Quick Answers
How do I get to Long Island?
It is about 15 minutes by boat from Shute Harbour. Access is by water taxi, private charter or helicopter.
What is there to do on Long Island?
Walk more than 13 km of national park trails, snorkel straight from the beach, and relax in a quiet setting.
Who is Long Island best for?
Nature lovers and couples looking for a quieter, more romantic escape than the busier islands.
Long Island A Hidden Gem in the Whitsundays
Long Island
- Long Island is just 15 minutes by boat from Shute Harbour on the Queensland mainland.
- Over 70% of Long Island is protected National Park with 13+ km of walking trails.
- Enjoy snorkelling straight from the beach, with fringing reef just offshore.
- Palm Bay Resort offers self-catered beachfront villas in a peaceful, adults only setting.
- Elysian Luxury Eco Retreat is a solar-powered, all-inclusive luxury resort focused on wellness and sustainability.
- Long Island is quieter than other islands, ideal for nature lovers and romantic escapes.
- Access is available via water taxi, private charter, or helicopter from the Whitsundays mainland.
Tranquil. Tropical. Totally unforgettable.
Discover Long Island
Just a short hop from the mainland, Long Island is one of the most peaceful and naturally beautiful islands in the Whitsundays. Fringed by coral reef and covered in lush rainforest, it offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through National Park walking trails, snorkelling straight off the beach, or swinging in a hammock by the sea, Long Island is a dream destination for nature lovers and island seekers alike.
Natural Beauty and National Park Adventures
Over 70% of Long Island is protected as Whitsunday Islands National Park, making it one of the best islands in the region for bushwalking and wildlife spotting. There are more than 13 kilometres of walking trails, leading to secluded coves, hilltop lookouts, and picnic-perfect beaches. Along the way, you might spot butterflies, bush turkeys, cockatoos, and even sea turtles in the shallow waters offshore.
Swim, Snorkel & Relax
Long Island’s fringing coral reefs are easily accessible from the shoreline, offering snorkelling right off the beach—no boat required. With calm, clear waters and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s ideal for couples, families, and travellers wanting to unwind in a quieter setting. The island’s natural swimming spots and sandy beaches invite lazy afternoons and saltwater dips.
.Where to Stay
Long Island is home to two very special resorts:
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Palm Bay Resort – A boutique, Balinese style retreat with beachfront villas, self catering options, and a peaceful adults-only vibe. Accessible only by water taxi, it’s perfect for romantic escapes or digital detoxes.
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Elysian Luxury Eco Retreat – An exclusive, solar-powered sanctuary offering wellness packages, gourmet dining, and total seclusion. With a strong focus on sustainability, it’s ideal for mindful travellers seeking a luxury escape.
Where to Stay Near Long Island – Search & Compare
Compare available accommodation on Long Island on the interactive map below. Move the map, filter by price, and book directly. Some accommodation links on this map are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, it helps us keep this guide free.
Looking for more places to stay? Explore Whitsundays accommodation, including island resorts and mainland options.
Getting to Long Island
Getting to Long Island is easy and part of the adventure. Regular water taxis and private charters depart from Shute Harbour, just 10–15 minutes away. Guests staying resorts will receive direct transfer details upon booking. Helicopter transfers are also available for a stunning aerial arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Long Island?
Can I go bushwalking
Is Long Island good for snorkelling?
Are there restaurants or shops on Long Island?
Is Long Island suitable for families?
Why You’ll Love Long Island
- Home to some of the best walking trails in the Whitsundays
- Offers snorkelling straight from the beach
- A quieter, less developed island perfect for relaxation
- Two unique and highly rated resorts
- Easy to access from the mainland via Shute Harbour.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a peaceful solo retreat, or an eco-conscious escape, Long Island offers a slice of tropical paradise where time slows down and nature takes centre stage.
Discover the Whitsundays
Travel Kindly
At Hot Getaways, care is our compass — and a little kindness makes every journey better. When you visit the Whitsundays, we gently ask you to:
- Protect the reef — wear reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or stand on the coral.
- Respect the wildlife — admire the turtles, marine life and seabirds from a distance, and take your rubbish home with you.
- Support local — choosing local operators, cafés and guides helps this beautiful place thrive.
- Honour Country — we travel on the traditional lands and sea Country of Australia’s First Peoples, with gratitude and respect to the Traditional Custodians past and present.
- Be kind to each other — a smile, a little patience and a helping hand make the day lovelier for everyone.
Small acts of care add up to something wonderful. Thank you for travelling kindly.
