Long Island

Description

With 13 kilometres of extensive walking tracks, stunning lookouts, protected bays and beautiful secluded beaches, Long Island is well worth a visit. Much of the island is national park and you can enjoy bush walks, exploring the fringing coral reef, snorkelling off the beaches or relaxing under the coconut palms. There are private bungalows and a few resorts and they recommend you check availability and access details before arriving at the island.

Long Island is nine kilometres in length and the nearest island to the mainland. The Whitsunday islands, officially named the Cumberland group, are part of Australia's largest offshore island chain and the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area. These continental islands were formed when changing sea levels drowned the mainland mountain range in the last Ice Age. Due to the shallow depth and warm temperature of the waters, beautiful fringing reefs have grown up around the islands with outstanding coral cover and variety. The islands support an abundant marine and bird life, and from May to September the region is an important calving ground for migrating humpback whales.