Coconut Beach camping area, Cape Upstart National Park

🏞️ Coconut Beach Camping Area, Cape Upstart National Park (Guthalungra, QLD)

📍 Description & Location

Nestled at the southern end of Coconut Bay, this remote bush‑camping site offers a pristine, sandy escape within Cape Upstart National Park. Accessible only by boat in good weather, it provides a true off‑grid experience among coastal dunes and granite headlands for adventurous campers.

🏞️ History & Heritage

Part of the traditional lands of the Juru people, Cape Upstart holds deep cultural significance. The national park, established in 1969, preserves this sacred landscape, where middens and ceremonial sites remain integral to Juru heritage.

🚿 Facilities & Amenities

• No facilities of any kind (toilets, showers, bins)

• Camping permitted directly on sandy beach

• No open fires allowed; fuel stoves only

• Anchoring allowed; ideal for experienced boaties and campers

• Beware of marine stingers and crocodiles—advice varies seasonally

• Pack in/pack out rubbish policy; must carry all waste away

🚗 Vehicle Access

• Boat access only—launch at Molongle Bay (south of Gumlu) or Elliott River (Guthalungra)

• Not vehicle‑accessible; best suited to tidal planning and navigation skills

📝 Stay Information (as at July 2025)

• Fees apply – requires camping permit for national park (book online)

• Booking: Essential – camping permit tag must be displayed

• Authority: Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service

• Site Type: Remote beach bush-camp

• Maximum stay: Not stated; common use is short stays

• Pet Policy: No pets allowed

• Self-containment: Essential—no water or waste services

• Access notes: No campers under 18 without adult supervision; no generators or wood fires

• Contact: Whitsunday QPWS (07) 4946 7022

🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• Guthalungra Roadhouse (~30 km SE): Fuel and takeaway meals

• Gumlu Tavern (~35 km S): Country atmosphere, meals, cold drinks

• Bowen River Hotel (~50 km S): Historic pub and hearty eats

🏕️ Nearby Campgrounds

• No other camps within the park

• Guthalungra Rest Area (~30 km inland): Free, roadside overnight rest site

• Gumlu Tavern Caravan Park (~35 km): Powered sites and cabins

🌿 Nearby Attractions

• Cape Upstart: Granite headlands and coastal walking trails

• Elliott River: Estuary fishing and birdwatching

• Molongle Bay: Launch point and scenic waters

🏪 Nearest Supplies

• Guthalungra Roadhouse (~30 km): Fuel, basic groceries, limited meals

• Gumlu (~35 km): Service station and general store

• Bowen (~50 km): Comprehensive resupply (supermarkets, fuel, etc.)

⭐ Reviews Summary

Positives:

• Stunning and secluded beach camping in a unique cultural landscape

• No crowds and natural scenery perfect for photography and solitude

Cautions:

• Access only by boat and highly weather-dependent

• Not suitable for those needing amenities—no toilets, water, or shelters

• Risks include marine stingers and crocodiles; adhere to safety advice

🆘 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• Emergency: 000

• Mobile signal: None—satellite communication recommended

• Fuel: Available at Guthalungra and Gumlu

• UHF Channels:

  • Road Channel = 40

  • Emergency Only = 5

• Tip: Check tides and boat ramps before heading in; bring full gear and offshore navigation tools

📝 Final Note

Coconut Beach is a unique, serene slice of Queensland coastline—but only for seasoned, self-sufficient campers. With none of the usual comforts, it requires careful planning, strong weather sense, and respect for cultural and natural sensitivity. If you're geared up for beachside camping by boat in a truly wild location, this will be one of the most memorable camps in the Whitsundays region.