If you’re dreaming of a tropical coastal escape that combines pristine beaches, island adventures, and laid-back Aussie charm, look no further than Yeppoon, a hidden gem on Queensland’s Capricorn Coast. Just a 30-minute drive from Rockhampton, Yeppoon offers a perfect mix of relaxation, outdoor fun, and stunning scenery.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a weekend road trip, here are the best things to do in Yeppoon that make this coastal town an unmissable Australian destination.
Things to Do in Yeppoon
1. Relax at Yeppoon Main Beach
Yeppoon’s main beach is the heart of the town, a long stretch of golden sand perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or a morning walk. With palm-lined streets, picnic areas, and oceanfront cafes, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the coastal vibes.
Don’t miss: The sunrise views over the Keppel Islands, simply breathtaking!
2. Cool Off at Yeppoon Lagoon
Located right on the beachfront, Yeppoon Lagoon is a free, resort-style infinity pool with sweeping ocean views. It’s one of Yeppoon’s top attractions and perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to relax under the sun.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or around sunset for a peaceful swim and picture-perfect views.
3. Explore the Keppel Islands
Just a short ferry ride from Yeppoon lies the Keppel Islands, a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches. The most popular island, Great Keppel Island, offers snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking — all surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Things to do on Great Keppel Island:
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Snorkel at Shelving Beach or Monkey Beach
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Go kayaking or paddleboarding
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Hike to Leeke’s Beach or Mount Wyndham Lookout
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Enjoy a beach BBQ or stay overnight at an eco-resort
How to get there: Take a ferry from Keppel Bay Marina, the trip takes about 30 minutes.
4. Visit Capricorn Coast National Park
For nature lovers, Capricorn Coast National Park offers a mix of scenic lookouts, coastal trails, and picnic spots. The park stretches from Yeppoon to Emu Park and showcases the region’s volcanic headlands and diverse wildlife.
Highlights include:
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Bluff Point Walking Track: A short hike with panoramic coastal views and frequent turtle sightings.
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Double Head Lookout: Great for photography and watching the sunrise.
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Fan Rock and Rosslyn Bay Lookout: Beautiful spots to relax and enjoy the view.
5. Spend a Day at Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary
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Get up close with Australia’s native animals at Cooberrie Park, located just 20 minutes from Yeppoon. You can hold a koala, feed kangaroos, and see crocodiles, snakes, and exotic birds.
It’s a fantastic experience for kids and adults alike and a great way to learn about wildlife conservation in Queensland.
6. Discover the Singing Ship Monument in Emu Park
A short drive from Yeppoon takes you to Emu Park, home to one of the Capricorn Coast’s most famous landmarks The Singing Ship. This monument commemorates Captain James Cook’s voyage and produces a soft, musical sound as sea breeze flows through its pipes.
Bonus: The coastal boardwalk nearby offers scenic ocean views and photo-worthy spots.
7. Explore Yeppoon’s Boutique Shops & Local Markets
Yeppoon’s town centre is full of charm, with boutique stores, art galleries, and surf shops selling local products.
Don’t miss:
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Yeppoon Community Markets (Saturday mornings): Local produce, crafts, and handmade goods.
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Fig Tree Galleries: For unique artwork from Capricorn Coast artists.
8. Dine and Chill at Beachfront Cafés & Bars
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After a day of adventure, unwind at one of Yeppoon’s many waterfront restaurants or bars. Whether you want fresh seafood, coffee with a view, or a tropical cocktail, you’ll find it here.
Popular spots:
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The Waterline Restaurant: Fine dining near Keppel Bay Marina.
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Lure Living Café: Great coffee and ocean views.
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The Strand Hotel: Ideal for sunset drinks and live music.
9. Visit Koorana Crocodile Farm
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For a unique experience, visit Koorana Crocodile Farm, just 30 minutes from Yeppoon. Home to over 3,000 crocodiles, it offers guided tours, feeding shows, and educational talks about crocodile farming in Australia.
You can even try crocodile meat dishes at the on-site restaurant an adventurous culinary experience!
10. Enjoy Coastal Walks and Lookouts
Yeppoon’s coastline is perfect for walking and cycling, with paths connecting beaches, parks, and viewpoints.
Recommended routes:
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Yeppoon Foreshore: A relaxed walk lined with public art and oceanfront parks.
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Rosslyn Bay to Kemp Beach Trail: A scenic coastal walk with breathtaking views.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Yeppoon
1. Where is Yeppoon located?
Yeppoon is a coastal town in Central Queensland, Australia, about 30 minutes northeast of Rockhampton. It sits along the stunning Capricorn Coast, overlooking the Keppel Islands and the southern Great Barrier Reef.
2. What is Yeppoon best known for?
Yeppoon is best known for its beautiful beaches, island adventures, and laid-back coastal lifestyle. It’s the gateway to Great Keppel Island, home to tropical waters, coral reefs, and incredible snorkeling spots. The town also features the famous Yeppoon Lagoon, a beachfront infinity pool that’s free to access.
3. What are the top things to do in Yeppoon?
Some of the most popular things to do in Yeppoon include:
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Relaxing at the Main Beach
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Swimming at the Lagoon
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Taking a ferry to Great Keppel Island
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Exploring Capricorn Coast National Park
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Visiting Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary
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Strolling the Yeppoon Foreshore and local markets
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Checking out The Singing Ship Monument in Emu Park
4. How do I get to Yeppoon?
The easiest way to reach Yeppoon is by flying into Rockhampton Airport, then driving about 40 minutes to the coast. There are also bus services and car rental options available from Rockhampton.
5. What’s the best time to visit Yeppoon?
The best time to visit Yeppoon is during the dry season (April to October) when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for beach activities. However, Yeppoon enjoys a mild tropical climate year-round, making it a great destination in any season.
6. Are there family-friendly activities?
Absolutely! It is one of Queensland’s most family-friendly beach towns. Kids will love the Yeppoon Lagoon, Keppel Kraken water play park, Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary, and ferry trips to Great Keppel Island. There are also plenty of playgrounds, picnic areas, and safe swimming beaches.
Final Thoughts
From island hopping and wildlife encounters to beach lounging and nature walks, Yeppoon is one of Queensland’s most underrated destinations. Its blend of adventure, tranquility, and tropical beauty makes it ideal for any traveler.
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