Site to Sights
Paddle Bay
South Molle Island QLD
Category:
Camping Ground
Whitsundays Mackay QLD
Area
QLD: GREATER WHITSUNDAYS
GPS:
-21.0693502, 149.0150071
Nearby Sights/Things To Do
🏝️ Paddle Bay Camping Area – South Molle Island, QLD
📍 Description & Location
Paddle Bay sits on the northern spit of South Molle Island, approximately 6 km ENE of Shute Harbour. This sandy beachfront camping area backs onto lush rainforest and offers sweeping views across the Whitsunday Passage to Daydream Island. The environment is a serene mix of open beach and shaded canopy—ideal for beach-lovers, hikers, and snorkellers.
🕰️ History
Located within Molle Islands National Park (est. 1944), Paddle Bay lies on the traditional lands of the Ngaro people. The site retains its long heritage of tranquil island camping and forms a link in the historic Ngaro Sea Trail. Its natural setting has remained largely unchanged, complementing the restored walking tracks and remnant resort era relics.
🛠️ Facilities and Amenities
Composting (non-flush) toilet
Picnic tables (some sheltered)
Open sandy camping area—no defined tent platforms
Anchoring permitted in the bay
No fresh water, power, showers, or dump point
Open fires and generators prohibited—gas stoves only
Limited mobile coverage
🚙 Vehicle Access
Boat, kayak, or tender access (mid to high tide arrival)
No road or vehicle access—must bring gear from shore
Mainland trolleys recommended for gear transport
Low‑tide walking track connection to inland trails
🛏️ Stay Information (as at July 2025)
Camping style: Informal beach bush camping
Fees: Permit fees apply (displayable park tag required)
Booking: Essential via QPWS; advance bookings strongly recommended
Authority: Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service (Molle Islands NP)
Site Type: Open group campsite (no formal platforms)
Maximum Stay: Up to 12 people total
Pets: Not permitted (National Park policy)
Self-containment: Fully self-contained camping required (bring water, sanitation, food, cooking gear)
Access notes: Tide/weather dictate boat arrival times; after-hours pickups should be pre-arranged
Contact: Book through QPWS Booking Service
⛺ Nearby Campgrounds
Sandy Bay – Western South Molle Island; beach camps with similar amenities
Other Molle Islands – North Molle, Denman, Planton offer additional National Park camping
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Ngaro Sea Trail – Bushwalking and mountain biking tracks linking to Mount Jeffreys & Spion Kop
Snorkelling & reef access – Excellent coral spotting directly from beach
Low-tide walk to Mid Molle Island – Beach link accessible around mid-low tide
Camping and wildlife – Spotting goannas, sea birds, and marine life
🛒 Nearest Supplies
Shute Harbour (~6 km by boat/charter) – Small kiosk, fuel, marine transfer services
Airlie Beach (~20 km) – Full-service supermarkets (IGA, Coles), fuel, medical, and gear shops
Charter operators – Provide boat transfers, gear kits, water drop-offs
⭐ Reviews Summary
👍 Highlights
Beautiful, shaded sandy beach overlooking Daydream Island
Strong access to hikes, snorkelling, and reef experiences
Quiet with space to enjoy nature—maximum 12 campers
Well-connected to inland trails
⚠️ Cautionary Notes
No water, electricity, or showers—complete self-containment needed
Limited mobile signal—prepare for minimal coverage
Scheduled boat arrivals depend on tides/weather—flexible planning essential
No open fires or generators allowed
🚨 Breakdown & Emergency Info
Emergency: Dial 000; marine rescue may be necessary
Mobile signal: Poor; satellite phone or VHF recommended
UHF Channels: Road Channel = 40; Emergency Only = 5
Boat and anchorage safety: Shore landing on sandy beach; anchor securely off bay
Safety tips: Pack reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent; monitor tides and weather
✍️ Final Note
Paddle Bay is a gem for those seeking a quiet, scenic island camping experience. With its shady rainforest backdrop, beachfront tranquillity, access to hiking trails and reef snorkelling, it's perfect for nature lovers comfortable with self-contained camping and flexible logistics. Book early, pack smart, and let the untouched beauty of the Whitsundays reveal itself in calm mornings and moonlit nights.