Rocky outcrops are a prominent feature of the Capricorn Coast. Formed in the late Cretaceous era between 79 and 73 million years ago when lava forced through outer layers of rock, these trachyte plugs now provide visitors with scenic viewpoints out to the Keppel Bay islands and the coastal hinterlands. The six coastal reserves of Capricorn Coast National Park also protect a wide range of coastal plant communities including heath lands, open eucalypt forest, vine thickets and open tussock grasslands. Each of the four sections open to visitors has something different to offer.

Bluff Point Section at the southern end of Kemp Beach is a popular picnic spot with superb coastal scenery. It features a range of coastal vegetation from mangroves and heath lands to open eucalypt forests and tussock grasslands and is the largest trachyte plug on the Capricorn Coast. Two lookout points are perfect for spotting marine life below and enjoying cool sea breezes, while the walk provides marvellous views of the hinterland.

Bluff Point Circuit (Grade: Moderate)

Distance: 2.3km return

Time: 1.5 hours

Details: At Bluff Point, enjoy panoramic views of the Capricorn coastline and the Keppel Bay islands on the 2.3km circuit track. Take a steep 600m climb to Turtle Lookout to admire the flooded hill tops of the Keppel Bay islands and spot turtles swimming in the water beneath you. Continue a short distance to Ritamada Outlook for views along the coast and return the way you came or continue along the track through open grasslands with views of the hinterland, and dense dry rainforest to complete the 2.3km circuit.

Picnic and day-use areas

Take a picnic with you to enjoy at any one of the lookouts at Double Head or Bluff Point, or enjoy a barbecue at the picnic facilities provided at Bluff Point—toilets and automatic barbecues are provided just a short walk from the car park. Alternatively pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the beaches nearby.

Viewing wildlife

Although Capricorn Coast National Park is small it protects diverse habitats in a rapidly developing coastal area, making it an important retreat for many different animals. Seabirds like Caspian terns and white-bellied sea-eagles are commonly seen from the lookouts while scrub turkeys, olive-backed sunbirds, varied trillers and spangled drongos may be found in forested areas. Possums and unadorned rock-wallabies may be spotted early in the morning or evening while goannas are more active during the day. Turtles and dolphins may be seen from the lookouts at Bluff Point at any time of day and at low tide you can explore life in rock pools along the beach.

Source: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service