Whether you're craving the nostalgia of old-school beach vibes or a family seeking a coastal getaway that’ll get the kids talking for weeks, the Bundaberg region offers the perfect road trip for those who love a bit of salt in the air, sand between their toes, and the feeling of the open road ahead.
Day 1: Bargara
Start your coastal escape in the laid-back gem of Bargara, where the rhythm of the waves is only interrupted by the sizzling sound of fresh fish ‘n’ chips. Picture soft, golden sand beneath our feet, a touch of sea spray kissing your skin, and the sun warming your face as you take it all in.
Fuel up for the day ahead with a hearty breakfast at The Windmill Bargara, offering nourishing meals to energize you. If you’re after a coffee with a view, The Beach Mill, overlooking Nielson Beach, is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning brew as you watch the waves roll in.
Just a short hop away is Mon Repos Beach, and this place is nothing short of magical. Home to the largest loggerhead turtle nesting site in the South Pacific, this stretch of sand comes alive each year (from November to March). You can witness this awe-inspiring sight on a ranger-guided tour, where you'll learn all about the conservation efforts taking place to protect these ancient creatures. Tickets for these tours go faster than a turtle on a mission, so don’t delay — grab yours before they’re all snapped up! During the off-season, a visit to Mon Repos Turtle Centre is also a great spot for families to engage with interactive displays and learn more about how to make a difference in the conservation of the region’s wildlife. It’s a special experience that’ll leave everyone feeling connected to this remarkable place.
Did you know that Mon Repos isn’t just known for its incredible turtles, but also its aviation history? A short drive away, Hinkler Hall of Aviation in Bundaberg is home to the remarkable story of Bert Hinkler, a local aviation pioneer whose groundbreaking feats helped shape Australia’s aviation legacy. This interactive museum takes you on a journey through history, offering a fascinating look at the daring achievements of one of Australia’s greatest aviators. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply someone with a thirst for adventure, Hinkler Hall provides a unique connection to the past and the area’s rich heritage.
After all that exploration, cool off with a refreshing drink at Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, where you can taste the iconic locally made brews. To finish off the day, enjoy a relaxed dinner at Water St Kitchen, where fresh, local ingredients take centre stage in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Day 2: Lady Musgrave Island
Your day begins bright and early, with the promise of an extraordinary experience ahead. Board Lady Musgrave Experience at Bundaberg Port Marina and get ready for a journey to one of the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s most pristine and protected treasures — Lady Musgrave Island and Lagoon.
As the boat cruises through clear waters, the excitement builds. This is not just another boat trip; it’s the start of an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience. This day tour takes you to where vibrant coral reefs teem with tropical fish, resident turtles, and, if you're lucky, manta rays, reef sharks, and Nemo – also known as the Great 8 of the Great Barrier Reef.
Upon arrival, step aboard Lady Musgrave Experience’s eco-friendly pontoon, Lady Musgrave HQ, fully powered by wind and solar energy, this zero-carbon footprint platform offers the perfect vantage point for stunning reef views and is equipped with an underwater observatory for those eager to peek into the marine world without getting wet. With snorkel and dive platforms, Lady Musgrave HQ is your base for the day.
For those ready to dive into the water, the lagoon’s vibrant coral gardens are perfect for snorkelling or scuba diving, providing up-close encounters with a variety of marine life. If you'd prefer to stay dry, you can still enjoy the reef from the glass-bottom boat or the pontoon’s underwater observatory.
After a morning of exploration, indulge in a buffet lunch onboard, featuring fresh local produce. Whether you're a seasoned diver, a first-time snorkeller, or someone who simply wants to relax and take in the beauty, the Lady Musgrave Experience offers an unforgettable day out on the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 3: Elliott Heads
Today, we’re celebrating what makes our region irresistibly unique. From the warm sunshine that graces us year-round, to the rich, red earth that nurtures every bite, and the reef just a heartbeat away — here, you don’t just see the difference, you taste it.
Kick off your day with a local-inspired breakfast at The Orchard Café, nestled within the Macadamias Australia Visitor Centre. Here, the vibe is laid-back, and the food is a true celebration of the region’s finest produce. After fueling up, venture into the heart of Australia’s largest macadamia-producing region with a guided or self-guided tour within Macadamias Australia and discover the journey of these iconic nuts, from tree to table. Not just a tour — it’s a sensory experience where you’ll sample some of the best macadamia products, including buttery roasted delights and chilli flavoured nuts! Trust us, once you’ve tasted the goodness here, you’ll be hooked!
If you’ve got a sense of adventure (and we know you do), then it’s time to dive into the waters just off the shore. Elliott Heads is home to vibrant reefs within reach and mesmerising rock pools. Whether you’re an experienced off-shore snorkeller or diver or simply love the thrill of playing I-Spy with the local marine life among the pools, Elliott Heads Beach will amaze you with its marine life and clear waters. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, take a walk along the rockpools at Elliott Heads, where the river meets the reef. Here, you can uncover hidden sea creatures, tidal pools, and an ever-changing landscape. But if you’re after a thrill, head over to Elliott Heads Beach for kite-surfing or simply enjoy watching the experts make it look easy. Whether you’re in the water or watching from the shore, the energy is contagious.
No trip is complete without indulging in something sweet, and Tinaberries serves up some of the best. If you’re visiting during strawberry season (usually August-September), you’re in luck. Treat yourself to a refreshing punnet of hand-picked strawberries which you can pick yourself (or simply grab some pre-picked ones off the countre). And if it’s not strawberry season, don’t fret — you can lap up real-fruit ice cream made from the juiciest strawberries around year-round. Using second cut fruits and partnering with local farmers, there’s always something fresh and fruity on the menu, perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
After a full day of adventure, cap it off with a seafood feast at Grunske’s Seafood Restaurant. Located right on the water, this iconic spot offers the freshest seafood in the region, straight from the ocean to your plate. From succulent prawns to tender fish, every bite will remind you why seafood along the Southern Great Barrier Reef is some of the best in Australia.
Day 4: Woodgate Beach
Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at One Little Farm—a local favourite where the farm-to-table experience shines. From freshly brewed coffee to freshly prepped breaky bites that will fuel your day, this spot is the perfect way to kick off your adventure.
Just a 40-minute drive from Bundaberg, you’re bound for Woodgate Beach for a serene escape. Known for its laid-back vibe, this tranquil beachside town is where relaxation, wide open spaces, and nature blend seamlessly, and where the locals are as passionate about their fishing spots as they are about sharing their love for this quiet community.
Grab a paddle board or set-up with a kayak at Theodolite Creek, where sweeping views and crystal-clear waters will leave you in awe. This inlet is a true hidden gem, offering a moment of calm and natural beauty that will take your breath away.
For those wanting to explore a little deeper, discover Burrum Coast National Park. Whether you’re keen to walk or drive, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. For an easy walk, take the Banksia Track, an accessible, boarded path that leads you through a stunning eucalypt and paperbark forest. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, let some air out of your tyres and tackle the Kinkuna 4WD Tracks, which will take you deeper into the natural landscape.
After a day of exploring, head back towards Bargara for a relaxing evening at the Turtle Park and Playground. Grab a classic coastal treat—hot fish ‘n’ chips—from a local shop and enjoy a leisurely picnic while overlooking the pristine waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. With the sounds of the waves in the background and the warm evening air, it’s the perfect end to a peaceful day by the sea. Whether you're watching the sun set over the beach or letting the kids run free on the grass, this is the kind of relaxed, nostalgic moment that makes the perfect holiday memory.
Want to learn more about our coastal havens? Tune in below or visit here.