Islands of Capricorn Region

Nestled upon the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, Great Keppel Island has a little slice of paradise for any kind of visitor. It is the largest of the islands in the Keppel Group and sits on the untouched coastline of the Capricorn region.

Much of the island’s attraction is its accessibility. Great Keppel Island is just a 30-minute boat ride from Rosslyn Bay Marina which is located just south of Yeppoon. The island can be reached by a packaged tour, sailing trips, ferry transfers, private charters and even by Helicopter. 

Whether you are seeking a day visit or an overnight island stay, you won’t be short on options. There is plentiful accommodation on the island including camping, beach front bungalows to private beach resorts.

Pristine beaches and water adventures

The island is home to 28km of beaches and bays that sit upon the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. There are 17 pristine beaches waiting to be discovered, all of which boast pure white sands, beautiful palm trees, and clear turquoise waters.

The island’s pristine beaches make for perfect swimming conditions with an average water temperature of 25 degrees year round. You won’t be short on things to do with a number of water sports and activities on offer including coral viewing tours, motorised canoes, kayaking or simply stumbling upon on your own secluded beach.

Many of the beaches offer fringing coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving for all levels of experience. If exploring the island’s underwater wonders is on your holiday to do list, Shelving Beach, Monkey Point and Clam Bay are arguably some of the best snorkeling locations in the Capricorn region.

Natural bushland and wildlife encounters

Inland you will be blown away by the abundance of walking trails, native flora and fauna, unique bird life and Aboriginal heritage waiting to be discovered. 90 per cent of the island is covered in natural bushland and is home to around 100 bird species. Make sure you look out for Kookaburras and Rainbow Lorikeets!

Pumpkin Island is arguably one of Australia’s best-kept secrets. Situated around 14km from the coast of Yeppoon, Pumpkin Island sits upon the Great Barrier Reef and offers exclusive island accommodation.

The island is privately owned and is the ultimate getaway for couples, families or those simply seeking to immerse themselves in the Capricorn Region’s natural beauty.

This tiny untouched paradise is a part of the Keppel Island Group and is reachable by a 45-minute boat ride from Keppel Bay Marina. As you arrive on the island you will be blown away by the white sandy beaches, surrounding coral cays and lush native bushland occupying this hidden gem.

Pumpkin Island Resort offers eco-friendly cottages and bungalows with exclusive beach front views and access. 

Top things to do:

The island itself boasts a rich marine life with sea turtles, dolphins and whales frequenting the island year round. Pumpkin Island’s natural beauty serves as the perfect destination to enjoy an array of activities or simply laze the day away on your own secluded beach.

• Explore the fringing reef in a glass bottom kayak.
• Discover the coastline by paddleboard, canoe or kayak.
• Enjoy an adrenaline rush on a jet ski.
• Embark on one of the many bushwalking trails.
• Cast a line at one of the island’s many fishing spots.
• Kitesurf or windsurf your day away.
• Snorkel or scuba dive through the marine park.
• Enjoy the sunset at the resort’s beachfront restaurant.