Hervey Bay is a coastal city renowned for its marine wildlife and breathtaking beaches. Spot whales on a cruise trip or visit the city’s fascinating historical attractions.
Choose from a range of whale-watching tours departing from the Great Sandy Straits Marina in Urangan. Be awed by the sight of humpback whales breaching the surface of the deep blue ocean as you explore the Fraser Coast region. You might also see dolphins, turtles and dugongs. Learn about the whales’ journey from Antarctica to the warm waters of the bay, where mothers give birth and nurse their calves in the migration season from mid July to late October. Book your boat trip in advance and bring you camera to record these special memories.
Walk along the oceanfront esplanade and admire the views over the Great Sandy Strait. Cycle the 14-kilometre (8.6-mile) path from Point Vernon to Urangan. The patrolled waters and sheltered barbecue areas at Torquay Beach are ideal for families. Explore the historic Urangan Pier and the nearby Reefworld Aquarium. This education centre showcases beautiful reef habitats and colourful fish. Kids will enjoy feeding marine life at the touch pool and spotting green turtles in their recreated habitat.
Stroll through the tranquil Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens. A highlight is the gardens’ impressive collection of orchids. Spend a quiet moment at the open-air bush chapel, surrounded by rainforest vegetation.
Contemplate life in the 19th century at Hervey Bay Historical Village & Museum. Wander around the recreated village and see an original slab cottage complete with period furnishings. The museum contains a large collection of household goods and farming equipment. Check the museum’s programme, which includes interactive workshops, such as historic blacksmithing demonstrations.
Hervey Bay is approximately 300 kilometres (186 miles) north of the state capital of Brisbane and can be reached by bus, train, car or domestic flight. Whale-watching tours operate between July and November.
Experience nature up close in the waterfront city of Hervey Bay.
