Start planning your Bundaberg adventure

The gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef

There’s so much to do in and around Bundaberg

Bundaberg is situated on the banks of the Burnett River, 20km inland from the beautiful Coral Coast. This town oozes country charm and has an all-access pass to Lady Elliot Island and Lady Musgrave Island on the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

The architecture of Bundaberg’s historic main street reflects a bygone era. And local museums feature the history of the region’s sugar cane industry and the town’s favourite son, aviator Bert Hinkler.

Today Bundaberg’s most famous residents are the loggerhead turtles found year-round in the reef’s coral lagoons. Turtle action cranks up a notch at nearby Mon Repos from November to March. Nesting mothers come ashore to lay their eggs before their adorable hatchlings emerge to make a dash for the sea; it's a fantastic sight to behold. On top of all of this is Bundaberg’s most famous export, rum. Like everything else in Bundaberg, the rum is well worth a try.

Discover Bundaberg holiday packages today

Physical rating icon
Physical rating:
2 - Moderate
Tour duration icon
Tour duration:
6
days

Unpack once at our waterfront hotel in stunning Hervey Bay to discover whales, wilderness and much more. We’ll see these majestic creatures up close on a whale watching cruise, take a 4WD adventure on World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, taste Bundaberg’s famous rum at the distillery, ride the historic Mary Valley Rattler and visit the informative Hinkler Hall of Aviation as we delve into all this region has to offer.

See marine turtles on the Southern Great Barrier Reef

Turtles can be spotted throughout the year swimming in the temperate waters of the coral cays on nearby islands. 

You can also visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre. Fifteen minutes east of Bundaberg, Mon Repos Beach supports the largest population of nesting marine turtles in eastern Australia. The survival of the endangered loggerhead turtle depends on the success of nesting and hatching turtles at this very beach. The centre is a hub of marine turtle research, protection, and education. And during the nesting season (November to March), ranger guides escort visitors onto the beach at night to witness the wonder of nesting mothers and their hatchlings. Bundaberg turtle tours are popular, so book ahead to secure your spot.

The gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef
The gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef

Explore nearby islands

Bundaberg is also a gateway to Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliot Islands. It’s possible to make a day trip to Lady Elliot Island with its abundance of resident manta rays. However, a two-night stay at the eco-resort is recommended to experience the surrounding reef fully. Lady Musgrave Island makes for a better option for reef day-trippers. Cruises depart from Bundaberg Port Marina to this pristine coral cay, which can be explored by diving, snorkelling, or glass-bottom boat.

Take the hassle out of your planning by booking a Bundaberg coach tour. Our selection of Bundaberg holiday packages has all of your essential sightseeing covered.

Frequently asked questions

What is Bundaberg famous for?

Bundaberg is famous for several things, including its production of Bundaberg Rum, an Australian staple. The city is also known for its sugar cane plantations, which are used to produce Bundaberg's iconic ginger beer. 

How far is it from Brisbane to Bundaberg?

Bundaberg is around 360km north of Brisbane and can be reached by car (4.5 hours) or plane (45 minutes). Queensland Rail operates services from Brisbane to Bundaberg on the Tilt Train. Accommodation options are plentiful throughout town, and neighbouring Bargara Beach is a great base if you plan to join a nighttime Turtle Encounter.

What other tours can you do in Bundaberg?

Other must-do Bundaberg tours include visiting the Bundaberg Rum Distillery (you can even blend your own rum) and a stop-in at Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, the home of Bundaberg’s famous Ginger Beer. The Hinkler Hall of Aviation can be found in the town’s verdant Botanic Gardens alongside the historic Fairymead House and a working sugar cane train. And from July to November, it's migration season, so book yourself a Bundaberg whale-watching tour.

Are there crocodiles in Bundaberg?

Crocodiles are not commonly found in Bundaberg as it is situated in a region where saltwater crocodiles are not prevalent. However, staying informed about local conditions and adhering to safety guidelines is essential, especially when near water bodies.

Can you swim at Bundaberg beaches?

Absolutely! While Bundaberg isn't known for its beaches, nearby Bargara Beach is a local favourite for swimming and sunbathing. It's a fantastic spot to catch some waves and enjoy the sun. Don't worry about Crocs; they're more into estuaries than sandy shores here! So, grab your sunscreen and head to Bargara for some beach fun!

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Get in touch if you have any questions

Our team is always happy to help if you have any questions about us or our tours. Fill out our form and we will get back to you soon.

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