The Perfect Island Getaway in the Southern Great Barrier Reef ~ Heron Island!

Heron Island is roughly a two hour boat ride from Gladstone or a thirty minute helicopter ride. It’s a coral cay located in the southern Great Barrier Reef surrounded by an abundance of sea life 80 kilometres north-east of Gladstone, Queensland.

If someone were to ask me where to visit in Australia, Heron Island would be in my top three places to see. I have been very lucky to experience Heron twice and each time I’ve left with a full heart. It is truly incredible. I recommend you stay a min. of 3 nights to get a full experience of the island.

If you are interested in going to Heron but you don’t know when, this may help you. Click here to see what wildlife you should expect to see by the month.

1. Watch the Sunset/Sunrise. Sunset is my absolute favourite time on the island. The sea life becomes super active, the water becomes still and it’s beautiful.
2. Snorkel around the Shipwreck – my favourite spot to snorkel. Although the entire island is surrounded by incredible reef, this is where I personally saw the most turtles, rays and sharks.
3. Reef walk during low tide – a fantastic way to see the reef if you don’t want to get in
4. Check out the Marine Center. So much information and they have have informative videos
5. Walk around the entire Island – roughly 45 minutes
6. Play pool at Baillie’s Bar. They are open 10am-late and offer a range of cold drinks, snacks and cocktails.
7. Dive at one of the Natural Wonders of the World. Head out to the outter reef with the option to dive or snorkel. If you are going to Heron Island in June/July there is a high chance to see a Manta! FUN FACT ~ Did you know that Jacques Coustea, a  famous undersea explorer listed Heron Bommie as one of his top 10 favourite dive sites?
8. Do a sunset cruise. $50 per adult and you can add a cheese platter at an extra price. This experience is nothing fancy but it is cool to get out on the water and watch the sunset.
9. Stargaze
10. Eat at Shearwater Restaurant. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Make sure to secure a spot for dinner before you go out and enjoy the island. It can get very busy!

• Sunscreen that is reef friendly
• Snorkel Gear
• Swimmers
• Snacks
• Wine
• Towels (not necessary but I like to have a good beach towel)
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Underwater camera
• Games (Love Uno!)

Just a heads up, there is no reception on the island. Make sure you have enough money on your card for transactions. They do give you an option to pay for Wifi but it is pretty expensive and if you’re anything like me, you should use this time to escape the internet world. There is a gift shop where you can purchase essentials but you will be paying island prices.