St Bees Island is a quiet volcanic isle in the Cumberland Island Group, lying protected inside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, about 30 km off Mackay. Fringed by coral reefs, rainforest gullies, eucalypt woodlands, and dense grasslands, this privately owned island offers secluded beachside snorkeling directly from the shore when tides allow. The surrounding reefs are home to colourful coral gardens and abundant reef fish, with popular snorkel sites around the island's sheltered bays. The island also hosts a famous wild koala research population, adding a unique terrestrial attraction to its underwater appeal.
St Bees Island
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 2.3 sWind Speed 11 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)
Potentially dangerous jellyfish may be present in warmer months. Wear a stinger suit.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish) - early season
Potentially dangerous jellyfish may also be present in late spring to early summer.
Moderate risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal currents can develop around the island's fringing reefs, especially between islands.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in warm waters, typically November to May.
Low risk: Strong tidal currents in channels
Currents can be strong between islands and around headlands. Snorkel close to shore in sheltered bays.
Low risk: Remote location
No permanent medical facilities on the island. Day-trippers must rely on tour operator support or private vessel for emergencies.
Low risk: Coral cuts and scrapes
Sharp coral in shallow reef areas. Avoid touching coral and wear reef shoes or fins.
Low risk: Tide-dependent reef access
Snorkeling is best at high tide; low tide exposes shallow reef flats, reducing access to deeper water.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
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Entry
St Bees Island is located approximately 30 km off the coast of Mackay, Queensland. Access is by private boat, charter, or snorkel tour from Mackay or Airlie Beach. There is no public ferry service.
Parking & facilities
Park at the Mackay Marina or boat ramp facilities on the mainland. No vehicle access on the island 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