This hidden Whitsundays island is getting a luxury lodge

Emily MurphyBy Emily Murphy
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A world-class eco-lodge is set to redefine sustainable luxury in the Whitsundays.

Hook Island, one of the Whitsunday Islands’ most ruggedly beautiful gems, is poised for a transformative revival. After over a decade of closure from being severely impacted by cyclones, the 58-square-kilometre island will soon welcome visitors back with the unveiling of plans for a world-class eco-lodge that promises to set a new benchmark for sustainable luxury in Australia.

Expected to open in 2027, the eco-lodge will cover 9.3 hectares and feature 39 biophilic cabins, world-class dining, forest eco pools, wellness spaces and adventure activities – all designed to immerse guests in the island’s natural splendour.

A vision rooted in nature

Hook Island snorkellers, The Whitsundays
The project aims to restore Hook Island’s wild charm. (Image: Tourism Whitsundays)

Led by Epochal Hotels’ chief executive officer Glenn Piper and a group of investors, the project aims to restore Hook Island’s wild charm while honouring its delicate ecosystem.

“Hook Island is a truly spectacular part of the world – its raw beauty deserves a sanctuary that both preserves and celebrates every facet of its charm," Piper says.

Partnering with globally acclaimed design firm Luxury Frontiers, known for eco-luxury projects like Madwaleni River Lodge in South Africa and Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort in Mexico , the resort embraces barefoot luxury design principles. Expect interiors inspired by the island’s vibrant marine life, earthy landscapes and tropical forests.

Luxury Frontiers managing partner and chief design officer Graeme Labe said they are privileged to bring this responsible eco-tourism destination to life.

“We’re revitalising a beautiful location with a design ethos that aligns with an inspired vision for purposeful, adventurous travel," Labe says.

“The design is grounded in the island’s natural, social and historical elements to create an authentic sense of place."

What to expect

Hook Island eco lodge render
The beach club will be the place to be all year round.

The Hook Island eco-lodge will offer six distinct accommodation types ranging from beachfront to forest rooms, and each will have its own unique design.

Key amenities will include a beach club with all-day dining, a bar, outdoor fire pit, pool and lounging deck, a tranquil Nordic Cycle forest spa and eco pool, a clifftop fine-dining restaurant with sweeping views of Stingray Bay, an explorer’s lounge celebrating the island’s history and family-friendly spaces such as a lounge, yoga pavilion and kids adventure club that encourages nature play and exploration.

Sustainability at the core

Hook Island aerial shot, The Whitsundays
Hook Island’s eco-lodge will be a commitment to conservation. (Image: Tourism Whitsundays)

Hook Island’s eco-lodge will be more than just a luxury retreat; it’s a commitment to conservation. The development will utilise cyclone-resistant, modular architecture, guided by extensive tree surveys to protect native flora and fauna. Water-efficient systems, recycled wastewater irrigation and eco-friendly appliances will be integral to daily operations.

Andrew Powell MP, Minister for the Environment and Tourism welcomed the project.

“This development will allow visitors from around Queensland, Australia and the globe to experience this natural beauty up close," Powell says.

After being closed for over a decade, Hook Island is set to reemerge as a beacon of sustainable tourism. With its blend of wild beauty, innovative design and eco-conscious ethos, this is one Whitsunday escape that will be worth the wait.

Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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An insider’s guide to Noosa’s best-kept winter secrets

    Lucy CousinsBy Lucy Cousins
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    As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

    As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

    Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

    Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

    Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach
    Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

    Where to eat in Noosa

    Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

    There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

    There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

    diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter
    Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

    Where to stay in Noosa

    Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

    There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

    For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

    a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa
    Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

    Things to do on land

    There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

    A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

    Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

    woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter
    Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

    Things to do in the water

    Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

    You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

    Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

    For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

    women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter
    Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

    Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.