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One of Australia's best natural holiday destinations, Hervey Bay is surrounded by long stretches of sandy beaches, and an ocean teeming with aquatic wonders.
Hervey Bay is the gateway to World Heritage listed Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island. A nature and adventure lover's paradise, you can experience incredible rainforests, giant sand dunes, crystal clear fresh water lakes and streams, abundant wildlife, and 4WD adventures.
During winter, Hervey Bay becomes the whale watching capital of Australia. Whale watching cruises are a hugely popular activity here as migrating humpback whales put on a majestic show in the waters around Hervey Bay each year between July and November.
Each year from late July through to early November, the mighty humpback whales take time out from their annual migration for a bit of R&R in the protected waters of Hervey Bay. There is no better place to experience their antics and their awesome size than close up on a whale-watching cruise.
It is the largest sand island in the world and one of the rare places where rainforest grows on sand. Fraser Island is abundant in pristine freshwater lakes and crystal clear creeks, scenic 4WD circuits, walking tracks, cool and peaceful rainforests, swampy wetlands and heath lands full of wild flowers.
Fraser Coast is quickly gaining a reputation for admirable food and wonderful restaurants and cafes. Alfresco dining, ideally suited to the Fraser Coast's temperate climate, is very popular, and Hervey Bay's Esplanade and marina areas are home to a wide range of quality dining experiences, using the backdrop of the water to full effect.
Fish in the bay are plentiful — the mangrove-lined creeks and sheltered turquoise waters can yield an amazing catch, including bream, whiting, flathead, mackerel, tailor and mangrove jack. Fish from the shore, launch your tinnie from the boat ramps, take a charter and try your hand at sports fishing, or just cruise the Great Sandy Strait and drop a line over the side.
The region's cultural heart beats loud and strong. The Hervey Bay Regional Gallery features works by local artists and regularly hosts Australian and international travelling exhibitions. Pick any weekend, and you're sure to find a bustling market brimming with locally produced wares, produce and plants. Wander through the stalls, chat with the locals and pick up a bargain or two.
From national brand name stores to family-owned boutiques, you'll find contemporary and traditional shops right around the region. The area is bustling with air-conditioned shopping malls, fascinating arcades and corner stores and country villages that will take you back to your childhood memories.
Whether it is water activities such as swimming, fishing, paddle boats, kayaks and windsurfers, wildlife and nature activities such as glassbottom boat rides and bird parks, or active pursuits such as mini-golf or go-karting, you'll discover the Fraser Coast is packed with fun adventures that will delight children of all ages. Make sure you visit the new WetSide Water Education Park!
Are you a weekend hacker or a serious handicapper? Hervey Bay has range of golf courses including a rural course with sand greens and wandering wildlife. Many of the golf courses have country club facilities, making the 19th hole the most refreshing hole of the round.
You could easily spend a week enjoying adventure activities whether it is a physical challenge or adrenalin rush. From acrobatic aircraft to go-karts, sky diving to exhilarating thrill rides across the calm Hervey Bay waters, you'll find the rush you are after.
Hervey Bay has one of the safest swimming beaches in Queensland…no stingers, mild temperatures, and calm waters protected by Fraser Island. Or take a Sunset Champagne Cruise - sip champagne as the sun sets over the waters of the Great Sandy Strait. What a great way to wind down after a day exploring!
Download the Top 10 things to do while you're at the Fraser Coast in PDF format.
View the official events calendar at http://www.frasercoastevents.com.au.