Visiting Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL) safely

Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL).

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Getting there and getting around

Three islands make up the Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL). Access is by private boat from the boat ramp at Lockhart River or with a permitted commercial operator. See the tourism information links for details.

The islands are surrounded by fringing reef and approach should only be attempted during high water periods. The most sheltered and popular anchorage is located off the beach on the north-west side of the main island. There are no public moorings located around the islands.

There are no roads, walking tracks or public facilities provided on Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL).

Weather forecasts are available from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Wheelchair accessibility

There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities on Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL).

Staying safe

Wuthara Island 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. Visit marine stingers 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

Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL) is a remote marine park with no facilities. Preparation is the key to a safe and enjoyable visit. Make sure you 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

Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL) is open 24 hours a day all year round.

Permits and fees

Camping permits are required and fees apply. A camping tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site.

• Book your camp site online. If you cannot book online, see camping bookings for other options.

Permits are required for commercial or organised events. View permits and fees for further information.

Pets

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

Climate and weather

Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL) has a tropical climate with the wetter months usually between December and April when maximum temperatures can soar above 30°C. The best time to visit the island group is between May and October when rain is unlikely and temperatures are cooler.

Fuel and supplies

There are no facilities on Wuthara Island National Park (CYPAL), all fuel and supplies need to be brought with you.

The nearest fuel and supplies are available on the mainland at Lockhart River about 58km south of the park.

For more information, see the tourism information links.