Largest of the Molle Islands, offering secluded camping, spectacular lookouts, and ancient Indigenous heritage
Location:
8km northeast of Airlie Beach
Part of:
Molle Islands National Park
Coordinates:
-20.2800, 148.7600
Size:
4.21 square kilometres
Access:
Private boat, water taxi, camping transfers
Best for:
Camping, bushwalking, snorkeling, solitude
About South Molle Island
South Molle Island is a 4.21 square kilometre continental island located in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands, approximately 8 kilometres northeast of Shute Harbour. As the largest island in the Molle Group, South Molle is part of Molle Islands National Park and offers a secluded wilderness experience with 16 kilometres of bushwalking and mountain biking tracks, spectacular lookouts, and pristine fringing reefs.
The island was named in 1815 by Lieutenant Charles Jefferys after Colonel George James Molle, the then Lieutenant Governor of New South Wales. South Molle Island rises to 190 metres at Mount Jeffreys and features a diverse landscape of hilly grasslands, pockets of dense rainforest, eucalypt forests, and multiple sheltered bays. The island is connected to Mid Molle Island by a sandbar that can be walked across at low tide, making South Molle unique among the Whitsunday Islands.
South Molle Island holds significant cultural importance as part of the traditional lands of the Ngaro people, who call the island Whyrriba, meaning "stone axe". The island is home to one of Australia's oldest Indigenous rock quarries, where the Ngaro people extracted unique stone for making tools and weapons. Archaeological evidence shows this stone was traded as far south as Rockhampton, demonstrating extensive trade networks that existed thousands of years ago.
From 1937 until 2017, South Molle Island was home to a popular resort on Bauer Bay at the northern end of the island. The resort was destroyed by Cyclone Debbie in March 2017 and remains closed and abandoned. Today, the island offers a peaceful escape from the busier island resorts, with two national park camping areas and pristine natural environments accessible only by private boat or chartered transfer services.
What to Expect at South Molle Island
South Molle Island offers an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of the Whitsundays. The island's main anchorage at Bauer Bay on the northern end provides sheltered waters protected from prevailing south-easterly winds, making it a favourite stop for bareboat charters and overnight sailing tours exploring the region. The abandoned resort buildings sit behind the bay, slowly being reclaimed by nature, creating an eerie yet fascinating contrast to the pristine natural surroundings.
The island's landscape is characterised by steep, grassy hills dotted with hoop pine forests in the gullies, eucalyptus forests on rocky slopes, and patches of vine forest throughout. Walking tracks wind through varying terrain, from dense rainforest canopy to open grasslands with expansive views across the Whitsunday Passage. Wildlife is abundant, with regular sightings of lorikeets, bush curlews, sea eagles, and other native birdlife. The fringing coral reefs surrounding the island attract sea turtles, rays, and colourful tropical fish.
Unlike nearby Daydream Island or Hamilton Island, South Molle Island offers solitude and natural beauty without tourist facilities, shops, or restaurants. Visitors should expect a true wilderness camping experience, bringing all necessary supplies and equipment. The island's remoteness and lack of facilities create a unique opportunity to experience the Whitsundays as early explorers would have found them, with pristine beaches, clear waters, and untouched natural environments.
How to Get to South Molle Island
Camping Transfers
Several operators offer camping transfer services from Shute Harbour to South Molle Island's camping areas at Sandy Bay and Paddle Bay. These services include boat transfers and optional camping equipment hire, making it accessible for visitors without their own boat. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes each way, with transfers typically departing in the morning and returning in the afternoon or several days later depending on booking.
Private Boat or Yacht Charter
South Molle Island is approximately 30 minutes by boat from Airlie Beach or Shute Harbour. Bareboat charter operators frequently use Bauer Bay as an overnight anchorage, as it provides excellent protection and convenient proximity to other Whitsunday Islands. Private boat owners can anchor in designated areas, with moorings available at Bauer Bay. The island is also accessible from Hamilton Island, approximately 14 kilometres to the east.
Water Taxi
Water taxi services operate on-demand transfers from Airlie Beach to South Molle Island. This option works well for day visitors or campers wanting flexible pickup times. Book in advance and confirm exact pickup locations and times.
Sailing Tours
Some overnight sailing tours anchor near South Molle Island for snorkeling and swimming stops, though most don't allow extended island exploration. A few operators offer mountain biking and hiking experiences on South Molle Island as part of guided day tours. If visiting South Molle Island is a priority, confirm with tour operators before booking.
Things to Do at South Molle Island
Bushwalking
Explore 16 kilometres of walking tracks ranging from 2 to 10 kilometres. Popular walks include Mount Jeffreys (4.2km one-way from Bauer Bay), Spion Kop Lookout (1-2 hours return), and Balancing Rock (30-40 minutes return).
Mountain Biking
South Molle Island is one of the few Whitsunday Islands where mountain biking is permitted on designated shared tracks. The terrain is rated easy to moderate, suitable for beginner and intermediate riders.
Snorkeling
Fringing coral reefs surround the island, with the best snorkeling at Sandy Bay and Paddle Bay. Look for sea turtles, rays, colourful reef fish, and vibrant coral gardens. Bring your own equipment as there are no rental facilities.
Camping
Camp at Sandy Bay (southern end) or Paddle Bay (northern end) with basic facilities including picnic tables and toilets. Permits required and strictly monitored to keep visitor numbers low. Book through Queensland National Parks.
Walk to Mid Molle Island
At low tide, walk across the sandbar from Paddle Bay to Mid Molle Island. This unique feature makes South Molle the only Whitsunday Island where you can walk to a neighbouring island. Check tide times before attempting.
Photography
Capture stunning 360-degree views from Mount Jeffreys, dramatic cliff faces at Spion Kop, abandoned resort ruins, and pristine beaches. The island offers diverse photographic opportunities from landscapes to wildlife.
Popular Walks & Lookouts
Mount Jeffreys Summit
Distance: 4.2km one-way from Bauer Bay
Duration: 1.5-2 hours each way
Difficulty: Moderate climb
The highest point on South Molle Island at 190 metres, Mount Jeffreys offers spectacular 360-degree views across the Whitsunday Islands, Whitsunday Passage, and mainland coast. The track winds through varying terrain with a gradual slope and moderate climb.
Spion Kop Lookout
Distance: Approximately 2-3km from Bauer Bay
Duration: 1-2 hours return
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
A dramatic vertical cliff face at the northeastern tip of the island. The track winds through rainforest and grassy hills, ending at a boardwalk with sweeping views of Bauer Bay, Mid and North Molle Islands, Hook Island, and the Whitsunday Islands.
Balancing Rock
Distance: Short walk from Bauer Bay
Duration: 30-40 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy
Perched in eucalypt forest, Balancing Rock provides views across South Molle Island's diverse vegetation communities including patchwork grasslands, rainforest pockets, and coastal areas. Take care when climbing as rocky crevices can be slippery when wet.
Sandy Bay Track
Distance: 4.4km one-way from Sandy Bay
Duration: 2 hours walking time
Difficulty: Easy with one moderate climb
Features rainforest, open eucalypt forest, and native grasslands studded with grasstrees. The track connects Sandy Bay camping area to Paddle Bay, passing through diverse ecosystems with coastal she-oaks lining the beach margins.
Nearby Islands
Mid Molle Island
Connected to South Molle by a sandbar walkable at low tide. This 25-acre island offers additional walking tracks and secluded beaches. Part of Molle Islands National Park.
Daydream Island
Also known as West Molle Island, located just west of South Molle. Home to a luxury resort with full facilities, restaurants, and activities. Regular ferry services from Airlie Beach.
Hook Island
Second largest island in the Whitsundays, visible from Spion Kop Lookout. Known for excellent snorkeling, bushwalking, and camping. Popular stop for sailing tours and bareboat charters.
Whitsunday Island
Largest island in the Whitsundays, home to Whitehaven Beach. Approximately 10km southeast of South Molle Island. Accessible by day trips from Airlie Beach.
Essential Information
Best Time to Visit
South Molle Island can be visited year-round, with the best conditions during the dry season from April to October. Winter months (June to September) offer comfortable temperatures for hiking and camping, with less humidity and minimal rainfall. Summer (November to May) brings warmer weather and marine stinger season, though the island remains accessible for camping and day visits. Book camping permits well in advance during peak season (June to September) as sites are limited and strictly monitored.
What to Bring
For camping: Complete camping kit including tent, sleeping gear, cooking equipment (gas or fuel stoves only - no open fires), food and water for entire stay, rubbish bags (pack out all waste), first aid kit, torch or headlamp, and insect repellent. Camping equipment hire available through transfer operators.
For day visits: Plenty of water, snacks or lunch, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, rash vest), sturdy hiking shoes, snorkeling gear, swimwear, dry bags for valuables, and camera. Optional: binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
For walking tracks: Closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip, at least 2 litres of water per person, electrolyte drinks for longer walks, hat, sunscreen, and lightweight rain jacket.
Important Notes
- No shops, restaurants, or facilities beyond basic camping amenities - bring all supplies
- No mobile phone coverage on most of the island - plan accordingly and inform others of your itinerary
- Camping permits required - book online through Queensland National Parks before arrival
- Open fires and ash-producing stoves prohibited - gas or fuel stoves only
- Marine stinger season November to May - wear protective clothing when swimming
- Crocodiles may be present in northern Queensland waters - never swim alone and obey warning signs
- Pack out all rubbish - leave no trace principles apply throughout the national park
- Abandoned resort area is unsafe and not open to the public - stay on designated walking tracks
- Indigenous rock quarry is a sacred site - view respectfully and do not remove any materials
- Check tide times if planning to walk to Mid Molle Island - sandbar only accessible 2 hours either side of low tide
- Weather can change quickly - monitor conditions and have contingency plans for boat pickups
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to South Molle Island?
South Molle Island is accessible by private boat, water taxi, or camping transfer services from Shute Harbour or Airlie Beach. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. There is no public ferry service to South Molle Island.
Can you stay overnight on South Molle Island?
Yes, camping is available at Sandy Bay and Paddle Bay with basic facilities including picnic tables and toilets. Permits are required and must be booked in advance through Queensland National Parks. The resort is permanently closed and not available for accommodation.
What happened to South Molle Island Resort?
The South Molle Island Resort was destroyed by Cyclone Debbie in March 2017 and remains closed and abandoned. The resort operated from 1937 until 2017 but has not been rebuilt. The abandoned buildings are not open to the public and should not be entered.
Can you walk to other islands from South Molle?
Yes, you can walk to Mid Molle Island via a sandbar that is accessible approximately 2 hours either side of low tide. South Molle is the only Whitsunday Island where you can walk to a neighbouring island.
What is the best walk on South Molle Island?
The most popular walks are to Mount Jeffreys (190m) for 360-degree views and Spion Kop Lookout for dramatic cliff-top views. Mount Jeffreys takes 1.5-2 hours each way from Bauer Bay, while Spion Kop is a 1-2 hour return walk.
Is there snorkeling at South Molle Island?
Yes, fringing coral reefs surround South Molle Island with good snorkeling at Sandy Bay and Paddle Bay. You'll need to bring your own equipment as there are no rental facilities on the island.
Whitsundays Tours & Experiences
South Molle Island is accessible via private charters and camping transfers. For the full range of Whitsundays experiences including sailing tours, day trips, and island hopping adventures, explore tours departing from Airlie Beach.
Good to Know
Largest island in the Molle Group (4.21 square kilometres)
16km of bushwalking and mountain biking tracks
Only Whitsunday Island with sandbar walk to another island
Part of Molle Islands National Park
Home to ancient Indigenous rock quarry
Named after Colonel George James Molle in 1815
Highest point: Mount Jeffreys at 190 metres
Resort operated 1937-2017, destroyed by Cyclone Debbie
Type: Continental Island
Location: Molle Islands National Park, Whitsundays, Queensland
Best For: Wilderness camping, bushwalking, solitude, snorkeling