➔ Heron Island Resort | 5-Star Dive Destination * Turtle Walks

Name: Heron Island, Heron Island
Address: Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island, Queensland
Price range: US$192+
Rating: 8.5

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Key details

About the Hotel

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island

Near the snorkeling area

Great

8.5

8.8

/10

4.3

4.1

Loved by Heron Island guests

Clean rooms

Kind staff

Relaxing experience

Amazing island

"Spend your day in the sea swimming with turtles, sting rays and even sharks (all friendly)."

Jamie from United Kingdom

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"Snorkelling was next level awesome, so many fish, turtles, sharks, rays."

Claire M from Australia

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"The island is absolutely stunning."

Nouk from Netherlands

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3.5-star eco-resort on the Great Barrier Reef

Location

Heron Island is located at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity. The island serves as a gateway to the world's largest coral reef, making it an exceptional base for exploring marine life. Guests can access 20 dive sites within minutes by boat, perfect for both novice snorkellers and experienced divers.

Accommodation

Heron Island offers a range of accommodations surrounded by an ancient Pisonia Forest or steps from the beachfront. Turtle Rooms provide direct access to nature, while Beachside Rooms open onto private terraces near the water. The Point Suites feature breathtaking views of the Great Barrier Reef sunsets for guests seeking extra privacy.

Activities

Activities abound on Heron Island, from guided nature walks to snorkeling excursions right off the pristine beaches. The Heron Island Marine Centre supports various water activities, including PADI-certified dive courses for all proficiency levels. For those looking to unwind, Aqua Soul Spa offers a selection of signature treatments inspired by the local ecosystem.

Dining

On-site dining options include Shearwater Restaurant, which offers meals with spectacular views of the reef. Baillie's Bar provides a casual setting for drinks and light snacks, perfect for after a day of adventure. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of dishes featuring local seafood, crafted to reflect the island's culinary heritage.

Family Options

Heron Island includes a Junior Rangers Program designed for children aged 6 to 12, focusing on interactive learning about marine life. Children can participate in activities such as Turtle Discovery and Coral Discovery through engaging sessions. In addition, infants aged 0-2 stay free of charge, and porta cots are available upon request.

Highlights

Location: Heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

Accommodation: Turtle Rooms near ancient Pisonia Forest

Activities: Guided nature walks and snorkeling excursions

Dining: Shearwater Restaurant with reef views

“The location stands out, particularly for those keen on diving, with many accessible sites and abundant marine life. Its commitment to eco-tourism creates a special environment, further enhanced by family programs and spa treatments inspired by the Great Barrier Reef. I found it a worthwhile destination for combining relaxation with immersive nature experiences.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.7/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningEndless Variety

The breakfast buffet includes pancakes and five milk types. Dinner offers varied cuisine, including fresh fish, curries, and roasts.

Oliver Smith from United Kingdom

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Sports & FitnessSnorkeler's Paradise

Snorkeling is amazing! Expect to see fish, turtles, sharks and rays. Snorkel sets and beach towels are included.

Kenji Tanaka from Japan

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BedroomComfort Guaranteed

Beachfront rooms offer comfortable beds. Rooms include filtered tap water and earplugs for the island's birdlife.

Isabelle Dubois from France

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Media & EntertainmentOff-Grid Bliss

Enjoy a digital detox with no mobile coverage. Free activities plus evening bar entertainment provide lots to do.

Ingrid Müller from Germany

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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
22 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Balcony
Shower
room details
Reef Family Room
2 persons
20 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Balcony
Shower
room details
Turtle Room
2 persons
23 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Balcony
Shower
room details

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Heron Island offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Very good

7.7/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Paid Wi-Fi in public areas
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

Heron Island offers a delightful dining experience amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef. Guests can indulge in a variety of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options at the Shearwater Restaurant, while enjoying scenic views and relaxing atmospheres at Baillie's Bar and Wistari Terrace.

Shearwater Restaurant
Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free
Ambiance
Nestled in a tranquil setting, Shearwater Restaurant boasts a relaxed atmosphere perfect for family meals or intimate dinners.
Key Offerings
Guests can enjoy a range of dishes tailored to various dietary preferences, ensuring something delightful for every palate.
Reservation
Reservations are recommended.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Baillie's Bar
Casual dining with a focus on light bites and refreshing drinks
Ambiance
Offering panoramic views of the reef, Baillie's Bar is an inviting place to unwind with a drink as the sun sets.
Key Offerings
Guests can sip on signature cocktails or fine Australian wines while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere.
Reservation
Reservations are not needed.
Hours vary.
Wistari Terrace
Pre-dining drinks with a scenic setting
Ambiance
A serene terrace overlooking the natural beauty of the reef, perfect for enjoying drinks before a dining experience.
Key Offerings
Featuring an array of fine Australian wines, it sets the perfect mood before embarking on reef explorations.
Reservation
Reservations are not needed.
Hours vary.

Heron Island Location

Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island

Explore Heron Island

Heron Island Dock

3 minutes' walk

Heron Island Dock offers stunning views of the reef and is the main point for boat access to and from the island.

Shipwreck

3 minutes' walk

The historic Shipwreck is an underwater site ideal for diving, where marine life flourishes around the remains.

Snorkeling Tours

5 minutes' walk

Snorkeling allows exploration of vibrant coral reefs. Tours can be booked on the island, with gear rental available.

Relaxing Beach Yoga

5 minutes' walk

Beach yoga sessions provide relaxation in a serene environment. Classes are available with local instructors.

Heron Island Restaurant

5 minutes' walk

Heron Island Restaurant specializes in local seafood and international dishes, featuring a casual beachfront atmosphere.

The Cove Café

5 minutes' walk

The Cove Café offers casual dining with excellent coffee and light snacks, perfect for a relaxed afternoon near the beach.

Beach Bonfire Nights

5 minutes' walk

Beach bonfire nights provide a lively atmosphere with music and storytelling, appealing to families and couples alike.

Stargazing Sessions

5 minutes' walk

Stargazing sessions offer visitors stunning views of the night sky, enhanced by the island's minimal light pollution.

Getting around

City Centre
Heron Island 5 min · 1400 ft
Airports
Gladstone (GLT) 106 min · 43.6 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 at .

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of AUD 35.0 per person.

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 409 verified reviews

8.1 /10

Great

81 %

Recommend

Breakfast

6.5/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Comfort

8.1/10

Facilities

7.7/10

Free WiFi

9.9/10

Location

9.7/10

Paid Wi-Fi

3.2/10

Staff

9.0/10

Value for money

7.6/10

Pros

Spectacular location

Helpful staff

Excellent breakfast

Cons

Cold food

Dated rooms

Limited options

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Questions of the users

About Heron Island

What is the ideal season for enjoying a beach getaway on Heron Island?

22 January 2024

The summer months offer pleasantly warm water, but each season has unique advantages worth considering, depending on personal preferences.

Are transportation costs included in the room price for reaching Heron Island?

13 March 2024

Room rates cover daily breakfast and snorkel equipment. However, ferry transfers cost $150 return for adults and $76 return for children aged 3 to 12. The ferry does not operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Christmas Day.

Is it possible to bring a private boat to visit Heron Island?

30 April 2024

Bringing personal vessels to Heron Island is not allowed. Transportation options are limited to ferry or helicopter services.

How can guests arrange transportation to Heron Island?

10 May 2024

Guests can contact the reservations team directly to add ferry transfers to their booking, as these costs are not included in the room rates.

Is there a place to park my car during my stay on the island?

17 June 2024

Secure parking arrangements can be made with Compleat Angler in Gladstone before heading to the island.

What are the options for reaching Heron Island when there are no ferry services?

25 July 2024

When ferries are not an option on Tuesdays or Thursdays, transportation can be arranged via helicopter.

What are the methods available for transportation from Gladstone to Heron Island, and are there shops on the island?

02 August 2024

Travel options from Gladstone to Heron Island include passenger ferries that operate daily except on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as helicopter transfers. There are limited retail shops available for guest needs on the island.

Are any rooms equipped with air-conditioning on Heron Island?

22 September 2024

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

Can extra bedding be arranged for children, or are there adjoining rooms available?

10 October 2024

Turtle and Reef Family Rooms can host up to five guests with existing bedding for four; a roll-away bed is an available option for the fifth guest. Requests for adjoining rooms can be made but cannot be guaranteed.

What type of experiences are available for nature enthusiasts on Heron Island?

15 November 2024

Heron Island offers a range of activities including snorkeling and diving along the Great Barrier Reef, guided nature walks, and star-gazing tours, making it ideal for nature lovers and marine enthusiasts.