Champagne Pools Fraser Island


I’ll give you the bad news first.  Swimming is not recommended on the entire Eastern Beach of Fraser Island.  There are strong rips, undertows, sharks, and sometimes stingers. The beach is in no way patrolled.

Here’s the good news!  You can still do some awesome salt-water swimming on Fraser Island at the Champagne Pools.

Scroll down further to see a YouTube clip of our family visit to the Champagne Pools on Fraser Island.

Traditionally, these set of rock pools were used by the Butchulla people as natural fish traps.  These days, it’s a popular stop for tourists wanting to cool down and experience some wild swimming.

Check out some other awesome places to swim on Fraser Island with kids here.

champagne pools fraser island
The Champagne Pools at low tide. Bring your goggles as there are plenty of bright little fish swimming around!

Low Tide vs High Tide

It’s best to visit at low tide as the rocks shelter the pool from the sometimes large waves.  It’s still deep enough in spots to swim, but there are shallow areas for kids who aren’t confident swimmers yet.

High tide creates violent swells that smash against the rocks.  It’s great to watch, but not so great for keeping little kids safe.   The bubbling frothy water that occurs as the waves crash over the volcanic rocks is how the Champagne Pools earned it’s name.

champagne pools fraser island
Enjoying the shallow section and a rare moment where we were the only people there!

The Champagne Pools can get busy in peak season, especially if you arrive with a tour bus.  Driving along the beach at high tide isn’t advisable or even possible on Fraser Island in some spots. You will need to take this into consideration when planning your visit.

Tip – During whale season in mid-July to early November, there is a chance of spotting whales from the cliffs above the pools.  There are some lookout points on the boardwalk to take in the view.

Where are the Champagne Pools Fraser Island?

The pools are located between Waddy Point and Indian Head along the well known 75 Mile Beach.  You will absolutely need a 4WD to get there! There is a boardwalk that takes you over the headland and down to the pools.  If 4WDing is not your thing, you won’t have any problems finding a tour that pays a visit.

Looking back towards Indian Head from the wooden boardwalk that connects the car park to the Champagne Pools.

YouTube Clip of What to Expect From the Champagne Pools

Champagne Pools on Fraser Island in under 60 seconds!

Looking for more awesome Family Holiday Destinations?


For more information on visiting Fraser Island with kids, head on over to our Fraser Island / K’gari page. Alternatively, jump on back to the home page for other destinations around Australia and worldwide.

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champagne pools fraser island
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