Explore QLD
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G’day legends – Jack here, the new bloke at 4X4 Australia.
After clocking up thousands of kays around Australia in my 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero with a full touring setup, I reckon I’ve seen a fair bit of what this country has to offer. Two places keep popping up in the “where should I go next?” conversation: K’gari (Fraser Island) and Moreton Island (Mulgumpin). Both are epic in their own right, but which one’s right for you? Let’s break it down 👇
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K’gari (Fraser Island) – The Big Kahuna
K’gari isn’t just a sand island – it’s the sand island. The world’s biggest, in fact. Spanning more than 120km of pure off-road paradise, Fraser is a place that’ll test your skills, reward your effort, and leave your jaw on the floor.
Places of interest include iconic freshwater lakes like Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby, creeks like Eli Creek that you can float down with a beer in hand, and shipwrecks like the Maheno that’ll blow your mind.
Fraser’s more than just pretty, though – it’s a full-on adventure. If you want to send it through Ngkala Rocks, make it to the Sandy Cape Lighthouse, or thread your way through the rainforest tracks inland, you better be prepared and bring a capable 4×4.
It’s wild, it’s remote, and it’s unforgettable.
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Moreton Island – The Chill Cousin
If Fraser is the big, rugged uncle, Moreton is the chill cousin who always brings good vibes. It’s smaller, easier to access (especially from Brisbane), and feels like the perfect blend of resort comforts and classic beach camping.
Tangalooma Resort is the crown jewel for families or couples wanting the option of a bed, bar, and dolphin-feeding – but don’t think that means it’s soft. There’s still plenty of sand driving, epic views from the Cape Moreton lighthouse, inland tracks, and campgrounds you can roll right onto from the beach.
Moreton’s the kind of island where you can punch out a few days and feel refreshed, rather than rinsed.
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| K’gari | Moreton Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Massive (120+ km) | Compact (37km) |
| 4WDing | Advanced, soft sand, tidal challenges | Beginner to intermediate |
| Camping | Remote, rugged, beachfront | Easy-access, relaxed |
| Wildlife | Dingoes, whales, birds | Dolphins, turtles, fish |
| Facilities | Minimal outside tourist hubs | Tangalooma Resort + public camps |
| Vibe | Bucket list wilderness | Holiday escape |
| Best For | Adventure seekers, seasoned 4WDers | Families, couples, newcomers |
Jacko’s Take
If you’ve never tackled a sand island before, start with Moreton. It’s got everything you need without pushing you out of your comfort zone too hard. But if you want to tick something off the bucket list, test your rig (and your patience), and come home with some serious storiesm, it’s K’gari all day.
Better yet? Do both. Life’s too short to pick one when you can plan for both.
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Catch the full yarn on YouTube this Friday, where I break it all down in real-time with plenty of footage, laughs, and behind-the-scenes chaos. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or just gearing up for your first beach run, there’s something here for everyone.
