Paradise Bay Eco Escape

A fabulous all-inclusive eco-lodge on a private bay in the beautiful Whitsunday Islands

Only reachable by helicopter from neighbouring Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach, this lodge enjoys an awesome setting in the privately owned Paradise Bay on the Whitsunday islands, part of the tropical Great Barrier Reef. Its 8 simple waterside bungalows are cleverly positioned so you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the stunning bay without seeing your neighbours. Curlews and wallabies wander the deck of a communal gazebo-style beach house, giant green turtles frequent the shallows, and there are day beds and hammocks for you to chill out on.

The lodge’s eco credentials are impeccable – it is self sufficient for fresh water, electricity and waste water disposal, and consumes less energy than an average suburban house. You can visit neighbouring islands and reefs on the lodge’s 34 foot catamaran, or go kayaking, snorkelling and trail walking in nearby national parks. Up to 16 people can stay at any one time, and meals and boat trips are communal, so it's perfect for those who want a few days in tropical heaven, but are happy to socialise.

Highs

• Stunning setting, inaccessible to day trippers, on a ferry-free island
• Daily trips to reefs and islands only reachable by boat
• Friendly and dedicated team, for whom nothing is too much trouble
• Solo travellers will appreciate the absence of single occupancy supplements and the sociable evenings
• The arrival by helicopter is a pretty cool start to a magical experience
• Everything is included (except alcohol during the day) so you don't have to worry about money for the whole of your stay

Lows

• It's a sociable place so not ideal for loners or loved-up couples
• It's very expensive, although the rate does include all meals, day trips and leisure equipment
• The beach is flat and tidal, so you can only swim comfortably from the shore at high tide
• Being solar powered, there are no phones, TVs or air-con (only fans)