Experience Hervey Bay
With calm waters, long golden beaches, easy access to majestic Fraser Island and being a favourite spot for migrating whales, it’s no wonder Hervey Bay has become a ‘must do’ destination for tourists and a favourite holiday spot for the many who return each year.
When you visit Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat, please ask us about some of the many things to do in and around ‘The Bay’.
To get you started, here are just some of the things we recommend…
Whale Watching
There are several Eco-Tourism Certified operators in Hervey Bay who can provide you with an awe-inspiring experience. Let us book your whale watching tours for you, or even better, when you book your accommodation ask about our package offers.
Fraser Island
A World Heritage Site, majestic Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and is filled with amazing natural features and unique flora and fauna. You can book your day tour through us, or if you have a 4WD, ask us about getting to the island and do a little exploring.
The Esplanade
Hervey Bay’s Esplanade (officially Charlton Esplanade) runs for 17km along the waterfront from Urangan Boat Harbour at the southern end to Gataker’s Bay at the northern end. Of course you can drive, or walk if you have plenty of time, but the best way to make it an adventure is to hire a bike and use the shared pedestrian/bike path that runs almost the entire length of the Esplanade with the beach on one side and the street on the other. Along the way you’ll pass through Urangan, Shelly Beach, Torquay, Scarness, Pialba and Point Vernon and encounter lots of cafes, restaurants, parks and historical points of interest.
Reef World Aquarium
Situated at Dayman Park, Urangan, Reef World Aquarium is one of only a few all-natural aquariums in the world using only sand-filtered sea water and sunlight to maintain the conditions as nature intended.
Visitors can have an up close experience with some amazing creatures including green sea turtles, colourful tropical fish, sharks, large reef fish, tubeworms, crabs and many more.
Wetside Water Park
Located on the Espanade at Pialba, Wetside is a fun place for the whole family to cool off and learn about water conservation at the same time. The park includes water slides, play area, a special area for under 5’s, FlipSide Board Rider and there is a coffee shop and café if you prefer to sit back and watch. Entry is free but there is a charge for the FlipSide Board Rider and slides.
Wetside is supervised by staff with first-aid qualifications.
Historical Village & Museum
This award-winning attraction takes you back to yesteryear and explores the history of the area and its early settlers. Covering 1.2 ha, Hervey Bay Historical Village & Museum features 21 historical buildings, over 12000 items, and interactive demonstrations of the skills the early settlers needed to survive.
