Heron Island

Discover Heron Island: A Sanctuary on the Reef

Heron Island sits directly on the Great Barrier Reef, offering a unique opportunity to stay right on the reef itself, rather than just visiting it. Its remote location ensures a tranquil environment that is largely untouched by the usual tourist crowds. Here’s how far Heron Island is from several key locations in Queensland:

• From the Whitsundays: Approximately 530 kilometres south. The drive to Gladstone, where boat transfers to Heron Island are available, takes around 6 to 7 hours. From there, visitors can take a 2-hour boat ride or a quicker helicopter transfer to the island.
• From Agnes Water: About 175 kilometres to the northwest. The drive to Gladstone takes approximately 2.5 hours, followed by the boat or helicopter transfer to the island.
• From Hervey Bay: Roughly 370 kilometres north. Driving to Gladstone from here usually takes about 4 hours, after which visitors transfer to Heron Island by sea or air.

• From the Sunshine Coast: Approximately 450 kilometres to the north. The drive to Gladstone can be expected to last about 5.5 hours, followed by the subsequent transfer to Heron Island.
• From the Gold Coast: Around 600 kilometres north. This journey involves a drive of about 7 hours to Gladstone, where visitors then choose between boat and helicopter transfers to reach Heron Island.

What to See and Do on Heron Island

Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

Heron Island is a snorkellers paradise, renowned for its accessible and spectacular dive sites. With the reef just minutes from the beach, snorkellers and divers can explore an underwater world teeming with manta rays, reef sharks, and countless species of tropical fish. The island’s dive shop offers equipment rentals and certified diving courses, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

Bird Watching

The island is a significant nesting site for a variety of seabirds, making it a fantastic location for bird watching, especially during the nesting season. Species commonly seen include black noddies and wedge-tailed shearwaters.

Guided Island Tours

Ranger-guided tours provide insightful information about the island's ecology, the Great Barrier Reef, and the conservation efforts in place to protect this unique ecosystem. These tours can include reef walks (at low tide), bird watching tours, and guided stargazing events at night.

Turtle Watching

Heron Island is one of the few places in the world where visitors can watch green and loggerhead turtles nesting and hatching on the beaches. The best time to witness these incredible events is from November to March.

How to Get There

By Air

The quickest way to Heron Island is by helicopter transfer from Gladstone, offering a scenic and swift journey to the island.

By Sea

The more common method to reach Heron Island is by boat. The Heron Islander, a comfortable and spacious ferry, departs from Gladstone Marina and provides a relaxing 2-hour cruise to the island. This transfer is often included in accommodation packages.

Accommodation and Facilities

Heron Island offers a range of accommodation options, from beachside huts to comfortable suites, catering to different budgets and preferences. The island operates sustainably, minimizing its impact on the surrounding environment. Facilities include a resort with a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, all designed to enhance the natural experience without compromising the island's ecological integrity.Heron Island is an unspoiled oasis offering a rare opportunity to experience the Great Barrier Reef up close. It's an ideal destination for those passionate about marine biology, diving, or simply looking to relax surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you’re coming from nearby Queensland cities or traveling from farther afield, Heron Island promises an unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most spectacular marine environments.