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Iconic Whitsundays island to reopen after a $583 million makeover

Eleanor Edström Eleanor Edström
After more than a decade of closure, Lindeman Island is ready to reclaim its title as Queensland’s go-to holiday hot spot. 

The tides are turning in the Whitsundays. After more than 10 years of tropical time-out, Lindeman Island is gearing up for a dazzling comeback.  

A thriving tropical playground for Aussie families and international holidaymakers in the 1980s and ‘90s, the former Club Med paradise has remained dormant since closing its doors in 2012 following the devastation of Cyclone Yasi. Now, Lindeman Island is being revitalised as a redefined five-star resort that celebrates the Whitsundays’ natural beauty. We’re betting it may even give the nearby and ever-popular Hamilton Island a run for its money. 

The vision

lindeman island opening resort
Lindeman Island closed in 2012 after being struck by a cyclone.

Asia-Pacific hotel management company La Vie Hotels & Resorts – the team behind Hobart’s The Islington and 202 Elizabeth in Surry Hills, Sydney – has recently secured the management rights to the highly anticipated Queensland resort. The company will secure an international luxury brand for the island, which is expected to be announced in 2026. Also spearheading the multi-million-dollar redevelopment is Well Smart Group, a Singapore-based investment company that acquired Lindeman Island in 2023. 

Early plans tease a 200-room resort with nine additional suites, multiple dining concepts, a 50-metre jetty, a luxury spa and gym, alongside conference and wedding facilities. The island destination will also feature eco-friendly infrastructure and a solar farm.  

La Vie Chief Executive Officer, Jerry Xu, recognises the responsibility that comes with restoring a destination that holds such a special place in Australian tourism history.

“Lindeman Island is more than a tropical paradise – it is a cornerstone of Queensland’s tourism heritage. First developed for visitors in the 1920s, Lindeman became one of the earliest Whitsunday islands to offer accommodation, paving the way for Queensland’s rise as a global holiday destination," he comments.

What to expect

Lindeman Island new hotel bedroom
The new Lindeman Island resort will have 200 rooms and nine suites.

The hotel project aims to restore Lindeman Island to its former glory while embracing sustainability principles and an elevated, contemporary take on luxury. Phase one of the redevelopment is estimated to cost $40–50 million, part of a broader $583 million master plan.  

Key features of the Lindeman Island revival include:

  • A five-star hotel with 200 accommodation rooms and nine suites
  • Multiple restaurants and bars
  • A swimming pool
  • A luxury spa and gym
  • Conference and wedding/event spaces
  • Staff accommodation and eco-friendly infrastructure, including a solar farm
  • A new 50-metre jetty

The initial phase of the project is expected to be completed in 2026, with the resort planned to open shortly after. Plans for the master plan feature ecotourism facilities, including native vegetation restoration and renewable energy initiatives. 

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A boost for Queensland tourism

new Lindeman Island resort
The first phase of the Lindeman Island redevelopment will cost $40–50 million.

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO, Craig Davidson, says the Lindeman Island transformation marks a significant step in reviving one of Australia’s most iconic island destinations.  

“Our distinctive, pristine islands have helped shape Queensland’s standing as a global tourism leader and we are excited to see the revitalisation of Lindeman Island which has always been an iconic part of Queensland’s tourism story," he says. 

“This important investment, breathing new life into Lindeman Island, will bolster Queensland’s international reputation as a world-class holiday destination providing an exceptional visitor experience." 

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Eleanor Edström
Eleanor Edström is Australian Traveller’s Associate Editor. Previously a staff writer at Signature Luxury Travel & Style and Vacations & Travel magazines, she's a curious wordsmith with a penchant for conservation, adventure, the arts and design. She discovered her knack for storytelling much earlier, however – penning mermaid sagas in glitter ink at age seven. Proof that her spelling has since improved, she holds an honours degree in English and philosophy, and a French diploma from the University of Sydney. Off duty, you’ll find her pirouetting between Pilates and ballet classes, or testing her friends’ patience with increasingly obscure vocabulary.
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From reef to rainforest: Discover the best Port Douglas experiences

(Credit: TTNQ)

    Lucy Cousins Lucy Cousins
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    Ancient rainforest, coral reefs, laid-back luxury and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Port Douglas offers a side of Australia unlike anywhere else.

    Mornings in Port Douglas start with a beautiful symphony. As day breaks, the lyrical calls of Rainbow Lorikeets, cries of the sulphur-crested cockatoos and rhythmic Coral Sea waves create a colourful soundtrack for Tropical North Queensland’s sunrise. If there’s one place in Australia that captures the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back living, it’s here. This small, seaside village has just enough glamour to feel indulgent and just enough barefoot charm to make you feel like you’ve escaped the chaos of everyday life.

    Whether you’re diving into the warm waters on Four Mile Beach or enjoying an ice-cold drink and a Barramundi burger overlooking the marina, Port Douglas offers more than just a seaside holiday.

    Local gourmet goodies

    Nautilus restaurant port douglas
    Nab an open-air table beneath a canopy of palms at Nautilus. (Image: Toby Stanley)

    The tropical food scene in Port Douglas is influenced by the rich agricultural regions surrounding it, with fresh produce arriving daily from nearby farms and tropical growers across the region. At Nautilus – a hidden, palm-fringed restaurant just off Macrossan Street – the menu showcases regional flavours. Its Signature Nautilus Mango Soufflé is a long-time favourite.

    Nearby, Hi-Tide by the Beach offers a relaxed way beachfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea. From crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls to wild barramundi and a volcanic hot stone steak, taste the diverse flavours of Tropical North Queensland.

    Visitors can also explore the region’s local markets. Port Douglas Markets offers artisan products and tropical treats each Sunday, while the Saturday morning Mossman Markets is the place for fresh local produce from the surrounding farming community.

    Just outside of Port Douglas, Ospreys at Thala Beach Nature Reserve has one of the region’s most memorable dining outlooks. Perched on a small headland between rainforest and sea, take in views across the coastline and mountains while you dine. The seasonal menu highlights local seafood, tropical fruits and native ingredients sourced from across the region

    Travelling with young humans

    Hartley's Crocodile Adventures port douglas
    Catch a spectacle at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Port Douglas caters for all types of visitors, but families especially love the walkable streets, wide beaches and range of activities nearby. An attraction that never fails to delight all ages is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park with some of the region’s largest crocodiles. Here, you’ll also find koalas, cassowaries, turtles and other Australian wildlife.

    For something slower paced, sit back and enjoy a tranquil visit aboard the historic Lady Douglas River Cruise. Glide along the calm waters of Dickson Inlet, keeping an eye out for birdlife and estuarine crocodiles along the mangroves. Children can take part in activity sheets onboard and even have the opportunity to help steer the boat.

    This region is also deeply connected to Indigenous culture, and a Dreamtime Walk is one way to learn about it. Discover the stories, traditions and connection to Country of the local Kuku Yalanji people from local Indigenous guides, while exploring the rainforest and waters of Mossman Gorge.

    Exploring local waterways

    Coya Beach port douglas
    Walk along the peaceful Cooya Beach. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Join a guided tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to explore the peaceful Cooya Beach. Led by deeply knowledgeable local Aboriginal guides, try seasonal local bush tucker, take in the beautiful landscape and gain insight into the history, culture and traditions of this land.

    Surrounded by dense canopy and ancient species, nearby Hartley’s Creek Falls are at their finest after rain. These beautiful falls are reached via a lush rainforest walk that winds through creek crossings, towering greenery and moss-covered boulders.

    To swim where the locals swim, head out past local farms and into the foothills of the Mossman River to Shannonvale – a low-key freshwater swimming hole surrounded by sun-warmed rocks and deep pockets of clear water. It’s a quiet area to spend a few hours retreating from the world.

    Adrenaline adventures

    Sailaway Port Douglas
    Take to the ocean with Sailaway Port Douglas. (Credit: TTNQ)

    One of the most high-octane ways to enjoy the nature of Tropical North Queensland is white-water rafting down the impressive Barron River. With Grade two and Grade three rapids, expect plenty of splashing, some teamwork, and a few moments where everyone in the raft screams and laughs at the same time.

    Join Back Country Bliss for the most unique floating experience you’ll ever encounter. Head into the rainforest and float along the serene Mossman River on your individual board, taking in the sights and sounds of the ancient landscape around you.

    If you prefer ocean swimming, Sailaway Port Douglas explores the idyllic Low Isles and the outer reef on their snorkelling tours. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from above or below and look out for coral gardens, giant clams, colourful reef fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles.

    For land-lovers, the Devil’s Thumb is a challenging but rewarding hike with incredible views over the coast and endless cane fields. This 10km return hike will take around six to eight hours, so leave a whole day and pack snacks!

    Experiences that give back

    Skyrail Rainforest Cableway port douglas experiences
    See the rainforest from above on The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (Credit: TTNQ)

    With two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region – it’s not surprising Tropical North Queensland is a hub for eco-tourism. The stunning Daintree Ecolodge was founded on the principles of minimising environmental impact, supporting the local community and teaching guests about the local Indigenous culture. Their elevated rainforest-style ‘bayans’ are tucked among the trees, bringing nature into every part of a guest’s stay.

    Further down the coast, the luxury bungalows and treetop hideaways of Thala Beach Nature Reserve are dotted across 45 acres of protected headland, forest and beach. The property’s design intentionally preserves large areas of native vegetation and beachfront ecosystem, while conserving the surrounding habitat. The private beach and various swimming pools offer a cool retreat from the heat of the day, while the main lodge offers the perfect place to read and relax.

    The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a 7.5-kilometre cableway between Cairns and nearby Kuranda, has won multiple tourism and environmental awards. It’s also the first tourism attraction in the world to achieve Platinum EarthCheck Accreditation, for its long-term environmental management and sustainability initiatives.

    Start planning your Port Douglas adventure at tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au.