Things to do

Camping and accommodation

Camping is not permitted on either island within Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL). The nearest boat-based camping is available on Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL), previously Forbes Island National Park. Camping is also possible on the mainland in adjacent Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park (CYPAL).

Boating and fishing

Exposed coastline.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Restoration Island provides a partly sheltered anchorage in prevailing south-easterly conditions, normally between April and October. There are no public moorings in waters surrounding Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL).

When boating, help protect the fringing reefs by following these guidelines:

• Anchor in sand away from coral reefs.
• Use a reef pick if anchoring in coral is unavoidable. When hauling in, motor toward the anchor to prevent damage.
• Avoid landing on islands where seabirds are roosting or nesting on the beach—they are easily disturbed.

Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL) and the surrounding marine waters are internationally significant and are protected in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Zones in the two marine parks—the Great Barrier Reef Coast and Great Barrier Reef—provide a balanced approach to protecting the marine and intertidal environments while allowing recreational and commercial use. Check zoning information and maps before entering or conducting any activities in the marine parks.

Fisheries regulations apply—information on bag and size limits, restricted species and seasonal closures is available from Fisheries Queensland.

Be aware that estuarine crocodiles can occur in waters around island national parks. Remember, your safety is our concern but your responsibility—always be croc wise in croc country.

Other things to do

This remote scenic island offers beach walking along the strand line. The interior of the island is not accessible.

Viewing wildlife

More than 21 species of birds have been recorded on the islands. Seabirds include lesser frigatebirds, crested terns, lesser crested terns, roseate terns, sooty terns, black-naped terns and ospreys. Terrestrial birds include leaden flycatchers, rufous fantails and white-breasted woodswallows. Eastern yellow robins have been recorded breeding on the island. Restoration Rock is a rookery for breeding pied imperial-pigeons and bridled terns. Wading birds such as eastern curlews, eastern reef herons and whimbrels can be seen stalking the shallows.

Estuarine crocodiles have been observed in waters around the islands, along with vulnerable green and hawksbill turtles and loggerhead turtles. Small numbers of green turtles nest on the islands while the other turtle species use the area for feeding. Vulnerable dugongs have also been sighted in the area. Two species of bats have been recorded on the islands—the vulnerable coastal sheathtail bat and the rare diadem leaf-nosed bat.