Wilson Island is a secluded coral cay on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, offering world-class snorkelling directly off the beach. With only nine safari tents and a maximum of 18 guests, this adult-only hideaway delivers an intimate, castaway experience. The surrounding fringing reef teems with vibrant coral gardens, colourful reef fish, and seasonal marine life. Guests can wade straight from the sand into crystal-clear waters and explore one of the most vivid reef systems along the Queensland coast, all while enjoying the solitude of a private island with no phones, no Wi-Fi, and nothing but the ocean.
Wilson Island Reef
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Wave Height 0.5 mSwell Period 7.2 sWind Speed 7.7 knPrecipitation 1.8 mmTidal Phase slack
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Stinging Marine Life
Stinging jellyfish, including the box jellyfish, may be present in the waters around Wilson Island, particularly during the warmer months from October to April.
Moderate risk: Remote Location
The coral cay is remote with no on-site medical facilities. Emergency evacuation is via satellite phone and helicopter, which can be delayed.
Low risk: Outgoing Tide Current
Strong tidal currents can sweep around the cay, especially during spring tides. Snorkellers should be aware of changing tide conditions and avoid venturing too far from shore.
Low risk: Sharp Coral
Sharp coral bommies and reef edges close to the shore can cause cuts and scrapes if swimmers stand up or lose footing.
Low risk: Extreme Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is extreme on the exposed cay, with limited shade along the beachfront. Snorkellers risk sunburn even on overcast days.
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Wilson Island is a private coral cay accessible only via a pre-arranged transfer from Heron Island, which is reached by helicopter or boat from Gladstone, Queensland. Guests must book through the Wilson Island resort. Transfers and logistics are managed by the resort.
Parking & facilities
No parking on Wilson Island. Park at Gladstone mainland or Heron Island marina.
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Environmental Management Charge of $8.50 per person per day (from Apr 2026, max $25.50 per stay). Snorkel equipment is included in accommodation. All-inclusive resort packages apply.
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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