Dunk Island Operating Hours & Seasonal Closure: What to Know for Late 2026
Planning a visit to Dunk Island before the end of the year? Here’s a breakdown of what’s open, when it’s open, and what changes to expect over the coming months.
October 2026: Queensland School Holidays
During the Queensland School Holidays, Dunk Island will operate daily from Wednesday 7 October through to the end of October.
This means the Dunk Island Ferry, Dunk Island Restaurant and Beachfront Eco Tents will all be available throughout the school holiday period.
After October, operations return to the regular Wednesday to Sunday schedule.
November 2026: Reduced Seasonal Hours
From Monday 2 November 2026, Dunk Island moves into a reduced seasonal operating model.
Ferry & Restaurant
The Dunk Island Ferry and Dunk Island Restaurant will operate Saturdays and Sundays only from 2 November through to Sunday 27 December 2026.
Beachfront Eco Tents
The Beachfront Eco Tents will be closed from Monday 2 November 2026. The Eco Tents are expected to reopen in autumn 2027.
Ferry Timetable (From 2 November 2026)
The ferry schedule will also change from 2 November:
| Route | Departure Times |
|---|---|
| Mission Beach → Dunk Island | 8:45am, 12:30pm |
| Dunk Island → Mission Beach | 11:30am, 2:30pm, 3:30pm |
The ferry departs from Clump Point Boat Ramp at Mission Beach. A free shuttle bus is available from Mission Beach accommodation — see our Dunk Island Ferry guide for pickup times and locations.
December 2026 – Easter 2027: Seasonal Closure
From Monday 28 December 2026, visitor operations on Dunk Island will pause for the seasonal closure.
During this period:
- The Dunk Island Ferry will not operate
- The Dunk Island Restaurant will be closed
- Beachfront Eco Tents will remain closed
The closure will run through to Easter 2027.
This break allows the Dunk Island team to carry out site improvements and sand nourishment works as part of ongoing investment in the island ahead of the 2027 season.
Bayside Campsites Remain Open
The Bayside Campsites remain open year-round, including during the seasonal closure.
Campers will need to arrange their own boat transport to the island during the closure period when the official ferry is not running. Water taxis and private charters are available from Mission Beach — see our Dunk Island transport options for alternatives.
Campers must be fully self-sufficient with food, water and cooking equipment.
Quick Reference: Dunk Island Operating Schedule Late 2026
| Period | Ferry & Restaurant | Eco Tents | Campsites |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7–31 October 2026 | Daily (school holidays) | Open | Open |
| 1 November 2026 | Wed–Sun | Closing | Open |
| 2 November – 27 December 2026 | Sat–Sun only | Closed | Open |
| 28 December 2026 – Easter 2027 | Closed | Closed | Open |
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning a Dunk Island trip before the seasonal closure, October offers the most availability — with daily operations during school holidays and the Eco Tents still open.
November and December are limited to weekends only, so book ahead if you’re set on a specific date.
For the latest updates and booking information:
- Stay on Dunk Island – Beachfront Eco Tents
- Dunk Island Camping – Bayside Campsites
- Dunk Island Ferry – Timetables and booking
- Dunk Island Restaurant – Opening hours and menu
FAQs
Is Dunk Island open in November 2026?
Yes, but on a reduced schedule. The ferry and restaurant operate Saturdays and Sundays only from 2 November. Beachfront Eco Tents are closed. Bayside Campsites remain open.
When does Dunk Island close for the season?
Visitor operations (ferry, restaurant) pause from Monday 28 December 2026 through to Easter 2027.
Can I still camp on Dunk Island during the seasonal closure?
Yes. The Bayside Campsites are open year-round. You’ll need to arrange your own boat transport during the closure period.
When do the Beachfront Eco Tents reopen?
The Eco Tents are expected to reopen in autumn 2027. Check the Stay on Dunk Island page for updates.
What are the ferry times from November 2026?
From 2 November: Mission Beach to Dunk Island at 8:45am and 12:30pm. Dunk Island to Mission Beach at 11:30am, 2:30pm and 3:30pm. Saturdays and Sundays only.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| October 2026 | Daily operations (school holidays) |
| November – December 2026 | Sat–Sun only (ferry & restaurant) |
| Seasonal Closure | 28 December 2026 – Easter 2027 |
| Campsites | Open year-round |
| Ferry Bookings | queenslandtraveller.com/dunk-island-ferry/ |
| Eco Tent Bookings | queenslandtraveller.com/stay-on-dunk-island/ |
