Great Barrier Reef,
Heron Island,
Australia,
Queensland
-
Close to the beach
Great
8.5
8.8
/10
4.0
4.1
/5
Location
Heron Island is situated in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and snorkeling opportunities. Guests can access 20 dive sites within minutes by boat from the island's jetty. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef surrounds the resort, providing a stunning marine backdrop.
Rooms
All accommodation at Heron Island is grounded in nature, with Turtle Rooms nestled amongst the ancient Pisonia Forest. Beachside Rooms offer direct access to the crystalline waters and are strategically located near the beachfront. Each room type includes specific amenities, such as an en-suite and outdoor areas to enjoy the serene environment.
Wellness
Aqua Soul Spa at Heron Island focuses on holistic wellness through a variety of signature therapies that incorporate Australian products. The spa provides three private treatment rooms, each with floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the natural surroundings. Guests can choose from massages, skin care treatments, and more, all aimed at rejuvenating the body and mind.
Dining
Dining options include Shearwater Restaurant, which serves a variety of local seafood dishes while overlooking the reef. Baillie's Bar provides a casual setting for evening relaxation with stunning sunset views. The culinary team at Heron Island is dedicated to offering fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in their menu.
Activities
Heron Island offers numerous activities tailored for marine enthusiasts, including guided nature walks and stargazing tours. The Junior Rangers Program caters to children aged 6 to 12, promoting an educational and fun nature-based experience. Guests can also enjoy sunset cruises on the crystal-clear waters, providing scenic views of the Great Barrier Reef.
Highlights
Location: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Rooms: Turtle Rooms and Beachside Rooms
Dining: Shearwater Restaurant and Baillie's Bar
Wellness: Aqua Soul Spa and signature therapies
Activities: Guided nature walks and Junior Rangers Program
Must-do experiences
Snorkel at the famous Heron Reef for vibrant marine life.
Join the guided night walk to witness nesting turtles.
Treat yourself to fresh seafood at the Heron Island Restaurant.
Visit the Marine Park Discovery Centre for educational exhibits.
Catch a sunset cruise for breathtaking views of the Great Barrier Reef.
View all
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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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 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
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Dining Onsite
Heron Island invites travelers to indulge in a delightful array of dining experiences, showcasing wholesome vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. With breathtaking views and a commitment to authentic flavors, each meal is a celebration of the local surroundings, from sunrise to sunset.
Shearwater Restaurant
Contemporary Australian with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
Ambiance
Bright and welcoming, with large windows offering sweeping views of the surrounding turquoise waters, creating an inviting atmosphere for dining.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, catering to various dietary preferences. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on seasonal produce for a true taste of the region.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Baillie's Bar
Casual drinks and light snacks with an emphasis on Australian wines
Ambiance
This open-air bar offers stunning panoramic views of the reef, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoyment while sipping cocktails or fine wines.
Key Offerings
Guests can unwind with a refreshing drink, enjoying a selection of local wines while taking in the spectacular surroundings. It's the perfect prelude before embarking on reef adventures.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary
Heron Island Location
Great Barrier Reef,
Heron Island,
Australia,
Queensland
Map view
Great Barrier Reef,
Heron Island,
Australia,
Queensland
Nearby
Island
Heron Island Dock
600 ft
Shipwreck
800 ft
Explore Heron Island
Local Experiences at Heron Island
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Heron Island Dock
3 minutes' walk
Heron Island Dock serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering stunning coastal views and a perfect spot for photos.
Shipwreck
3 minutes' walk
The Shipwreck, located near the island, provides an intriguing glimpse into maritime history and is a popular snorkeling site.
Snorkeling Adventures
3 minutes' walk
Snorkeling near Heron Island offers vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Equipment rentals are available at the resort.
Relaxation at the Spa
5 minutes' walk
The island's spa specializes in soothing treatments with stunning ocean views, perfect for unwinding after adventures.
Heron Island Restaurant
5 minutes' walk
This restaurant features fresh seafood dishes with local ingredients, stunning views, and a relaxed atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
Osprey Bar & Grill
5 minutes' walk
Casual dining offering grilled specialties and Australian favorites, perfect for families. Kid-friendly menu options available.
Island Movie Nights
5 minutes' walk
Weekly outdoor movie nights under the stars provide family-friendly entertainment, showcasing classic films for all ages.
Live Music Evenings
5 minutes' walk
Relax with live music sessions at the resort's bar, featuring local artists and vibrant performances every weekend.
Getting around
City Centre
Heron Island5 min
·
1400 ft
Airports
Gladstone, QLD (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 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:
90
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Heron Island from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 320 verified reviews
8.3/10
Great
84%
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
Guest reviews
based on 659 reviews
8.5/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Heron Island
What is the ideal time for a beach getaway at Heron Island?
5 February 2025
The summer months offer warmer waters, but each season has its own unique attractions and perks to enjoy.
Are transportation costs included in the booking price?
15 March 2025
Room rates cover daily breakfast and snorkel gear. Round-trip ferry transfers are $150 for adults and $76 for children aged 3-12. Ferries don't operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Christmas Day.
Is it possible to bring my own boat to Heron Island? Are ice and bait available?
12 April 2025
Bringing personal vessels is not allowed on Heron Island. Transfers must be via ferry or helicopter, and there is no fishing or sale of bait on the island.
How can transfers to Heron Island be arranged if they're not included in my booking?
8 May 2024
Transfers can be added by contacting the reservations team directly for assistance with ferry arrangements.
Where can I park my car when visiting Heron Island?
22 June 2024
Secure parking is available at Compleat Angler Gladstone.
What alternative transportation options are there if leaving on a Tuesday or Thursday?
3 July 2024
Helicopter services are available as an alternative if ferry service is not operating on those days.
How do visitors typically travel to Heron Island, and are there shops available on the island?
10 August 2024
Travel options include a daily passenger ferry and helicopter services; shops are available on the island for limited retail goods.
Are there any air-conditioned accommodations available at Heron Island?
15 September 2024
Yes, the Beach House, Superior Point Suite, Wistari Suite, and Point Suite feature air-conditioning.
Can guests make special requests for room preferences, such as higher floors?
20 October 2024
Requests for specific room types may be noted during booking, but availability cannot be guaranteed.
What activities are popular among guests exploring marine life at Heron Island?
15 December 2024
Popular activities include snorkeling and diving at nearby sites, guided nature walks, and star gazing tours.