Hook Island Guide

History and culture

Hook Island was originally inhabited by the Ngaro Aboriginal people, who named the island 'Ngari', meaning 'hook'. The Ngaro people were hunter-gatherers who lived off the land and sea, and their rock art can still be seen on the island today.

In the 18th century, Hook Island was explored by European sailors, and it soon became a popular stopover point for ships travelling between Australia and New Zealand.

Today, Hook Island is home to a small community and is almost uninhabited. The island has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, and its residents are friendly and welcoming.

What to do on Hook Island

There are many things to do on Hook Island. You can swim at one of the many beaches, go snorkelling or diving at the reef, walk to the lookout at Passage Peak, or explore the island's bushland tracks. There is also a number of camping areas on the island where you can set up camp and enjoy the stunning views overnight.

Hook Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including wallabies, snakes, lizards, and birds. Keep your eyes peeled and you might even spot a turtle or two.

Getting to Hook Island

Hook Island is located in the Whitsundays, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The easiest way to get there is by boat or ferry from Airlie Beach. There are a number of tour operators that offer day trips and overnight stays on Hook Island.

Hook Island is located in the middle of the Whitsunday Islands, and it is a popular destination for sailors. If you're planning on sailing to Hook Island, remember to take care when navigating the reefs. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, and it is easy to damage your boat if you're not careful.

Once you're on the island, there's no need for a car - everything is within walking distance. If you want to explore further afield, there are a number of walking tracks that criss-cross the island.

How to get to Hook Island from Airlie Beach

Getting to Hook Island from Airlie Beach is easy. There are a number of tour operators that offer day trips and overnight stays on the island.

Otherwise, if you’re on a private charter experience, your skipper will be able to navigate to Hook Island and anchor nearby.

What is the best time to visit Hook Island?

The best time to visit Hook Island is between April and November. This is when the weather is warm and dry, and the water is calm. December to March is the wet season, so be sure to pack your raincoat if you're visiting during this time.

What should I pack for Hook Island?

Be sure to pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. If you're planning on doing any snorkelling or diving, don't forget your goggles and flippers. And if you're visiting during the wet season, make sure you pack a raincoat.

Can I anchor at Hook Island?

Yes, you can anchor your boat at Hook Island. There are a number of sheltered bays and beaches where you can drop your anchor. Be sure to check the local tide charts before anchoring, as the tides can be strong in some areas.

Can I fish at Hook Island?

Yes, there is excellent fishing to be had around Hook Island. The best time to fish is during the warmer months, when the water is calm. Popular species include snapper, sweetlip, and trevally. Remember to obtain a permit if you plan on fishing in any of the national parks.

Popular attractions on Hook Island:

Nara Inlet

Nara Inlet is located on the eastern side of Hook Island. Nara Inlet is a sheltered bay that is popular with boaters and fishermen. The inlet is surrounded by mangroves, and there is a small beach where you can swim and relax.

There are also a number of walking tracks that lead from Nara Inlet into the bushland. These tracks offer stunning views of the inlet and the surrounding islands.

Stonehaven Bay

Stonehaven Bay is located on the northern side of Hook Island. Stonehaven Bay is a beautiful sandy beach that is popular with swimmers and sunbathers. The bay is also a great spot for snorkelling, as there are many colourful fish that can be seen just off the shore.

If you're feeling energetic, there is a walking track that leads from Stonehaven Bay to the lookout at Passage Peak. This track takes around 45 minutes to complete and offers stunning views of the Whitsunday Islands.

Macona Inlet

Macona Inlet is located on the western side of Hook Island. Macona Inlet is a secluded bay that is popular with boaters and fishermen. The inlet is surrounded by mangroves, and there is a small beach where you can swim and relax.

If you're feeling energetic, there is a walking track that leads from Macona Inlet to the lookout at Passage Peak. This track takes around 45 minutes to complete and offers stunning views of the Whitsunday Islands.

Hook Island Marine Park

Hook Island Marine Park covers the waters around Hook Island. The park includes coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove forests and sandy beaches. The marine park is home to an amazing array of marine life, including turtles, dolphins, dugongs and over 1,000 species of fish.

The marine park is a popular spot for snorkelling, diving, fishing, and boating. Remember to take care when you're in the marine park, as the coral is fragile and can be easily damaged.

Butterfly Bay North Hook Island

Butterfly Bay is located on the northern side of Hook Island. The bay gets its name from the many butterflies that can be seen fluttering around the flowers that grow here. Butterfly Bay is a beautiful sandy beach that is popular with swimmers and sunbathers.

Just off the shore of Butterfly Bay is Hook Reef, where you can see an amazing array of corals and fish. Butterfly Bay is also a great spot for snorkelling and diving and is one of the best spots to anchor within for Hook Island.

Can you camp on Hook Island?

Yes, there are a number of camping areas on Hook Island. Camping is only permitted in designated areas, and you will need to obtain a permit before setting up camp. Remember to take care of the environment while you're camping, and always clean up your campsite before you leave.

Explore the beauty of Hook Island with Wings

Hook Island is a beautiful island in the Whitsundays that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach, go swimming or snorkelling, or explore the bushland, Hook Island is the perfect destination during your private charter experience. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Hook Island with Wings today!