Monkey Beach Reef, on the eastern side of Great Keppel Island, is widely regarded as the island's most valuable tourist dive and snorkel site. Accessible by a 40-minute bushwalk from Fisherman's Beach or by boat, this sheltered bay offers direct shore-entry snorkeling over exceptionally healthy coral gardens. Boasting at least 38 species of hard coral, the reef features vibrant giant clams, abundant reef fish, and frequent turtle sightings. The protected bay ensures calm conditions ideal for exploring the Southern Great Barrier Reef's pristine underwater world straight off the sand.
Monkey Beach (shore dive site)
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 2.9 sWind Speed 6.1 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine stingers (Nov–May)
Box jellyfish and other marine stingers may be present during the warmer months (November to May). Wear a stinger suit and heed local warnings.
Low risk: Bushwalk track
The 40-minute walk from Fisherman's Beach to Monkey Beach involves a steep climb over a headland on an unsealed track. Wear sturdy footwear and carry water.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Tides can create strong currents near the reef edge. Snorkel at mid-to-low tide for calmest conditions and always check local tide charts before entering.
Low risk: Coral reef damage
The reef has high coral cover with living organisms. Do not stand on or kick coral. Use sandy patches to rest and wear reef-safe sunscreen.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Monkey Beach is on Great Keppel Island, a 30-minute ferry from Yeppoon on the Capricorn Coast. From Fisherman's Beach on the island, follow the marked bushwalking track (approx. 40 minutes) climbing over a headland to reach the beach. Alternatively, access by private boat, water taxi, or commercial snorkel tour charter.
Parking & facilities
Free long-term parking is available at the marina car parks in Yeppoon. Secure paid parking is also available near the ferry terminal. No vehicle access on the island itself; all access is on foot or by boat transfer from the ferry drop-off at Fisherman's Beach.
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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