Hotel profile: Kingfisher Bay Resort

Whales, local experts and location make a stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort unforgettable.

You’d be hard-pressed to find accommodation with a more idyllic setting than Kingfisher Bay Resort. Nestled on the edge of World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly Fraser Island), it’s got everything you need to make this remote island feel connected.

When the sun melts into the horizon, K’gari turns to gold.

BYO four-wheel-drive for unscheduled adventures of the world’s largest sand island (the scale of which is hard to comprehend until you’re there). Zip around the island’s unbelievably scenic freshwater wild swimming spots, catch sight of dingoes, wander into forest groves and adventure over sand dunes. No 4WD? No problem. Discover a huge range of Kingfisher Bay Resorts tours and events – truly its crowning glory.

Location

woman standing on balcony of room at Kingfisher Bay Resort k'gari accommodation — Some resort rooms have views of the ocean. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Location, location, location: a catchcry made famous by real estate, but exemplified by Kingfisher Bay Resort. It’s quite literally the gateway to the Fraser Coast’s World Heritage-listed K’gari Island. An easy 50-minute ferry ride from Hervey Bay will dock you right onto the resort’s jetty (shared with the island).

Right on the sand of Kingfisher Bay (hence, the name), guests can take a very short walk, or an even shorter ride on the resort’s courtesy van, to reception. This is also the main dining area, with several restaurants within the main building, and where you’ll find the main pool. Hotel rooms sprawl across the property, and wooden boardwalks will make it easy to walk between them all.

Facilities

Island Day Spa

If you’re looking for bliss, you’ll find it at Island Day Spa. With a range of botanical facials, beauty treatments and soothing massages using traditional techniques, it’s the ultimate place on K’gari to unwind and settle into the holiday vibe.

The masseuses could match the magic hands of any big city spa, and you feel the welcome as you walk into the reception. All products used contain organic, native botanical ingredients with nutrient-rich plant extracts to soothe skin and mind. Indulge in a spa package, couples treatment or even a pre-wedding day offering.

Pools

kid running into pool at kingfisher bay resort — Enjoy food and drinks by the main pool. (Image: TEQ)

Dive into one of two lagoon-style pools, the main of which sits right behind the main resort centre. Here you can enjoy poolside cocktails and other beverages, as well as snacks, from Sand & Wood.

K’gari Discovery Centre

You can get to know the island at the K’gari Discovery Centre. Designed to gain a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the island’s natural beauty, learn about K’gari’s unique ecology through stunning photographs and informative displays.

The Village Store

Forgot something back on the mainland? The Village Store has you covered. From souvenirs to sunscreen and floaties to snacks, pop into the resort’s own convenience store.

Rooms

interior of a resort room at Kingfisher Bay Resort — The resort rooms have everything you need. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Kingfisher Bay Resort has three accommodation styles to choose from: resort rooms, villas and holiday homes. Resort rooms are your standard hotel room with a variety of room formations and sizes to accommodate solo travellers and couples, up to groups of four. They’re simple, with a bathroom, a kettle and storage cupboards. All come with a balcony, and the prize view – if you can score it – is looking out towards the ocean.

couple inside Kingfisher Bay Resort Villa — Upgrade to a villa for more privacy and space. (Image: TEQ)

To add more style to your stay, upgrade to one of the self-contained villas. Created for larger groups of up to six who are hoping for a bit more space, enjoy a spacious living area, a fully functional kitchen and a bit more privacy than the resort rooms offer. Even the decor steps up a notch, with bright, beachy tones lightening up the space.

But for a true piece of K’gari that feels like your own, try one of the private holiday houses. Here, you are truly nestled amongst the natural landscape and away from other guests (while still being close enough to enjoy all the resort facilities). These spacious three- to six-bedroom houses cater to up to 15 people.

Food and drink

Kingfisher Bay Resort Dune Resturant — Dine at Dune restaurant. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Kingfisher Bay Resort offers two restaurants and two bars of different flavours in the resort centre. All perfect for a decent feed, and even better for a nice cold drink or tasty cocktail at the end of a day exploring the island.

The casual Sand & Wood restaurant, looking out to the resort’s main pool, offers a morning breakfast buffet and a range of pub-style fare for lunch and dinner. Try the nachos, they are hearty, tasty and oh-so-satisfying.

For a slightly elevated dining experience, pop into Dune for vibrant Asian-fusion meals. Drunken Noodles are listed as a house speciality, and I can confirm they were a personal favourite. Right next door sits the cosy Rainforest Bar for a pre- or post-dinner aperitif.

The real winner, however, is the ultimate beachfront Sunset Bar. Get there by 4:30pm to settle in at a table or stool along the pier with groovy beats setting the mood. Order from a range of beers, wines or pre-made cocktails and watch as the sun makes its journey to the horizon.

Experiences

Self-guided walks

aerial view of Wallum Boardwalk on k'gari island — Wander Wallum Boardwalk. (Image: Cathy Finch)

Explore a range of self-guided walking trails around the resort, from short scenic strolls – like the picturesque Wallum Boardwalk – to longer day hikes – like the two-hour Lake McKenzie Circuit. Download the resort’s walking map and get going.

Ranger-led tours

kingfisher bay resort ranger led tour through the mangroves on k'gari island — Learn about the island’s mangroves from your Ranger. (Image: TEQ)

Besides location, it’s the ranger-led experiences that make Kingfisher Bay Resort absolutely worth the stay. Every day, a selection of ranger-led tours are offered to guests – from day and night walks to discover the history and habitat of the island, to mangrove explorations, to experiences tailored for kids 12 and under.

My personal favourite was the canoe paddle through a nearby mangrove system of Dundonga Creek. As we weaved and wound our way through the narrow waterways of the mangrove, our guide explained how everything here survived and thrived.

Ranger-guided experiences range in price from complimentary to $55.

Beauty Spots 4WD tour

Kgari Beauty Spots Tour bus in rainforest — Explore in air-conditioned 4WD coaches. (Image: TEQ)

While the island is all accessible by 4WD, it’s not always easy – especially if you’re not experienced. So jumping on Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Beauty Spots tour is an incredible solution to see all the iconic K’gari spots without the hassle. Your transport for the day will be an air-conditioned, custom-designed 4WD coach.

Taking a full day, take a dip into Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek, drive the long stretch of 75 Mile Beach and explore head inland to subtropical rainforests.

Personalised 4WD tour

a 4wd driving on a sandy road on k'gari fraser island — Pick your own adventure, without needing to drive. (Image: TEQ)

If you can, this is my absolute top tip for exploring K’gari when you’re not confident to hit the sandy tracks on your own (this option is for a maximum group of four people). It’s not just about being alone on the tour – although it is a bonus – it’s about the freedom to create your own bespoke itinerary (plus a provided picnic lunch along the way), with an expert guide who will have plenty of stories and expertise to give context to what you’re looking at. It’s also about stopping at the icons between the waves of tourists, and only going where you really want to.

Access for guests with disabilities?

While the resort does offer some accessible facilities – like paved parking and ramps around the resort centre – some areas may present challenges for those with mobility limitations. The rest of the island is also fairly untouched and requires a 4WD to get around, so exploring may also prove difficult.

Family-friendly?

a family enjoying the sunset in front of kingfisher bay resort on k'gar fraser island — Families are front and centre at Kingfisher Bay Resort. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Absolutely, Kingfisher Beach Resort is designed with families in mind, and you’ll find plenty of kids running around.

Details

Address: Kingfisher Bay, K’gari Island
Website: Visit kingfisherbay.com
Contact: 1800 372 737
Cost: Rates start at $229 per night.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

Exploring the world’s largest sand island from Kingfisher Bay Resort