As you travel along the North Queensland coast, sometimes you’ll drive right into the main destinations, with the highway pretty much going through places like Mackay, Townsville, and Cairns.
But then there are the little treasures where you need to make a detour to the coast. Some are famous – like Hervey Bay or Airlie Beach. And then there’s Yeppoon, often overshadowed by nearby Rockhampton but actually offering some of the best on this stretch of Queensland coast.
There’s something quite special about a coastal town that hasn’t been overrun by high-rise development and tourist crowds. Yeppoon is one of those places.
It’s laidback and full of charm, but is also an excellent base for activities in the region. There are some things to do in Yeppoon itself, but the main reason you would stay here is to explore things like the islands and the national parks.
Just 40 kilometres from Rockhampton, the main street has a pleasant small-town feel, with locally-owned shops and cafes, while the foreshore has been beautifully developed with walking paths and public spaces.
You can spend a morning or an afternoon hanging around town, but also find time in the day to go island-hopping, caving, hiking, or sightseeing.
If you have time, it’s definitely worth staying for a couple of days in Yeppoon, especially if you’re doing the drive from Brisbane to Cairns.
To help you plan your time, here are my tips for the best things to do in Yeppoon.
In town
Before you head off to explore the beaches and islands, it’s worth spending some time in the centre of Yeppoon itself. There’s more happening here than you might expect from a small coastal town.
The main street, James Street, has a nice collection of shops, galleries, and places to eat. It’s easy to wander around on foot and there’s usually somewhere to park nearby if you’re driving.
Yeppoon Lagoon
The centrepiece of Yeppoon’s foreshore redevelopment is the Yeppoon Lagoon, a beautiful free swimming pool right on the waterfront. Opened in 2006, it was one of the first of these kinds of facilities in regional Queensland and set the standard for other towns to follow.
The lagoon is surrounded by grassy areas perfect for picnics, plus there are barbecue facilities and a playground. The water is kept clean and clear, making it ideal for families with young children who want somewhere safe to splash around.
But the most distinctive feature of the lagoon is the Kraken sculpture – a giant tentacle emerging from the water that’s become one of Yeppoon’s most photographed landmarks. Kids love climbing on it, and it’s a reminder that these waters were once the realm of all kinds of sea creatures (although, thankfully, not actual krakens).
The lagoon area is also where you’ll find the skate park, which is popular with local kids and visiting ones alike. It’s a well-designed space with ramps and rails for different skill levels.
Street art
Yeppoon has quietly developed a decent street art scene over recent years, with murals and installations popping up around town. They add colour and character to the streetscape, and it’s fun to spot them as you explore.
One of the main concentrations is in Pie Alley, a laneway off James Street where several large murals have been painted. The works here showcase local artists and often have themes related to the coastal environment or community stories.
You’ll also find street art around the Queen Street Car Park, where the concrete walls have been transformed with vibrant designs. And there are more pieces around the Yeppoon Lagoon and Skate Park area that I mentioned earlier.
While you’re wandering around looking for murals, keep an eye out for smaller works too – there are quite a few interesting pieces tucked away in unexpected corners of town.
Galleries
For such a small town, Yeppoon has a surprisingly active arts community, with several galleries showcasing local talent alongside touring exhibitions.
One of the main spots is Fig Tree Galleries, housed in a heritage building and featuring a mix of paintings, sculptures, and crafts by artists from across the region. There’s usually something interesting on display, whether it’s landscapes of the Capricorn Coast or more contemporary pieces.
Another gallery worth visiting is Paint Pot Gallery, which has a focus on local and Indigenous art. The exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to discover.
There are also a few smaller independent galleries and artist studios scattered around Yeppoon. Pop into the visitor information centre to find out what’s currently happening – the arts scene here is quite dynamic and there are often special events or exhibitions during the peak season.
Heritage buildings
Walking around the centre of Yeppoon, you’ll notice quite a few heritage buildings that date back to the early 20th century when the town was first being established as a seaside resort.
Many of them line James Street and the surrounding blocks, with their wide verandahs and classic Queensland architecture. Some have been beautifully restored and now house cafes, shops, or galleries, while others are still private residences.
The Post Office is a particularly lovely example, and there are some grand old hotels that still operate today. While Yeppoon doesn’t have an official heritage trail like some other towns, it’s easy enough to wander around and appreciate the historic character of the place.
Islands
One of the biggest drawcards for Yeppoon is its proximity to the islands of Keppel Bay. These pristine spots offer some of the best beaches and snorkelling in Queensland, and they’re all easily accessible as day trips.
The islands are part of the Southern Great Barrier Reef region, although they’re actually closer to the coast than the main reef itself. Still, the water is crystal clear and the marine life is abundant.
Great Keppel Island
The largest and most popular of the islands is Great Keppel Island, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. With 17 beaches spread around its coastline, you’ll have no trouble finding a quiet spot to lay out your towel – although the main beach near the ferry arrival point tends to be the busiest.
The beaches here really are stunning, with white sand and turquoise water that looks like something from a postcard. The snorkelling is excellent, particularly around the rocky headlands where you’ll see plenty of colourful fish and coral.
There are several walking trails on the island if you want to explore beyond the beaches. The walk to Monkey Beach is particularly nice, taking about 30 minutes through coastal bushland. And if you’re feeling more energetic, the hike up to the lighthouse offers spectacular views across the bay.
Great Keppel Island is about 30 minutes by ferry from Yeppoon. You can catch a day trip that includes the ferry ride, and once you’re there you can spend your time however you like – swimming, snorkelling, walking, or just relaxing in a hammock with a book.
Pumpkin Island
For a completely different island experience, Pumpkin Island is a tiny gem that offers the ultimate in peace and privacy. It’s a national park with only one accommodation option – a collection of eco-cabins that you can rent out.
The island is just seven hectares in size, so you can walk around the entire coastline in about 20 minutes. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. The beaches are pristine, the rock formations are dramatic, and the birdlife is abundant.
If you’re just visiting for the day, you’ll need to arrange your own boat transport as there’s no regular ferry service. But if you’re planning to stay overnight, the accommodation provider can help arrange transfers. It’s one of the most romantic and secluded places you could imagine – perfect for a special occasion or just to completely switch off from the world.
Other islands
Beyond Great Keppel and Pumpkin, there are several other islands in Keppel Bay that are worth exploring if you have the time and means to reach them.
Middle Island has some lovely beaches and excellent snorkelling spots, while Humpy Island is popular with campers and offers great fishing. Both are national parks and you’ll need to be relatively self-sufficient if you visit.
North Keppel Island is another beautiful spot with pristine beaches and good walking tracks, although access is a bit trickier as there’s no regular ferry service.
Island tours
If you’re not sure which island to visit or want to see a bit of everything, there are some great tours that will take you around the bay. These typically visit several islands in one day, giving you a taste of the different environments.
Most tours include snorkelling equipment, and some will provide lunch or snacks. The boats are usually comfortable with plenty of shade, making it a relaxing way to spend a day on the water.
I think this great cruise from Yeppoon has a good variety of activities in the one trip… or there are some other recommended options here:
Some operators also offer fishing charters if you’re keen to catch a barramundi or coral trout. And for something really special, there are sunset cruises that take you out into the bay as the light fades – the views back to the coast are spectacular.
Beaches
Even without heading out to the islands, Yeppoon has some beautiful beaches right on its doorstep. The coastline here is dotted with sandy stretches, rocky headlands, and crystal-clear water.
One of the great things about the beaches around Yeppoon is that they’re generally quite safe for swimming. There are no stinger nets needed here like you find further north, and the water is usually calm.
Yeppoon Main Beach
Right in front of the town centre is Yeppoon Main Beach, a long stretch of golden sand that’s the most convenient for visitors staying nearby. It’s patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months, making it a safe choice for families.
The beach has been nicely developed with a walking path along the foreshore, shaded picnic areas, and easy access to cafes and restaurants. You can park nearby and spend the whole day here, alternating between swimming in the ocean or the lagoon.
The views from the beach across to the islands are lovely, particularly at sunset when the light turns everything golden. It’s a popular spot for an evening stroll, and you’ll often see locals walking their dogs or fishing from the rocks at either end.
Farnborough Beach
Just a few kilometres north of Yeppoon is Farnborough Beach, which tends to be a bit quieter than the main beach. It’s a beautiful spot with a long curve of sand, backed by melaleuca trees that provide natural shade.
The beach here has a more natural feel to it, without the same level of development as Yeppoon Main Beach. There are still facilities like toilets and picnic tables, but it feels a bit more like you’ve escaped to somewhere remote.
Farnborough is particularly popular with kite surfers when the conditions are right, and it’s a lovely place to watch them gliding across the water. The swimming is excellent, and the sand is perfect for building castles or just lying in the sun.
Lammermoor Beach
Heading south from Yeppoon, Lammermoor Beach is another gorgeous spot that’s worth the short drive. It’s a bit more sheltered than some of the other beaches, making it ideal on windy days.
The beach is backed by dunes and coastal vegetation, and there’s a pleasant walking track that continues further along the coast. At low tide, you can walk for ages along the sand and around the rocky outcrops.
There’s good parking at Lammermoor and basic facilities, but it’s a bit more low-key than the main beach in Yeppoon. That’s part of its charm – it feels like you’ve discovered a secret spot, even though locals know it well.
Kemp Beach
Kemp Beach is another hidden gem, tucked away in a little bay with rock pools at either end. It’s perfect for families with young children who want to explore the pools and look for sea creatures.
The beach itself is quite small, so it can get busy on weekends during the peak season. But midweek or outside of school holidays, you’ll often have it almost to yourself.
The surrounding area is quite natural, with coastal scrub coming down almost to the sand. It’s a peaceful spot where you can really feel like you’re getting away from it all, despite being only a short drive from town.
Kinka Beach
A bit further south, Kinka Beach has developed into a small beachside community with its own distinct character. The beach here is long and sandy, backed by dunes and she-oaks that rustle in the breeze.
It’s a popular spot with surfers and bodyboarders when there are waves, but on calm days it’s just as good for swimming. The beach is patrolled during the summer months, and there are good facilities including picnic areas and playgrounds.
Kinka Beach has a few cafes and shops, so you can easily spend the whole day here. And if you’re staying in the area, the sunset views from the beach are absolutely stunning.
Nature
Beyond the beaches and the ocean, the Capricorn Coast has some spectacular natural landscapes to explore. From coastal national parks to ancient caves, there’s plenty for nature lovers to discover.
The region sits at an interesting point where the tropics meet the subtropics, so you’ll see a mix of vegetation types and wildlife. And the rugged coastline and mountainous hinterland provide plenty of opportunities for hiking and adventure.
Scenic Highway
The Capricorn Coast National Park protects several sections of the coastline around Yeppoon, preserving the natural environment and providing access to some spectacular viewpoints. I think one of the best things to do in Yeppoon is just to hit the road and explore some of it.
One of the highlights is Bluff Point, where there’s a 2-kilometre walking track out to Turtle Lookout. The track follows the coast through native bushland, with glimpses of the ocean along the way. At the lookout, you’re rewarded with panoramic views across Keppel Bay and the islands.
If you’re feeling energetic, there are also short climbs to Double Head and Fan Rock Lookouts. Both offer more stunning vistas, and you might spot dolphins or turtles in the water below. The walks aren’t too difficult, but bring water and wear a hat as there’s limited shade.
The national park is also home to lots of wildlife, including wallabies, goannas, and a huge variety of birds. Early morning is the best time to spot them, when they’re most active.
Byfield National Park
About 40 kilometres north of Yeppoon is Byfield National Park, a wild and rugged landscape that’s perfect for a day of exploring. The park features pristine beaches, coastal dunes, and freshwater creeks flowing through rainforest.
The star attraction is Stoney Creek, where you can swim in crystal-clear pools surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a magical spot, particularly on a hot day when the cool water is so refreshing. The creek is spring-fed, so the water is always clear and clean.
There are also some great walking tracks in the park, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes. The vegetation is diverse, with pockets of rainforest, eucalypt woodland, and melaleuca swamps.
You’ll need a 4WD vehicle to access some parts of the park, but the main areas including Stoney Creek are reachable in a regular car. Just be aware that the roads can be rough, especially after rain.
Capricorn Caves
One of the most unique attractions near Yeppoon is Capricorn Caves, about 30 minutes inland near Rockhampton. These limestone caves have been formed over millions of years and are now open for tours.
The main cave system is stunning, with impressive rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites, and evidence of how water has carved through the limestone. There are different tour options depending on your fitness level and sense of adventure.
The Cathedral Cave tour is suitable for most people and takes you through the largest chambers where you can see (and hear) the incredible acoustics. At certain times of year, sunlight streams through an opening in the roof, creating a spectacular beam of light.
For the more adventurous, there are adventure caving tours where you’ll squeeze through tight passages, crawl through tunnels, and get up close to the geology. It’s not for the claustrophobic, but it’s an amazing experience!
Mount Archer
Rising above Rockhampton is Mount Archer, a popular spot for both locals and visitors who want to stretch their legs and get some spectacular views.
There are several walking tracks up the mountain, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The summit track takes about an hour to climb and rewards you with 360-degree views across the region – from the coast to the hinterland.
At the top, there’s a lookout platform and picnic facilities, so you can sit and enjoy the scenery while you catch your breath. On a clear day, you can see all the way out to the islands.
Mount Archer National Park also has mountain bike trails for those who prefer two wheels, and there are often wallabies and other wildlife around in the early morning or late afternoon.
Emu Park
Just 20 kilometres south of Yeppoon is the small coastal town of Emu Park, which is definitely worth a visit. It’s got a relaxed village atmosphere and some interesting attractions that make it a great spot for a morning or afternoon.
The town sits on a headland with sweeping views along the coast, and there’s a lovely foreshore area with walking paths and parks. It’s much quieter than Yeppoon, which is part of its charm.
Centenary Of Anzac Walk
One of the most moving experiences in the area is the Centenary of Anzac Walk, a memorial walkway that was created to honour Australian service personnel. The walk stretches for about a kilometre along the foreshore, with different installations and tributes along the way.
Each element of the walk tells a story or commemorates a particular aspect of Australia’s military history. There are information panels, sculptures, and quiet spots to sit and reflect.
The views from the walk are also beautiful, looking out across the water towards the islands. It’s particularly poignant at sunrise or sunset, when the light adds another layer of emotion to the experience.
Singing Ship
At the end of the Centenary of Anzac Walk is Emu Park’s most famous landmark – the Singing Ship. This striking steel sculpture was erected in 1970 as a memorial to Captain Cook’s voyages along the coast.
The sculpture is designed like the rigging of a ship, with metal pipes of different lengths that create musical sounds as the wind passes through them. On a breezy day, you can hear the haunting tones across the headland.
It’s become an iconic photo spot, especially when framed against the blue sky and ocean. And it’s a reminder of the region’s maritime history and its connection to early European exploration.
Heritage trail
Emu Park has its own heritage trail that takes you through the town’s history, past historic buildings and sites of significance. The trail includes a small museum where you can learn more about the area’s past, from Indigenous occupation through to the development as a seaside resort.
Many of the heritage buildings are along the main street, with their classic Queensland architecture and wide verandahs. Some have been beautifully restored, while others still show their age in a charming way.
And while you’re exploring the town, keep an eye out for the street art. Emu Park has recently embraced murals and other public art installations, adding another layer of interest to a wander through the streets.
Rockhampton
While Yeppoon is the coastal resort, its bigger neighbour Rockhampton (just 40 kilometres inland) is worth a visit if you have time. As the ‘Beef Capital of Australia’, Rockhampton has a distinct character and some interesting attractions of its own.
The city straddles the Tropic of Capricorn, marking the line between the subtropics and the tropics. There are lots of things to do in Rockhampton, but some of the highlights are:
Rockhampton Museum of Art
The Rockhampton Museum of Art is one of the best regional galleries in Queensland, with an impressive collection of Australian art. The focus is on works from the 19th and 20th centuries, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
There are regular temporary exhibitions as well, often featuring touring shows from major galleries or solo exhibitions by prominent artists. The gallery is free to enter, and the building itself is a lovely heritage structure.
Heritage buildings
Rockhampton has some of the finest heritage buildings in regional Queensland, reflecting the wealth that came from the beef and mining industries. Walking down Quay Street and the surrounding blocks, you’ll see grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
The Customs House is a standout, with its classical columns and imposing presence on the riverbank. The Post Office is another impressive building, and there are numerous old hotels and commercial buildings that have been well preserved.
Many of these buildings are still in use today, housing everything from government offices to restaurants. It’s worth picking up a heritage walk brochure from the visitor centre to learn more about their history.
Rockhampton Botanic Gardens
The Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the city, and they’re particularly impressive given they were established way back in 1869. The gardens are spread over 40 hectares and include both formal displays and more natural bushland.
There’s a Japanese Garden that’s beautifully maintained, a rainforest walk, and a lagoon area where you can spot water birds and turtles. The gardens also have a free zoo section with native Australian animals including koalas, wombats, and cassowaries.
It’s a lovely place to spend a couple of hours, particularly in the cooler parts of the day. There’s a cafe if you want to grab a coffee or lunch, and plenty of shaded spots for a picnic.
