The reefs surrounding Conical (Pleasant) Island, Barren Island, and North Keppel Island form a trifecta of pristine fringing coral gardens in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park, part of the southern Great Barrier Reef. These relatively untouched sites offer shallow, shore-accessible reefs with vibrant hard and soft corals, clear turquoise waters, and excellent visibility. North Keppel's Mazie Bay is a standout for easy beach-entry snorkeling, while Barren Island's isolated reefs and Conical Island's fringing coral shelves provide more secluded underwater exploration. The islands are a sanctuary for sea turtles, rays, and colorful reef fish, making this one of the Capricorn Coast's most rewarding snorkeling destinations.
Conical Island / Barren Island / North Keppel Island reefs
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Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 2.5 sWind Speed 5.5 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Remote location
Conical Island is remote with no ranger station or facilities — medical help is far away and emergency response may be delayed.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (jellyfish)
Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in these waters, typically October through May.
Low risk: Tidal currents between islands
Tidal currents can sweep through the channels between islands, especially during spring tides. Snorkelers should be aware of changing tide conditions.
Low risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish)
Marine stingers (box jellyfish) are present in these waters during the warmer months, from November through May.
Low risk: Sharp coral and rocky substrates
Sharp coral edges and rocky reef platforms at low tide, particularly near Conical Island and Barren Island.
Low risk: Boat traffic in channels
Boat traffic in the channels between islands, especially during holiday periods.
Low risk: Strong tidal currents
Tidal flows through Keppel Bay can create strong currents around the island's reef edges, particularly during outgoing tides.
Low risk: Boat traffic
Access is by boat only; be aware of charter and private vessels in the area, and watch for boat strikes when surfacing.
Low risk: Sharp coral and rocky reef
The fringing reef has sharp coral outcrops — cuts and scrapes are common. Wear reef shoes and avoid standing on coral.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Tidal currents can be strong around the rocky outcrop, especially during outgoing tides.
Low risk: Sharp coral and rocks
Sharp coral and rocky substrate — avoid contact and never stand on coral. Wear reef shoes if entering near rocks.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
These islands are part of the Keppel Bay Islands National Park, accessible by private vessel or charter boat from Yeppoon or Rosslyn Bay on the Capricorn Coast. Conical Island (also known as Pleasant Island) and North Keppel Island lie approximately 20-30 km offshore.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at Rosslyn Bay boat ramp and Keppel Bay Marina, Yeppoon.
No fees for day use, but camping permits are required for overnight stays on North Keppel Island.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports