Heron Island, Heron Island

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Key details

About the Hotel

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island, Australia

Steps from Heron Island Beach

Great

8.6

8.8

/10

4.0

4.1

Amenities

Heron Island is a self-rated 3.5-star property providing direct access to the Great Barrier Reef and a variety of outdoor activities. Guests can explore 20 dive sites accessible within minutes by boat, or snorkel straight from the beach into vibrant marine environments. The Aqua Soul Spa offers signature therapies inspired by the natural beauty of the surroundings, and Baillie's Bar is available for panoramic views of the reef.

Rooms

Accommodation options at the hotel include Turtle Rooms nestled in the Pisonia Forest, Beachside Rooms located steps from the water, and larger suites that provide expansive views of the reef. Each Turtle Room features an outdoor area and en-suite bathroom, while Beachside Rooms boast private balconies and spacious living areas with day beds. The most luxurious accommodations are the Point Suites, ideal for sunset viewing and privacy.

Location

Located on a coral cay within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island provides a direct entry point into one of the world's most diverse marine parks. The island is specifically known for its rich biodiversity, including turtles, rays, and various coral species. This secluded location allows for an immersive nature experience away from the hustle of mainland tourism.

Wellness

The Aqua Soul Spa offers a selection of treatments designed to restore well-being, featuring organic Australian products from iKOU. Guests can choose from various therapies that harmonize physical and emotional wellness amidst a tranquil environment. This facility invites visitors to unwind, enhancing the overall eco-experience of their stay.

Family Offerings

Heron Island encourages family engagement with nature through the Junior Rangers Program, designed for children aged 6 to 12. Each interactive session focuses on topics such as reef ecology, marine life, and turtle nesting seasons. Complementary accommodations for infants aged 0-2 years enhance family-friendly experiences during their stay.

Highlights

Location: Unique coral cay within the Great Barrier Reef

Rooms: Beachside Rooms with outdoor balconies

Wellness: Signature therapies at Aqua Soul Spa

Activities: 20 dive sites and guided nature walks

Family: Junior Rangers Program for children

Must-do experiences

Snorkel at the Coral Gardens for vibrant underwater life.
Visit the Heron Island Research Station to learn about marine life.
Savor fresh seafood at the Heron Island restaurant for local flavor.
Take a sunset walk on the beach for breathtaking views.
Join a guided turtle tour during nesting season for an unforgettable sight.

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Select your room type

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

Reef Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Turtle Room

2 persons

250 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Reef Family Room

2 persons

220 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Balcony

room details

Beachside Suite

2 persons

370 sq. feet

1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Heron Island offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Very good

7.8/10Review score

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

Indulge in a culinary experience at Heron Island, where onsite dining embraces local flavors and dietary preferences, offering a delightful journey for every palate. Savor meals in scenic surroundings that highlight the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, complemented by thoughtfully crafted menus and fine Australian wines.

Shearwater Restaurant

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

Ambiance

Nestled in a serene setting, Shearwater Restaurant offers picturesque views that enhance the dining experience, creating a cozy atmosphere for guests to relax in.

Key Offerings

Signature dishes cater to a variety of dietary needs, ensuring every guest can enjoy a delightful meal. The restaurant is dedicated to providing a convenient dining experience during your stay, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Reservation

It's recommended to make reservations for a comfortable dining experience.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Baillie's Bar

Casual bites and beverages

Ambiance

A vibrant space that boasts panoramic views of the reef, perfect for enjoying light snacks and refreshing drinks while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Key Offerings

Relax with friends and family, savoring a selection of cocktails and seasonal offerings while taking in the calming sights and sounds of the island.

Reservation

Reservations are not typically needed, allowing for a relaxed gathering environment.

Hours vary.

Heron Island Location

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island, Australia

Map view

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island, Australia

Nearby

Island

Heron Island Dock

600 ft

Shipwreck

800 ft

Explore Heron Island

Heron Island Experiences

Heron Island Dock

3 minutes' walk

Key access point for boat tours, offering stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef and nearby marine life.

Shipwreck

3 minutes' walk

Historical site featuring a shipwreck, ideal for photography and enjoying the rich marine history of the area.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

5 minutes' walk

Provides an exhilarating experience exploring vibrant coral reefs. Equipment rentals available at the dock.

Yoga Sessions

5 minutes' walk

Offers relaxing outdoor yoga sessions with ocean views. Classes cater to all levels-advance booking recommended.

Heron Island Dining Room

3 minutes' walk

Serving Australian cuisine with fresh local ingredients, this casual dining venue has stunning views of the beach.

The Garden Bar

3 minutes' walk

A relaxed setting for bar snacks and cocktails. Known for its fresh seafood dishes and beachside ambiance.

Beach Bonfire Nights

5 minutes' walk

Weekly beach bonfires create a social atmosphere with storytelling and music under the stars.

Marine Education Talks

5 minutes' walk

Informative talks held regularly focus on marine conservation and wildlife, suitable for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Heron Island4 min · 1000 ft

Airports

Gladstone, QLD (GLT)53 min · 21.6 mi

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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

Wireless 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:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Heron Island from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 304 verified reviews

8.2/10

Great

83%

Recommend

Breakfast

7.3/10

Cleanliness

8.1/10

Comfort

8.2/10

Facilities

7.8/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.7/10

Location

9.7/10

Paid Wi-Fi

3.6/10

Staff

9.2/10

Value for money

7.5/10

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Questions of the users

About Heron Island

What is the ideal season to enjoy a memorable beach vacation?

12 March 2024

The summer months offer warmer waters, but each season has its own unique appeal depending on your preferences.

Are travel costs to the island included in the room rates?

05 April 2024

Room prices include daily breakfast and snorkel equipment. Ferry transfers cost $150 return for adults and $76 return for children (ages 3-12). The ferry runs daily except on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Christmas Day.

Is it allowed to bring a personal boat to Heron Island? Can ice and bait be purchased there?

22 July 2024

Guests are not permitted to bring their own vessels to Heron Island. Transport is exclusively via ferry or helicopter. Additionally, there is no fishing allowed on the island, so bait is not available for sale.

How do I arrange ferry transfers to the island? Is this cost factored into my booking?

15 June 2024

Contact the reservations team directly to add ferry transfers to your booking. Please note, boat transfers are separate from the room price.

How can I request a specific room preference, like an upper floor?

30 January 2025

You can make a note in your booking, or provide your reservation details to the reservations team, who will notify Heron Island. However, room availability cannot be guaranteed.

Where can I leave my vehicle while staying on the island?

18 September 2024

Secure parking is available at Compleat Angler Gladstone for guests traveling to Heron Island.

What are the options for returning from the island if my checkout falls on a Tuesday?

27 November 2024

During Tuesdays and Thursdays, guests can opt for helicopter transfers, as the ferry does not operate on these days.

What transport facilities are available between Gladstone and Heron Island, and how can I book them?

01 February 2025

Ferry and helicopter transfers are offered, with the ferry unavailable on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bookings for transfers can be made directly through the Heron Island reservations team.

Will there be any options for extra bedding in family rooms?

05 November 2024

Turtle and Reef Family Rooms accommodate up to five guests, with bedding for four and the option to hire a roll-away bed for an additional guest. Requests for adjoining rooms can be made, but are subject to availability.

How accessible is the private beach from the resort's accommodations?

09 March 2024

The private beach is within walking distance from all points of Heron Island, so there is no need for additional transport.