Hot tips for a cool day trip to Great Keppel Island

Written By: Alyssah Anderson

About the author:

Driven by a passion for the region, Alyssah is a Rockhampton local who works as a marketing and communications officer, sharing her storytelling skills to enhance the profile of our exciting destination. When not writing about the wonderful discoveries you will find when you Visit Capricorn, you will find Alyssah out and about exploring every opportunity to experience the best our region has to offer.

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.

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

More tips and stories

Social Links
Have local tips and special deals sent to your inbox.
First and last name
First Name Last Name
Your email address*

Your Postcode*
Your Postcode
Phone
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Copyright © 2024 Visit Capricorn | Designed in the Capricorn Region by Almost Anything | Privacy Policy