Discover 5 Amazing Beaches in Bundaberg

Check out why the coast near Bundaberg has a reputation for some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.

Bundaberg has carved out a reputation for its proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. The town has been dubbed the gateway to the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef and lies within a stone’s throw of pristine sands and shimmering waters. And with great weather year-round, there’s hardly a wrong time to visit.

While everyone below the navel of Australia combats the winter chills, Bundaberg is blessed with mild days and plenty of sun. For this reason, heading to the beach is one of the best things to do in Bundaberg.

Whether you’re keen to catch some waves or simply lounge on the sands, here are the best beaches in Bundaberg that you need to check out. If you’re travelling with kids, don’t fear— all the listed beaches are patrolled, but it’s best to check Beach Safe for the patrol schedule.

1. Bargara Beach

Bargara Beach is the region’s most popular bit of coastline, situated just a 15-minute drive from Bundaberg with the buzzing township of Bargara perched on its shores. Here, you’ll find yourself right in the centre of the action, with plenty of quaint beachside cafes, restaurants, takeaways and shops to explore.

It’s a great place for surfers, especially beginners who want to practice catching some gentle waves. Take notes from the locals, and start your day with a morning stroll, dip or surf before grabbing a coffee or sitting down for a spot of brunch at one of the friendly cafes.

A day out in Bargara will give you a taste of life on the subtropical Coast— and it’s just as picturesque as it sounds.

Purple sunset at Bargara Beach in Bundaberg — Enjoy watching the sunset on Bargara Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

2. Kelly’s Beach

Over the headland from Bargara Beach, you’ll find a vast stretch of golden sand that is Kelly’s beach. Kelly’s is a favourite swimming spot among locals – and for good reason. There’s plenty of space to sunbathe on the sands where you’ll be sandwiched between crystal blue waters and a shaded nature strip complete with BBQs.

If you’re swimming with kids, the Bargara Basin on the north end of the beach has calm and sheltered waters, which also makes it the perfect snorkelling spot.

Kelly's Beach during the day in Bundaberg. — Kelly’s is a favourite swimming spot among locals.

3. Elliott Heads

Elliott Heads is where the river meets the sea, creating a unique marine landscape that yields lots to discover. It’s the perfect beach for a family day out.

On the ocean side, white sands meet azure waters, speckled with rock pools where you can discover aquatic life and little fish flitting about. However, you’ll find the most superb rockpools on Dr Mays Island.

Accessible by foot from the beach only at low tide, head over to admire the marine life and discover the rock pools that are large enough to swim in.

There’s great fishing on the riverside, and if you’re up for an adrenaline rush, the main beach is the perfect spot for kiteboarding. If you’ve never tried it before, that doesn’t have to stop you— Undertow Surf offers beginners kiteboarding lessons to show you the ropes.

aerial view of Elliott Heads Beach — Elliott Heads is known for its soft white sand and sparkling blue waters. (Image: Tracy Olive)

4. Woodgate Beach

Woodgate Beach is a quiet stretch of coast an hour’s drive south of Bundaberg. It’s home to a sleepy beach community, friendly locals and pristine shores.

If you enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path, then Woodgate Beach could be the perfect place to take an excursion that will reward you with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.

Stroll along 16 kilometres of golden sands flanked by rolling waves and a line of shady She-Oaks.

Turtles are known to frequent the shores and lay eggs on the beach, so if you’re lucky, your day could be complete with a turtle sighting!

High shot overlooking Woodgate Beach in Bundaberg. — Turtles are known to frequent the shores of Woodgate Beach.

5. Nielson Park Beach

On the north side of Bargara, the chain of peaceful holiday settlements continues with Nielson Park Beach. The beach is fringed by large basalt rocks which create large tidal pools buzzing with marine life.

The vast stretch of coast is perfect for swimming, surfing or just relaxing on the sand. There’s a picnic area, so you can enjoy a bite to eat from a local takeaway or restaurant in front of a marvellous view.

There’s a holiday park right a stone’s throw from the shore, so if you’re looking for beachside accommodation near Bundaberg, then Nielson Park Beach is a great place to put your feet up and enjoy.

Nielson Park Beach on the north side of Bargara. (Image: srv007/Flickr)

Heading to Bundaberg? We’ve also rounded up the best Bundaberg pubs and bars to grab a drink, and the best tours to take while you’re there.

This new, family-friendly Hamilton Island resort embraces life in the slow lane.

White sand beaches, gentle waves and getting on ‘island time’ have always made Hamilton Island the first spot that comes to mind when thinking of Queensland’s Whitsundays. Always a place to recharge and relax, modern wellness travel here means so much more than a spa treatment or green juice. And a new kind of tropical island stay has now arrived on Hamilton Island.

pool at The Sundays Hamilton Island — Learn to slow down and rejuvinate. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

The Sundays reimagines laid-back luxury, combining boutique, beachfront accommodation with an encouragement to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures so every day feels like Sunday.

Laid-back luxury

The Sundays is nestled into the picturesque gardens on the northern end of Catseye Beach. Despite a feeling of being away from it all, the resort is a conveniently short walk from Hamilton Island’s main resort centre and restaurants, so guests can have the best of both worlds.

This new boutique stay is all about savouring the now. From complimentary sunrise yoga to moonlight movies for kids and a daily sundae ritual by the beachside pool, it makes a compelling case for doing less, better.

Even the architecture is designed to harmonise with the surrounding tropical landscape, pairing soft curves with a grounded coastal style that shows off the panoramic Coral Sea views and adds to the hotel’s calm aesthetic.

Plus, with direct flights to Hamilton Island from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in under two and a half hours, as well as complimentary hotel transfers from the airport or marina, getting here is as easy as the vacation itself.

balcony view from room at The Sundays — Enjoy fantastic views from your balcony or terrace. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Perfectly designed rooms with amazing views

Every small detail has been considered in the creation of the 59 guest rooms and suites, from in-room amenities by LEIF to walls adorned with custom artworks by First Nations andHungarian artist Tiarna Herczeg. There’s even a signature in-room scent by The Raconteur.

Designed by Hamilton Island’s own designer, Carrie Williams, the result is relaxed Australian style using natural textures and soft hues to lull guests into a mellow state. This soothing palette runs throughout the resort, from its sun lounges to the shaded cabanas.

Every room and suite has been built with a balcony or terrace, perfectly framing postcard-perfect views of the surrounding reef and lush greenery.

inside a room at The Sundays — Stylish rooms feature natural, soothing tones. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Excellent activities and amenities

Each day has been planned with a relaxed structure, so guests can get involved in as much or as little as they wish.

Greet each day with morning yoga, pilates and island walks. Recharge with daily (and deliciously complimentary) sundaes by the pool. Wind down with moonlight movies twice a week and take advantage of family-focused features.

Guests have complimentary access to a range of water sports – from stand-up paddle boards to catamarans – so they can get their blood pumping before relaxing by the resort pool.

Or take a few extra steps to set up for a day on the sand without any crowds at the exclusive, guest-only beach. Settle in with a poolside aperitif for a front-row view of the stunning Catseye Bay.

aerial shot of The Sundays pool and catseye beach — Find picturesque Catseye Beach on your doorstep. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Delectable dining

What is rejuvenation if not a hearty choice of fresh, delectable dishes? That’s what guests will discover at The Sundays’s onsite restaurant, Catseye Pool Club .

Open all day for hotel guests and lunch and dinner for island diners, this relaxed yet elevated menu was created by acclaimed culinary duo, Josh and Julie Niland. It celebrates that community feeling of mealtimes while championing seasonal Australian produce.

“The vision behind [Catseye Pool Club] reflects so much of what I value – bringing people together to create memories in beautiful surroundings,” explains Josh.

table spread including a lobster dish from Catseye Pool Club, The Sundays — Enjoy classic Aussie meals with a twist at Catseye Pool Club. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Based on elevated versions of classic Aussie family dinners, expect refined simplicity. Think roasted Sun Farms Sommerlad chicken with sides like chicken fat roast potatoes, gravy and tomato and grilled bread salad, or barbecued line-caught Bowen coral trout with garlic saltbush and Warrigal greens.

A day spent by the pool can be complemented by a dedicated poolside menu, featuring wood-fired souvas. Don’t want to leave the room? Kick back and soak in the views with tasty treats delivered straight to your door, whether you’re after a full breakfast or late night snack.

view from catseye pool club at The Sundays hamilton island — Enjoy dinner and a view. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Exploring the island

While daily life at The Sundays is very much about the art of staying still, guests who seek more can explore the island with ease.

Take a day trip to the striking Whitehaven Beach, or see the iconic Heart Reef from above on a helicopter tour. Pop over to Hamilton Island’s championship golf course for a hit, or explore over 12 kilometres of the island’s stunning nature and wildlife. Later, slow the pace back down with a visit to Spa wumurdaylin .

Looking for more tasty treats? Visit one of the island’s restaurants – there are more than 20 to choose from.

Hikers on passage peak hike on hamilton island — Take on the beautiful hikes of Hamilton Island. (Image: Nick Leary)

Book your stay at The Sundays through hamiltonisland.com.au.

These 5 beautiful beaches in Bundaberg are calling your name