Heron Island, Heron Island

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Key details

About the Resort

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island, Australia

Near the snorkeling area

Perfect

8.6

8.8

/10

4.1

Loved by guests

Professional staff
Clean room
Fresh food
Beautiful island
Relaxing break

"Every snorkel we saw turtles, friendly reef sharks, stingrays and fish."

LizCantor from Australia

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"It is a real reset timeout from day-to-day life."

Oaky from Australia

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"You don't even have to get in the water to see turtles, sharks, rays and fish."

Cath

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Location

Heron Island is situated on the Great Barrier Reef, offering direct access to crystal clear waters abundant with marine life. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a prominent destination for eco-experiences focused on ocean biodiversity. With 20 accessible dive sites located just minutes away from the jetty, guests can easily explore the underwater beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

Accommodation

Accommodations at Heron Island include rooms set among Pisonia Forest, with Turtle Rooms offering ground-level access and delightful timber decks. Beachside Rooms feature large patios with views of the water, providing immediate beach access. The Superior Point Suite offers spacious accommodations designed for guests seeking impressive sunset views over the reef.

Diving and Snorkeling

Heron Island boasts exceptional snorkeling opportunities right off its stunning beaches, becoming the most popular activity for guests. The Marine Centre offers PADI-certified dive courses for various skill levels, ensuring that both beginners and experienced divers can explore the underwater realms. Guests can rent high-quality dive gear from the Marine Centre, enhancing their diving experience.

Wellness

Aqua Soul Spa is located within the ancient Pisonia forest and offers a range of therapies designed to promote well-being and relaxation. The treatments incorporate Australian botanical ingredients, ensuring a rejuvenating experience inspired by the natural surroundings. With three single treatment rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, guests can unwind while taking in views of the forest.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Junior Rangers Program engages children aged 6 to 12 with nature-based activities focusing on marine biology and island ecology. Complimentary snorkeling lessons are provided to ensure that younger guests enjoy the snorkeling experiences safely. Families will benefit from turtle viewing opportunities, including witnessing nesting activities during the breeding season from November to March.

Highlights

Location: UNESCO World Heritage site

Accommodation: Turtle Rooms amidst ancient Pisonia Forest

Diving: 20 accessible dive sites

Wellness: Aqua Soul Spa with Australian botanical treatments

Family-Friendly: Junior Rangers Program for 6-12 years old

“Heron Island isn't trying to be something it's not. This eco-resort embraces its natural surroundings, offering an immersive experience for those eager to explore the Great Barrier Reef, both above and below the water. It's a unique destination where the focus is on wildlife encounters and marine adventures, not high-end luxury, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic and educational getaway.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Toresort

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Highlights from guests

DiningButter Chicken Ace

The restaurant impressed with the butter chicken and varied dinner menu. Breakfast buffet provided plenty of options.

Olivia from Canada

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Sports & FitnessSnorkel Dream

Snorkeling the reef reveals turtles, reef sharks, stingrays and colorful fish. The dive sites are a short boat ride away.

Kenji from Japan

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Children's AmenitiesFamily Fun

Kids can observe marine life from the jetty. The resort is safe and welcoming for families with young children.

Isabella from Brazil

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Room FeaturesBeachfront Bliss

Staying in the beachside suite offers open space and turquoise water views. Beach towels and snorkel sets are provided.

Xavier from France

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Reef Room

2 persons

22 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Turtle Room

2 persons

23 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Reef Family Room

2 persons

20 m²

2 Single beds

Shower

Balcony

room details

Beachside Suite

2 persons

34 m²

1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

Non-smoking rooms
Paid Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
Concierge desk
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Luggage storage
Private beach
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Billiard tables

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Cots
Children's buffet
Board games

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Pedicure
Manicure
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Massage
Pool with view

Room features

Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Dining Onsite

On Heron Island, the culinary journey offers refreshing diversity and genuine flavors, all set against stunning backdrops. From healthy vegetarian selections to sumptuous drinks at scenic terraces, each dining venue celebrates the island's unique environment.

Shearwater Restaurant

Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free options

Ambiance

Nestled within the serene island landscape, this restaurant features an inviting atmosphere perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.

Key Offerings

A wide selection of nourishing meals catering to different dietary needs, complemented by tranquil views of the surrounding nature.

Reservation

Not needed

Open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Wistari Terrace

Beverages including fine Australian wines

Ambiance

An idyllic outdoor setting with panoramic views, perfect for enjoying drinks before embarking on marine adventures.

Key Offerings

Enjoy refreshing drinks in a scenic environment, setting the tone for an exciting day ahead on the Great Barrier Reef.

Reservation

Not needed

Hours vary

Baillie's Bar

Casual drinks and light snacks

Ambiance

A laid-back venue where guests can soak in the breathtaking reef views while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Offerings

An ideal spot for socializing over drinks while admiring panoramic vistas, serving a cozy selection of snacks to accompany your beverages.

Reservation

Not needed

Hours vary

Location

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island, Australia

Map view

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island, Australia

Nearby

Island

Heron Island Dock

180 m

Shipwreck

220 m

Explore Heron Island

Activities, Dining, and Entertainment Near Heron Island

Heron Island Dock

3 minutes' walk

Heron Island Dock serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering stunning views. Ideal for snorkeling and marine wildlife observation.

Shipwreck

3 minutes' walk

The Shipwreck is a fascinating dive site and part of local marine history. Snorkelers can explore the wreck and its surrounding aquatic life.

Snorkeling and Diving

3 minutes' walk

Snorkeling and diving excursions depart from the nearby dock, showcasing vibrant coral reefs and marine biodiversity. Rentals are available.

Beach Relaxation

3 minutes' walk

The soft sandy beaches invite leisurely hours under palm trees. Perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking a tranquil getaway.

Heron Island Restaurant

3 minutes' walk

Heron Island Restaurant offers fresh seafood and local dishes in a casual beachfront setting. Vegetarian options are available.

The Lighthouse

3 minutes' walk

The Lighthouse features an elegant ambiance with panoramic ocean views. Signature dishes include gourmet pizzas and seasonal seafood.

Marine Adventures

3 minutes' walk

Marine Adventures offers guided night walks where families can observe bioluminescent marine creatures and starry skies.

Island Movie Nights

3 minutes' walk

Island Movie Nights on the beach showcase family-friendly films in a cozy outdoor setting. Check the schedule for upcoming screenings.

Getting around

City Centre

Heron Island4 min · 300 m

Airports

Gladstone, QLD (GLT)53 min · 34.7 km

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

from 07:00-10:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

is available in public areas for additional charge.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of AUD 35 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Questions of the users

About Heron Island

What is the ideal time to enjoy a beach getaway at Heron Island?

17 November 2024

Visiting during summer offers warmer waters, but each season on Heron Island has its own unique benefits worth exploring.

Are travel costs to Heron Island included in the accommodation price?

5 December 2024

Room rates cover daily breakfast and snorkel equipment. Ferry transfers cost $150 return for adults and $76 return for children aged 3-12 years. Please note that ferry services do not operate on Tuesday, Thursday, and Christmas Day.

Is it possible to bring my own boat to Heron Island?

25 January 2025

Personal vessels are not allowed on the island. Access is only available via ferry or helicopter.

How can transportation to Heron Island be arranged?

8 February 2025

Transport arrangements can be facilitated by contacting the reservations team, who can add ferry transfers to your booking.

Where can I park my vehicle if I choose to stay on the island?

15 March 2025

Secure parking arrangements can be made with Compleat Angler Gladstone.

If my departure falls on a day when there are no ferries operating, what alternatives do I have?

2 April 2025

On those days, helicopter transfers are available as an alternative mode of transportation.

What are my options for reaching Heron Island from Gladstone?

21 May 2025

Access the island via a passenger ferry, which operates every day except Tuesdays and Thursdays, or book a helicopter transfer. Information on local shops is also available on the island.

Are there accommodations available with air conditioning?

14 June 2025

Air-conditioned options include the Beach House, Wistari Suites, Superior Point Suites, and Point Suites.

Does Heron Island provide any family-friendly accommodation options?

9 July 2025

Turtle and Reef Family Rooms can accommodate up to five guests. Existing bedding accommodates four, with a roll-away bed available for the fifth guest. While special requests for room placements can be made, they cannot be guaranteed.

Is there an opportunity to experience the Great Barrier Reef while staying on the island?

28 August 2025

Heron Island is renowned for its exceptional coral reefs and marine life, offering a range of snorkeling and diving experiences that cater to all levels of marine enthusiasts.