Take a dip in the Champagne Pools

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 11/08/2019

Reading time: 3 mins

Fraser Island is notorious for its no-swimming beaches but fear not we’ve got the perfect place for you to take a cooling dip!

With strong rip currents, jellyfish and frequent shark sightings, many of Fraser Island’s beaches are closed for swimming, so where do you go when you need to cool off? The Champagne Pools.

Nestled along the coast of 75 mile beach, the Champagne Pools are one of Fraser Island’s most popular natural attractions. Formed thousands of years ago, the pools are the result of jagged volcanic rocks creating a natural fence from the dangerous rips and animals.

Ocean waves crash against the low rock wall and into shallow pools, causing pockets of small bubbles and foam atop the water, much like those in a glass of champagne- hence their name!
Before turning to a tourist hot spot, with locals and visitors alike enjoying a dip in the cool salt water, the rocks acted as a natural fish trap for the Butchella people.

While swimming is, of course, the major call card of the Champagne Pools, you’ll also find spectacular views. Looking out across the ocean the horizon seems to never end. During the cooler months, you might be lucky enough to spot a pod of whales as they migrate. If you’re an early riser, seals can be seen frolicking in the water just beyond the rock wall.

The pools are just a short walk from the public carpark. Head down the boardwalk and the beach stairs to the shallows. The pools are much larger than your typical rock pools and host an array of marine life. Keep an eye out for colourful fish, starfish and sea plants, and watch the skies for native seabirds.

The pools are all quite shallow making them the perfect place for children and adults to relax and play. The largest pool is about the size of a home swimming pool and with low water levels it’s easy to keep an eye out for everyone. We recommend packing some thongs or sea shoes to take with you. While some of the pools have soft sand on the floor, most of them are made up of jiggered rocks that may hurt to walk on or cut the bottom of your feet.

After spending some time cooling off in the natural jacuzzi, head back up the cliff or further down the beach for a picnic in the sun. Remember to be dingo safe and take all your food and rubbish home. Wander down the beach and enjoy the endless tranquillity of Fraser Island, or continue to one of the islands other attractions. Find the Maheno Shipwreck, which crashed into the island in 1935. Or, take in the red, brown and yellow cliff faces of the pinnacles before heading to the Wongi Sandblow for beautiful sea views.

The seas may be dangerous, but the Champagne Pools are your ticket to ocean swimming on Fraser Island. These relaxing pools will make you forget about the dangers beyond the rocks and lull you into a state of pure relaxation.

Related article: Is it safe to swim on Fraser Island?

Cameron Ward
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.