WITH its towering rainforest, powder white sand and freshwater swimming lakes, Fraser Island is a nature lover's dream.
The world's largest sand island marks the 25th anniversary of its World Heritage Listing on December 7 and to celebrate, the island's tourism operators are rolling out the red carpet for visitors.
Here are just some of the things you can do at this natural paradise:
Take a dip:
Fraser is home to more than 100 freshwater lakes, making it a perfect spot to go for a swim. Lake McKenzie is one of the most visited natural sites on the island. It's a perched lake, which means it contains only rainwater. Or you can head to Champagne Pools on Seventy Five Mile Beach. These natural ocean baths were formed by volcanic rocks and it's the only place on Fraser where saltwater swimming is allowed.
Go for a drive:
Hop in the car and take a spin along the beach highway. The sandy stretch is one of the most scenic drives in Australia. All the usual road roads apply, though you must give way to aeroplanes landing and taking off and keep an eye out for dingoes.
See the sights:
History lovers should stop by the Maheno shipwreck, the hull of a well-known trans-Tasman liner that was washed ashore during a cyclone in 1935. Or you can learn about Fraser's former forestry operations at Central Station at Wanggoolba Creek. Once home to around 30 loggers' houses from when tree felling was permitted, it's now a beautiful picnic area.