Plantation Bay

Plantation Bay sits on the quiet south-eastern side of Lindeman Island, one of the southern-most anchorages in the Whitsundays. It’s seldom visited, so you’ll often have its long sandy beach to yourself. The bay takes its name from the orchard and vegetable gardens that once supplied the island resort. Today it’s surrounded by Lindeman Islands National Park, with bushwalks, clear shallows and wide views south across the islands. On a self-skippered charter, it’s the perfect place to slow down and get off the beaten track.

Things to do at Plantation Bay

Swim and beachcomb

Plantation Bay has one of the best beaches on Lindeman Island. Take the dinghy in at mid to high tide and spend the afternoon on the sand.

Walk the national park tracks

Lindeman Island has a network of well-maintained walking tracks through rainforest, grassland and open forest. The track from Plantation Bay offers great views to the south before dropping onto the beach.

Climb Mount Oldfield

At 212 m, Mount Oldfield gives you one of the best 360-degree views in the Whitsundays. Go early in the morning for cooler walking and soft light over the islands.

Snorkel the reef

Fringing reef runs along the edges of the bay and is worth exploring when the water is clear.

• Gear: every guest on a Whitsunday Escape charter, including children, gets a mask, fins and snorkel free of charge. Prescription masks and wetsuits can be hired.
• Best views: go on a calm day, when visibility is at its best.
• Stay safe: don’t swim or snorkel between dusk and dawn, in murky water, or where fish are being caught or cleaned.

Paddle the shoreline

The calm, shallow water is ideal for exploring the shoreline by stand up paddle board

Rental Equipment

Best time to visit Plantation Bay

Plantation Bay is a northerly-wind anchorage. It’s at its best in summer, when winds often shift north and the southern islands become an easy overnight stop. Your briefing covers the forecast and the best options for each wind direction, and our team is on the radio if conditions change.

Stinger season runs from about November to May, so wear a stinger suit when you swim.

Where to anchor at Plantation Bay

Plantation Bay. Approved overnight anchorage in north and north-easterly winds. Anchor in sand off the beach, clear of any coral.

Tide tip: the bay is shallow, so plan dinghy trips ashore around the tide. Pull the dinghy well up the beach and keep an eye on the falling tide so you’re not left waiting for the water to return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Plantation Bay? On the south-eastern side of Lindeman Island, in the southern Whitsundays. The island is part of Lindeman Islands National Park.

Is Plantation Bay a good overnight anchorage? Yes, in northerly and north-easterly winds. It’s one of our approved overnight anchorages.

Are there moorings at Plantation Bay? No. Anchor in sand off the beach, clear of any coral.

Can I go walking on Lindeman Island? Yes. The island has several well-maintained national park tracks, including the climb to Mount Oldfield.

Is Plantation Bay good for snorkelling? Yes, in clear conditions. The fringing reef along the edges of the bay is best on calm days.