A drop in an ocean full of fish

Heron Island is located off Gladstone, at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef National Park. For those who don't like boats or are traveling with non-divers, Heron Island is a good compromise.

It is a beautiful island right in the Great Barrier Reef with a very pretty resort.

Diving

Diving at the southern end of the Barrier Reef is a little different to the north. Whilst the reef here is home to almost all of the tropical water fish of further north, there are several species of temperate water fish also.

Without doubt, you get the best diving at the Great Barrier Reef from Live-aboards, however, if you under no circumstances want to stay on overnight vessels, Heron Island is the best option for an island resort with good dive sites.

Click here for general information about the diving regions of the Heron Island.

Click here for more details about Heron Island

Wilson Island

Note, here is something special! Exclusive 6-star camping. If you just like snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, Wilson Island might be the right choice for you. Wilson Island is a tiny coral cay, surrounded with pristine reef and beaches.
Wilson Island offers comfortable designer-inspired tent accommodation for a maximum of just 12 guests. It is only 15 km away from Heron Island.

Click here for more details about Wilson Island.

How to get there

Heron Island is located east of the coastal town of Gladstone which is the place from where you can reach the island. There is a daily catamaran transfer from Gladstone (check-in before 10.30am). The Ferry returns from the island in the afternoon. (Arrival in Gladstone about 3.45pm). The Cat takes a little under two hours to get to the island. Alternatively you can use a helicopter service which offers fantastic views on the reef and very flexible schedules. You reach Gladstone by daily flights from Brisbane.

Property Features

Apart from the resort and a research station, the island is uninhabited. No cars, no noise, just diving and relaxing. The only other group of inhabitants are large groups of roosting seabirds which really dominate the place.
All meals are included in the prices. The meals are delicious and served in the resorts' restaurant.

Accommodation

Heron Island Resort has 109 rooms for guests. All rooms have either a balcony or patio. All rooms have ironing facilities, ensuite bathroom, hairdryer, tea & coffee making facilities, ceiling fans and fridge. They offer accommodation in different price ranges:
Centrally located are the "Turtle Cabins" and the "Reef Suites".
Close to the beach are the large and beautiful "Heron Suites". The "Beach House" is directly at the beach front.

Dive Services

Usually two dives per day are offered for certified divers. Twice per week they offer a night dive. Diving is organised by a NAUI/PADI dive shop. Open water courses are not offered on the island at the moment. However, referral dive courses are still on offer.

Hire Gear: Hire Gear on the island is comparatively expensive. So bring your own!

Other Activities

Heron offers everything that makes a dive and beach holiday a great experience. For interested guests they offer guided snorkel tours and reef walks. You can play tennis, watch the stars, go to another island and do whale watching (June to September).

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