Hervey Bay Information
Hervey Bay is located on the Fraser Coast about three hours drive north from Brisbane. The Fraser coast area is one of Australia’s most important tourist regions both for international travelers and locals alike. Fraser Island, which is the world’s largest sand island, is the main attraction for the region. The Island is world heritage listed and is internationally known for its magnificent rainforests and pristine lakes. No trip to Australia is complete without some time being spent on Fraser Island. Hervey Bay is also famous as the Whale Watching capital of the world. Every year from July to November, migrating humpback whales congregate in Hervey Bay to give birth, suckle their young and mate again before commencing their southern migration back to Antarctica. The local whale watching fleet is now world standard with underwater windows or cameras and hydraphones available on most boats. Platypus Bay, where the whales gather, is protected by Fraser Island and is the only place in the world where you can watch whales in calm water. Over the years the whales have become used to having the boats nearby and close encounters are now very frequent.
Hervey Bay accommodation leaves nothing to be desired. There is a wide range to choose from which includes backpacker hostels, hotels, motels, resorts and self catering apartments. The Esplanade in Hervey Bay faces north and is around 16 kilometers long and most of the accommodation is either on the Esplanade facing the beach or on the waterfront at the Urangan Boat harbour. Most Hervey Bay tours depart from this boat harbour. All the whale watching boats depart from here and the multitude of tours onto Fraser Island almost all leave from here. You can choose from a number of day trips right through to extended and accommodated tours of the island. In Hervey Bay itself you will find excellent shopping centers and the tourist is well catered for with plenty of excellent restaurants and cafes on offer.
Hervey Bay is very easy to get to. It has a domestic airport and regular flights arrive daily from southern capitals. Hervey Bay is also on the main north south coach route and there are a number of services coming and going each day. Brisbane, to the south, has an international airport so if you are coming from overseas this is the closest point of arrival. At certain times of the year Hervey Bay accommodation can be booked out so it is always wise to book as early as possible to avoid being disappointed.
