Keppel Bay Islands National Park Park

Website: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/keppel-bay-islands

Keppel Bay Islands National Park is a group of protected islands in Keppel Bay off the Capricorn Coast of central Queensland, Australia. The park conserves island beaches, coastal vegetation, and fringing coral reefs across several islands, including Great Keppel Island and North Keppel Island.

Beaches, shallow fringing reefs and sheltered bays are the main attractions, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and short island hikes. Facilities and permitted activities vary by island; some islands offer basic camping and walking tracks while others are day‑use only.

The islands are managed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to protect their natural values and provide visitor access under conservation rules. Management focuses on habitat protection for coastal vegetation and reef systems while enabling low‑impact recreation.

The park sits off the Capricorn Coast near the town of Yeppoon and the Rosslyn/Keppel Bay boat ramps, roughly east of Rockhampton on Queensland’s central coast. Access is by boat or small aircraft rather than by road.

• Access: Most visitor access is by private boat or commercial ferry from Yeppoon and Rosslyn, with no fixed road connections to the mainland.
• Activities: The islands protect fringing coral reefs and coastal vegetation; popular activities include snorkeling, swimming, and intertidal exploration on shallow reefs.

What to See#

• Great Keppel Island: The largest and best-known island in the group, featuring long sandy beaches and accessible facilities; it has been the primary focus for visitor accommodation and recreation.
• North Keppel Island: A smaller island with established walking tracks and campsites, managed for conservation and low-impact visitor use with fringing reef access for snorkeling.
• Halfway Island: A small reef and sand cay used for day visits and reef snorkeling; often visited on short boat trips from Yeppoon.

Most visitors reach Keppel Bay Islands by boat from the mainland near Yeppoon or from Great Keppel Island. Private charters and commercial operators run day trips and island transfers; approach by kayak or private vessel is also possible but subject to park regulations and marine safety rules.

• Book boat charters in advance from Yeppoon or Great Keppel Island for access to the islands; private moorings are limited.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen; the marine park is part of the Great Barrier Reef's ecosystems.
• Ask skippers about tidal timings-some beaches are accessible only at low tide and currents can be strong.