A-frames near Seventeen Seventy with a private bathroom
This laidback beach resort is the “Birthplace of Queensland” and a Great Barrier Reef port.
- Seventeen Seventy
Popular camping styles for Seventeen Seventy
A-frames near Seventeen Seventy with a private bathroom guide
Overview
The forested headlands and sandy shores of Seventeen Seventy (or 1770) set the scene for a relaxed beach getaway. Hit the beach to swim or standup paddleboard, go kayaking along the coast, or visit the Captain Cook Monument to learn how the town got its name. Cruises set sail from 1770 to Lady Musgrave Island, part of the southern Great Barrier Reef, where you can snorkel and scuba dive or camp out at a secluded bush campsite. Campsites dot the coast of Seventeen Seventy and neighbouring Agnes Water, many with direct access to the beach.
Where to go
Capricorn Coast
Beach lovers will find some of Queensland’s most beloved beaches within easy reach of Seventeen Seventy. To the south, head to Bundaberg to spot sea turtles in Mon Repos Regional Park, visit the Bundaberg Rum and Ginger Beer factories, and snorkel along the Coral Coast. To the north, Rockhampton has harbourside dining, mountain lookouts, and island-hopping cruises around the Great Barrier Reef islands.
Gladstone
Two national parks lie within easy day-trip distance of Seventeen Seventy, affording plenty of options for hikers. Watch turtles hatching on the beaches of Deepwater National Park and enjoy fishing and birdwatching around the waterways. Or visit nearby Eurimbula National Park to see the site of the Captain Cook landings and go canoeing along Eurimbula Creek.
Fraser Coast
South of Seventeen Seventy, adventurous campers won’t want to miss a night on Fraser Island. Set sail for the island from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach, drive along 75 Mile Beach in a 4WD, and marvel at natural wonders, including Lake McKenzie and the Champagne Pools. Beachside camping on the island is all about getting back to nature—pitch your tent by the shore and wake up early to watch the sunrise.
When to go
Beach-goers can enjoy sunny days at Seventeen Seventy year-round, and it’s often warm enough to swim even in winter. Diving and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is best from June to October, but this is peak season, so book tours well in advance. The coast around Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water is also a breeding site for sea turtles and they come ashore to nest on the beaches between November and March.
Know before you go
- It’s easiest to get to and around Seventeen Seventy with your own transport, but shuttle services and taxis are available.
- Amenities are limited in Seventeen Seventy, but neighboring Agnes Water (a 10-minute drive) has a supermarket and a selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops.
- Fire bans are common in Queensland during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting a campfire.
