Shoalwater Bay Conservation Park Capricorn

Shoalwater Bay Conservation Park Photo credit: Queensland Government

Visiting Shoalwater Bay safely

    Getting there and getting around

    Shoalwater Bay Regional Park is 18kms south, south-east of Stanage Bay by boat.  Access to the park is only by boat.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    Shoalwater Bay Regional Park is rugged and has no wheelchair-accessible facilities or tracks.

    Staying safe

    Enjoy your visit, keep yourself safe and help look after Shoalwater Bay Conservation Park by following these tips.

    Be and stay informed, regularly check:

    Plan carefully.

    • Ensure your boat and equipment are safe and in good working order. Remember to follow boat and fish with care guidelines Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
    • Take plenty of drinking water and snacks with you—and pack extras in case of emergencies.
    • Carry a first aid kit and medical supplies.
    • As Shoalwater Bay Conservation Park is remote and exposed to the prevailing weather, be alert and prepared for changes in conditions. Access from Stanage Bay is weather dependant.

    Always read and heed on-site information and obey signs.

    Use dependable communications.  Mobile phone coverage is unreliable. Satellite phones are best, and a marine VHF radio is very useful. A personal locator beacon (PLB) is highly recommended.

    Cyclones are common along Queensland's tropical coastline. Never recreate if a cyclone is imminent and always be prepared for an emergency.

    Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Follow water safety advice and remain SharkSmart.

    Protect yourself from marine stingers, especially from October to May, although some may be present year-round. Always wear a stinger suit when swimming. See marine stingers for more information.

    Be aware that estuarine crocodiles occur in the waters around this national park. Remember—always be croc wise in croc country.

    In an emergency

    In an emergency, phone Triple Zero (000).

    You could try contacting other vessels in the vicinity on VHF radio. VHF marine channel 16 and 67 (distress and urgency calls). See Maritime Safety Queensland for further details.

    We highly recommend you visit the Triple Zero website before visiting the national park. You can also download the free emergency+ app before you leave home, the GPS functionality can provide critical location details to emergency services. Important: if there is no mobile coverage on any network, you will not be able to reach the Emergency Call Service via a mobile phone.

    Before you visit

    Opening hours

    Shoalwater Bay Conservation Park is open all year, however adverse weather may cause temporary closures, especially during the wet season generally from December to March. The park may be closed at other times for management activities. Check park alerts for information on park conditions, access and closures.

    Please be aware

    Shoalwater Bay Training Area lies to the south of Shoalwater Bay Conservation Park. Access to this area is prohibited by the Australian Department of Defence.

    Essentials to bring

    If planning to visit the park, you must be self-sufficient and prepared for all emergencies. Ensure you bring:

    • a first-aid kit and reliable communication equipment
    • enough drinking water for your visit
    • fuel or gas stove for cooking (bring extra fuel) is preferred
    • sealable rubbish container—bins are not provided
    • insect repellent and sun protection

    Permits and fees

    Camping permits

    If you intend to camp you will need to obtain a camping permit and fees apply. A tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site. Penalties apply for camping without a permit.

    Other permits

    Special permits are required for commercial, organised events and scientific research. Visit permits and fees for further information.

    Pets

    Domestic animals are not permitted in Shoalwater Bay Conservation Park.

    Climate and weather

    This region has a tropical climate, with an average summer temperature of about 32°C. However summer daytime temperatures can exceed 40°C. Winters are mild and often dry, with an average temperature of about 20°C.

    Contact the Bureau of Meteorology for weather reports and forecasts.

    Fuel and supplies

    Fuel and supplies are available at Stanage Bay. For more information see the tourism information links.

    • There are currently no park alerts for this park.

    View all park alerts