Visiting Ma'alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL) safely

Getting there and getting around

Ma’alpiku National Park (CYPAL) is located adjacent to Cape Weymouth on the east coast of Cape York Peninsula about 5km south-east of the Portland Roads settlement. The park consists of part of Restoration Island and the entire area of Restoration Rock, 1km to the east.

Visitors should be aware that on the western side of Restoration Island, the area adjacent to the accessible ‘landing beach’ is a tourist lease, not national park, and therefore not accessible to the public. Restoration Island is separated from the mainland by a narrow channel and is adjacent to Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park (CYPAL). Access is by private boat only. The nearest boat ramp is located at the settlement of Portland Roads, 5km north-west of the island. There are no roads, walking tracks or public facilities on these islands. Weather forecasts are available from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Wheelchair accessibility

There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities on Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL).

Staying safe

Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL) is a remote national park. Visitors must be well prepared.

• Wear sunscreen and cover up when you are boating.
• Be aware that estuarine crocodiles can occur in the waters around island national parks. Remember, your safety is our concern but your responsibility—always be croc wise in croc country.
• Dangerous stinging jellyfish (‘stingers’) may be present in the coastal waters at any time, but occur more frequently in the warmer months. If you cannot avoid entering the water, a full-body lycra suit or equivalent may provide a good measure of protection against stinging jellyfish and sunburn. Remember to be croc wise in croc country. Visit Beachsafe for the latest safety and first aid information.
• Always carry drinking water and wear a hat.
• Bring insect repellent.

For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

Before you visit

Our precious Great Barrier Reef World Heritage islands are among the most pest-free islands in the world. They need your help to stay this way. Please Be pest-free! (PDF, 573.6KB) before your visit.

Essentials to bring

• drinking water
• rubbish bags
• protective clothing, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
• suitable shoes for walking on rough surfaces
• a comprehensive first-aid kit
• insect repellent.

Opening hours

Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL) is open 24 hours a day.

Permits and fees

Special permits are required for commercial or organised events within the park.

Pets

Domestic animals are not permitted on Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL) or on tidal lands adjacent to Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL) within the Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park. Tidal areas include beaches, rocky shores and mangroves.

Climate and weather

Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL) has a tropical climate with a wet season usually between December and April when maximum temperatures can soar above 30°C. The best time to visit the islands is between May and October when rain is unlikely and temperatures are cooler.

Fuel and supplies

There are no facilities on Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL)—all fuel and supplies need to be brought with you. The nearest food, fuel and mechanical services are available on the mainland at Lockhart River township, approximately 40km drive south-west from Chili Beach or Portlands Road township; and about 22 nautical miles south-west of Ma’alpiku Island National Park (CYPAL).