Monkey Bay (also known as Monkey Beach) on Great Keppel Island is a secluded snorkeling paradise only 30 minutes by ferry from Yeppoon on the Capricorn Coast. Sheltered in a protected bay, this site offers direct shore-entry snorkeling over vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. A 40-minute coastal walk from Fisherman's Beach leads to this stunning stretch of white sand where the reef starts just meters offshore. With exceptionally high coral cover and 38 coral species recorded, Monkey Bay is considered Great Keppel Island's most valuable snorkel and dive site.
Monkey Bay
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Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 2.4 sWind Speed 0.9 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish)
Box jellyfish and Irukandji may be present in warmer months (November to May). Stinger suits are recommended during this period.
Low risk: Outgoing tide current
Tidal currents can develop as the tide recedes, especially near the reef edge. Snorkelers should be mindful of being swept away from the beach entry point.
Low risk: Coral cuts and abrasions
Sharp coral heads are close to the shore. Snorkelers should avoid standing on or touching coral to prevent injury and protect the reef.
Low risk: Sun exposure
Intense Queensland sun with limited shade on the beach. Reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and sun protection are essential year-round.
Low risk: Tidal current in protected bay
Swim out over coral from the beach; currents can be present in the channel. Best snorkelled at mid-to-low tide when conditions are calmest.
Low risk: Rugged walking trail access
The walking trail from Fisherman's Beach to Monkey Beach is rugged and uneven. Strongly recommend enclosed walking shoes.
Low risk: Coral damage risk
Do not stand on or touch coral. Use sandy patches if you need to rest. Coral is a living organism and easily damaged.
Low risk: Exposure and limited facilities
Limited shade and no facilities on Monkey Beach itself. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and reef-friendly sunscreen.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Monkey Bay is located on Great Keppel Island, accessible via a 30-minute power boat ferry (Freedom Fast Cats or Keppel Explorer) from Keppel Bay Marina in Yeppoon. From Fisherman's Beach on the island, follow the coastal walking track for approximately 40 minutes east to reach Monkey Bay.
Parking & facilities
Park at the Keppel Bay Marina carpark in Yeppoon (paid parking available). No vehicle access on Great Keppel Island itself.
toilets
Ferry transfer from Yeppoon to Great Keppel Island costs approximately AU$50-85 per adult return. No entrance fee for the beach itself.
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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