Eli Creek is one of K’gari’s (formerly known as Fraser Island) most iconic and beloved attractions. Known for its crystal-clear waters and gentle flow, floating down Eli Creek on a floaty is a bucket list experience on this UNESCO World Heritage-listed island.
As the largest freshwater stream on the east coast of K’gari, over four million litres of fresh water flows from the creek into the ocean every hour. Wow!
How to reach Eli Creek
Eli Creek is located on the eastern side of K’gari (Fraser Island) on the famous “75 Mile Beach Highway” and can only be accessed via a 4WD. You’ll find it around 26km north of Eurong township and 15.4km south of the Dundubara camping area. To reach the island, you can take a barge or ferry from Hervey Bay (River Heads) or Rainbow Beach.
Remember, K’gari’s sandy roads can be challenging, so having a suitable 4WD is crucial. If you don’t have your own 4WD, there are a number of vehicle hire places in Hervey Bay that rent 4WDs. Likewise, if you don’t have previous experience 4WDing, there are plenty of tour operators that offer guided trips to Eli Creek and other island highlights.
What to expect and things to do at Eli Creek
Hand down, the best way to experience Eli Creek is to follow the boardwalk and then float back down the creek on an inflatable. The creek’s gentle current makes it an enjoyable ride, and the cool (sometimes too cool), clear water is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day. Be sure to bring your own inflatables, such as tubes or float mats, to make the most of this experience.
Aside from ‘riding the creek’, if you’ve got your own 4WD, many families get in early to get a prime park right beside the creek for the day. If your kids are a little older, they can head up the boardwalk themselves and float all the way back down to your vehicle. It’s also nice to take the time to simply stroll along the boardwalk, which takes you inland through Banksia and Pandanus trees alongside the creek.
Best time to visit Eli Creek
The best time to visit Eli Creek is during the warmer months, from September to April, when the water is perfect for swimming and floating. To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or on weekdays, especially if you’re travelling during the school holidays. Each season offers something different, but a summer visit ensures that you can make the most of the creek’s refreshing waters.
Facilities and amenities at Eli Creek
Eli Creek features a lovely boardwalk but that’s about it. You’ll find non-flushing toilets onsite (drop toilets), but in our experience, they can get pretty putrid. In addition, the toilet paper and liquid hand soap has been non-existent every time we have visited.
What to bring
To make your family adventure to Eli Creek enjoyable, be sure to pack the essentials:
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses: Protect yourselves from the strong Queensland sun.
- Swimsuits and towels: You’ll want to take a dip in the creek, so come prepared.
- Crocs, flip-flops or water shoes: The sand is super hot in the summer when you get out.
- Inflatables: Bring tubes or float mats for a fun ride down the creek.
- Snacks and water: There is no food or drinking water nearby so you’ll need to be self-sufficient.
- Toilet paper and hand sanitiser: For when the loos are on the low.
Explore more: Other attractions on K’gari
While Eli Creek is a highlight, there’s so much more to explore on K’gari. After your visit, consider heading to:
- Lake McKenzie: Famous for its pristine blue waters and white sandy shores—perfect for a swim or a family picnic.
- Maheno Shipwreck: A fascinating historical site that kids will love exploring and learning about.
- Champagne Pools: A great spot for a swim in naturally formed rock pools along the coast.
Read our list of The Best Things to do in K’gari (Fraser Island) for more inspiration.
Environmental responsibility
K’gari is a stunning natural wonder, and it’s up to all of us to help protect it. Please remember to take all your rubbish with you, stay on designated boardwalks, and avoid disturbing the wildlife. Teaching kids the importance of respecting the environment is part of what makes this family adventure so valuable.
Ours tip for Eli Creek
The best tip we can give you is to get in early to get the best parking spot along the creek, particularly on the school holidays and peak holiday times. If your inflatables are on the larger size, make sure you have a 12V air compressor with you so you don’t have to blow them up manually.
Where to next?
- The best lakes on K’gari (Fraser Island) for swimming
- Ultimate Guides to the Giants of Mandudrah
- Hot air balloon flight in Ipswich – what to expect and is it worth it?
- The beautiful Dove Lake Circuit in Tasmania
- The best Gold Coast family resorts
Let me know what you think!