey Bay. Sealink ferries depart from River Heads to either Kingfisher Bay or Wanggoolba Creek eight times daily, starting at 6.45am and ending with the last service at 4pm. You can bring your 4WD or caravan on board the barge, but don’t forget to secure a vehicle beach access permit beforehand. You can also arrange a car to hire on the island.
K’gari is also reachable by plane with flights departing from Hervey Bay and Bundaberg. The island is also accessible by private boat charter and has a landing pad for helicopters. Note that certain parts of K’gari’s western coast are accessible only through private charter or guided boat tours.
How big is K’gari (Fraser Island)?
As the world’s largest sand island, K’gari covers more than 1,800 square kilometres, stretching 123 kilometres long and 22 kilometres wide. This includes more than 250 kilometres of pristine beaches, 90 kilometres of hiking trails, and 40 kilometres of colourful sand cliffs
What is the temperature like on K’gari (Fraser Island)?
The Sunshine State is lucky enough to enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine per year, and subtropical K’gari is no exception. On the whole, the island experiences warm temperatures and a cool sea breeze year-round.
Summer can be hot and humid, averaging 29 degrees Celsius, while the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer prime weather conditions, with daily temperatures averaging in the mid-20s. Even in winter, temperatures peak in the low-20s, making K’gari ideal for outdoor adventures, swimming and camping all year round.
What is there to see on K’gari (Fraser Island)?
This World Heritage-listed island is a dream destination, featuring stunning white sand beaches, 100 freshwater lakes, ancient rainforests, and an abundance of wildlife, including ancient 1,250-year-old trees and wild dingoes. Highlights include:
- Lake McKenzie – a crystal-clear perch dune lake sitting 100m above sea level, surrounded by silica soft sands and lush rainforest
- Eli Creek – an idyllic spot for floating down the river or strolling along the boardwalk
- S.S. Maheno – K’gari’s most famous shipwreck stranded on 75 Mile Beach
- 75 Mile Beach – the ‘Sand Highway’ that runs the length of K'gari's east coast and is only suitable for 4WDs
- Champagne Pools – K’gari’s most charming saltwater pools, located on the northeastern tip
- Indian Head lookout – the island’s most easterly point, offering spectacular, panoramic views of the Coral Sea and great whale watching opportunities
- Pile Valley – the only place on Earth where rainforests grow on sand dunes
How many dingoes are there on K’gari (Fraser Island)?
K'gari is home to the world’s purest colony of wild dingoes, often spotted roaming, sleeping or foraging around the island. Currently, there are 25 to 30 packs on K’gari, each with an average of 12 dingoes. This number peaks after the winter breeding season.
If you spot a dingo, stay at least 20 metres away. Make yourself look large and dominant by facing the dingo, yell ‘dingo’ to alert others, and calmly back away to safety.
Where can you stay on K’gari (Fraser Island)?
You’ll feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city, with off-grid accommodation options to suit every comfort level and budget. On the western side of the island, Kingfisher Bay Resort stands as K’gari’s premium accommodation, offering 250 eco-luxe villas and hotel rooms. This family-friendly resort is a perfect base for exploring K’gari’s wonders and is also a sanctuary for relaxation, featuring four lagoon-style pools, an outdoor hot tub, tennis courts, seven drinking and dining venues, a general store and an intimate day spa.
On the eastern side, K’gari Beach Resort provides more budget-friendly accommodation, with 124 hotel units and self-contained apartments, a lagoon swimming pool, tennis courts, casual dining options and easy access to 75 Mile Beach.
The island also offers a range of holiday rentals, from budget to blowout. Campers will find plenty of places to pitch their tents, with popular spots including Waddy Point, Dundubara, Dilli Village, Central Station and Lake McKenzie. For a dreamy under-the-stars experience, Cathedrals on Fraser, K’gari’s only privately-owned campground, offers a comfortable yet adventurous stay.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.