Considering Queensland’s Wide Bay-Burnett region is only a half-day drive from the big smoke, it’s criminal that it flies so far under the radar – not to mention the gorgeous natural spots on offer.

 

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Jump to Section

As the outdoor trails, campgrounds, and beaches of the Sunny Coast, Brisbane, and the Goldy become more crowded, it pays to travel a little extra up the highway – you’ll be greatly rewarded. Here are a handful of reasons to keep going past the K’gari turnoff and explore Wide Bay!

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

 

1. Turtle Hatching at Mon Repos

During the summer months, this single stretch of beach becomes the largest marine turtle nesting and hatchling site on Australia’s East Coast! It’s especially important for the endangered Loggerhead turtle as it’s their main nesting site in the entire South Pacific.

The Mon Repos Turtle Centre is designed and dedicated specifically for marine turtle research and education. You can visit throughout the day and learn all about the ancient and majestic creatures, but the magic begins when the sun goes down.

From November, the turtles start hauling themselves up the beach and begin the laborious task of digging nests and laying their eggs. The dexterity and effort with which they accomplish this task must be seen to be believed. The eggs (sometimes up to 200 per nest!) incubate for around two months, after which the hatchlings come to the surface and begin their perilous journey into the world.

@_rorasaurus

There are rangers, marine biologists, and local volunteers running the operation and all are passionate and knowledgeable. The biology of these turtles is so interesting and to learn about it while seeing them lay or hatch is a truly special privilege.

The local First Nations People have a close connection with the experience at Mon Repos and run the Milbi Café in the centre. There are sections of interpretation throughout the centre allowing visitors to appreciate this ancient connection.

Booking in advance is necessary as such an important site means it’s very popular. Any Explorer who’s passionate about marine biology can express interest in volunteering to the research and contribute to the survival of these amazing animals.

Read more: Why It’s Worth Choosing an Ethical Wildlife Tour

2. Play Castaway on Lady Musgrave Island

Hidden away as one of the most southern islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Musgrave Island is a gem for nature and ocean lovers. At certain times of year the island becomes a seabird nesting site and the Pisonia trees are full of mostly White capped noddies that seem unfazed by their human visitors.

The island has a natural lagoon to protect it from ocean swells and the snorkelling is some of the best on the reef. During winter, Humpback whales also migrate through the region.

 

 

Unless you’re sailing your own vessel, there are two ways to experience the island.

The first and most popular way is to take a commercial day trip or overnight glamping stay on a pontoon. The second option is to book a tent campsite and have your own island getaway!

You’ll have to organise drop off and pickup with the commercial operator for you and your supplies. There’s no fresh water, and the only infrastructure is some drop toilets so you have to take absolutely everything you need. This is a camping spot for the truly self-sufficient and adventurous!

Check the QLD Parks website for all necessary information and to book.

Read more: Marooned on the Lady Musgrave Island

 

3. Pitch a Tent on the Sand

To escape the crowds further down the coast, head to the stretch of coastline between Burrum Heads and Agnes Waters where you’ll find plenty of opportunity for secluded coastal camping.

Some of the best spots can be accessed around the Burrum Coast National Park or further north at Deep Water National Park.

You can fish, boat, paddle, 4WD, or just set up camp and relax until you can’t relax anymore. Without even leaving your tent or hammock you can keep an eye out for dugongs, dolphins, or whales during their migration.

Kinkuna bush camping area is my pick of the bunch, with the sites tucked just behind the dunes beneath Casuarina trees.

 

 

There isn’t any infrastructure at this site so you’ll need to bring in and take out everything for your stay. You can access Kinkuna travelling up from the south heading toward Woodgate. The directions and up to date information can be found on the QLD Parks website.

Another great place to set up camp if you’re not completely self sufficient is Burrum Shores Beachfront Campground, which is a privately run property just out of Burrum Heads. There are a range of sites but you’ll need to get in early if you want to secure the beachfront spots. The property is close to town to stock up on supplies and has all the facilities you could need, right down to smokers in the camp kitchen!

Be sure to check the tides and conditions before heading onto the beach, and if you’re not experienced driving on sand, travel in a convoy with other experienced drivers.

Many of the areas along the coast are pet friendly but don’t take your furry friends where they’re not allowed. Native fauna, and especially nesting birds, depend on certain areas and can be deterred from their usual behaviours and territories if they sense any danger – even the smell of a dog after it’s departed!b

Read more: How to Stay Safe on the Beach

Nearby Accommodation

4. Twice as Much Fun at the Twin Towns of Agnes Water and 1770

One of the more abstract named places in the country, 1770 is the spot where Cook made his second landing in Australia. He described his view as ‘visibly worse’ than his first stop at Botany Bay, but for a holiday getaway, it doesn’t get much better! Situated on a beautiful peninsula, there are opportunities for varying appetites of camping and exploration all around.

 

 

Enjoying a sunset over the water at the rivermouth is a rare treat for East Coasters and you really get the sense you’re heading into a more tropical Queensland from here.

1770’s sister town, Agnes Water, just to the south, is nestled into a headland with occasional peeling waves off the point, perfect for learners and longboarders. For surfers heading north on road trips, this is generally considered your last chance on the East Coast to get a wave, as further north the Great Barrier Reef blocks the ocean swell.

 

 

1770 is another launching point into the Southern Great Barrier Reef and there are tours out to the reef. There are also 4WD and amphibious vehicle tour options in the immediate area, for those wanting to explore but without their own vehicle or vessel.

Both towns are incredibly laidback with a focus on the outdoors and simple, easy living – you can really leave the hustle of the city behind.

5. Hike and 4WD the Inland National Parks

For those after a hiking or freshwater fix, there are some seriously under-visited national parks inland from the Wide Bay coast that can soothe your itch! Some of these parks are great for 4WDing, while others are more appropriate for bushwalking and generally offer day walks with the occasional possibility of overnight bush camping.

Read more: How to Stay Safe in the Bush: The Ultimate Hiking Safety Guide

Tourism and Events Queensland

Cania National Park is a place of First Nations significance, with Indigenous art sites and a variety of walking tracks. The most popular route for day visitors is linking the walks to The Overhang, Dragon Cave, Bloodwood Cave, and the Dripping Rock, which ends up being about 5km.

An alternative for those wanting something a bit longer or to get even further from the crowds is the Castle Mountain track, which is mostly fire trail culminating in a beautiful view. There aren’t camping areas within Cania National Park, but there are nearby caravan parks and other national parks.

 

 

My pick is Bulburin National Park, which has a few different camping options all surrounded by bushland.

Mount Walsh National Park offers a great combination of challenging trails, with the most popular by far being the steep hike and rock scramble to the summit. Mount Walsh National Park also allows bush camping. If you’re keen to stay overnight here, get in touch with the park rangers via the website and they’ll notify you of the permitted camping areas.

Visitors often come for the waterholes too, with Waterfall Creek and Utopia Falls being the most popular spots. The quality of these waterholes is very subject to the recent weather conditions and visiting after some good rainfall is best.

If you’re visiting in warmer months, it’s best to start early and always carry plenty of water. As these places are remote and not always frequented by parks staff, it’s best to be prepared and get updates on the park conditions, especially after periods of heavy rainfall.

Read more: How To Survive Hiking in Hot Weather

6. Delight in Local Produce and Rural Stays

Thanks to the agricultural nature of the region, there are also plenty of properties offering rural options for stays and camping. As one of the nation’s food growing regions, you can see first-hand where your produce comes from and buy direct from the source at the many farm shops and side of the road stalls. Most often these stalls are on the outskirts of the regional towns and offer the fruits and veggies that are in season at discounted rates.

There are some great stalls near Childers just off the Woodgate Road, and if you’re around Bundaberg, Tinaberries is famous for its handmade strawberry ice-cream which you eat right there among the strawberry fields.

 

If you’re ready for a real taste of rural Queensland with natural beauty and wildlife year round; pack up the car, keep an open mind, and the Wide Bay/Burnett will deliver the goods.

 

Header and table of contents images via Tourism and Events Queensland

FAQs Wide Bay-Burnett Region

Where is the Wide Bay-Burnett region located?

The Wide Bay-Burnett region is located about three hours north of Brisbane. It’s near popular areas such as K’gari, Gympie, and Hervey Bay.

How do you get to the Wide Bay-Burnett region?

There’s no public transport into Wide Bay, so you’ll have to drive up the Bruce Highway if you want to get there directly. Alternatively, you could catch the train to Maryborough or Bundaberg from Brisbane, but you’ll have to find your own way into Wide Bay.

How many days should I spend at the Wide Bay-Burnett region?

Really depends on what you want to do! You could definitely knock out a fun weekend if you’re commuting from Brisbane, but if you want to hit all the key attractions like Lady Musgrave and inland national parks, a 3-5 day trip would be ideal.

When is the best time to visit the Wide Bay-Burnett region?

March to May would be an awesome time to visit! It’s not as busy, plus the heat dials it back a bit while still being warm enough for some ocean adventures.

See More QLD Gems Near Wide Bay

 

We’ve shared these recommendations because we genuinely rate them and want you to enjoy them too. Our writers use a mix of personal experience and research to compile these lists, and they’re also encouraged to be honest when things aren’t up to scratch. For more information on our approach, check out our Editorial Standards.