This week we are traveling to Bundaberg and Bargara, Australia, located along Queensland’s beautiful Coral Coast.

Get ready for some snorkeling, rum tasting, and the prettiest sunrises.

Bundaberg sits about four to five hours north of Brisbane by car and is easy to reach by flying into Brisbane and driving north. The drive is scenic and relaxed. We were hoping to relax in Bundaberg a bit after spending a few busy days in Sydney. Everything seemed to move at a slower pace here, so relaxing is exactly what we did.

One of the most famous attractions is the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, where visitors can tour the facility and learn how Australia’s iconic rum is made. This was a fascinating tour, even if you aren’t a huge fan of rum. Our guide showed us an Olympic-sized swimming pool full of molasses and explained the process for making the rum and shipping it worldwide.

The Bundaberg Botanic Gardens and Hinkler Hall of Aviation are great stops for those who enjoy nature and history.

The region is also known for its rich farming land. Visitors often explore local markets, sugar cane fields, and tropical fruit farms, which give a true look at life in this part of Australia. Side note- this is also where we first drove in Australia. Those country roads were the perfect place to adjust to driving on the opposite side of the road.

15 minutes east of Bundaberg is the city of Bargara. The beach here is the main draw and is known for its calm water, long shoreline, and beautiful sunrises. It is a perfect spot for swimming, beach walks, and relaxing by the ocean.

The Bargara Esplanade is popular for walking and biking with ocean views. During certain times of the year, visitors can even spot turtles nesting along the coastline. Beachside cafes and small shops make Bargara a lovely place to spend the day.

This region is considered the southern gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling and reef tours are popular activities for visitors.

A true highlight is Lady Musgrave Island, located at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. It is a coral cay surrounded by a clear lagoon that is ideal for snorkeling. Visitors often see coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles. The island is also an important nesting site for turtles and seabirds.

Bundaberg sits about four to five hours north of Brisbane by car and is easy to reach by flying into Brisbane and driving north. The drive is scenic and relaxed. You can also fly into Bundaberg Airport (BDB), which is a small regional airport located just a few minutes from the town center. Bundaberg does not have international flights, so most travelers first fly into a major Australian city.

The most common route is to fly into Brisbane (BNE) and then take a short domestic flight to Bundaberg, which takes about 50 minutes.

Getting around Bundaberg is easiest by car. The towns are close together, with Bargara just a short drive from Bundaberg. Having a car makes it simple to explore beaches, farms, rivers, and nearby islands at your own pace. Watch out for kangaroos crossing the roads. They start coming out in the early evenings. We loved watching them graze in the fields.

C Bargara Resort - three minute walk from Bargara Beach

Burnett Riverside Hotel - centrally located in Bundaberg

Turtle Sands - glamping tents available

Don Pancho by the Beach - apartment hotel style right on the beach

Fresh seafood is a highlight in this region.

Barramundi, prawns, and fish and chips are favorites. Local tropical fruits, sugar cane products, and Bundaberg Ginger Beer are also must tries while visiting.

Pack lightweight clothing for warm weather.

Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat for the beach and reef tours.

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are important for exploring towns and shoreline paths.

A light jacket is helpful for cooler evenings, and a waterproof bag is great for snorkeling trips.

This part of Australia is inspirational because it offers both quiet coastal life and world famous natural beauty. It is a place where sugar cane fields meet the ocean and where adventure and peaceful moments exist side by side.

The reef, the beaches, and the small town charm will leave a lasting impression on you.

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in Bundaberg. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob