Gladstone Region

Boasting the highest boat ownership per capita, life here in Gladstone centres around the water, which makes sense when you’re smack-bang in the centre of the Southern Great Barrier Reef coast.

This quiet and undeveloped region is synonymous with boating, camping, and fishing along secluded beaches, national parks, creeks, and lakes. Access pristine coral cay reef islands such as Lady Musgrave Island from the seaside town of 1770 and Agnes Waters, or from Gladstone Harbour Heron Island.

And if a luxurious getaway is on your to-do list, an overnight stay on Wilson Island is an absolute must!

Top things to do:

• The town of 1770 is not only on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef but is one of only three places on the east coast where you can see the sunset over the water.
• Learn to surf on the unspoilt haven of Agnes Water Beach; Queensland's most northerly surf beach.
• Explore Lady Musgrave Island. Snorkel in the protected lagoon, watch the colourful marine life from above in a glass bottom boat or discover the island on a guided island walk.
• Heron Island is easily accessible via ferry transfer departing daily from Gladstone Marina or catch a scenic flight from the airport surveying this special part of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Tick off some of nature's famous eight here, known as the 'Great 8' –  including turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, clownfish, Maori Wrasse, and Humpback Whales (June to October).
• Laze away on the stretches of white sandy paradise at Tannum Sands or get active with the range of water sports on offer.
• Inland you will find yourself surrounded by the unique wildlife and sandstone wilderness of Kroombit National Park. And if fishing is on your to-do list, a Fishing Charter to nearby Lake Awoonga is a must!

How to get there:

• Gladstone Airport is only 7km from the city and offers taxi and car hire as well as flights to Heron Island.
• Catch the Tilt Train from Brisbane.
• Explore the area along the many scenic roads.