Three hours by boat from Gladstone, Wilson Island offers some of the most pristine and colourful coral reefs around. Popular activities on the island include snorkelling, exploring the island and, while in season, watching turtles and bird nesting.
Fauna on Wilson Island is an essential part of the whole experience. Many Green Turtles and a small number of Loggerhead Turtles use the island as their nesting ground.
From late November to March the turtles come ashore every night to lay up to 120 eggs. Visitors can watch the mother turtle make the trek up the sand to her selected spot amongst the dunes.
During a walk around the tropical island you'll also come across a large variety of birds. Fifty species of birds have been observed on the island. Some species make it their permanent home while others use it as a stop over during migration.
With the island located right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, there's also plenty of marine life. There are around 900 species of fish and colourful coral in surrounding waters, making snorkelling a fascinating experience.
The Wilson Island hosts place a lot of emphasis on the island's natural environment. They not only close down in February for the seabird nesting season but also offer the most eco-friendly style of accommodation.
Six tents have been designed to combine simplicity and comfort. Based on a modern beachcombing theme, the tents have raised timber floors, king-sized beds and a private decking with uninterrupted reef views.
A separate building houses six showers and dressing area (one designated for each tent), along with toilet and vanity areas.
Entertainment and food are not forgotten; each evening begins with sunset pre-dinner drinks and canaps on the beach. The main course is a candle-lit three-course buffet meal with wine, served in the resort's entertainment building, the Longhouse.
After dinner, guests can join an evening star-gazing walk or even a beach walk to observe the turtles nesting.
A popular activity for early risers is a walk to an area of the island known as the 'Flintstone Chairs'. These naturally carved coral chairs offer a spectacular view of the colourful Wilson Island sunrise.
The Wilson Island Experience is packaged with pre and post accommodation at Heron Island as a complete five-night escape. A boat transports visitors to and from the islands in 40 minutes.
The facts
Qantas and QantasLink flies to Gladstone prices start from $381 from Sydney and $740 from Perth.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
A five night package costs $1750, including two nights on Heron Island, boat transfers to Wilson Island, three nights on Wilson Island and all meals, wine and activities.
P & O Resorts
Tel: 1800 737 678
