St Helena Island National Park Brisbane

The fascinating history of St Helena Island is at your fingertips

Enjoy a virtual tour of a colonial-era prison—see the island stockade from the air, and learn about a notorious prisoner—all without leaving your seat! Photo credit: © Queensland Government

Visiting St Helena safely

    Getting there and getting around

    St Helena Island is 7km north-east of Manly, a suburb of Brisbane, and 45 minutes by boat. Commercial operators provide boat services to St Helena Island departing from Manly and New Farm. See the tourism information links for details. The Moreton Bay Environmental Education Centre operates its own service to the island for school groups. Book through the centre—contact details are listed under tourism information links.

    Private boats may be moored off the island. Consider the tides when anchoring in shallow water.

    The southern corner of the island is open to the public without a tour guide. The rest of the island, including the prison ruins, is a restricted access area and entry is by guided tour only.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    There are wheelchair-accessible toilets on the island. The grassy paths and crushed coral roads around the island are not easily accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. Contact the park office for further information about accessibility.

    Staying safe

    For your safety and to protect the ruins, please stay behind the rope barriers. Please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

    Before you visit

    Essentials to bring

    It is recommended that visitors bring a hat, sunscreen, walking shoes, insect repellent and drinking water.

    Opening hours

    The national park is open during daylight hours. Camping and fishing are not permitted.

    Permits and fees

    According to tour operators.

    Pets

    Domestic animals are not permitted in St Helena Island National Park.

    Climate and weather

    The Brisbane region enjoys a mild, subtropical climate. The average daily temperature range is 22 to 30 degrees Celsius in summer and 12 to 22 degrees Celsius in winter.

    Fuel and supplies

    There are no supplies on the island. Fuel and supplies are available in Brisbane.

    For more information see the tourism information links.