Nestled upon the world-heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, Great Keppel Island is a little slice of barefoot paradise for any kind of visitor. Whether you are seeking a day-trip or keen to sink your feet into the sand for longer, there is no better time to head ‘over seas’ to this popular island destination.
With 17 white sandy beaches, unique natural attractions, fun family activities, safe swimming all year round, a network of walking trails, wildlife and incredible underwater discoveries, Great Keppel Island is ready and waiting to entertain.
Getting there
An island getaway is always a good idea, and after a short ferry ride from Rosslyn Bay on the Capricorn Coast with Freedom Fast Cats (departing Pier 1 at Rosslyn Bay Harbour) or Keppel Konnections (departing Keppel Bay Marina) Great Keppel Island is ready to fill your day with sandy toes and salty kisses.
From Rockhampton you can catch the bus from the airport with CQ Connections, a bus service offering reliable and comfortable transport and transfers across the Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast destination.
Or why not indulge in the ultimate class and comfort with a scenic helicopter flight to Great Keppel Island with Rockhampton Helicopters? Take in the beauty of the island from above before you begin your adventures.
Once you arrive
There is so much to do on Great Keppel Island that a day trip will not seem long enough! Whether you are seeking an active visit or lazy layabout, we’ve put together a few options to fill your day.
Take a hike
Great Keppel Island is laced with a web of picturesque walking trails ranging from a 15 minutes beach stroll to a 15 kilometre hike to the lighthouse at the Island’s tip. Dispersing trekkers around the island to secluded beaches or spectacular lookouts, there is a walking adventure for all levels and abilities.
6 amazing walking tracks on Great Keppel Island>>>
Break the surface
Relaxing on the sand overlooking the pristine waters from Great Keppel Island is a truly magical sight. However, if you can swim and breathe, it’s time to discover firsthand our most unforgettable views…underneath the glassy surface. Snorkelling is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef so talk to the team at Keppel Dive and Snorkel and discover how you can become one with nature. Rather stay above the surface? Hire a kayak or stand-up paddle board and become a watersport warrior.
Keep your feet dry
Freedom Fast Cats’ glass-bottom boat tour is a quiet, relaxed alternative for those wishing to view the wonders of the reef and spectacular marine life without even getting their feet wet. The cruise includes a coral viewing tour, along with insight into the history of Great Keppel Island.
Swim and laze by the paperbarks
Great Keppel Island is the ultimate flop and drop so for anyone in search of a super laid back, relaxed, lazy day by the water, this is the perfect place to do so. The sub-tropical waters of Great Keppel Island offer year-round swimming without the need for stinger suits. Simply step foot off the beach and immediately begin exploring remarkable diverse coral species and marine life. Swim, relax, repeat…
Refuel and refresh
Great Keppel Island Hideaway Bar and Bistro is open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, welcoming day trip guests to enjoy a meal, snack or refreshing drink. The beautiful beachfront bistro is home to uncomplicated menus, reflecting the relaxed atmosphere of Great Keppel Island. Choose from a number of seating areas from underneath shade trees to cosy corners under the thirty foot wooden ‘hut’.
For the adventurous
This family friendly, fuss-free tropical oasis also offers adrenaline fueled experiences for thrill-seeking adventurers.
Discover SCUBA diving
Keppel Dive and Snorkel is the only Ecotourism Certified PADI Dive Resort on the Capricorn Coast, offering a range of services including courses, certified diving and equipment hire. With over 10 years of PADI certified experienced behind them, the team from Keppel Dive are proud to showcase one of the premier SCUBA diving destinations around the world.
Jump aboard The Kraken
Imagine the thrill of skimming across the azure waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the breathtaking beauty of the Keppel Islands on the horizon. This is no ordinary boat trip; The Kraken is a quick and comfortable adventure that takes you deep into the heart of one of Australia’s most stunning archipelagos!
Turn your day trip into a weekender
While a day trip to Great Keppel Island will be enough to whet your appetite, we know that you will be left wanting more. And once you have experienced the awe-inspiring beauty and laid-back island vibes, you might never want to leave.
Where to stay on Great Keppel Island
The island offers a relaxed style of accommodation from decked tents and cabins to holiday houses. Our favourite places to stay include Great Keppel Island Hideaway and Great Keppel Island Holiday Village
