Bundaberg North Burnett

A four-hour drive north of Queensland's capital, Brisbane, Bundaberg city is settled around the Burnett River and is the southernmost gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Well known for its sugar cane farming and rum distillery, it’s also host to the east coast’s largest concentration of nesting marine turtles, not to mention the rainbow of tropical marine life that’ll join you on a snorkel or dive.  

Accommodation in the region is diverse and varies from 4.5-star beachside hotels and motels to youth hostels and campsites.

Top things to do:

• The ranger-guided turtle tours at Mon Repos. Turtle season runs from November to March, with mid-November to February the best time to see the turtles laying eggs while the best time to see hatchlings leaving their nests is from mid-January.  
• Swim alongside the turtles and manta rays off Lady Elliott and Lady Musgrave Islands.
• Explore the city’s museums, heritage buildings and lush botanic gardens.
• Learn how Australia's popular Bundaberg Rum has brought fame and attention to the town.
• Pick your own strawberries, figs, avocados, oranges, and more, from roadside stalls and farm gates.
• Spend a day exploring the four wineries which make up the Childers Wine Trail. Enjoy a first-hand “grape to glass” experience, exotic fruits and wine tastings. 
• With 16km of sandy shores surrounded by national park, you’ll easily find a big patch of sand all to yourself at Woodgate Beach.  

How to get there:

• Bundaberg is serviced by a regional airport, only 6km from the CBD. It also offers services to Brisbane and Lady Elliot Island. Rental car hire is available at the airport.
• Catch the Tilt Train from Brisbane, which takes approximately 4.5 hours as it travels through beautiful scenery.
• Or drive on sealed highways from your starting point.