"The turtles and birds liking to be feed at the front door was a bit of fun every time you came outside."
Louise from Australia
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"The villas are alongside the lakes that are full with turtles and bird life."
Christine J from Australia
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"Was simply wonderful . Geat location , lovely stand alone villa on lake teaming with birdlife and turtles ."
wayne
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Self-Contained Villas
Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat offers 36 self-contained villas, each with picturesque lake views. Every villa provides a private balcony that allows guests to enjoy serene moments overlooking the lake. The kitchens are equipped with essential appliances, making dining convenient for all visitors.
Wildlife Interaction
The hotel provides guests with opportunities to engage with local wildlife in their natural habitat. Daily encounters allow guests to feed ducks, turtles, and possums, fostering a unique connection with nature. The self-contained grounds also serve as a habitat for diverse bird species.
Prime Location
Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat is situated just 300 meters from the beach, ensuring easy access to the sandy shores of Hervey Bay. Guests are within walking distance of local dining, shopping, and attractions, providing convenience during their stay. Additionally, the retreat is a short drive from Fraser Coast Airport and Hervey Bay Marina.
Family-Friendly Activities
The retreat welcomes families with various activities focused on wildlife exploration and outdoor enjoyment. Children can participate in animal feeding sessions and explore the surrounding nature reserve, making for an educational experience. The peaceful setting allows families to bond while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.
Convenient Facilities
The hotel includes modern amenities such as BBQ facilities and a swimming pool for guests to relax. Laundry facilities are also available for added convenience during longer stays. An abundance of off-street parking ensures that guests with vehicles can easily access the retreat.
Highlights
Location: 300m from the beach
Villas: 36 self-contained villas with lake views
Wildlife: Daily encounters with ducks, turtles, and possums
Family-Friendly: Activities that engage children with nature
Facilities: BBQ facilities and a swimming pool
“These self-contained villas offer a peaceful escape surrounded by the beauty of a fauna reserve, yet the beach and Urangan Pier are within easy reach; I think it's a smart combination of nature and convenience. The on-site activities, such as feeding the turtles, make this a particularly good choice for families seeking a unique experience. Its dedication to nature and wildlife creates a memorable stay.”
Emma JohnsonEditor-in-Chief at Toresort
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Select your room type
Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Studio Villa
2 persons
435 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Queen Villa
2 persons
435 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Family Villa
2 persons
735 sq. feet
3 Single beds
Shower
Heating
room details
Superior Queen Villa
2 persons
435 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
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Facilities
Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
A tranquil garden showcasing native flora, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Urangan Pier
16 minutes' walk
An iconic 868-meter long pier offering fishing opportunities and stunning ocean views.
Roy Rufus Artificial Reef Dive Site
10 minutes' walk
A vibrant diving site rich in marine life, ideal for both novice and experienced divers.
Point Dayman Park
10 minutes' walk
A picturesque coastal park featuring picnic areas and breathtaking bay vistas, perfect for families.
Whale Watching Tours
5 minutes' drive
Thrilling seasonal tours providing a chance to see migrating whales in their natural habitat.
Yoga by the Sea
5 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga sessions on the beach, perfect for unwinding while enjoying the ocean breeze.
Cycling along the Esplanade
25 minutes' walk
A scenic cycling route along the waterfront, ideal for both leisure rides and sightseeing.
Sunset Kayaking
5 minutes' drive
Adventurous evening kayak tours explore the pristine waters while experiencing stunning sunsets.
Two Ducks Cafe & Asian Grocery
11 minutes' walk
Casual cafe serving Asian cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere.
McDonald's
9 minutes' walk
Fast food favorites in a casual setting, perfect for a quick meal or snack on the go.
Pie & Pastry Paradise
13 minutes' walk
Local bakery offering delicious handmade pies and pastries, a must-try for food lovers.
Sundaes at The Pier
13 minutes' walk
Ice cream parlor with a variety of flavors and seaside views, perfect for a sweet treat.
The Boat Club Marina
35 minutes' walk
Lively venue featuring live music, great meals, and stunning bay views, suitable for all ages.
Fisherman's Wharf Marina
35 minutes' walk
Popular hub with shops and eateries, ideal for an evening stroll and casual dining options.
Wetside Water Education Park
25 minutes' walk
Interactive water park for families, featuring educational displays and fun splash zones.
Urangan Central Shopping Centre
1.8 km, 5 minutes' drive
Convenient shopping center offering retail stores, cafes, and entertainment options for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Urangan9 min
·
2300 ft
Airports
Hervey Bay (HVB)9 min
·
3.4
mi
Bundaberg (BDB)188 min
·
77.7
mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-17:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
33
Former name
Sanctuary Lakes Beach Resort
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat from previous guests about their experience
Review score
Based on 189 verified reviews
7.6/10
Very good
77%
Recommend
Cleanliness
7.9/10
Comfort
7.9/10
Facilities
7.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
6.9/10
Location
8.9/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
8.7/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Pros
Lakes and wildlife
Comfortable bed
Friendly owner
Clean cabin
On-site laundry
Cons
Broken tiles
Musty smell
Non-working security door
Guest reviews
based on 506 reviews
8.0/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat
Is Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat a suitable base for exploring Fraser Island?
20 November 2024
Yes, it's conveniently situated just a short walk from the beach and near Urangan Pier, making it an excellent location for visiting Fraser Island. Escorted tours can also pick you up directly from the front gate.
How many separate sleeping areas do the family accommodations feature?
03 December 2024
The family-sized accommodations include a queen bed in an open plan living area and either three single beds or an additional queen bed plus a single in a separate bedroom.
Are pets allowed at Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat?
15 January 2025
Unfortunately, pets cannot be accommodated due to the property being a fauna reserve, which protects local wildlife.
How comfortable are the beds provided in the accommodations?
11 February 2025
Previous guests have reported that the beds are quite comfortable, contributing to a restful night's sleep.
If I book directly, can I expect any benefits like discounts or upgrades?
27 February 2025
While direct bookings may not come with a discount, there is a chance of receiving an upgrade to a renovated room. Cancellation policies apply equally regardless of the booking method.
Can visitors fish in the lakes at the retreat?
14 March 2025
Fishing is not permitted at the lake due to its status as a fauna reserve. However, great fishing locations are available nearby, and recommendations can be provided upon request.
Will there be space for my boat or trailer at the retreat?
05 April 2025
Yes, ample parking is available for boats and trailers. It is recommended to mention your need for boat parking when making a reservation.
What is the closest beach to the retreat and how can I reach it?
22 April 2025
The closest beach is just 300 meters away, easily accessible by a short walk straight out the front gate.
Are there cooking facilities available in the villas?
10 May 2025
All villas are equipped with electric hotplates, cookware, and utensils, allowing guests to prepare their own meals during their stay.
Can I reserve a specific cabin or receive a site map before my stay?
12 June 2025
A site map can be provided upon request. Please submit your name and email to receive the map directly.