Lake Wabby
Located on the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island, Lake Wabby is a disappearing natural wonder that needs to be seen to be believed. We mean the disappearing part literally as the lake’s serene green waters are bordered by a giant sand dune that is slowly descending into the water (one metre each year), and in the next century will completely swallow the lake. The deepest dune lake in the area, Lake Wabby is 11.4 metres to the bottom in some spots, making it a perfect place to dive among the many fish species that call the lake their home. An early morning walk or drive through the steep sand dunes will take you to the lake before it gets too busy. One way to access this hidden gem is from the Lake Wabby Lookout, which has breathtaking views over both the lake and the Coral Sea. This secluded swimming destination is best to check out when the weather’s warm and you can have a quick dip to cool off, so be sure to book ahead if you plan on visiting during the busy summertime season.
Mount Etna Caves National Park
Just a short drive from Rockhampton is where you’ll come across Mount Etna Caves National Park, an area once submerged by a shallow sea. Limestone from ancient coral reefs formed the rugged landscape seen at Mount Eta National Park today, which boasts a terrain of rocky sinkholes and caves. If you’re a fan of little winged creatures, then the bat caves of Mount Etna are for you. The caves at Mount Etna are the roosting site for more than 80 percent of Australia’s population of little bent-wing bats. The park is also one of the few places in Australia supporting a colony of ghost bats – a carnivorous bat that preys on larger species such as birds, reptiles and other mammals (but not humans, don’t worry). Outside of breeding season from December to February, park rangers can lead you into the caves as part of a guided tour.
Fairy Falls
Tropical North Queensland’s hidden waterfall gem is found tucked away in the dense rainforest near popular Cairns waterhole Crystal Cascades. Fairy Falls is as magical as its name suggests, capturing the attention of locals and tourists alike. To find this secret picturesque waterfall, start walking the track just to the left of Crystal Cascades carpark and follow the path along for approximately 15 minutes. When the track forks, be sure to stick to the creek and don’t head uphill. To access the secluded plunge pool, you must first venture into the forest and climb over a few rock faces (so make sure you bring some slip-proof shoes, thongs aren’t exactly the best option). Then have a quick dip, a go on the rope swing and take some pics – this swimming hole is an Instagram hotspot. Just make sure you keep a look out for stinging plants that are found along the track, there are a few warning signs in place to help identify these bad boys.
Image One: Tourism and Events Queensland
Image Two: Tourism and Events Queensland
Image Three: Tourism and Events Queensland
Image Four: Tourism and Events Queensland
Image Five: Sean Scott/Tourism and Events Queensland