Fraser Island
A History of Fraser Island | Tips for Travellers to Fraser Island
Fraser Island's Tourist Attractions | Lakes of Fraser Island | Tourism on Fraser Island

There are many attractions for tourists to visit on Fraser Island.

Eli Creek

This leads from the heart of the island to the sea. The water flows in a strong current towards the sea - hence Eli Creek is referred to as a 'lazy river'. It is easy just to lie on the water on your back or front, and let the current carry you along - although be careful not to end up in difficulties. Lying on a boogie board is also fun and will make your progress faster. Around Eli Creek there is a pleasant boardwalk.

Central Station

Central Station is the tourist centre on Fraser Island. It is located towards the centre of the island and is accessible by car. The drive is enjoyable and shady, if somewhat bumpy. Central Station contains picnic benches, toilets and information about the island, as well as lots of mosquitoes. It is staffed by rangers.

Wongoolba Creek

Wongoolba Creek is near Central Station. It has a charming boardwalk running along it. The tranquility is wonderful.

Lakes

Fraser Island's lakes are extremely popular with tourists. See Lakes of Fraser Island.

Beach

The beaches on Fraser Island are unsuitable for swimming, due to rough waves and dangerous water creatures. The main beach on Fraser Island doubles as a highway. Although this is usually used by cars, tourists a pied also enjoy it. It is not unknown for tourists simply to 'go for a spin on the beach' - driving on the sand is quite fun, and the view of the sea and sand dunes is quite pleasant¹.

Walking on the beach is also possible, although it is a good idea to go in pairs or threes as dingoes like to hang around on the beach. The beach at night is a great place for looking at the stars, as there is little artificial light on Fraser Island.

Maheno Wreck

The wreck of the ship Maheno is located on the beach of Fraser Island. The Maheno, bound for Japan, ran ashore during a cyclone in 1935. The wreck is partly covered by the sea during high tide, although at low tide it can be examined and walked around. Be very careful when looking at the Maheno. Sharp parts may stick out - as the Maheno is rusty it is not good to cut yourself on it. Do not attempt to climb the wreck either, as it is very fragile and may well give way.

Sand Dunes

Parabolic-shaped dunes, formed by strong winds, are common on Fraser Island. Dunes are right next to the main beach, and there is a large mass of huge dunes in the middle of the Island. They are spectacular to see and a lot of fun to roll down - although it's hard work trudging back up! Sand blows ²also occur on the Island.

Fishing

Fishing is best in the sea of the island. When fishing from the eastern coast beach, be very careful of the cars driving along (and drivers, be aware of fishers!). Take care of your bait so it is not eaten by dingoes.

Walks

There are seven walking trails from Central Station, including the Wongoolba Creek boardwalk, and a walk to Lake Mackenzie. Other trailed walks include walks to and from most lakes on the island as well as the eastern beach.

Coloured Sands

Underlying the 'top' sand on some parts of the island are sands of different colours. This sand is extremely old, and gets its colour from iron-rich minerals. There is a wide variety of hues available, including yellows, browns and reds. Sculptures of coloured sand occur where wind and rain erode the main sandmass. Inside is the colourful older core. The 'cathedrals' on Fraser Island are beautiful examples of this.

Souvenirs

Souvenirs of Fraser Island can be bought in small tourist shops on the island. There are many small mementoes such as rulers and pencils, as well as soft toys and many beautiful T-shirts. Coloured sand, often arranged in patterns, can also be bought.