Welcome to Bundaberg
Baby turtles and rich fields of sugar cane make for the sweetest central Queensland town, located right on the cusp of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Bundaberg is a beautiful holiday destination for reef experiences, unique wildlife occurrences, beautiful beaches and rich volcanic soils allowing for acclaimed fresh produce. Enjoy delicious dining and iconic Queensland rum at Australia’s food bowl, Bundaberg.
Turtles
Home to 15 beautiful beaches and your gateway to idyllic islands just offshore, Bundaberg is an iconic central coast town with a rich history and incredible natural wonders. The annual abundance of loggerhead and green sea turtles make this place incredibly special. From November to March visitors can witness the turtles return home from sea, see them nest and lay eggs in the sand, then watch in awe as baby turtles hatch and take their first flipper-led steps toward the sea.
Reef & Islands
An excellent place to explore the Southernmost point of the Great Barrier Reef, pop on a snorkel and mask and prepare for breathtaking experiences. Swim with manta rays, reef sharks, turtles and other marine life among vibrant coral reefs. Explore the islands just offshore including Lady Elliot Island and Lady Musgrave Island. These pristine natural wonders offer incredible snorkelling and bushwalking trails through lush subtropical rainforest. Visit the sustainable eco-resort at Lady Elliot to witness successful conservation efforts and revegetation. See the unique coral cay of Lady Musgrave, home to an abundance of sea birds, nesting turtles, manta rays and colourful coral.
Beaches
Go barefoot to feel the sand in your toes and the salty sea breeze in the air as you explore the sun-soaked beaches. Submerge into the crystal-clear waters at the patrolled swimming areas at Bargara and Kelly’s Beach. Head a little further south to snorkel the calm and protected man-made rock pools of The Basin and wander the pristine stretches of sand along Elliot Heads and Riverview. Be sure to bring your binoculars to spot migrating humpback whales from July to November, too.
Explore the Town
With plenty of local food tours, make the most of the rich farming culture of Bundaberg. Dine your way through paddock-to-plate restaurants and cafes via farm gates and fishing charters for a truly immersive experience. Wander the City Heritage Walk in the CBD to understand the architecture and history of the city. Stop in at Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery and explore the beauty of Bundaberg Botanic Gardens. Close by you’ll find Fairymead House, home to the Sugar History Museum. Learn of the effects of the town’s sugar cane farming notoriety thanks to rich soil and the mighty Burnett River. Visit the Bargara Brewery, The Brewhouse, taste ‘Bundy Rum’ and tour many unique distilleries around the region. Beach, brews, reef and more, Bundaberg is a joy to explore.