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Yeppoon, Queensland - Coastal Calm and Island Adventures
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Oct 20, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Yeppoon, Queensland - Coastal Calm and
Island Adventures
Perched along Queensland’s Capricorn Coast, Yeppoon is a relaxed seaside town where ocean views, island escapes and small-town charm come together beautifully. Located 672 kilometres north of Brisbane and just 38 kilometres northeast of Rockhampton, Yeppoon is the perfect coastal base for exploring the Southern Great Barrier Reef and the stunning Keppel Islands.
With its palm-lined esplanade, vibrant street art, boutique shopping and excellent dining scene, Yeppoon delivers an easygoing holiday vibe that’s hard to leave behind.
We spent a few days in Yeppoon and enjoyed starting the day with a coffee overlooking the esplanade. We then wandered along the esplanade to the stunning infinity lagoon. We admired the views from the Wreck Point Scenic Lookout and visited Emu Park and Upper Stony Creek. We also enjoyed a day trip to Great Keppel Island.
Slow Mornings & Seaside Strolls on the Esplanade
We spent a few unhurried days in Yeppoon, starting each morning the best possible way — coffee in hand, gazing out over the sparkling ocean from the esplanade. From there, it was an easy wander along the waterfront, soaking up the salty air, colourful murals and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
The beautifully maintained foreshore stretches along the 1.4-kilometre Main Beach and features shaded grassy areas, picnic spots and walking paths, making it ideal for families, couples and travellers looking to slow down and enjoy the view.
A Splash of Paradise: Yeppoon Lagoon
One of Yeppoon’s standout attractions is the stunning Yeppoon Lagoon — a 2,500-square-metre, resort-style swimming lagoon right on the beachfront. With a shallow children’s play area, an informal lap pool and a breathtaking infinity edge overlooking the Keppel Islands, it’s easy to see why this spot is so popular.
Best of all, entry is completely free. The lagoon is open daily and patrolled by Surf Life Savers, making it a safe and scenic place to cool off any time of year.
Views, History & Shipwreck Stories at Wreck Point
A short drive from town brings you to Wreck Point Scenic Lookout at Cooee Bay, where sweeping views across Keppel Bay stretch as far as the eye can see. Interpretive panels and striking shipwreck artwork tell the story of the Selina, a 62-ton transport schooner that washed ashore here in October 1848.
Descending the 68 steps to the lower viewing platform offers a closer look at the historic site and a different perspective of the rugged coastline below — well worth the effort.
Emu Park & the Singing Ship
Just 21 kilometres south of Yeppoon lies the charming coastal village of Emu Park. Known for its safe swimming beach, colourful murals and scenic coastal walks, it’s a lovely spot to explore at a relaxed pace.
A highlight here is the Centenary of Anzac Memorial Walk — a moving boardwalk that winds along the headland, featuring sculptures, viewing decks and informative interpretive signs. At the end of the walk stands the iconic Singing Ship Sculpture, a striking tribute to Captain James Cook’s exploration of the bay in 1770. Designed to resemble the billowing sails and rigging of the Endeavour, the sculpture produces haunting musical tones as sea breezes pass through concealed organ pipes.
Freshwater Escapes at Upper Stony Creek
For a change of scenery, we headed north to Upper Stony Creek in Byfield State Forest, around 40 kilometres from Yeppoon. This peaceful spot is home to a refreshing freshwater swimming hole, picnic and barbecue areas, and several short walking tracks.
The Venusta Circuit is a great short walk that follows the creek, offering lovely views, rock pools and seasonal wildflowers — including the beautiful Byfield Grevillea in spring.
No visit to Yeppoon is complete without a day trip to Great Keppel Island. A scenic 30-minute ferry ride delivers you to white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or simply relaxing in paradise.
There are bushwalking trails to explore, sheltered bays to discover and a laid-back island vibe that instantly slows the pace. We enjoyed a delicious lunch and a cold drink at Great Keppel Hideaway, the perfect spot to unwind before heading back to the mainland.
Add Yeppoon to Your Queensland Road Trip
From early morning coffees on the esplanade to island adventures, coastal lookouts and rainforest swimming holes, Yeppoon offers a wonderful mix of relaxation and exploration.
Whether you’re passing through Central Queensland or planning a longer stay, this charming seaside town has a way of drawing you in — and tempting you to stay just a little longer.
Yeppoon isn’t just a destination; it’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply and enjoy the simple pleasures of life by the sea.
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