Plans revealed for $40 million eco-resort on Whitsundays’ Hook Island

Epochal Hotels has unveiled plans for a luxury eco-resort on Hook Island in The Whitsundays.

A consortium led by Sydney-based Epochal has submitted a development application to construct a new property in the Island, including accommodation and restaurant facilities.

With a suggested 2027 opening date, the eco-lodge will be home to 39 cabins, an arrival pavilion, two dining experiences, forest eco pools, wellness spaces and a range of adventure activities.

In 2022, Epochal acquired a 25-year lease for the 9 hectare island - home to Hook Island Lodge which closed down in 2013 in the wake of Cyclone Anthony two years earlier - at a cost of more than $10 million.

The plan to revitalise the resort has designed to embody ‘barefoot luxury’, with six unique accommodation types nestled across forest and beachfront settings, each with its own distinctive interior design.

Epochal Hotels Chief Executive, Glenn Piper explained “Hook Island is a truly spectacular part of the world - its raw beauty deserves a sanctuary that both preserves and celebrates every facet of its charm.

“Our vision is bold: to create an experience that redefines luxury travel through a deep, authentic and wild-spirited connection to nature.

“This project has been a labour of love; we’ve poured our hearts into blending thoughtful design with a profound respect for the island’s heritage and delicate ecosystem. After being closed for more than a decade, we can’t wait to soon welcome overnight guests and day visitors alike to experience its magic firsthand.

“After being closed for more than a decade, we can’t wait to soon welcome overnight guests and day visitors alike to experience its magic firsthand.”

The plan for Hook Island is based on a phased approach to development to minimise its footprint, with measures in place to prevent erosion, manage waste and reduce noise pollution. Once open in 2027, daily operations will emphasise water-efficient systems, recycled wastewater irrigation and eco-friendly appliances to sustain resources.

Supporting the development, Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell advised “we know we have some of the world’s most spectacular islands and this development will allow visitors from around Queensland, Australia and the globe to experience this natural beauty up close.

“After experiencing the natural wonders of Queensland, we know visitors will become passionate advocates to protect these fantastic areas.”

Epochal, which is headed by Piper, has a portfolio of seven hotels and hospitality venues including the Harbord Hotel in Sydney and The Beach Hotel Merewether in Newcastle.

In 2023, the company acquired the Commodore Hotel in the inner northern Sydney suburb of McMahon's Point for $29 million and is currently undertaking a refurbishment of the property.

The Hook Island development is being supported by a grant from the Growing Future Tourism Fund, a program aimed at generating new tourism opportunities in Queensland.

Image: Concept for Epochal Hotels luxury eco-resort on Hook Island in The Whitsundays.