Whitsunday Islands, Australia: Hook Island
Hook Island is the second largest Island in the Whitsunday group; it is 55 square kilometres of National Park. Hook Peak is the highest point on the Island standing at 459 metres above sea level. The Island is uninhabited apart from a small resort on the southern end of the Island. There are cabins, dormitory rooms and campsites at the resort. There is also a bar, a coffee shop / restaurant and barbecue areas.Hook Island first appeared on Admiralty charts in 1863, it has a wild and rugged landscape which would not have changed much from that time, to now. Two large inlets cut into the southern end of the Island. This provides anchorage for yachts, but they need to be secured tightly here, as the spot is very tidal.
Hook has some spectacular marine life; it is an ideal place for diving and snorkelling. It also has an underwater observatory for visitors who wish to view the reef animals, plants and coral within their own habitat, but do not wish to get wet themselves. The observatory takes viewers down 9 metres below the ocean surface and experts are on hand to share their knowledge about the view which constantly unfolds before your eyes.
Hook does not have many walking tracks, but one of the few does lead to Butterfly Bay which is a little bit special. At certain times of the year, Butterflies swarm around the shores, and the Bay is also butterfly shaped.
Hook Island is a wonderful example of wild, unspoilt beauty.