Hoping to set a new standard for sustainable luxury tourism in Australia, the Whitsunday’s Hook Island is undergoing an extensive revival. The flash new eco-lodge is set to open in 2027 and will bring new “barefoot luxury” accommodation to the Coral Sea island, which was severely impacted by a cyclone in 2017.
Epochal Hotels will revitalise the island’s 58 square kilometres with 39 guest cabins, each underpinned by a biophilic design ethos. The arrival pavilion will welcome guests with its nature-centric design, while the forest-dwelling pool and spa will showcase the island’s eco-diversity. There’s also promise of two dining experiences, an all-day beach club and a clifftop fine-dining restaurant with panoramic views over Stingray Bay.
The project’s aim is to maintain the island’s raw beauty by preserving its heritage and delicate ecosystem through conscious design. Renowned immersive design firm Luxury Frontiers has been engaged for the project, which has been behind impressive locations across the globe, such as Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita, Mexico; Eagle Island Lodge in Botswana by Belmond; and Camp Sarika by Aman. To this end, expect plenty of greenery and considered landscaping, sculptural curves inspired by the island’s natural landmarks, and the use of sustainable materials.
As for the cabins, six different accommodation types will be set amongst both forest and beachfront dwellings, each with distinctive interiors. Extensive tree surveys have guided locations for all the structures to preserve native plants and habitat.

The Hook Island resort will sit in harmony with the natural contours of the island and reflect its vibrant palette — from earthy browns, greens and cerulean blues to hues inspired by the island’s vibrant birds, coral and marine life. It will also be designed with cyclone-resistant, modular architectural practices in mind.
Hook Island is the second largest island in the Cumberland group and was impacted by Cyclone Debbie back in 2017. The island’s natural beauty is home to tranquil bays, fringing reefs and tropical forests. Construction will be underway soon, with a slated opening for 2027.
More details to come. For more information, visit epochalhotels.com.au