Where to go on the Fraser Coast in Queensland for sun, sand and sea
Table of Contents
This post about the best beaches in Hervey Bay is quite long. So to make to easier for you to read I have created a table of contents.
If you want to head straight to a specific section simply click on the relevant link below:
1. Introduction
2. Where is Hervey Bay?
3. Getting To Hervey Bay
4. Best Time To Visit Hervey Bay
5. Best Beaches in Hervey Bay
6. Things to Do in Hervey Bay
7. Where to Stay in Hervey Bay
8. Where to Eat in Hervey Bay
9. Final Thought
10. FAQs
Once you’ve read this review, I hope you’ll be inspired to head to any of these Hervey Bay Beaches!
(This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you interact with them).
Read Time: 14 Minutes
Introduction
Are you looking to visit the best beaches in Hervey Bay? Well, you have come to the right place!
Did you know there are nine fantastic beaches around this part of the Fraser Coast you can visit, all of which offer a different experience?
Some give you terrific vantage points for spotting pods of humpback whales completing their annual migration from Antarctica to Cairns, while another allows you to walk along one of Australia’s longest piers.
Others enable you to enjoy some time on one of Queensland’s most beautiful stretches of coastline, and many can be accessed via a well-equipped waterfront esplanade that connects to it from the area’s marina.
If you are planning to visit Hervey Bay, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches. That’s why I have put together this guide to provide you with more insight.
The great thing about visiting Hervey Bay Qld is that it is a relatively easy destination to get to via various modes of transport
Where is Hervey Bay?
Referred to as the ‘whale watching capital of the world’, Hervey Bay is located on the Fraser Coast in Southern Queensland. It is approximately a 3.5 hour drive north of Brisbane and is a half hour drive north-east of the town of Maryborough, which is famous for being the birthplace of P.L. Travis, who wrote Marry Poppins.
The coastal city has a population of around 57,000 people and is built around a bay from which it gets its name. It resides on land traditionally owned by the Butchulla people and is considered to be the gateway to K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island).
The beaches of Hervey Bay first came to the attention of Europeans in 1770, when Lieutenant James Cook logged the area during his exploration of the east coast of Australia on the HM Bark Endeavour.
He later named it Hervey Bay in honour of Admiral Augustus John Hervey, who held the post of Lord of the Admiralty between 1771 and 1775.
Distance from Hervey Bay to other places in Queensland
Getting To Hervey Bay?
The great thing about visiting Hervey Bay Qld is that it is a relatively easy destination to get to via various modes of transport.
Most people tend to drive here via the Bruce Highway, either northbound from destinations like the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast or southbound from places like Mackay, Yeppoon and Gladstone. Overall, it is a pretty smooth drive, especially away from the busier parts of south east Queensland, and is well sign-posted. However, it’s worth using an app like Waze or Google Maps to provide you with exact directions.
If you need to fly into the area, you can do this via Hervey Bay Airport, which is located in Urangan. The likes of Virgin, Qantas and Jetstar run regular flights to and from various destinations in Australia. You can check the departure and arrival times here.
Once you arrive at the airport, you will be able to take a bus or taxi to wherever you want to go. Alternatively, you can hire a car from one of the many rental companies that operate in the terminal, including Hertz, Avis, Budget and Europcar to get to Hervey Beach.
Other transport options you can take to enjoy a holiday at the beaches of Hervey Bay include bus and train.
The Greyhound Bus will transport you there from several destinations across Queensland, while the Tilt Train and Spirit of Queensland can do the same to nearby towns such as Howard and Pialba, from where you will need to take a RailBus Coach Connection to Hervey Bay.
You can check these train timetables here.
Best Time To Visit Hervey Bay
As it is blessed with a mild, subtropical climate, the Hervey Bay weather is pleasant all year round, with average maximum temperatures being around 26 degrees. This means you can visit the beaches in Hervey Bay for much of the year in shorts and t-shirts!
For this reason, the best time to visit this part of the Fraser Coast will depend on what you want to do while you are there.
If you want to sunbathe, you can pretty much go all year round, although during the summer months, you shouldn’t spend too much time in the sun between 11 am and 3 pm. Conversely, during the winter months, that is exactly the time you should go to take advantage of the heat of the day.
Whenever you decide to go sunbathing, always make sure you slip, slop, slap, seek and slide to reduce your risk of sunburn and skin cancer.
For those wanting to embark on long walks along Hervey beach, March, April, October, and November are the best months to do this. At this time, the humidity and temperatures are perfectly reasonable, so they should not take too much out of you physically.
Should you want to go whale watching, the season in Queensland runs from June to November. However, your best opportunity to see the humpback whales in Hervey Bay is around mid-July to and late October – though be aware, this can vary depending on water temperature.
The smooth caramel sands that define Scarness Beach make it one of the prettiest of all beaches in Hervey Bay you can visit.
Best Beaches in Hervey Bay
Regardless of when you decide to visit this part of the Fraser Coast, there are nine fantastic beaches in Hervey Bay Queensland, and the surrounding area, you should check out.
Outlined below is a bit more information about the best beaches Hervey Bay has to offer.
1. Torquay Beach
Torquay Beach only comprises 800 metres of sand, however, as it is nestled right in the bosom of the Hervey Bay Esplanade, it is a popular destination for families to enjoy some fun in the sun.
The beach is flanked by several eateries and has a fantastic playground just off the sand, which your kids will love. It is also within easy walking distance of many of the Hervey Bay accommodation providers, which means you can easily nip back and forth to where you are staying, as required.
Overall, Torquay is one of the best beaches in Hervey Bay for swimming and fishing as the water is quite calm. Additionally, there is also a small section of reef available for you to explore whilst snorkelling.
2. Scarness Beach
The smooth caramel sands that define Scarness Beach make it one of the prettiest of all beaches in Hervey Bay you can visit.
Situated close to Torquay Beach, around the Esplanade’s main hub, this tranquil stretch of coastline is perfect for families who want to set themselves up for the perfect beach day.
As it is soft, flat and extends for a long distance, the sand is perfect for walking on. At the same time, this part of the Coral Sea is also fairly calm, which means little ones can swim quite safely if you keep an eye on them. Though you should be aware that the beach is not currently patrolled by surf lifesavers.
Like its neighbour, Scarness Beach is home to a small reef system which provides excellent snorkelling opportunities. It’s also just a short walk to cafes, restaurants, shops and a range of other essential amenities that you might require during your time there.
3. Pialba Beach
Pialba is the first of all beaches in Hervey Bay you will encounter as you enter the city. The popular and scenic Pialba Beach is close to the Hervey Bay Caravan Park, so it is usually quite busy with tourists who have come up in their RV or campers to enjoy a bit of time in the sun.
You’ll notice a lot of families here, thanks to the caravan park having lots of family-friendly activities, and there being a free children’s water park, called Wetside, nearby.
Distance from Hervey Bay to other places in Australia
4. Urangan Beach
Urangan is probably best known for its historical and iconic pier that stretches into the Coral Sea for around 868 metres – making it one of the longest piers in Australia.
Situated on the east side of the city, this is one of the best beaches in Hervey Bay to visit for photographic opportunities. Along with the pier, you can get some great shots of the sunrise and surrounding coastline.
The northeast-facing beach runs from the jagged area adjacent to Torquay Beach all the way down towards the Urangan Boat Harbour. Technically, it should probably be classified as two separate beaches. However, whichever one you go to, you should find it safe for swimming at high tide, though you should still exercise caution.
One thing you’ll notice when you come to Urangan Beach is the number of anglers casting a line. Many people choose to do this from the pier, although those in the know reckon the harbour walls is the most lucrative spot.
5. Toogoom Beach
Toogoom Beach is a quaint seaside village about a 15-minute drive from the city’s CBD. Its coastline stretches for about 7 km from Beelbi Creek to Oregan Creek and is probably one of the calmest beaches in Hervey Bay.
Although it is unpatrolled, this is another good spot for fishing and swimming. Having said that, you should only do this at high tide and avoid entering the area near the mouths of either creeks. The currents here can be quite strong and have the potential to pull people under.
In the right conditions, Toogoom is also a decent spot for water activities such as kayaking and low-wave bodyboarding. However, if that sounds too energetic, there are a couple of lovely beachside restaurants here where you can enjoy a leisurely brunch or lunch.
6. Burrum Heads Beach
Burrum Heads is a small coastal town about a 20 minute drive away. But it is worth making the drive here because it is home to one of the best beaches in Hervey Bay.
Featuring stoic waters and wide expanses of sand, if you do come to Burrum Heads you’ll get to experience the tranquillity pretty much all to yourself, especially if you choose to walk along it.
Despite there being a caravan park directly on the beachfront, there aren’t really that many people around. Other than the odd fisherman either casting a line onshore or from a tinnie out in the water.
7. Dundowran Beach
Dundowran Beach is another of the beaches in Hervey Bay that is separated by two creeks – Eli and Oregan. Extending for around 8 km, it is located about 27 km north of Maryborough and roughly 5 km outside of the Hervey Bay region. However, it is still considered to be part of the region.
As it is a private and secluded coastal area that is well off the tourist trail, it is mainly locals who come here, and, in particular, fishing enthusiasts.
8. Craignish Beach
Just to the west of Dundowran is Craignish Beach, which is the centrepiece of a very small town. The comely area is ideal for fishing, walking and photo opportunities.
It is also one of the only beaches in Hervey Bay near a golf Golf Club. So if you combine a visit here with a round of 18 holes, you are sure to enjoy a fantastic day.
9. Gatakers Bay
Gatakers Bay is centred around Point Vernon, which itself, technically has a beach.
This stretch of coastline is nice and quite, though it does have decent parking, amenities like public toilets, barbecues and picnic tables and also a boat ramp.
If you do come here, you’ll get to enjoy one of the most interesting tidal rock pools of all beaches in Hervey Bay. The sand is also pleasant enough to sunbathe on a towel, especially if you make your way towards the bushland area and mangroves to Point Vernon’s western side.
Hervey Bay is not short of accommodation options for all travellers. Whether you are after a beach resort hotel or an Air BnB-style apartment, plenty of choices suit all budgets and tastes
Things to Do in Hervey Bay
It’s understandable you will want to spend a lot of your time at the best beaches in Hervey Bay. However, when you are not swimming, beach walking or sunbathing there are plenty of tours and excursions you can go on to explore the wider delights of the Fraser Coast and beyond.
You can check out Viator or Get Your Guide for a full list of the tours available at the time of your visit. However, below are some recommended things to do during your visit to Hervey Bay.
Whale Watching
Hervey Bay is renowned as the ‘Whale Watching Capital of the World’, so if you time your visit for the months of June to November, and especially July to September, you should make the effort to see them during their annual migration.
There are several whale watching tours in Hervey Bay you can go on. All of which will provide you with an up-close view of these majestic creatures as they frolic around the bay’s waters.
Make sure you have your cameras or iPhones at the ready as they put on a real show!
K’gari
There are several day trip tours of K’gari available, however this 9-hour excursion is one of the best of them.
During it, you’ll be able to view many of the islands major highlights, including Lake McKenzie, the Maheno shipwreck, Eli Creek, the Pinnacles and Central Station.
You will also learn more about the flora and fauna of the island, spot sharks, dolphin, humpback whales and dugongs, and even get to 4WD along Seventy-Five Mile Beach.
It’s full on day, but this fantastic adventure will give you a real flavour of the largest sand island in the world.
Turtle Discovery Eco Tour
How does the thought of cruising along the Great Sandy Strait in search of turtles sound to you? Well, that is exactly what you can do on this Turtle Discovery Eco Tour.
You’ll be taken to one of several islands, including Big Woody Island, Round Island or Pelican banks, on a 10-metre glass-bottom vessel, where you’ll be able to to snorkel, swim and just relax on its gorgeous sandy shores as you look out for these majestic creatures.
Mary Valley Rattler
If you love old-style locomotive train rides, you’ll definitely want to take the opportunity to ride the Mary Valley Rattler.
Departing from Gympie station, you’ll discover all about the colourful history of steam locomotives in the area before board the wonderful train.
The volunteer-restored steam train takes you past beautiful countryside scenery all the way to Amamoor, whereupon it turns around to head back to its starting point. On your return, you’ll also get to explore the Gympie Station, which has been fully restored to its former glory.
Best of all, this train ride is accessible to everyone, as it is both wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Overview of things to do in Hervey Bay
Where to Stay in Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay is not short of accommodation options for all travellers. Whether you are after a beach resort hotel or an Air BnB-style apartment, plenty of choices suit all budgets and tastes.
You can check here for a full list of places to stay in Hervey Bay. But below are some specific places I recommend staying at:
Mantra Hervey Bay
The Mantra Hervey Bay Hotel is the only marina-front accommodation in the area, directly looking out to Hervey Bay.
It offers a good selection of ‘down to earth’ hotel rooms and 1-3 bedroom apartments that come with private balconies, kitchenette and laundry facilities.
The property offers free parking, which is very handy in Hervey Bay and counts a swim-up pool deck and spa bath among its amenities.
Apartment Ospreys at the Pier
Apartment Ospreys at the Pier at the Pier is an excellent choice for visitors who want to self-cater. This beachfront, air-conditioned apartment in Urangan has three bedrooms with modern furnishings.
It is decked out with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine and dishwasher and features an al fresco dining area where you can enjoy your meals. The property also has an outdoor, heated swimming pool, hot tub/spa and barbecue facilities, all of which set you up nicely for your stay in Hervey Bay.
As its name suggest, it is located within easy walking distance of the pier and is very close to the cafes and shops.
Ramada by Wyndham
Set by Urangan Harbour, the Ramada by Wyndham Hervey Bay offers a convenient location on the Hervey Bay Esplanade.
The hotel features a lovely outdoor swimming pool which includes a spa pool. It also has a restaurant onsite which makes for a convenient dining option after a long day at the beaches in Hervey Bay.
Priding itself on offering outstanding value for money, rooms here are comfortable, stylish and well-appointed, with several mod-cons, such as a flat screen TV to help you maximise your enjoyment levels.
Akama Resort
The Akama Resort is another excellent self-catering option you should consider on the Urangan Esplanade.
It offers the choice of one-, two-, or three-bedroom, air-conditioned apartments, all of which are quite spacious and immaculately maintained. So, unlike other properties in the area, you won’t feel like you are getting on top of each other if you choose to stay here.
The apartments come with good-sized balconies, a full kitchen, laundry, and king-sized beds. Additionally, the property has a fabulous swimming pool that you can enjoy if you don’t fancy visiting the beaches in Hervey Bay.
If you plan on visiting K’gari, the resort is a good base for doing so as it is located near the boat harbour.
Comfort Inn on Main Hervey Bay
Located in Pialba, just off Highway 57, the Comfort Inn on Main Hervey Bay is an affordable option which resides about a 10-minute walk to the beach. It is also just down the road from the Fraser Coast Discovery Sphere.
Rooms here are decidedly no-frills, but they do come with free Wi-Fi, minibars, flat-screen TVs and tea and coffeemakers. Families can request extra beds while guests can swim in their outdoor pool or relax on their terrace.
Where to Eat in Hervey Bay
Whether you are after a gourmet fine dining experience, fresh seafood or a classic coastal meal, the beaches in Hervey Bay, Queensland, provide you with plenty of culinary options.
Here are a few places I recommend eating at during your time on the Fraser Coast:
Odyssey Bistro
If you are in the mood for a casual fine dining experience, Odyssey Bistro is a good option.
This establishment sources its produce from local, independent farmers and fishermen to provide a three or five course farm-to-fork menu that is as sustainable as it is delicious.
Available with wine pairings, dishes like scallops with fish congee and XO sauce, duck rillettes, ocean trout pastrami with rye and creme fraiche and kangaroo tartare are sure to impress.
19XO Pizza & Cocktails
How does pizza and cocktails sound? Well, that is exactly what you get at 19XO in Torquay.
Situated on the Esplanade, they offer a terrific selection of both, which is arguably best enjoyed between 5-6pm when its happy hour. Pizzas are only $10 at this time!
Try the ‘Tropical One’ which features ham and pineapple (you can debate whether pineapple goes on a pizza whilst you eat it!). Alternatively, the pizza share board allows you to share three varieties.
As for drinks, the bar has some very talented mixologists on their books who take their craft very seriously. Using a huge range of excellent spirits and syrups made in-house they are able to concoct a range of both time-honoured and inventive libations to tickle your fancy.
The ‘Just Vibes’, featuring Captain Morgan’s rum, passionfruit, mint, fresh citrus, soda, pineapple and simple syrup is utterly divine.
Enzo’s on the Beach
Over in Scarness, Enzo’s on the Beach is a charming beachfront cafe that specialises in a selection of classic coastal breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes.
As its name suggests, this delightful cafe is located right on the beach, so you get to enjoy their wonderful meals in an casual outdoor ambience with superb views.
Their menu has several vegan options, including a delicious veggie stack. At lunchtime, it’s hard to go past their signature Enzo’s burger.
Arkarra Gardens Café & Restaurant
Nestled near the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens, the Arkarra Gardens Café & Restaurant is the perfect spot for those looking to combine a garden exploration with a relaxing meal in a serene atmosphere.
Whilst there you can enjoy a menu of delectable dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Before or after, you can also stroll along the walking trails or visit the bird hide that resides on the property for a unique experience.
Bayswater Bar & Grill
The Bayswater Bar & Grill is an institution in Urangan. Located within the Oaks Hervey Bay Resort and Spa, it offers varied lunch and dinner menus with a focus on contemporary Australian food, which you can enjoy on an al fresco front deck that looks out to the Esplanade.
The venue also has a lively bar, a games room and live entertainment, so you could easily spend the evening here after a day at one of the beaches in Hervey Bay.
One must-try dish here is the Crispy Asian Spiced Pork Belly, which is one of several gluten-free options they offer. Additionally, the 300g Rib Filet is one of their most popular steak options.
Other dining options in Hervey Bay
Final Thought
If you are planning to visit the Fraser Coast, there are several beaches in Hervey Bay you can go to.
From the caramel shores of Scarness Beach to the iconic pier at Urangan, the region’s diverse coastline provides you with plenty of different experiences to enjoy.
It doesn’t matter what time of year you go to them, the Hervey Bay weather is always decent. But if you happen to time your visit during the whale watching season, you can really get to enjoy something magical.
FAQs
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about visiting the beaches in Hervey Bay.
Where is Hervey Bay?
Hervey Bay is a coastal city in the Fraser Coast region located about 290 km north of Brisbane in Queensland, Australia
What are the Best Beaches in Hervey Bay
The best beaches in Hervey Bay include Scarness, Urangan, Gatakers Bay and Torquay. All of them are good for walking, sunbathing and swimming.
Can you swim at the beaches in Hervey Bay
Yes, most of the beaches in Hervey Bay are good for swimming, although they are not patrolled by surf lifesavers. Generally they are free of rips and the water is quite calm, so they are considered safe for children. Most of the beaches are also protected by K'gari (formerly Fraser Island).
When is the best time To visit the beaches in Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay is a place you can visit all year round due to its mild sub-tropical climate. However, one of the best times to go is during the whale-watching season from July to November. At this time, you may get to see the incredible sight of humpback whales on their annual migration up north at several of the beaches in Hervey Bay.
What are the best beach towns near Hervey Bay to visit
In my opinion, the best beach towns near Hervey Bay Torquay, Point Vernon Scarness, Urangan and Pialba. Each of them offers a nice mix of nice sand, stunning coastline, good dining options, and proximity to local attractions.
