From exotic island escapes to reef-sleep boats, here’s 6 dreamy ways to sleep on the Southern Great Barrier Reef...
Accessible only by small plane 40 minutes from Bundaberg, Lady Elliot Island formed 6000 years ago when the water levels rose and a coral reef below the surface began to rise. In 1816, it was named after a ship called Lady Elliot. Situated 46 nautical miles north-east of Bundaberg, you’ll find the rustic Lady Elliot Island Resort on this 45ha island. Visitors flock here for more than 1200 species of marine life including giant mantra rays and turtles, among some of the most pristine sections of the entire Great Barrier Reef.
This eco resort offers a range of comfortable accommodation options, with each Unit, Tent and Cabin designed to minimise impact on the Island while enriching the overall guest experience of the environment and seasonal wildlife.
Welcome to Lady Musgrave HQ, an award-winning, eco pontoon nestled in the sheltered waters of Lady Musgrave Island Lagoon. A must-do experience when visiting Bundaberg and the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
The pontoon is a core attraction, offering a unique experience for day tour and overnight visitors with its snorkel and dive platforms, as well as seamless access to high-speed dive boats, the glass bottom boat and the luxury catamaran Reef Empress. The pontoon features the most sustainable and eco-friendly build in the world. Above the waterline, the innovative zero-impact design is completely solar and wind-powered, and below the waves, coral cultivation and Citizen Science programs give back to the world’s greatest natural treasure.
Accommodation guests have the option to sleep above the surface in an Upper Deck Queen Glamping Bed under the stars or sleep amongst the fishes in a Single Bunk Bed in the Underwater Observatory.
www.ladymusgraveexperience.com.au
National Parks also offer limited camping permits on the island, for up to 21 days at a time.
www.parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/capricornia-cays/camping.html
Just a scenic 30-minute helicopter flight or a relaxing 2-hour ferry ride from Gladstone, Heron Island offers nine unique accommodation options, from the luxurious Beach House to cozy Reef and Turtle Rooms. Whether you’re a diver or prefer to stay dry, there’s something for everyone. Dive into one of the 21 snorkel and dive sites, or hop aboard the I-Spy semi-submersible to spot sharks, rays, turtles, and vibrant corals—no swimsuit needed!
For those who like to get their feet wet, the guided reef walk is a must! Your Naturalist Guide will reveal the quirky secrets of Heron Reef, explaining its formation and pointing out weird and wonderful creatures. You’ll learn fun facts about corals, marine life survival tricks during low tide, and the unique symbiotic relationships that keep the reef alive. It’s an exciting, hands-on way to explore the reef’s underwater wonders!
Heron Island offers underwater adventures at every turn!
Situated 75km north-east of Gladstone and only accessible by boat, North West Island is ideal for tent camping and allows a maximum of 21 nights. Guests here will find composting toilets, fuel storage and a compressor bunker, but must bring everything else, including all food and drinking water. This camp area is nestled within pistonia forest with access to a walking track, and offers easy access to snorkelling and diving or reef walking at low tide.
www.parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/capricornia-cays/camping.html
Although the Great Keppel Island Resort closed a decade ago, many people are unaware that this picturesque island off the Capricorn Coast still offers several accommodation options, totaling 300 rustic beds. Gone are the days of the old "Get Wrecked" campaign that characterized the island in the 80s. Today, visitors are encouraged to "Get Rested."
Great Keppel Island Hideaway has been a fixture on the island for 50 years, offering what it calls "barefoot paradise" across 48 rooms, ranging from self-contained beach cabins to budget and motel-style options. With no Wi-Fi or TV, the focus here is on embracing the island lifestyle rather than the accommodation itself. The reef fringes the shore of Great Keppel Island, which sits only footsteps from your accommodation. Guests can also enjoy activities like jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and even island massages.Pumpkin Island, nestled in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, is a secluded eco-retreat perfect for those seeking a sustainable escape. Located just 14 kilometers off the coast of Yeppoon, the island is a short, scenic boat ride away from Keppel Bay Marina. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, Pumpkin Island offers an intimate experience with nature, all while being completely off-grid.
The island’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations. Powered entirely by solar and wind energy, Pumpkin Island prides itself on being a carbon-positive destination. The island offsets 150% of its carbon emissions, making it a leader in eco-friendly tourism. Rainwater is collected and treated for use, and guests are encouraged to minimise waste through recycling and other sustainable practices. This dedication to preserving the environment ensures that Pumpkin Island remains a pristine paradise for future generations.
Accommodation on Pumpkin Island is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The island features five self-contained cottages and two bungalows, each offering breathtaking ocean views. The accommodations are comfortably furnished with modern amenities, yet maintain a rustic charm that enhances the island’s laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, the island’s accommodations cater to a variety of group sizes.
For more information, visit www.pumpkinisland.com.au.
