Basking in the azure ocean 70 kilometres off the coast of Queensland, this evergreen coral cay stands in the middle of a huge coral reef. Named after herons which are the most prominent bird inhabitants of the island, Heron Island has become hugely popular scuba diving and snorkelling destination, with more than 20 dive sites, most of which are within 15 minutes from the beach. Classified as a World Heritage-Listed Marine National Park, the island is a paradise for nature lovers who are looking to replace stress with a sense of adventure and unspoiled natural beauty.
Best time to visit
Thanks to the subtropical climate of the Barrier Reef region, you’re welcomed by pleasant temperatures all year round. If you’re looking for a beach holiday, the best time is the summer season – between October and March. This is also the perfect time for snorkelling as the water temperature lingers between 24-26°C. A tad cooler months from April to September are perfect for enjoying nature and observing wildlife. June and July have the average air and water temperature of 21°C, which makes water activities possible, too, but make sure you pack a wetsuit. If you happen to arrive between June and September, you’ll find yourself in the middle of humpback whale season!
Get prepared
The Great Barrier Reef, whose tiny part is the Heron Island, is a unique ecosystem stretching across 2,300 kilometres down the eastern coast of Australia. Covering the area the size of Italy, it's the largest coral reef in the world with over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral and more than 30 different marine mammals. The island itself allows you to take steps of the great Sir David Attenborough and spot some of the amazing island wildlife perching in the pisonia trees. More than 100,000 birds nest annually on this coral cay which is a part of Capricornia Cays Important Bird Area.
For marine life lovers
If you’ve taken up diving or just want to try it for the first time, Heron
is the right place, as it offers some beginner dive sites that are truly amazing. The resort pool provides free snorkelling lessons where you can learn some handy tips and tricks. The shallow water of the Reef is ideal for explore the underwater world of sea turtles swimming among schools of colourful tropical fish, reclusive rays and solitary blacktip sharks, as well as playful groups of dolphins. There is no need to take a diving boat, as you can easily reach the coral reefs by simply snorkelling from the shore. The wreck of a WW2 gunboat HMAS Protector can even be reached by walking the low tide.
What to pack
When it comes to packing for a dive, if you thought the wetsuit is the most important, think again. On the sunny coast of Queensland sunblock is king. Even if you wear a wetsuit, you risk getting your face sunburnt. Try to find a reef-safe sunblock as regular products contain acidic formulas that kill corals. Also, make sure you bring your own full face snorkel mask and other snorkel gear, especially if you’re staying more than a couple of days, as the hire fees quickly add up. The boats generally provide plenty of food, tea, coffee, and water, while other drinks are available to buy at the bar on the return trip.
For nature lovers
From February to May, turtle hatchlings are emerging from their sandy nests and making the run of their lives across the beaches to the safety of the sea. On the other hand, the island's subtropical forest and surrounding dunes provide shelter for thousands of nesting seabirds like wedge-tailed mutton birds and the southern-western black noddy. Mutton birds or shearwaters are out at sea during the day, but return every evening to their underground burrows where they sing all night.
What to pack
Mutton birds are terrible singers and have developed an ability to switch off half their brain for sleep while keeping the other half awake for shrieking till dusk till dawn. Earplugs are supplied in all rooms for visitors who haven’t developed such a useful skill. Also, make sure to pack comfortable footwear, in this case, light tennis shoes and sturdy sandals. A wide-brimmed hat will keep the sun out of your eyes while watching the birds through the binoculars and makes a much convenient sunblock that a pair of sunglasses.
How to get there
This tiny natural paradise is accessible by boat, seaplane, and helicopter. Heron Island ferry is the easiest and the most popular option. A modern and comfortable vessel can shuttle up to 170 people every day except Tuesday and Thursday. The ferry leaves for the island at 10:00 and departs for Gladstone at 14.00. An arrival by seaplane gives you a magical view of the Great Barrier Reef that only herons and tarns can enjoy. This unique experience costs a bit more than a ferry ticket – 349 AUD for adults. A scenic 30-minute trip by helicopter during which you can see sharks, sea turtles and rays is a perfect intro to your wedding, honeymoon or other special events.
One of favourite dive sites of Jacques Cousteau and an inexhaustible source of documentaries for Sir David Attenborough, the Heron Island is a true paradise lost for divers and birdwatchers.
