Explore Hervey Bay & the Fraser Coast

  • K'gari - Fraser Island

    Address:
    K'gari, QLD, Australia .

    Explore K'gari, the world's largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed destination. Known for its stunning beaches, freshwater lakes and ancient rainforests, K'gari offers guided tours, 4WD adventures and day trips suitable for all ages.

  • Whale Watching (Seasonal)

    Address:
    Great Sandy Straits Marina Urangan Hervey Bay, Buccaneer Drive, Urangan QLD, Australia .

    Hervey Bay is world-renowned as one of the best places on earth to experience humpback whale encounters. During the annual migration season, whales rest and play in the calm, protected waters of the bay, offering unforgettable close-up experiences.

    Whale watching tours depart daily from the nearby marina, just minutes from Quarterdecks Retreat.

  • Lady Elliot Island

    Address:
    Lady Elliot Island, Queensland, Australia .

    Take a scenic flight to Lady Elliot Island, part of the southern Great Barrier Reef. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, it's a popular destination for snorkelling, diving and eco tours.

  • Urangan Pier & Esplanade

    Address:
    Urangan Pier, Great Sandy Strait QLD, Australia .

    Enjoy a scenic walk along the historic Urangan Pier or explore the Hervey Bay Esplanade, which stretches along the coastline and features parks, playgrounds, swimming areas, picnic spots and waterfront cafés.

  • Wreck Diving

    Address:
    Hervey Bay Dive Centre, Dive Office Boat Club marina, Jetty St, Urangan QLD, Australia .

    Discover some of Queensland's most unique underwater experiences during your stay in Hervey Bay. Whether you're an experienced diver or looking to tick off a bucket-list adventure, the Fraser Coast offers exceptional reef and wreck diving opportunities.

    One of the region's standout dive attractions is the ex-HMAS Tobruk, a purpose-sunk naval ship resting in the waters off the Fraser Coast. At 127 metres long, the former Royal Australian Navy heavy-lift ship has been transformed into an exciting artificial reef and world-class dive site, attracting marine life and divers from around Australia.

    The wreck offers something for a range of experience levels. The upper decks sit in shallower water, making them suitable for recreational divers, while the lower and internal sections provide more challenging dives for advanced and technical divers.

    Several local dive operators run guided trips to the ex-HMAS Tobruk, making it easy to experience this remarkable underwater attraction during your stay.

    For those wanting to explore even further, Lady Elliot Island lies just a 40-minute scenic flight from Hervey Bay at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens and resident manta rays, it offers one of Australia's most memorable reef diving experiences.

    Whether you choose to explore a historic shipwreck or the colourful reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, Hervey Bay is an excellent base for unforgettable underwater adventures.

  • Fishing

    Address:
    Urangan QLD, Australia .

    Hervey Bay is a popular fishing destination, offering plenty of opportunities for anglers of all ages and experience levels. Whether you prefer casting a line from the shore, fishing from a boat or joining a guided charter, there are options to suit every style of fishing.

    Popular land-based fishing spots include the iconic Urangan Pier, the Urangan Rock Wall, local beaches and sheltered foreshores, where you can target a variety of species throughout the year. For those looking to head offshore, local fishing charters provide the chance to explore the waters of Hervey Bay and the Fraser Coast with experienced guides.

    Whether you're hoping to catch dinner, spend a relaxing day by the water or experience the thrill of offshore fishing, Hervey Bay offers some of Queensland's most enjoyable fishing experiences.

  • Sunsets & Cruises

    Address:
    Hervey Bay QLD, Australia .

    Hervey Bay's calm waters and expansive coastline provide the perfect setting to enjoy a spectacular sunset. Outside the whale watching season, a number of operators offer relaxing sunset cruises, while the foreshore, beaches, and scenic lookouts provide excellent vantage points for enjoying the changing colours of the evening sky.

    Whether you're taking to the water or enjoying a leisurely waterfront stroll, a Hervey Bay sunset is not to be missed.

  • Dining

    Address:
    Hervey Bay Boat Club, Buccaneer Drive, Urangan QLD, Australia .

    Hervey Bay's Boat Harbour precinct is one of the region's most popular dining destinations, offering a relaxed waterfront atmosphere just a short walk from Quarterdecks Retreat. Overlooking the marina, you'll find a great selection of cafés, restaurants and casual eateries serving everything from fresh local seafood and tapas to modern Australian cuisine and family favourites.

    Whether you're looking for breakfast by the water, a leisurely lunch, sunset drinks or dinner with marina views, there's something to suit every taste. Many venues also feature outdoor dining, regular live entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere for couples, families and groups.

    With several popular dining options within easy walking distance, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy Hervey Bay's laid-back coastal lifestyle.

  • Reef World Aquarium

    Address:
    Kent Street & Pulgul Street, Dayman Park, Urangan QLD, Australia .

    Located right on the beautiful foreshores of Hervey Bay in Urangan, Reefworld Aquarium is one of the region's most unique family attractions. Established in 1979, this iconic aquarium has been welcoming visitors for more than 40 years.

    Reefworld is an all-natural aquarium, using only sand-filtered seawater and natural sunlight. With very few all-natural aquariums in the world, it offers a truly distinctive experience for visitors of all ages.

    The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including green sea turtles, colourful tropical fish and large reef fish. Hidden throughout the tanks, guests can also spot tubeworms, crabs, shrimp and starfish.

    Adults and children alike can take part in feeding the marine life, with green sea turtles, sharks and large reef fish fed daily. Visitors can also enjoy the touch tank experience throughout the day, offering a hands-on way to connect with marine creatures up close.

    Be sure to bring your camera to capture the natural beauty of the living reef, and browse the range of memorabilia available after your visit.

  • Hervey Bay Historical Village & Museum

    Address:
    13 Zephyr Street, Scarness QLD 4655, Australia .

    The Hervey Bay Historical Village & Museum is a multi-award-winning family attraction that authentically recreates the early days of settlement in the Hervey Bay region.

    Step back in time and experience Hervey Bay’s fascinating history at the Hervey Bay Historical Village and Museum, right in the heart of the Fraser Coast. Celebrated as the Australia Day 2024 Community Group of the Year, this award-winning attraction invites visitors of all ages to discover what life was really like for the pioneering settlers who shaped the region.

    Wander through more than 20 authentic historical buildings and explore more than 12,000 unique artefacts that showcase everyday life from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Engage with interactive demonstrations such as blacksmithing and rope-making, and witness the skills early Australians needed to thrive in challenging conditions.

    Set amidst spacious grounds, the museum offers a memorable, immersive experience for families, history lovers and tourists alike.

  • Mini Golf Hervey Bay

    Address:
    1 Truro Street, Torquay QLD, Australia .

    Looking for fun the whole family can enjoy? Mini Golf Hervey Bay features a beautifully landscaped 18-hole course with water features, sand traps, rolling greens and unique Hervey Bay-themed holes. Play during the day under shade or enjoy a round under lights in the evening. With an on-site café and licensed bar, it's the perfect spot for families, couples and groups looking for a relaxed and entertaining outing just minutes from Quarterdecks Retreat.

  • Markets & Local Events

    Address:
    Pier Street, Urangan QLD, Australia .

    Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy local markets, community events and coastal festivals throughout Hervey Bay and the Fraser Coast region.

  • Parkrun Urangan

    Address:
    Urangan Pier, Great Sandy Strait QLD, Australia .

    If you're visiting Hervey Bay on a Saturday morning, why not join the local parkrun? This free, friendly 5 km community event welcomes everyone, whether you choose to walk, jog, run, volunteer or simply cheer participants on.

    Hervey Bay offers two weekly parkrun events, including the scenic Urangan Pier parkrun, which starts from Lions Park on the Esplanade in Urangan. Both events begin at 7:00 am every Saturday and are a great way to enjoy the waterfront while meeting locals and fellow visitors.

    Whether you're chasing a personal best or just looking for an active way to start your weekend, parkrun is a fun addition to your Hervey Bay stay.

  • Parkrun Point Vernon

    Address:
    Point Vernon Foreshore Reserve parkrun, Esplanade, Point Vernon QLD, Australia .

    Start your Saturday with a scenic run, jog or walk at the Point Vernon parkrun. This free, friendly 5 km community event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, whether you're looking to exercise, volunteer or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

    Held every Saturday at 7:00 am, the event starts at Point Vernon Foreshore Reserve, opposite 138 The Esplanade, Point Vernon. The picturesque coastal course makes it a great way to experience another beautiful part of Hervey Bay during your stay.

    Whether you're a regular parkrunner or trying it for the first time, everyone is welcome.

  • Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens

    Address:
    Botanic Gardens, Elizabeth Street, Urangan QLD, Australia .

    Escape to the peaceful surroundings of the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens, a beautiful 26-hectare reserve showcasing native plants from the Fraser Coast and Wide Bay regions. With walking paths winding through natural bushland, landscaped gardens and tranquil lagoons, it's the perfect place for a relaxing stroll.

    Highlights include the Australian Bush Tucker Garden, Chinese-inspired garden, picturesque lagoon, Bush Chapel, Orchid House and a nature playground for children, making it an enjoyable outing for visitors of all ages.

    Located just a short drive from Quarterdecks Retreat, the gardens are open daily and free to visit, offering a quiet escape to enjoy the natural beauty of Hervey Bay.