Wilson Island

• Sleeps: 2 per tent
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathrooms: External
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Ever fancied staying on one of the Seven Wonders of the World? A true bucket-list escape, Wilson Island is a natural coral cay that’s both set on and surrounded by the spectacular Great Barrier Reef.

The world’s largest coral reef, here you can escape into a private world that feels like actual paradise; home to diverse, undisturbed marine life and the most vividly beautiful, sun-drenched tropical beaches you’ll ever set foot upon.

Better still, Wilson Island is as disconnected from the ‘real’ world as you’d imagine a secluded adults-only paradise to be. This means there’s no Wi-Fi, phone connection TVs – or even shops – to be found, while your only travel route involves a stopover (or extended stay, whichever you prefer!) at the world-famous Heron Island.

Boasting 20 dive sites in crystal-clear waters that teem with reef fish, turtles, rays, and much more, Heron Island is heaven for snorkellers, while those who love to sit back and observe nature will adore the cosy rooms set within the island’s ancient Pisonia Forest.

Your boat transfer from Heron Island takes just 25 minutes, with guests disembarking straight onto the dreamy sandy beach that you’re certain to never want to leave. You’ll be personally greeted by your host and chef, as your bags are whisked straight to your private Reef Safari Tent, all ready to begin your blissful island escape.

Wilson Island is home to just nine furnished Reef Safari Tents… meaning there will never be more than 18 guests staying at any one time. So you get to breathe out and relax in peace on your tent’s elevated wooden deck, cradling a welcome drink as you listen to the gentle sound of the ocean.

Blending beautifully with its natural surroundings, your tent is furnished with a downy kingsize bed, comfy chairs, soft lighting, and fluffy Turkish cotton towels. You’ll have your own binoculars, too, so you can keep a close eye on the abundant local wildlife.

At a glance

• A unique paradise-like escape, on an adults-only island retreat that’s both set on and surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef.
• Wilson Island is located around 80km from the coast of Gladstone (flights are available via Brisbane). The island itself is only accessible by boat transfer from nearby Heron Island, at which a longer stopover can be arranged as part of your stay.
• Accommodation comprises just 9 furnished tents for two, with eco-friendly amenities housed in a separate building.
• All meals, drinks, and snacks are provided throughout your stay – sunset drinks are a particular must!
• The chef will prepare a picnic basket for your own self-guided tour, while activities include turtle-watching, world-class snorkelling (equipment is provided), and paddle-boarding on the crystal-clear waters.

Features

• Adults Only
• Seaside Breaks

More information

Eco-friendly amenities are close by, while all your meals, drinks, and snacks are provided during your stay… so you’ll have absolutely nothing else to think about as you immerse yourselves in the island’s incredible natural beauty.

Why not indulge in sunset drinks at the on-site restaurant with friends you haven’t met yet, or feast on a romantic supper created from mouth-watering, freshly-prepared Australian native produce?

If you’re in the mood to explore, the chef will even prepare you a delectable picnic hamper to accompany your own self-guided stroll (guided tours are also available on request). There are fun on-site games and activities to get involved in, too – participate as much, or as little, as you like.

What else? Enjoy world-class snorkelling right from the beach with all equipment provided, or borrow a kayak or paddleboard. Nature-lovers will adore watching the island’s protected turtles lay their eggs… in fact, if your timing is right, you may even get to watch the tiny hatchlings emerge from their nests.

But you could also choose to just relax in a hammock, close your eyes, and let the wonders of Wilson Island revive your weary soul, in a one-of-a-kind holiday you’re going to remember forever.

Things to note

Wilson Island is closed from 1st February – 1st April every year for bird-breeding season. All guests must be over 18 years of age. Please note there is no Wi-Fi or phone signal on the island, staff have a satellite telephone for emergency use. Daily housekeeping is provided. There are no shops on the island, so please bring any necessities with you.