Curtis Island

Capricorn Coast & the Southern Reef Islands


Curtis Island, just across the water from Gladstone, can’t be confused with a resort island. Apart from swimming, fishing and lolling about on the dunes, its main drawcard is the annual appearance of rare flatback sea turtles on its eastern shores between October and January. Permits for camping at the Turtle Street, Joey Lees and Yellow Patch sites (per person/family $6.55/26) can be booked online via Queensland Parks & Wildlife or you can stay at the friendly Capricorn Lodge.

Curtis Ferry Services connects the island with Gladstone every day bar Tuesday and Thursday (return adult/child $30/18, family from $84).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Capricorn Coast & the Southern Reef Islands attractions

2. Toondoon Botanic Gardens

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These lush gardens comprise more than 80 hectares of tropical, subtropical and dry-rainforest environments, showcasing flora ranging from those of these…

3. Cedar Galleries

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4. Calliope River Historical Village

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If you are in the area, market days at the Calliope River Historical Village, 26km southwest of Gladstone, are hugely popular, attracting over 3000 people…

5. Lake Awoonga

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Created by the damming of the Boyne River in 1984, Lake Awoonga is a popular recreational area 30km south of Gladstone. Backed by the rugged Castle Tower…