Great Keppel Island: the old Australian Ibiza
Nowadays, Great Keppel Island it's a secret paradise only known by locals and the destination that will surprise many travelers who want to tour the Australian east coast.
It was during the 80s and 90s when Great Keppel Island , located just 15 km from the yeppoon coast in the center of Australia's Queensland, welcomed thousands of tourists who came to this paradise with a single goal: partying in the purest Ibiza style.
Australians still remember this island, 38 times smaller than the Spanish one, as the star destination of the "revelry without debauchery ”. Ten years ago the business model changed, turning the massive resort into a ghost town.
This island in the Indian Ocean has a dark past. Its history is starred by the violence suffered by the Ganomi-Woppaburra, the aboriginal tribe that lived there for more than 700 years, during the British colonization in 1866.
The furor invaded the island for a time; today, it is a haven of peace
The arrival of the Europeans was a tragic change since, according to some investigations, the native population was almost exterminated to convert the land into private property for raising cattle.
Nevertheless, Great Keppel Island today it is a raw treasure of nature. Located south of the Coral barrier , the island is a haven for travelers seeking an authentic Australian experience.
When was the last time you found yourself alone on a heavenly beach? Great Keppel, without a doubt, has it all: great diversity of marine fauna, crystal clear waters, guaranteed whale watching during the migration season **(from May to November) ** and beautiful paths through its mountains.
Therefore, for those travelers who are planning their caravan trip along the Australian east coast and decide to stop on this wonderful island with very little tourism, We leave five recommendations to do:
1. HIKING TO THE LIGHTHOUSE, THE MOST EASTERN POINT OF THE ISLAND
For lovers of hiking, this route is the great challenge on the island: 17 kilometers round trip. The stage starts from Fisherman's Beach , right where the ferry docks (you can buy tickets at the port itself: Keppel Bay Marina in Yeppoon ).
As a good explorer, you can only do use of a map as you will barely have mobile coverage . You better have good orientation because you may not meet anyone else all day.
Enjoy the road and rest when you reach the lighthouse. Not every day you will have such spectacular views while eating a sandwich at the helipad on the island. Quite a physical and also mental challenge! You will realize that sometimes we forget to enjoy the little things that life offers us.
two. SNORKELING AT WRECK BEACH
This beach is perhaps one of the most beautiful and wild on the island . Its isolation from the inhabited area of hotels makes it wreck beach keep your marine life intact, no damage to corals . A perfect plan for snorkeling because this beach hides a great treasure: a "brain coral" that is 420 years old and approximately two meters high.
3. SWIM WITH TURTLES AT MONKEY BEACH AND SHELVING BEACH
From the main beach, Fisherman Beach, just a 40-minute walk southwest, you will find these two wonderful beaches: turtles favorite place to feed . Enjoy its majestic swim and above all respect its space.
It is important to create environmental awareness and generate a responsible human impact. Don't swim on them (remember that turtles need to breathe as much as people do) and don't touch its shell. You'll have fun just looking at them!
Four. WATCH THE SUNSET AT PUTNEY BEACH
What better way to say goodbye to the day than with a cocktail on the beach at sunset? This beach, located next to the resort Great Keppel Island Hideaway , is the best place to wait for the sunset overlooking middle island , a protected reserve.
5. SPEND THREE NIGHTS IN SVENDSEN' BEACH RETREAT
This marriage of locals ( Carl and Lyndie ) run this little eco-retreat with luxurious tents and two cabins that manage to blend in with the environment. Located on his private beach that bears his last name: Svendsen' Beach , it is quite an adventure to get to this place because it would take about three hours walking through the forest.
For this reason, the same owners offer to pick you up on the main beach in their private boat. A beautiful walk where you can see the island from the sea.
Carl is a retired fisherman who grew up on the island. Lyndie an artist who has made Great Keppel a painting to admire . Wherever you go there are no signs but painted stones that will guide you to your destination.
This retreat, located in the northeast of the island and far from civilization, is undoubtedly all a romantic getaway . You'll shower by candlelight with heated rainwater in a pulley system bathroom and the ceiling will be the stars.
If you want a few days of disconnection between nature, this place is the most magical place on the island.