Fraser Island

The Aborigines knew exactly why they called this island 'Paradise' in their language. Fraser Island has a lot to offer in terms of paradise. If you want to explore the largest sand island in the world, follow me on a journey there: Dingoes, a shipwreck, white sandy beaches, and a Butterfly Lake await you.

Here, on Fraser Island, you'll find a spot that you would not expect. This island surprises with almost 200 lakes, filled with crystal clear water and white sandy beaches that even the best sunglasses can't resist. Sand formations in the rainbow colors of Mother Earth await you on the beaches, where you'll occasionally encounter a Dingo. Don't miss this unique natural spectacle in the east of Australia.

Fraser Island was previously known as 'Great Sandy Island' because there is nowhere else on our planet with a total area of 1840 km² of pure sand. Since 1992, the island has been part of UNESCO World Heritage and was already named K'gari by the Aborigines, which means 'Paradise.' The locals knew what they were talking about because Fraser Island is truly an amazing island that surprises its visitors with a spectacle of natural wonders. You won't find any roads here, but you can tear around on sandy paths in an off-road vehicle - there's probably nothing more fun than racing over dunes and jumping over sand holes. To maximize the fun, you'll need a rental car that you'll pick up on the mainland. Once on the island, you should drive along the 120 km long 75 Miles Beach on the east side of the island and really let loose. But be careful - this stretch of beach also serves as a landing strip, so watch out for small airplanes.

When at the Maheno Shipwreck, you should definitely stop because there lies the old luxury liner Maheno, which reminds us of a once-glorious time. In the south of the island, sandstone formations illuminate in all imaginable earth colors. You can best admire the natural wonder of the mineral-colored sandstones at the Red Canyon and Pinnacles.

Fraser Island is home to nearly 200 lakes, of which Lake McKenzie, due to its crystal clear water and surrounding white sandy beach, is the most famous. You should definitely plan a few hours here to fully enjoy the ambiance because you rarely find such fine, white sand again. Lake Birrabeen also invites you to linger with its equally radiant sandy beach. You should wade through Eli Creek, the largest river on the island, to get your circulation going in the icy water. If you prefer warmer water, relax in the Champagne Pools by the sea. There, sea water flows into the pre-formed rock pools at high tide, creating little bubbles. So, if you want to swim in the sea, this is the place to do it, away from dangerous currents and hungry sharks waiting on the beach. A flight over Butterfly Lake tops off your visit to Fraser Island and should not be missed. You'll fly over the fascinating landscape in a small plane and see one of the most beautiful lake formations from above - the Butterfly Lake.

Fraser Island is full of mangrove, eucalyptus, and rainforests that are home to about 350 bird species. Dingoes still live wild here and can sometimes be spotted with a little luck. But beware - these dogs are wild and should not be confused with pets. And those interested in whale watching and dolphins will have the greatest chances of seeing a whale dive beneath the boat on Fraser Island. A boat tour should definitely be on your list.

A trip to Fraser Island is best combined with a stay in Gold Coast (Surfer Paradise or Byron Bay). Hervey Bay is about four hours north of Brisbane, and from there, ferries go to Fraser Island daily. Camping is particularly popular on Fraser Island because it brings you closest to nature. There are numerous campsites on the island; just make sure to choose one that has sanitary facilities - otherwise, you'll have to bathe in the lake. ;-) Waddy Point is a good option, or you can simply spend the night in your car. Many rental companies offer camper vans where you can sleep wonderfully. There are also larger hotels, or you can book a charming private accommodation. For those who don't want to channel their inner Crocodile Dundee and prefer to skip sleeping in the wilderness, there are also some day tours from the mainland. Can't wait to see this unique island with your own eyes? Then start planning your trip right away.