This hidden Whitsundays island is getting a luxury eco-lodge

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

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

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’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.