Monkey Beach Reef is Great Keppel Island's premier snorkel and dive site, nestled within a protected bay on the island's north-eastern side. This fringing coral reef boasts exceptionally high coral cover with 38 recorded coral species, making it one of the most biodiverse spots in the Keppel Bay Islands. The crystal-clear, calm waters allow snorkelers to swim directly from the sandy shore onto the reef, where tropical fish, sea turtles, and stingrays are commonly sighted. Part of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, the reef is accessible via a scenic 40-minute walk from Fisherman's Beach or by boat, offering a secluded and rewarding snorkeling experience.
Monkey Beach Reef (Monkey Beach)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 2.9 sWind Speed 11 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Stinger season (jellyfish)
Stinging jellyfish (including box jellyfish) can be present in Keppel Bay waters during the warmer months.
Moderate risk: Stinger season
Stinging jellyfish (including box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in Queensland waters during the warmer months (November to May).
Low risk: Shallow reef at low tide
The reef is best snorkeled at mid-to-low tide. At low tide, the reef becomes very shallow and care must be taken not to touch or stand on coral.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Tidal currents can develop around the reef edge, especially during outgoing tides. Snorkel with a buddy and be aware of tidal changes.
Low risk: Marine stingers
Marine stingers and venomous stonefish may be present in shallow reef areas. Wear protective footwear and a stinger suit during warmer months.
Low risk: Wind chop and reduced visibility
Variable conditions and wind chop can reduce visibility and make boat access difficult, especially in the afternoon.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Take a 30-minute ferry from Rosslyn Bay Marina (Yeppoon) to Great Keppel Island. From Fisherman's Beach on the island, walk the 40-minute inland track to Monkey Beach on the north-eastern side of the island.
Parking & facilities
Free long-term parking available at the Rosslyn Bay Marina car parks, plus a secure paid parking lot with shuttle service to the ferry terminal.
toiletsparking
Ferry tickets ~$30-50 AUD return. No entry 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