From the busy harbour of Gladstone you can visit the Great Barrier Reef as well the Heron and Lady Musgrove islands and swim, snorkel and dive amongst the many reefs. Heron Island, Wilson Island and Lady Elliot Island are also easily accessible from here.
Boyne Island
Nearby Boyne Island, which you can drive to, has beaches, riverside walkways, parklands, recreational activities and perfect for caravanners.
Calliope
Calliope, just 20 mins west, has a wonderful national park of rainforest. There are horse riding trails, historical homesteads and lookouts with spectacular views.
Agnes Water, Town of 1770
Also within easy reach of Gladstone, there are Agnes Water and the historic Town of 1770 offering a range of activities. Captain Cook landed here with his crew in 1770 and since then has been known for its beauty. Long beaches, palm trees, idyllic scenery and great fishing.
Try game fishing and 4 Wheel Drives through the close by Deepwater National Park and Eurimbula National Parks.
Cruises and Tours
There are some great food and wine industry tours available as well as visiting nature-based attractions such as 4WD in the national parks. There are Great Barrier Reef cruises to Lady Musgrave island as well as Heron with its world class diving. You can also explore the reef with a coral submarine!
There are Helicopter joy rides to the islands and Barrier Reef and even shopping tours to enjoy. Ride through the surf that you'll never forget with the amphibious vehicle LARC at the town of 1770.
Accommodation
Accommodation of all kinds, including resorts and bed and breakfast, as well as farm stays. There are hotels, pubs, self contained units and of course caravan parks and camping spots.
There are some wonderful beach homes for holiday rental at places like Tannum Sands and Boyne Island.
Gladstone Restaurants
There are plenty of eateries and restaurants. Gladstone is acknowledged as having some of Australia's best seafood restaurants - try the fresh Gladstone Mud Crab or the giant prawns.
For more information - Gladstone Area Promotion & Development Tel +61 7 4972 4000