Long Island
An iconic destination shaped by nature at its finest.
Located just off the Whitsundays mainland, Long Island is a 9km long and 400m wide island perfect for visitors seeking tranquillity and seclusion.
The island is mostly a national park, offering about 17km of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the abundant native flora and fauna amidst a dramatic natural landscape.
Experiences
Where Nature Slows The Clock.
Traveller Tips
How do you get to Long Island? What walking trails are worth exploring? Can I visit as a day guest? Whatever you need to know about visiting Long Island, we've got the answers. Scroll down further to see our in-depth local knowledge.
Getting To Long Island
Long Island can be reached by scheduled boat, private water taxi, or helicopter. Island Transfers operates regular services from Shute Harbour to Palm Bay Resort, with departures at 10:30am and 4:50pm, taking about thirty minutes. Private charters outside the timetable can also be arranged from Shute Harbour. Helicopter transfers run from Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island, with a flight time of around ten minutes, via Helireef. Guests arriving by private boat or bareboat charter may book moorings at Palm Bay Resort. Those staying at Elysian Retreat should organise their boat or helicopter transfer directly with the resort.
Getting To Long Island
Long Island can be reached by scheduled boat, private water taxi, or helicopter. Island Transfers operates regular services from Shute Harbour to Palm Bay Resort, with departures at 10:30am and 4:50pm, taking about thirty minutes. Private charters outside the timetable can also be arranged from Shute Harbour. Helicopter transfers run from Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island, with a flight time of around ten minutes, via Helireef. Guests arriving by private boat or bareboat charter may book moorings at Palm Bay Resort. Those staying at Elysian Retreat should organise their boat or helicopter transfer directly with the resort.
Can I visit Long Island as a day visitor?
Yes. Day trips to Palm Bay Resort depart from Shute Harbour with return boat transfers and include day use of resort facilities such as the pool and kayaks. Island walking tracks are accessible from Palm Bay. Most tours give about five hours on the island. Private boats and bareboat charters can arrange moorings at Palm Bay. Palm Bay Resort is child-free, catering for guests aged 16 and over. Elysian Retreat does not accept day visitors and is solely for overnight guests.
Can I visit Long Island as a day visitor?
Yes. Day trips to Palm Bay Resort depart from Shute Harbour with return boat transfers and include day use of resort facilities such as the pool and kayaks. Island walking tracks are accessible from Palm Bay. Most tours give about five hours on the island. Private boats and bareboat charters can arrange moorings at Palm Bay. Palm Bay Resort is child-free, catering for guests aged 16 and over. Elysian Retreat does not accept day visitors and is solely for overnight guests.
Hit The Trail
Long Island offers about 17 km of walking tracks through eucalypt forest, vine thicket, and coastal zones. Starting from Palm Bay Resort and Sandy Bay camping area, trails lead to secluded beaches, coastal lookouts over Whitsunday Passage, and protected bays. The island, approximately 9 km long and 400 m wide, boasts a diverse mix of rainforest, mangroves, and stunning ocean views. Trails are self-guided, catering to various fitness levels, and their national park status preserves the natural wilderness, providing opportunities for wildlife and birdwatching.
Iconic From Every Angle
Long Island balances an untouched national park with two iconic resorts, where hiking trails and reef snorkelling are framed by quiet days by the beach.
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