Kellys Beach Live Cam
The main swimming beach in Bargara
Hosted by:
- Port of Gladstone
- 40 Goondoon Street - Gladstone
- QLD 4680 - Australia
- 07 4976 1333
- https://www.gpcl.com.au/
History
Kellys Beach is a popular beach located in Bargara, Queensland, Australia. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine sands, and clear blue waters. The beach has a rich history that dates back centuries.
The area surrounding Kellys Beach was traditionally inhabited by the Gureng Gureng Aboriginal people, who have a deep cultural connection to the land. They relied on the coastal resources for sustenance and utilized the beach for fishing and gathering food.
European settlement in the Bargara region began in the mid-1800s. The beach was named after one of the early European settlers, James Kelly, who arrived in the area in the late 1870s. Kelly and his family established a sugar plantation and built a homestead near the beach.
Throughout the years, Kellys Beach has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Its natural beauty, calm waters, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef make it a haven for beachgoers, swimmers, and snorkelers. The beach also offers opportunities for fishing and surfing, attracting enthusiasts of these activities.
In recent years, the local community and authorities have taken measures to preserve and protect the beach's natural ecosystem. Conservation efforts have been focused on protecting the nearby coral reefs and dune systems, which are crucial habitats for various marine species.
Kellys Beach and the surrounding Bargara area have developed into a thriving tourist destination. The region offers a range of accommodation options, including resorts, holiday apartments, and campgrounds, catering to visitors from all walks of life. The beach's accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere have made it a popular choice for both day trips and longer stays.
Additionally, Bargara hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, attracting visitors to the area. These include the Bargara Strawberry Festival, which celebrates the region's agricultural heritage, and the Bargara Beach Arts Festival, which showcases local artists and crafts.
Overall, Kellys Beach holds a significant place in the history and tourism of the region. Its natural beauty, combined with its cultural and recreational offerings, makes it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking a coastal getaway.
Top Tourist Attractions
Kellys Beach and the surrounding Bargara area in Queensland offer a range of tourist attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top attractions in the area:
- Kellys Beach: The main attraction itself, Kellys Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the gentle surf, go snorkeling or diving to explore the nearby coral reefs, or simply enjoy stunning sunsets.
- Mon Repos Conservation Park: Located adjacent to Kellys Beach, Mon Repos Conservation Park is a significant nesting site for endangered loggerhead turtles. Visitors can take guided tours during the nesting and hatching season (November to March) to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
- Bundaberg Rum Distillery: Just a short drive from Kellys Beach, the Bundaberg Rum Distillery offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the production process of Australia's famous Bundaberg Rum. The tour includes a visit to the barrel house and a tasting session.
- Bargara Esplanade: The Bargara Esplanade is a picturesque coastal promenade that stretches along the waterfront. It offers stunning ocean views, landscaped parks, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a variety of dining options. The esplanade is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
- Barolin Rocks Dive Site: Situated off the coast of Bargara, Barolin Rocks is a popular dive site known for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. Scuba divers and snorkelers can explore the underwater world and encounter colorful fish, turtles, and other marine species.
- Bundaberg Botanic Gardens: Located nearby in North Bundaberg, the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens offer a tranquil oasis with beautifully landscaped gardens, walking trails, and picnic areas. The gardens feature a Japanese garden, a lake with water lilies, a children's playground, and a variety of plant collections.
- Lady Musgrave Island: For those seeking an adventure, Lady Musgrave Island is a must-visit. It is a coral cay located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Day trips and boat tours from Bundaberg or nearby towns offer opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island's pristine ecosystem.
- Bundaberg Barrel: The Bundaberg Barrel is a unique attraction where visitors can discover the secrets behind Bundaberg's famous ginger beer. The self-guided tour takes visitors through interactive displays and offers tastings of different ginger beer varieties.
These are just a few of the top tourist attractions near Kellys Beach and Bargara. The region also offers golf courses, wineries, wildlife encounters, and various cultural events throughout the year, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Climate
Kellys Beach experiences a subtropical climate typical of the region. The area enjoys mild winters and warm to hot summers. Here is an overview of the climate at Kellys Beach:
- Summer (December to February): Summers in Kellys Beach are warm to hot with average daytime temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F). Humidity levels are generally higher during this season, and occasional afternoon showers or thunderstorms are common. The ocean temperature is warm, making it perfect for swimming and water activities.
- Autumn (March to May): Autumn brings more comfortable temperatures to the region. Daytime temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F), and evenings start to cool down slightly. The ocean remains warm, allowing for enjoyable beach visits and water sports.
- Winter (June to August): Winters in Kellys Beach are mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures average between 20°C and 24°C (68°F to 75°F), while nights can be cooler, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). It's a popular time for outdoor activities, and the water temperature remains comfortable for swimming.
- Spring (September to November): Spring sees a gradual increase in temperatures as the season progresses. Daytime temperatures range from 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). The weather becomes more stable, and rainfall decreases compared to the summer months. The ocean temperature begins to warm up, attracting beachgoers.
- It's important to note that weather patterns can vary, and occasional heatwaves or cooler spells can occur. It's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.
Overall, Kellys Beach experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for enjoying outdoor adventures, exploring the coastline, and relaxing on the beach.
Geography
Situated approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) east of the city of Bundaberg, Kellys Beach is part of the wider Coral Coast region. Here are some key aspects of the geography of Kellys Beach:
- Coastal Location: Kellys Beach is a coastal beach, bordering the waters of the Coral Sea. It is positioned on the eastern side of Australia, facing the Pacific Ocean. The beach is known for its sandy shoreline and clear turquoise waters, offering scenic views and a relaxing coastal atmosphere.
- Coral Coast: Kellys Beach is situated within the Coral Coast, a region renowned for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. The beach is an entry point to the southern section of the reef, providing opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the incredible marine biodiversity found in the area.
- Sandy Beach: Kellys Beach features soft, sandy shores that stretch for approximately 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles). The beach offers ample space for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely walks along the shoreline. The sand is light in color and provides a comfortable surface for visitors to enjoy.
- Sand Dunes and Vegetation: Behind the sandy beach, there are natural sand dunes covered in vegetation. These dunes contribute to the coastal ecosystem and provide habitat for various plant and animal species. The vegetation helps stabilize the dunes and prevent erosion.
- Nearby Estuary: Adjacent to Kellys Beach is the mouth of the Elliott River, which forms an estuary. The estuary is an important ecosystem where saltwater mixes with freshwater, creating a habitat for diverse marine and birdlife. The area around the estuary is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
- Surrounding Landscape: The area surrounding Kellys Beach features a mix of coastal lowlands and hinterland regions. Inland, the landscape transitions to rolling hills, sugarcane fields, and rural areas characteristic of the wider Bundaberg region.
Overall, Kellys Beach's geography offers a picturesque coastal setting with sandy shores, nearby estuaries, and access to the stunning Great Barrier Reef. Its location within the Coral Coast adds to its natural beauty and makes it a desirable destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.