We are always on the hunt for beautiful secluded Islands and this one didn’t disappoint. We were invited out to the stunning Pumpkin Island. This island is located in the Southern Great Barrier Reef and part of the Keppel Islands which are so underrated and one of our favourite parts of Australia. This little gem is definitely one of Australia’s best kept secrets and should be on everyone’s list to visit. 

The Island is eco-friendly and offers accommodation for up to 34 guests in 7 self-catering units that are all powered by the wind and sun. The water supply is filtered rain water however a small desalination plant is on hand for those dryer months to keep up the water supply. Everywhere you turn on this island has breathtaking ocean views that allow you to just sit, relax and soak in the scenery. Being a self-catering island, means you need to bring all your food and drinks as there are no shops or restaurants around. The Ferry staff will assist you in loading and unloading all your supplies. If you do not have time for a shop before the ferry ride, you can also do an online food shop with Coles, woollies or the local IGA. They will deliver directly to the marina. Just make sure delivery is 30 minutes before your ferry departure time. 

To get to the Island it is a short 45min ferry ride from the Rossyln Bay Marina onboard the Pumpkin Express. There is free parking available at the Marina or if you prefer you can arrange secure parking just down the road at Great Keppel Island Secure Parking. They offer a free drop off and pick up. Make sure you drop off your supplies at the marina first before taking the car to the parking as he may not have room for it all in his van.

From the moment you arrive you are welcomed with a warm greeting and instantly feel relaxed with the slow pace of Island time. Your luggage is delivered to your accommodation which is literally only a few steps away from the beach and nestled among beautiful palm trees. You are spoilt for choice and will not be disappointed with the accommodation options. There are five villas and two bungalows available. We stayed in the two bungalows which were located on the North Western side of the Island. These were called Ocean Breeze and Island View and they have two sets of double bunks for bedding.  It was incredible waking up each morning and looking straight out the fly screens to the beautiful beach and stunning blue water.  They have shared outdoor bathroom facilities and a large outdoor kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with a BBQ, cooktops, two fridge/freezers and everything else required for cooking and eating. There is also a wood fired pizza oven located on the island which was a big hit with us. If a Villa is more your thing then these are situated on the main beach with beautiful views looking back at the mainland. These sleep up to five or six guests and each have their own toilet, shower and kitchen.

This might be a small island but there is still so much on offer to keep you busy. They have kayaks, stand up paddle boards and snorkelling gear all available for free. You can hire out a tinnie and explore the surrounding islands or find a few fishing spots. The snorkelling around this island is just magical with a colourful cover that is sure to impress. It is extremely safe but you need to judge the tides to get the best experience. There are plenty of turtles around and a few colonies of Nemo’s to find. You could spend your days lounging about in the many hammocks available or just sit back on the beach and soak in the crystal-clear water.  If you fancy some oysters then at low tide you can help yourself as they are everywhere. Definitely bring some rock shoes as the oysters are really sharp and dangerous if you don’t have the proper footwear. There is a little walk to a lookout which is only a couple of hundred meters from the main beach. This is stunning and gives you an amazing aspect over the island.  For the younger kids there is a little playground to keep them busy with slides and swings. At 5pm each night the sunset bar is opened where you can order cocktails, beer, wine and a huge range of spirits. Sitting back in the lounge chairs and watching the sun go down each night in the bar was just perfect. Next to the bar is a communal fire pit which you can light yourself. You need to bring your own firewood or it can be purchased on the island. 

The best time to experience this beautiful place for us would be between the months of July to November. August and September are humpback whale season so this would be amazing to sit back and watch the whales swim right past your door.  Also, this is when the water starts to warm up so its better for swimming. During the summer months it can be hot and humid and then there is also the chance of cyclones. 

We absolutely loved our stay on this island paradise and can’t wait to go back again one day soon. It really was a place that captures your heart and makes it difficult to leave.

Cheers,

Tom & Aimee
4 Boys and a Caravan