Just shy of the Tropic of Capricorn, this leafy island has a string of white-sand beaches where you can snorkel amid coral reefs or hike into the bush.
Discover the natural beauty of Great Keppel Island, the largest of the islands in the Keppel Group. Also known as Ganumi Bara, the island has a rich cultural heritage belonging to the Ganumi and Woppaburra Aboriginal people. Choose from 17 spectacular beaches and explore the lushly vegetated interior of this pearl on the Capricorn Coast. Whether you’re adventuring in a kayak, bushwalking through native forest or lazing on the soft, white sand, you’ll feel a world away on Great Keppel Island.
Many visitors begin their trip to Great Keppel Island at the marina on the island’s west coast. From here, begin the tough task of picking your favourite from the island’s 17 beaches. There are 17.4 miles (28 kilometres) of beaches and bays on this paradise, many of which feature coral gardens around the headlands. Swim in the warm tropical waters of Putney Beach or put on your mask and snorkel to get a closer look at the vivid marine life below the surface. Protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the offshore reefs have a stunning diversity of marine life. Some of the island’s best snorkeling spots can be found at Monkey Point, Clam Bay and Shelving Beach.
Rent a kayak or a catamaran and explore the coastline. See aquamarine waters lapping at glowing white shores, which are backed by swaying palms and tropical foliage. Go bushwalking in this shady oasis to find a sanctuary for Central Queensland’s native flora and fauna. More than 100 species of bird can be found on Great Keppel Island, including laughing kookaburras, rainbow lorikeets and several types of seabird.
Great Keppel Island is 9.3 miles (15 kilometres) from the coast of Yeppoon in Central Queensland. Reach the island by ferry or charter boat trip from Rosslyn Bay Harbour or Keppel Bay Marina. You can also fly to the island with a charter plane. Explore the island on a daytrip or book a longer stay. Rent a waterfront bungalow or indulge at the resort and wake up with paradise on your doorstep.
