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Sydney, New South Wales to Heron Island, Queensland from $154: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sydney, Australia
to
Heron Island, Australia

How to Get from Sydney to Heron Island: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$154 by trainBest price
1168 kmDistance
8h 57m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sydney to Heron Island with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  57m
Estimated price
$201-507
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Drive
Average Duration
24h  51m
Estimated price
$154-1454
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1168 km
Duration: 8h 57m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
11h  48m
Estimated price
$213-419
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
28h  56m
Estimated price
$217-2010
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
11h  58m
Estimated price
$225-524
Company
various
Bus
Train
Drive
Average Duration
34h  56m
Estimated price
$2011-2012
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Traveling From Sydney to Heron Island

Your journey from the bustling urban life of Sydney to the serene shores of Heron Island offers a striking contrast, with vibrant city energy giving way to breathtaking natural beauty and the tranquil rhythms of island life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Heron Island

Heron Island boasts distinctive areas, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Coral Beach
• Stunning sandy shores for relaxing and sunbathing.
• Excellent spot for snorkeling right off the beach.
Reef Walk
• Explore vibrant marine life during low tide.
• Ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Lighthouse Area
• Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean.
• A great vantage point for spotting wildlife.

Best Times To Visit Heron Island's Attractions

Timing your visit to Heron Island's attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Coral Beach
Early mornings see fewer visitors, offering a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
Snorkeling Sites
Visit during weekdays for quieter waters and better visibility.
Lighthouse Area
Sunrise or sunset visits provide stunning views with minimal crowds.

Heron Island Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Heron Island boasts a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a delightful destination. The dry season from April to October is ideal for visits, as you can enjoy outdoor activities without the interruptions of heavy rain.

Dining Recommendation in Heron Island

At Heron Island, savor the fresh seafood at the Osprey Restaurant, where every dish reflects the local flavors and ingredients of the Great Barrier Reef. This dining experience contrasts with Sydney’s urban offerings, immersing you in a relaxed atmosphere with ocean views, celebrating simplicity and freshness.

Sydney - Heron Island operators

Explore transport companies operating between Sydney and Heron Island, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Sydney to Gladstone

Average Duration
3h 53m
Estimated price
AU$5072-5073

Plane from Sydney to Rockhampton

Average Duration
4h 2m
Estimated price
AU$2015-2016
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Sydney to Gladstone

Average Duration
3h 57m
Estimated price
AU$5070-5073

Plane from Sydney to Rockhampton

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
AU$5077-5076
Train
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info/

Train from Central Station to Hamilton Station

Average Duration
2h 39m
Estimated price
AU$1540-5079

Train from Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
AU$1543-1544
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info/regional

Train from Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
AU$15400-1544
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Roma Street to Gladstone

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$1545-15400

Train from Miriam Vale to Gladstone

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$5078-5079
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Central Station to Brisbane

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
AU$50795-2015

Bus from Rockhampton to Gladstone

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
AU$14540-14541
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
18h 35m
Estimated price
AU$15410-15420

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Miriam Vale

Average Duration
10h 30m
Estimated price
AU$50785-15405
Ferry
Contact phone
1800 875 343
Website
heronisland.com

Ferry from Gladstone Marina to Heron Island

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
AU$14546-0

Sydney to Heron Island: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Sydney and Heron Island offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🛫 Flying from Sydney to Heron Island involves taking a flight from Sydney Airport to Gladstone Airport. The quickest journey with one stopover lasts around 3 hours and 35 minutes, with airlines like Virgin Australia and Qantas providing flight options for this route.
Departure Point
Sydney Airport
Arrival Point
Gladstone Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 35m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flights from Sydney to Heron Island, aim for a layover in Gladstone Airport to ensure a smoother connection; both Virgin Australia and Qantas provide services on this route, so check their schedules for the quickest options.
• Upon arrival at Gladstone Airport, be prepared for a seamless transfer to Heron Island via a pre-arranged boat service; take note of the boat schedule to avoid long wait times, and it’s worth confirming your transfer in advance.
• Expect the taxi fare from Gladstone Airport to the city center to be around AUD 25-35, and consider booking transportation ahead of time to coordinate your boat transfer to Heron Island efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sydney to Heron Island.

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The distance between Sydney and Heron Island is approximately 726 miles. The typical travel time to reach Heron Island from Sydney is 8 hours and 57 minutes by flying to Gladstone and then taking a ferry to the island. This route offers a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two destinations, allowing for a diverse experience combining air and sea travel. It is recommended to plan ahead and book tickets in advance to ensure a smooth journey to Heron Island from Sydney.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Sydney to Heron Island is by taking a combination of bus, train, and ferry, which typically costs between $180 to $400 and takes approximately 34 hours and 56 minutes. However, for a more time-efficient option, flying and then taking a ferry is the fastest way to reach Heron Island, with a travel time of 8 hours and 57 minutes and costing between $200 to $550. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
To travel from Sydney to Heron Island without a car, the best option is to take a train to the nearest city with a ferry terminal, such as Gladstone. From there, you can catch a ferry to Heron Island, which takes approximately 24 hours and 51 minutes. The cost of this journey can range from $150 to $1500 depending on factors such as ticket class and availability. Planning ahead and booking tickets in advance can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience to Heron Island.
The flight between Sydney and Heron Island typically involves a stopover at Gladstone Airport and takes approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes. The cost of this flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and any additional amenities chosen, but generally ranges from $200 to $400 for a one-way ticket. It's advisable for travelers to compare prices across different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals for this journey.
Near Heron Island there are two or more hotels available for accommodation, with prices starting at $232. These hotels offer a range of amenities and services to cater to different preferences and budgets. Some options may include beachfront resorts or eco-friendly lodges, providing comfortable stays in close proximity to the island's natural beauty. Additionally, some accommodations may offer packages that include activities like snorkeling or diving in the surrounding waters.