With a population of approximately 80,000, Hervey Bay is often considered as the gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef and Fraser Island. With great weather and a year-round sun, Hervey Bay earned its name from the massive bay formed by the coast and Fraser Island.
With world-famous seaside towns such as Point Vernon, Pialba, Scarnesss, Torquay and Urangan, Hervey Bay boasts a sub-tropical climate with an average of 23 degrees in the winter and 30 degrees in the summer.
This scenic place was discovered back in 1770 by Captain James Cook, who initially assumed that Fraser Island was physically connected to the mainland.
An integral part of the Fraser Island experience, Hervey Bay features a plethora of attractions to keep visitors entertained during the entire duration of their stay.
Extremely popular among tourists visiting Fraser Island, Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens is located in Elizabeth Street.
This 26-hectares garden delivers an absolute feast to the eyes.
The garden’s main attraction is undoubtedly the world-famous Orchid House which holds over 20,000 orchids.
The Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens also includes facilities such as barbecue areas, shelters, tables, toilets and seating options.
These gardens additionally house a Bush Chapel surrounded by a canopy of rainforest trees that provides the ideal setting for weddings and other such ceremonies.
Whale Watching
Fraser Island and Hervey Bay are famous for the impressive number of whales that frolic in its gloriously turquoise waters.
The most common types of whale in this region include Minke Whale, Sei Whale, Bryde’s Whale, Fine Whale and the Blue Whale.
These whales are especially characterized by the dorsal fins present in their ventral pleats and their backs. During the winter, you can enjoy the impressive view of large shoals of whales as they migrate towards warmer waters.
Accommodation
Because it is one of Fraser Island’s most popular tourist destinations, Hervey Bay does offer quite a lot in terms of accommodation.
Indeed, tourists will be able to choose between different budget-friendly motels with family or single rooms. Most of these motels do provide wireless internet and morning service.
If you’re willing to splurge, you can also select between one of Hervey Bay’s numerous resorts that include a variety of facilities such as game rooms, swimming pools, room service and spas.
Tourists who want to backpack across Hervey Bay and Fraser Island will be glad to learn that this region also includes a variety of amendments suited to backpackers, ranging from basic B&B’s to five star backpacker facilities.
Additionally, Hervey Bay is also known for its many caravan spots where tourists can set up camp as they discover Fraser Island’s many wonders.
Kayak and Glass Bottom
Because of the amazingly calm waters, Fraser Island is additionally known for its glass bottom and kayak expeditions.
Tourists will be able to choose from several tour operators and find a tailor-made package that matches their budget and expectations. These tours will undoubtedly captivate you as you explore Fraser Island’s marvelous waters.
Some common sights include, but are not limited to, Sting Rays, Dugongs, Dolphins and Turtles.