Heron Island Resort

3.5 star property
Beachfront resort with spa, near The University of Queensland - Heron Island Research Station

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Photo gallery for Heron Island Resort

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, pool loungers
Beach views
Steam room, body treatments, aromatherapy, hot stone massages
Breakfast area
Exterior
Located close to Heron Island Dock, Heron Island Resort offers a tranquil retreat with a private beach, ocean views from Shearwater Restaurant, and an outdoor pool. Soak up the sun while kayaking or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters; unwind at the spa with aromatherapy and massage treatments. The helpful staff has left a lasting impression on previous guests.

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Bar
  • Spa
  • Pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Internet access

Main amenities (12)

  • Housekeeping once per stay
  • On a private beach
  • Restaurants and bar/lounge
  • Full-service spa
  • Outdoor pool
  • WiFi in the lobby
  • Beach towels
  • Self parking
  • Coffee shop/cafe
  • Meeting rooms
  • Ferry terminal shuttle
  • Terrace

Feel at home (6)

  • Fridge
  • Private bathroom
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited housekeeping

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 5 of 5 rooms

Standard Room (Reef Room)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Fridge
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
Eco-friendly toiletries
Private bathroom
Electric kettle
  • 22 sq m
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Futon

Beachside Room

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Fridge
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
Eco-friendly toiletries
Private bathroom
Electric kettle
  • 22 sq m
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Single Futons

Family Room (Reef Family Room)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Fridge
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
Eco-friendly toiletries
Private bathroom
Electric kettle
  • 30 sq m
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

Basic Room (Turtle Room)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Fridge
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
Eco-friendly toiletries
Private bathroom
Electric kettle
  • 23 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Family Room (Turtle Family Room)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Fridge
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
Eco-friendly toiletries
Private bathroom
Electric kettle
  • 26 sq m
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

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About the area

Map
Via Gladstone, Heron Island, QLD, 4000

What's nearby

  • Capricornia Cays National Park - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • The University of Queensland - Heron Island Research Station - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Heron Island Dock - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Heron Island Beach - 5 min walk - 0.5 km

Getting around

  • Gladstone, QLD (GLT) - 52.8 miles/85 km
  • Ferry terminal shuttle (surcharge)

About this property

Heron Island Resort

Heron Island Resort offers a private beach and gives you access to on-site scuba-diving, snorkelling and kayaking. The outdoor pool provides a splash of fun, while guests in the mood for pampering can visit the spa to indulge in deep-tissue massages, body wraps and aromatherapy. The coffee shop/cafe is a great spot for a bite to eat, and cold drinks are served at the bar/lounge. A snack bar/deli, a terrace and a garden are other highlights. Fellow travellers love the helpful staff.

Languages

English

At a glance

DONE

Hotel size

    • 112 units
    • Arranged over 1 level
DONE

Arriving/Leaving

    • Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: 8:00 PM
    • Express check-out available
    • Minimum check-in age – 18
    • Check-out time is 10:00 AM
DONE

Special check-in instructions

    • Guests must transfer via boat or helicopter to the property; guests must contact the property at least 72 hours before travel, using the contact information on the confirmation received after booking
    • This property offers transfers from the ferry terminal (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
    • The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
    • Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
    • This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
    • To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 72 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
    • For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
    • There is no cell phone service at this property due to its remote location.
    • This property is accessible by boat or helicopter. Boat transfers are available at 9:30 AM from Gladstone to Heron Island on Friday-Monday and Wednesday. The required fee for boat transfers is AUD 85 per adult and AUD 45 per child each way. On Tuesday and Thursday, access is only available via helicopter for the listed transfer service fee amounts. On December 25, access is only available via helicopter.
DONE

Required at check-in

    • Credit card, debit card or cash deposit required for incidental charges
    • Government-issued photo ID may be required
    • Minimum check-in age is 18
DONE

Children

    • No cots (infant beds)
DONE

Pets

    • Pets not allowed
WIFI

Internet

    • WiFi in public areas*
LOCAL_PARKING

Parking

    • Uncovered on-site self-parking (AUD 11 per night)
DONE

Transfers

    • Ferry terminal shuttle*
DONE

Other information

    • Designated smoking areas

Property amenities

Food and drink

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/lounge
  • Coffee shop
  • Snack bar/deli

What to do

  • On a private beach
  • Ecotours
  • Helicopter/aeroplane tours
  • Kayaking
  • Boat tours
  • Scuba diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Pool table
  • Whale watching nearby

Working away

  • Meeting rooms

Services

  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Concierge services
  • Tour/ticket assistance
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Beach towels
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas

Facilities

  • 1 building/tower
  • Safe-deposit box at front desk
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • An outdoor pool
  • Full-service spa
  • Banquet hall

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible

Room amenities

Home comfort

  • Ceiling fan
  • Electric kettle

Sleep well

  • Alarm clock
  • Bed sheets provided

What to enjoy

  • Balcony or patio

Freshen up

  • Private bathroom
  • Shower only
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Hairdryer
  • Towels

Stay connected

  • Desk

Food and drink

  • Fridge
  • Free tea bags/instant coffee

More

  • Housekeeping (once per stay)
  • Eco-friendly toiletries

Special features

Spa

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the resort's full-service spa. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, facials and body wraps. The spa is equipped with a steam room. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy. The spa is open selected days.

Dining

Shearwater Restaurant – This restaurant is located on the beach. Guests can order drinks at the bar and enjoy al fresco dining (weather permitting).

Fees & policies

Mandatory fees

The listed destination fee is charged for a maximum of AUD 21 per person, per stay.

Optional extras

  • WiFi is available in public areas for AUD 25 per day (rates may vary)

Renovations and closures

This property is closed from 20 June 2025 to 21 June 2025 (dates subject to change).

Children & extra beds

  • Rollaway beds are available for AUD 75 per night

Parking

  • Uncovered self-parking costs AUD 11 per night

Policies

This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children. If you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
This property does not have lifts.
This property uses a grey water recycling system.
Guests can rest easy knowing that there's a smoke detector on-site.
This property accepts major credit cards. Cash is not accepted.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club
Cashless transactions are available.
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property. The policies listed are provided by the property.

Also known as

Heron Island Resort
Heron Island Hotel Heron Island
Heron Hotel Heron
Heron Island Resort Resort
Heron Island Resort Heron Island
Heron Island Resort Resort Heron Island

Frequently asked questions

Is Heron Island Resort currently open?

This property is closed from 20 June 2025 to 21 June 2025 (dates subject to change).

Does Heron Island Resort offer free cancellation for a full refund?

Yes, Heron Island Resort does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in, depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure that you check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.

Is there a pool at Heron Island Resort?

Yes, there's an outdoor pool.

Are pets allowed at Heron Island Resort?

Sorry, pets aren't allowed.

Is parking offered on site at Heron Island Resort?

Yes. Self-parking costs AUD 11 per night.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Heron Island Resort?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: 8:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM. Express check-out is available.

What is there to do at Heron Island Resort and nearby?

Have fun with on-site activities such as kayaking, snorkelling and scuba-diving. Additional recreation on-site includes ecotours and helicopter/aeroplane tours. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool. Heron Island Resort also has a private beach and a garden.

Are there restaurants at or near Heron Island Resort?

Yes, Shearwater Restaurant offers al fresco dining and ocean views.

Does Heron Island Resort have any outdoor private spaces?

Yes, every room features a balcony or patio.

What's the area around Heron Island Resort like?

Heron Island Resort is on Heron Island Beach, a short 1-minute walk from Coral Sea and 6 minutes' walk from Heron Island Dock.

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Heron Island Resort Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very good

7.8/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Popular mentions

Room
Service staff
Food
Bar
Restaurant
Family friendly
Diving
Children
Nature
Beach

What guests liked

  • The beach offered dreamy scenery, incredible views, and abundant marine life, including rays, turtles, and various fish. (4 reviews)
  • Breakfast offered a good selection with a lovely buffet option. (3 reviews)
AI Sparkle IconFrom real guest reviews summarized by AI.

Reviews

10/10 Exceptional

Very relaxing place surrounded by unspoiled nature.
Krzysztof, 4-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

One of a kind, beautiful, location!
Mark, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Wonderful place, magical, snorkeling fantastic, but they could have more options to eat…
Gary, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Always an amazing time with the turtles and snorkelling Research tour is always good to do Resort does need a refresh
Suzanne, 7-night trip

8/10 Very good

Heron Island is perfect for experiencing the natural world. The resort accomodation is comfortable and set amongst the trees with the beach beyond. Perfect for seeing turtle hatchlings, sharks, rays and numerous species of birds.
CHRISTINE, 2-night trip

8/10 Very good

Heron island is beautiful
zhong, 5-night trip

6/10 Good

B

Beautiful island and incredible friendly employees. However, no one was around to ask questions. We weee told multiple times that things weren’t available because the resort only had 50 rooms books. It was very frustrating because we DID pay a lot to be there and to have services cut was unacceptable. We were told. We couldn’t take food or drinks, but food wasn’t available much of the time. Additionally, the resort is very run down and needs updates.
Jennifer, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Beautiful
Adnan, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Great place to stay on the island - has everything you need! It would be good to have an alternative to the $48 buffet dinner on the weekend - we don't eat that much food!
Kristy, 3-night trip

8/10 Very good

We could see beautiful views from the window. Great experience!
Junko, 4-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Absolutely stunning nature
Shane, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Amazing location and surrounded by wildlife non-stop
Benjamin, 2-night trip

6/10 Good

staff excellent food very average island wonderful
Stephen, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Staff are excellent. Nice

-ve: Self service to replenish towels, ants get into your room, +ve: restaurant and cafe staff are very friendly and helpful. Room is comfy in winter conditions.
2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Holiday trip. The only bad thing is the resort controls arrival time as the only way to get there is by the ferry sponsored by the hotel. Yet, our room was not ready upon arrival.
Thomas, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

staff were great and the whole trip was great dining should have more options at dinner
anne, 4-night trip

8/10 Very good

Our week at Heron Island was wonderful - the facilities made accessing the outstanding marine life a joy.
Michelle, 7-night trip

8/10 Very good

Rooms dated, but fantastic stay

Rooms are somewhat dated, but staff and activities offered were first class, and the island itself is truly beautiful - a great place to stay.
6-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

staff were freindly and helpful
anne, 4-night trip

8/10 Very good

Heron Island is a brilliant opportunity to snorkel with beautiful sea life. Sharks, rays, turtles and coral that is starting to come back to life. The island itself is wonderful. Loads of turtles coming up the beach each evening and hatchlings popping out of the sand all over. The accommodation however is absolutely dreadful! It is severely dated with no air conditioning, broken locks, missing louvred glass in the windows, coupled with the fact that you aren’t allowed to bring food, makes for a very expensive trip, especially with young children. Considering the price you pay to get there and stay, I would expect nicer, albeit basic rooms, and cheaper food options for young children and families.
Carrissa, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Lovely oasis
Jedrzejewski, 4-night trip

8/10 Very good

Heron Island Resort is a nice place with friendly and helpful staff. While the food options are limited, they are decent and satisfactory. The rooms, however, could benefit from more thorough cleaning to enhance the overall experience.
Sourish, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Its nature and close encounter to birds and turtles and marine life
Mariedith, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Surrounded by amazing marine life.
China, 4-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Staff is absolutely fantastic. It is heaven on earth.
Carlos, 2-night trip