📍14 Best Things To Do In Woodgate Beach & Burrum Coast National Park. (2024.)
LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN WOODGATE?
Along the coastline between Bundaberg and Hervey Bay lies the tranquil township of Woodgate. Having recently discovered this serene town and the pristine beaches, lagoons, rivers and wetlands in the surrounding Burrum Coast National Park during my six-week trip exploring the Fraser Coast and Bundaberg subregions of Wide Bay Burnett in Queensland, I found this place to have a special allure worth seeking.
So, whether you’re a solo traveller seeking some quiet solitude, a couple looking for a romantic retreat, or a family eager to explore the great outdoors, you’ll find many excellent things to do in Woodgate Beach and Burrum Coast National Park, like swimming at Theodolite Creek, 4WDing on Woodgate Beach and going camping under the stars at Burrum Point or Kinkuna Section Camping Area that’ll leave you with lasting memories of these hidden gems.
👉 My top 3 picks for what to do in Woodgate:
- Swimming or kayaking at Theodolite Creek.
- Embark on a 4WD beach driving adventure.
- Go camping at the Burrum Point or Kinkuna Section Camping Area.
Planning Your Trip? Use My Favourite Resources!
Tours/Experiences: I recommend Viator.
Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com.
Renting Vehicles: I recommend RentalCars.com.
Best Things To Do In Woodgate.
From exploring the serene Woodgate Beach to going searching for animals, there’s a handful of fantastic things to do in Woodgate township before discovering the surrounding Burrum Coast National Park.
1. Go For A Walk Along The Foreshore.
One of the best ways to get acquainted with Woodgate is to walk along the beach. The pristine foreshore stretches for 16km and is lined with shady she-oaks, creating an inviting and picturesque escape from the town.
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for small crabs and other crustaceans that may be skittering across the sand or the many dainty shorebirds strolling the beaches. Sea eagles and other birds also frequently fly overhead, so don’t always be looking down.
2. Go For A Secluded Swim.
Woodgate Beach is not just a great place to enjoy the fresh sea breeze on your skin but also a fantastic place to enjoy wild swimming. That is because that 16km stretch of sand means there is no shortage of places to enjoy a secluded swim, perfect for solo travellers looking for an isolated to immerse themselves in nature, couples seeking to have a private location to enjoy each other’s company and families wanting to bond with their kids in a peaceful setting.
3. Enjoy A Picnic Or BBQ Amongst Nature.
Those looking for the perfect place to enjoy a bite to eat will love the narrow parkland bridging the gap between the beach and the road. There are plenty of picnic tables for those with a packed lunch or something just bought from the shops and a handful of electric BBQs for anyone wanting to cook up a storm.
Whether it’s feeding the family, a romantic meal, or just filling the belly, this area is a great spot because it’s within easy walking distance of the town and has lovely views overlooking the ocean.
4. Search For Kangaroos.
Folks who love animals will be delighted to know that Woodgate is home to numerous kangaroos. The sweet, endemic marsupials can be found anywhere around the town and the national park, but are frequently seen grazing under tall trees or on the grassy plains.
As with many animals, the best time to see these curious creatures is in the early morning and late afternoon, however, nothing is guaranteed. But if you do see them, just make sure you keep your distance, because while they are generally docile, if threatened, they can attack, and that’s no one’s idea of a good time.
5. Whale Watching.
One of the best things to do in Woodgate in the cooler months is whale watching. Every year, between July and November, majestic humpback whales make an epic journey north along Australia’s coastline to breed and give birth before heading back toward Antarctica with their babies.
As they do, they frequently come to the surface and exhibit all manner of behaviours, such as tail spy hopping, lob tailing, pec slaps, body rolls, and most impressively breaching, where they launch their entire bodies out of the water and water and come back down with an impressive splash. Many of these maneuvers are observable from land, which is why looking for them from Woodgate is a must if visiting during winter. And because Woodgate isn’t too far away from Hervey Bay, the whale-watching capital of Australia, the chances of seeing these beautiful marine giants are exceptional.
Hervey Bay also has many seasonal tours that take guests out on the water to enjoy up-close encounters with these curious mammals of the deep, making visiting the renowned coastal city one of the best day trips from Woodgate.
6. Watch The Clouds Roll In.
Another excellent way to appreciate nature in Woodgate is to watch the clouds. Laying on the beach and watching them drift across the sky and create formations and patterns is a lovely way to enjoy some lazy time on the beach. But with a long stretch of uninterrupted coastline providing panoramic views of the ocean and coastline, it’s also a fantastic place to watch the clouds manifest into foreboding storm systems.
If lucky, the storm may even produce rumbles of thunder and electrical discharges, giving you interrupted front-row seats to one of nature’s most impressive shows. Watching the dark clouds and lightning bolts strike off the coast is one of my favourite memories of visiting Woodgate.
Best Things To Do In Burrum Coast National Park.
Burrum Coast National Park surrounds Woodgate on all sides and offers a unique array of nature-based experiences. From serene waterways ideal for boating, kayaking and swimming to picturesque trails perfect for invigorating hikes and exhilarating beach driving experiences, it is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature.
7. Splash Around Burrum Coast’s National Park’s Best Gem.
Theodolite Creek.
One of the most unmissable places to visit in Burrum Coast National Park is undoubtedly Theodolite Creek. A favourite of many visitors, including myself, this tranquil gem is a sublime spot for adventure and play, because although its width implies its depth, it’s surprisingly shallow in many areas.
That makes it the perfect playground for children to safely splash around in the calm waters and explore the exposed tidal flats at low tidal whilst the deeper areas allow the more adventurous to head out on a boat or kayak and explore the creek further afield.
Further enhancing its charm, Theodolite Creek is an excellent place to discover for birdwatchers, with an array of shorebirds often spotted on the rarely visited northern side of the river mouth. This unique blend of nature, relaxation, adventure and family friendliness makes this peaceful place the undeniable highlight of Burrum Coast National Park.
8. Take A Short Walk To A Beautiful Lookout.
River Walk. (1.2km Return, Easy.)
Burrum Coast National Park is home to several picturesque walking trails. One of the best is the River Walk. This easy and accessible 1.2km return walk starts from the Hoppy Lark day-use area and along the serene Gregory River is a lovely trail to a gorgeous viewpoint overlooking the picturesque waterway.
While enjoying the ambient sounds of wild rustling through the trees and native birds chirping, keep your eyes peeled for Goodwood Gums, a rare tree species only found here and easily recognisable for its smooth, mottled-grey bark.
This walk is also one of the few trails in Burrum Coast National Park accessible by conventional vehicles, making it a great choice to explore the park’s beauty without a 4WD.
9. Go For A Longer Walk.
Banksia Track. (5.2km Return Circuit, Grade 2.)
For those looking for a longer conventional vehicle-accessible walk in Burrum Coast National Park, the Banksia Track is a gentle 5.2km, grade 2 circuit that winds peacefully through calming tea-tree forests and towering cabbage palms. Opting to embark on this trail early in the morning means better opportunities to spot friendly kangaroos and beautiful birds less commonly seen during the height of the day. If visiting in Spring, the track also comes alive with a burst of colourful wildflowers lining the pathway.
If 5.2km is too long, especially on summer days when the heat can be intense on the exposed trail, there is a 400m boardwalk at the beginning of the track, which is a lovely taste of this serene and picturesque environment.
10. Explore The Burrum River.
Walkers Point.
For people who prefer to spend time out on the water for hours at a time rather than gazing out at it, one of the best things to do is head to Walkers Point, where the launching area allows people with boats and paddle craft to head out and explore the waterways around Burrum Coast National Park.
Spend a day on the mighty Burrum River and visit the quaint coastal village of Burrum Heads on the other side of the bank. Or head further inland and discover the calm waterways of the scenic Gregory River tributary and really drink in the atmosphere of these beautiful river systems.
11. Get Lost In Nature For A Day.
Melaleuca Track. (12.3km Circuit, Grade 3.)
People who enjoy spending hours on the trail will love that the Melaleuca Track is a scenic 12.3km circuit from the Walkers Point day-use area and goes through picturesque wetlands, salt pans, and mangroves.
However, if you’re hiking with a buddy who has a high-clearance off-road vehicle, you can alternatively do half of it. Begin at the 2WD accessible Walkers Point Day Use Area, meet up with your friend’s vehicle at the 4WD only accessible Burrum Coast Camping Area, and then get them to take you back to your car or vice versa. It’s a lovely way to spend time in nature.
Add some length to the trail and include visiting the Bird Hide, where quiet guests with keen eyes and binoculars can enjoy seeing various species of birds in the pristine natural environment and Russell’s Rest Track, which leads to a peaceful viewpoint and stretch of beach at the end of the national park. Then, you can tick off 3 Burrum Coast walking trails at once.
12. See The Ocean And The Estuaries.
Russell’s Rest Track.
(500m Return, Grade 2.) (4WD or Boat Accessible Only.)
While the Russell’s Rest track is its own trail at the edge of Burrum Coast National Park, it requires a 4WD to head get to the trailhead if you don’t want to walk the Melaleuca Track to get to it. Luckily, it is uniquely also accessible by water, so those with a boat or kayak can launch from Walkers Point or Burrum Heads and get to it that way.
It is only a short 500m return trail, but it takes you to a beautiful spot overlooking the ocean and the estuaries. It’s a tranquil spot and a great place to observe the lovely scenery. Walkers can also reach the beach to play in the sand and frolick in the ocean.
13. 4X4 Beach Driving.
For those seeking a heart-pounding adventure, driving offroad and along the beach is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Woodgate and Burrum Coast National Park. With a well-equipped 4WD vehicle offering high clearance and low range, this is a must-do activity for anyone who loves to fully immerse themselves in nature.
Folks can traverse the sandy foreshore and rugged backtrails and discover spectacular coastal landscapes while enjoying the thrill of navigating challenging backtrails and scenic beachfront for an engaging and unforgettable nature-based experience through this beautiful part of the country.
Best of all, you don’t even need a permit to drive on the beach. But remember, navigating in these conditions isn’t a cakewalk. Safety is paramount, so ensure your vehicle is well-equipped and you’re familiar with the off-road and beach driving techniques, etiquette and rescue procedures required for the safest and most enjoyable trip.
👉 Beach driving is permitted between Kinkuna (Camping Area) and Burrum Point. The main access point is at the Woodgate Beach township.
14. Spend A Night Or Two Under The Stars.
Camping.
For those looking for a deeper immersion into the areas natural beauty, Burrum Coast National Park offers two fantastic campgrounds at Burrum Point and Kinkuna.
Burrum Point camping area lies at the southernmost end of the national park and can accommodate a maximum of 13 campers in numbered sites. Access to the campground is by 4WD, boat, kayak or even foot from the Walkers Point day-use area along the Melaleuca Trail and within walking distance of the beach and Burrum River. It’s also the only one of the two that has flushing toilets and cold showers.
Folks seeking a more rustic experience under the stars can head to the Kinkuna section of the national park. Access is also only by 4WD, boat or on foot along the road, but with 40 unnumbered sites creating more freedom to space yourself further away from others for a more exclusive and peaceful night and campfires allowed (conditions apply. See the QPWS website for details.) this section provides a more authentic bush camping experience. There are also no toilets or showers, so you’ll need to bring those supplies too.
Both lie just behind the beach and can be driven straight onto the campsite, have fantastic opportunities to see wildlife and are excellent spots for stargazing.
Day Trips From Woodgate.
Those looking for to add to their Woodgate and Burrum Coast National Park getaway are spoilt for choice when it comes to places to visit in the near vicinity. From the Rum Capital to the whale watching capital of Australia and being on the doorsteps of the world’s largest sand island and marine ecosystem, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do and discover a short distance away.
Bundaberg.
Bundaberg is the closest city to Woodgate. At about 45 minutes away, this beautiful regional destination offers some of the state’s most enriching and unforgettable day trip experiences. Famed as the rum capital of Australia, it provides a unique opportunity to tour the iconic Bundaberg Rum Distillery, where visitors will gain an in-depth insight into the intricate process that makes world-renowned liquor. But while that’s what puts Bundaberg on the map, that’s only a small part of its allure.
It also has some spectacular beaches. They are most notably known for being the largest turtle nesting site on the country’s mainland. Visitors can see mothers laying eggs between October and December and babies hatching from January to March every year and swim with them year-round at the Southern Great Barrier Reef southernmost islands of Lady Musgrave Island and Lady Elliot Island on unforgettable day tours that depart from Bundaberg, a must-add addition to your trip.
Childers.
For many people, the way to get to Woodgate is by exiting the Bruce Highway at Childers. This picturesque hilltop town 30 minutes drive away is worth stopping by to see its delightful and intriguing attractions.
Of particular note is the Backpackers Memorial, a poignant tribute to the 15 people who died during a pre-mediated arson attack inside the former Palace Backpackers Hostel, which has since become into the Childers Information Centre.
Another must-visit in town is the Childers Pharmaceutical Museum, an establishment that provides an insight into the world of medicines and healthcare during the early 20th century. With these two and much more to discover, Childers is a fantastic addition to your Woodgate trip.
Maryborough.
Just over an hour’s drive south from Woodgate along the Bruce Highway lies Maryborough, a gorgeous regional city with some delightfully unmissable attractions worth day-tripping to.
The Story Bank is one of the most ununmissably quirky and intriguing attractions you’ll find. Based on renowned Australian author, P.L. Travers, in the very building she was born, this unusual place highlights the endearing whimsy of her most famous work, Mary Poppins, and is a treat for the young and young at heart.
Queens Park is another excellent place to discover, with poignant war memorials and tales of local heroes a must-read. There is also plenty of space to enjoy a picnic and lovely of the Mary River, a tranquil backdrop that adds a touch of serenity to your visit.
Hervey Bay & K’gari. (Fraser Island.)
Last but not least is Hervey Bay. This beautiful coastal city is an unmissable day trip destination, thanks to its outstanding whale-watching opportunities. After all, it is renowned as the whale-watching capital of Australia so it goes without saying that heading out on a dedicated whale-watching cruise is a must for visitors between July and October! These guaranteed up-close encounters are truly remarkable and will become the most unforgettable part of your trip.
Hervey Bay is also home to the historic Urangan Pier, the longest jetty in Queensland, and is a fantastic place to enjoy a leisurely stroll with panoramic sea views. You may even spot fish and turtles. There are also plenty of pristine beaches to explore, but that’s not all. This coastal city is also the gateway to K’Gari (Fraser Island), the world’s biggest sand island and famous for having the largest remaining population of purebred dingos. It’s also a nature-lovers paradise, with plenty of tours and self-guided opportunities to enjoy spectacular wilderness adventures, including 4WD beach driving, wild swimming, remote camping, and so much more.
Woodgate Beach & Burrum Coast National Park Map.
Accommodation: Where To Stay In Woodgate.
- Best Budget: Burrum Point Camping Area, Burrum Coast National Park.
- Best Mid Range: NRMA Woodgate Beach Holiday Park.
- Best Luxury: Woodgate Beach Houses.
Visiting Woodgate: Frequently Asked Questions.
How Far Is Woodgate From Bundaberg?
Woodgate is an easy and scenic 55km drive through the countryside from the Rum Capital of Australia, Bundaberg. The trip along Goodwood Road and Woodgate Road takes about 45-50 mins to traverse with good conditions and no delays such as roadworks.
However, it’s important to note that while Woodgate is accessible by conventional 2WD, many of the places inside Burrum Coast National Park require a high-clearance 4WD to reach.
Conclusion: What To Do In Woodgate & Burrum Coast National Park.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast seeking solitude, an adventurer yearning for the thrill of 4WD beach driving, or searching for a peaceful place to play in the water such as at Theodolite Creek, there are plenty of enriching and unforgettable things to do in Woodgate and Burrum Coast National Park for everyone.
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