Things to do

Beach treasure.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Camping and accommodation

Remote bush camping is permitted in Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL) on the main island. There are no formed campgrounds or camp sites. No facilities are provided—visitors must be entirely self-sufficient. A maximum of 10 people are allowed to camp on the island at any one time.

Camping permits are required and fees apply.

• Find out more about camping in Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL).
• Book your camp site online.

If you cannot book online, see camping bookings for other options.

Walking

There are no formed walking tracks on the islands. Scrambling to the top of the ridges and headlands will reward visitors with impressive views over the islands, surrounding fringing reefs and the sea beyond.

Boating and fishing

Located close to the shipping channel the island’s sheltered anchorage makes them popular for cruising vessels. The best anchorage is in the bay on the north-west side of the main island. There are no public moorings in waters surrounding Wuthara 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.

Wuthara 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.

Viewing wildlife

The park is a great place to see wildlife in their natural environment. Birdwatching is rewarding with many terrestrial and marine birds living on the islands. Marine turtles, dugongs or sometimes estuarine crocodiles may be seen in the surrounding waters and the coral reefs are brimming with marine life.

The fringing reefs surrounding the islands offer excellent snorkelling opportunities, but remember that you enter the water at your own risk.

Dangerous stinging jellyfish (‘stingers’) may be present in the coastal waters at any time, but occur more frequently in the warmer months. If you do enter the water, a full-body lycra suit, or equivalent, may provide a good measure of protection against stinging jellyfish and sunburn. Visit marine stingers for the latest safety and first-aid information. Remember to be croc wise in croc country.

To learn more about the park’s wildlife, see the natural environment section.