Capricorn Region

Spanning 115,000 square kilometres, from the sandy beaches of the Capricorn Coast inland past Rockhampton – the beef capital of Australia – to the highlands township of Emerald, this region is a blend of historic towns, national parks, sapphire gemfields, and of course the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Central to the Capricorn Coast you will find the humble yet bustling coastal towns of Yeppoon and Emu Park. Offering a range of accommodation options from camping through to luxurious resorts, these coastal communities are the perfect base to explore all that the Capricorn Region has on offer. 

Swim, dive, or snorkel among the fringing reefs of Great Keppel Island, part of the Keppel Island Group, including nearby Pumpkin Island. The protective fringing reef means the waters are calm – perfect for exploring the underwater playground of hard and soft coral, tropical fish, turtles, dolphins, and manta rays.

Top things to do: 

• Relax on one of the 13 beaches found between Yeppoon and Emu Park. Wander along Yeppoon’s picturesque esplanade, soaking in the laid-back lifestyle, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes.
• Enjoy an afternoon sunset cruise with a cruise around Keppel Bay, or choice of beach picnic at a secluded beach on the Keppel Islands
• Take a snorkelling day tour to explore the beautiful bays and pristine waters of the Great Keppel Islands. 
• Scuba Diving options are available from Great Keppel Island for day visitors and overnight guests.
• Explore the vast array of marine life in the waters off the Keppel Island Group. Offering fantastic sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving, the island is the ultimate place to relax, discover and unwind and is just a short boat trip away. Extend your stay by camping on Great Keppel Island.
• Abseil or rock climb the award-winning Capricorn Caves. This natural cave system is set on a limestone ridge. There is also a walking tour on offer. Wheelchair access is available on the popular Cathedral Cave Tour.
• For keen campers – set up a tent at the Nogoa River camping area in the Salvator Rosa Section of Carnarvon National Park.    
• Head to Rockhampton to try one of Australia’s best cuts of steak, experience an authentic outback rodeo, have a drink at one of the many historic pubs or discover the rich gold mining history of Mount Morgan. 
• The town of Byfield and Byfield National Park are both popular weekend getaways for locals and the ideal location if you are looking for an off the beaten track 4WD adventure, secluded campgrounds, fantastic bushwalking trails, hidden beach coves and the Byfield River which you can explore by canoe. 

How to get there:

• Driving from Brisbane to Yeppoon is approximately 630 kms and makes is a great destination for families wanting a relaxed holiday where you can snorkel, swim and enjoy the sights of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Rockhampton Airport is a major regional airport with flights to Brisbane, Mackay, Cairns, Townsville and the Gold Coast and is 5km from the city centre.
• Catch the Tilt Train from Brisbane to Rockhampton.