Queensland · Attraction
Great Keppel Island and Yeppoon
Island beaches, reef, sea adventures
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Just 15 kilometres off the Capricorn Coast, Great Keppel Island is the largest of 18 islands in the Keppel group and boasts 17 beaches, extensive fringing reef, and some of the clearest water on the southern Great Barrier Reef. The gateway town of Yeppoon offers its own foreshore attractions including a lagoon pool and a beachfront water park, all free for visitors.
Ferries depart daily from Rosslyn Bay Marina, a short drive south of Yeppoon, with the crossing taking around 30 minutes. On the island, Shelving Beach and Putney Beach are among the best spots for snorkelling directly from the sand, where turtles, reef fish, and coral gardens are reliably present. Between June and October, humpback whales pass through Keppel Bay on their annual migration.
More active visitors can tackle the walking track to Mount Wyndham for panoramic island views or join a full-day lighthouse walk. Back on the mainland, the Yeppoon foreshore lagoon pool and beachfront parkland offer a polished base for families, while the town's cafes and restaurants serve freshly caught seafood. The island has accommodation ranging from camping and beachfront bungalows to private beach rental properties.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near Great Keppel Island and Yeppoon.
2 options via our booking partner
Great Keppel Island Hideaway
2.8km away
NRMA Capricorn Yeppoon Holiday Park
17.5km away
Bookings handled by our partner Parkbooker. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Scenic views
