Rock pools in the rainforest on Papatura Island

Into the bush

270 hectares, a mountain ridge through the middle, and a guide who can tell you what you can eat.

Enormous tree roots in the Papatura rainforest

The island

Thick with tropical rainforest

Papatura Island is approximately 270 hectares, with a small mountain ridge through the middle that's thick with tropical rainforest. That makes for some great walks.

We're happy to send a guide with you to point out things you might miss — our staff's knowledge of bush foods and plants is remarkable, and you'll be amazed at what you can eat or use for medicinal purposes.

See cycads that are hundreds of years old, huge tropical palms, massive rain trees, strangler figs, exotic birds and unusual lizards and insects. There are plenty of small rock pools to soak in and waterfalls to cool off in from the midday summer heat.

Island size: ~270 hectares
Easy option: Dolfin Bae walk
The big one: Length of the island, ~3 hrs return
Guided walk: $10 per person

Two walks to start with. The Dolfin Bae walk is a good starter — a mix of coastal rainforest and beach. For those up to the challenge, walking the length of the island takes about three hours return. Our walks vary in difficulty and most can be done with a reasonable level of fitness.

Swim in a rainforest waterhole

It's a good way to spend the middle of a hot day. Ask the crew and they'll take you up.

Plan your trip