Great Keppel Island – The Untouched Gem of the Southern Great Barrier Reef

Great Keppel Island – Key Highlights

  • 33 Stunning Beaches to Explore. – Great Keppel Island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.  More beaches exist in the Southern Great Barrier Reef than on any other island.

  • Amazing Snorkelling & Diving.  With fringing coral reefs just off the shore, visitors can easily snorkel among tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant corals.

  • Hiking and Nature Walks. The island is home to scenic bushwalking trails, including the hike to Lookout Point and the Monkey Beach Trail, which Offer Visitors breathtaking views over the reef.

  • Laid-Back Island Vibe. – Great Keppel Island offers a relaxed, unspoiled atmosphere, perfect for those wanting a true barefoot island escape.

  • Fantastic Fishing Opportunities. – The surrounding waters teem with fish, making it a popular spot for fishing.  Visitors can enjoy beach fishing, reef fishing, and deep-sea charters.

  • Eco-Friendly Accommodation and Camping. – Visitors can stay in beachfront cabins, eco-lodges, or camp under the stars.  Options to suit every budget.

  • Easy Access from the Mainland. Located 30 minutes by ferry from Yeppoon, Great Keppel Island is one of the most accessible Great Barrier Reef islands. It is perfect for a day trip or an extended stay.

Discover Great Keppel Island Today

With its untouched beauty, outdoor adventures, and relaxed island charm, Great Keppel Island is a must-visit destination on the Southern Great Barrier Reef! 🏝️🐠🌊

Great Keppel Island is a true hidden paradise, offering a perfect mix of pristine beaches, incredible snorkelling, and a relaxed island vibe. 30 minutes by ferry from Yeppoon, this stunning island is one of the most accessible in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re looking for a day trip adventure or a romantic island escape,  Great Keppel Island delivers an authentic, unspoiled island experience like no other.

33 Stunning Beaches to Explore

With an incredible 33 white sandy beaches, it offers more beachfront beauty than any other island in the region. From the well-known Fisherman’s Beach and Putney Beach to the secluded, untouched coves of Monkey Beach and Shelving Beach.  There is a perfect spot for everyone. Whether you prefer sunbathing, beachcombing, or a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters, every beach on Great Keppel Island is pure tropical bliss.

Snorkeling and Diving – A Fringing Reef Wonderland

Snorkelers and divers are in for a treat, as Great Keppel Island is home to thriving fringing coral reefs! Popular snorkelling spots like Monkey Beach, Shelving Beach, and Clam Bay reveal a world filled with vibrant corals, sea turtles, tropical fish, and even reef sharks. The crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for beginners and experienced snorkelers wanting to explore the Great Barrier Reef without needing a boat trip.

Bushwalking and Island Adventures

If you love hiking and exploring, Great Keppel Island has a network of scenic walking trails that take you through bushland, coastal cliffs, and breathtaking lookouts. The Lookout Trail offers spectacular panoramic views over the island and surrounding reefs, while the Monkey Beach Trail takes you through lush vegetation to a secluded snorkelling paradise. With its diverse landscapes and native wildlife, the island is a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for an adventure on foot.

Fishing & Water Activities

A dream destination for fishing enthusiasts, with the surrounding waters teeming with barramundi, Spanish mackerel, coral trout, and reef fish. Whether you prefer shore fishing from the beach, casting from the rocks, or heading out on a fishing charter, the island offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the region. If fishing isn’t your thing, try kayaking, paddleboarding, or even jet skiing for an exhilarating way to explore the island’s crystal-clear waters.

Where to Stay – Beachfront Escapes & Camping

Accommodation on Great Keppel Island is all about immersing yourself in nature. Whether you choose a cosy beachfront cabin, an eco-lodge, or a campsite under the stars, you’ll wake up to the sound of the ocean and the feeling of pure relaxation. The island’s laid-back, barefoot vibe makes it a perfect place to switch off and escape the everyday.

Getting to Great Keppel Island

Reaching Great Keppel Island is quick and easy, with regular ferry services from Rosslyn Bay Harbour near Yeppoon. The 30-minute boat ride across Keppel Bay is scenic, setting the tone for an unforgettable island adventure. Private charters and water taxis are also available for a more personalised experience.

Frequently Asked Questions – Great Keppel Island

How do I get to Great Keppel Island?
Great Keppel Island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Rosslyn Bay Harbour, near Yeppoon in Central Queensland. Regular ferry services are available through Keppel Konnections and Freedom Fast Cats, with private charters and water taxis also an option for a more personalised experience.

What are the best things to do on Great Keppel Island?
Visitors can snorkel or dive into the fringing reef, relax on one of the 33 stunning beaches, go hiking along scenic trails, try kayaking or paddleboarding, or enjoy fishing and wildlife spotting.

Where are the best snorkeling spots on Great Keppel Island?
Some of the best snorkeling spots are Monkey Beach, Shelving Beach, and Clam Bay, where you can see vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The great thing about snorkelling here is that the reef is just a few steps from the shore, making exploring easy.

Is there accommodation on Great Keppel Island?
Yes! Great Keppel Island offers eco-friendly beachfront cabins, lodges, and camping options. While it doesn’t have large resorts, its laid-back vibe and back-to-nature accommodations make it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the island’s untouched beauty.

When is the best time to visit Great Keppel Island?
The best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the water is perfect for snorkelling and swimming. However, Great Keppel Island enjoys a tropical climate year-round, so it’s a fantastic destination any time of the year!

Why You’ll Love Great Keppel Island

Whether you’re snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, hiking through lush landscapes, relaxing on secluded beaches, or simply taking in the island’s untouched beauty, Great Keppel Island is an unforgettable tropical escape. Its relaxed atmosphere, stunning natural scenery, and endless outdoor adventures make it the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the Great Barrier Reef in its purest form.

🌴🏝️ Ready to explore Great Keppel Island? Start your adventure today! ⛵🐠✨

Discover the Southern Great Barrier Reef