Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for wet beach landings and island hikes. Pack everything you need, as facilities are concentrated near the main beach.
Great Keppel Island
Rosslyn Bay Harbour (Ferry Departures), Yeppoon, QLD 4703
GPS -23.178, 150.949
Open directionsGetting there
Ferries leave from Rosslyn Bay Harbour, a 10-minute drive from Yeppoon.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Ferry services (Keppel Konnections or Freedom Fast Cats) depart from Keppel Bay Marina / Pier One at Rosslyn Bay Harbour. | 30 minutes | $55-$60 AUD return | Bookings are highly recommended, especially during Queensland school holidays. |
| Car: Drive from Yeppoon to Rosslyn Bay Harbour where the ferry terminals are located. | 10 minutes | Parking fees apply | Both short-term and long-term secure parking are available at the marina. |
| Tour: Book a full-day guided sailing or snorkeling catamaran cruise from Rosslyn Bay. | Full day | From $120-$200 AUD | Tours often include lunch, snorkeling gear, and access to more remote reef spots. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
Visit between April and November for the best conditions. You will avoid the peak summer heat and the marine stinger season. If visiting from November to May, stinger suits are highly recommended.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Remember to pack slip-on shoes for the wet ferry landing.
You will step straight into shallow water and sand upon arrival.
How the day runs
Follow this schedule to maximize your time on the island.
A balanced itinerary combining a morning hike with afternoon snorkeling.
- Catch the ferry
Depart Rosslyn Bay Harbour for the 30-minute crossing.
- First Lookout Walk
Hike from Fisherman's Beach to a scenic vantage point.
- Lunch
Eat at the Hideaway bistro near the main arrival beach.
- Snorkel at Shelving Beach
Walk south over the headland for sheltered off-the-beach snorkeling.
- Return ferry
Board the afternoon ferry back to Yeppoon.
Packing for the island
Bring broad-spectrum, reef-safe sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Pack sturdy walking shoes for the bush trails and a dry bag to protect your electronics from sand. See our 1-Day Itinerary for more ideas.
If you plan to explore remote spots like Long Beach, pack an esky with snacks. There are no facilities outside the main arrival area at Fisherman's Beach.
Easiest way to do it
Great Keppel Island Day Trip Bundle from Yeppoon
7 h 30 min 4.6 (238)
- Lunch - 1 Choice off the lunch menu
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- National Park fees
- Light refreshments - Choice of a schooner of Great Northern, glass of house wine or soft drink
From$79per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Is ice available on the island?
Yes, ice is available to purchase on the island for your cooler bags.
Can I hire snorkeling gear there?
Yes, snorkeling gear can be hired on the island at Fisherman's Beach.
Are there marine stingers?
Stinger season generally runs from November to May. Stinger suits are highly recommended when swimming during these months.