Fraser Island vs Moreton Island: Which Should You Visit

Learn the difference between these two beautiful islands to plan your next holiday.

Fraser Island (K’gari) and Moreton Island are popular destinations for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Both islands offer unique experiences, with K’gari featuring extensive exploration opportunities and Moreton Island being more family-friendly.

It’s challenging to say which island you should visit, as they both have their own unique activities. By reading about what each island has to offer, you can decide which one suits your holiday preferences best.

K’gari

K’gari is the world’s largest sand island and offers a natural experience that can be a bit challenging to travel around, as a 4WD is required. With stunning white beaches, crystal clear waters for swimming, and plenty of adventure, K’gari is the perfect destination for a weekend away.

Things to do

Champagne Pools

The Champagne Pools are natural rock pools located on the edge of the ocean. The waves create a jacuzzi effect as the sea foam fizzes around, giving the pools a champagne-like appearance. The views from the pools are remarkable, making it a great place to relax.

Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora)

One of the most popular freshwater lakes on the island, Lake McKenzie is a perched lake, meaning its water comes solely from rain. It features crystal clear water and beautiful white sand surrounding it.

K’gari Great Walk

The Great Walk is an impressive 90 kilometres long, typically taking between six to eight days to complete. It offers stunning views of K’gari’s scenery and unique landscapes. If this walk seems too daunting, there are shorter and easier strolls available.

SS Maheno

The SS Maheno, built in 1905, was one of the first turbine-driven steamers. After being retired, it was en route to Japan for scrap when a storm caused it to be washed ashore on 75 Mile Beach on K’gari.

Spot whales in the winter

K’gari is a top destination for spotting humpback whales as they migrate from July to October. Consider taking a tour to get closer to these magnificent creatures as they approach the boats and put on a show!

Moreton Island

If you’re in Brisbane, Moreton Island is an excellent choice for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The island is packed with adventure, offering spectacular sunset views, numerous swimming holes, and various campsite options.

Things to do

Feed the dolphins

A highlight of Moreton Island is the chance to hand-feed wild bottlenose dolphins around sunset. These dolphins are accustomed to being fed, so they generally come in numbers for their evening meal. Be prepared to get into the water a bit to feed them at the Tangalooma feeding area. Keep in mind, as wild animals, there’s no guarantee that many will appear.

Snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks

Snorkelling the Tangalooma shipwrecks is a must-do on Moreton Island! The 15 ships were purposely placed to create a break wall for smaller boats. Snorkelling here is mesmerising, providing opportunities to see a range of marine life, including dugongs, dolphins, and numerous fish.

Blue Lagoon

Hidden within Moreton Island is Blue Lagoon, a natural freshwater lake perfect for cooling down on a warm day. The area also hosts various wildlife, including birds and dragonflies, and you might spot a crayfish at the lake’s bottom.

Walk to Honeymoon Bay

Honeymoon Bay is a short two kilometre (30 minute) walk from Cape Moreton. Upon arrival, you’ll be rewarded with views of the glistening water and beautiful beach. Enjoy some time in the water or have a picnic on the beach.

Experience tobogganing on the sand

Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

Tobogganing isn’t just for snow as on Moreton Island, you can experience it on the sand dunes of the Tangalooma Desert! Feel the exhilaration as you reach speeds of up to 40 kilometres per hour going down the dunes. You can also try quad biking along the sand, an activity suitable for everyone.

Whether you choose K’gari or Moreton Island, both are fantastic options that offer different experiences.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.