Makepeace Island is a stunning heart-shaped private island sanctuary nestled in the tranquil waters of the Noosa River, just minutes upstream from the vibrant coastal hub of Noosa Heads on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Owned by Sir Richard Branson and Virgin Australia co-founder Brett Godfrey, this exclusive-use luxury retreat blends Balinese-inspired design with lush tropical gardens, offering unparalleled privacy, serenity, and personalised experiences for groups of up to 22 guests.
Originally known as “Pig Island” and later renamed after former owner and local legend Hannah Makepeace (who was bequeathed the island for her dedicated service and lived there until 1973), the 25-acre island has been transformed into a world-class private hideaway since 2009. It features open-plan entertaining areas, antiques, silk furnishings, and breathtaking river views — a perfect fusion of luxury, nature, and seclusion while remaining close to Noosa’s attractions.
Beach Information
- 🏖️ Best Time to Visit: Year-round for luxury escapes; ideal from September to April for warmer weather, calm river conditions, and multi-generational family gatherings or celebrations.
- 🐠 Marine Stingers: Rare in the sheltered Noosa River; minimal risk compared to open ocean beaches.
- 🚩 Lifeguard Patrol: No lifeguards (private river island); safety managed by full-service staff and skippers.
- 🐕 Dog Friendly: No — private luxury resort; pets not permitted.
- 🛠️ Facilities: 500,000-litre lagoon pool, full-sized tennis court, spa facilities, outdoor cinema, media room, indoor bar, expansive Balinese wantilan for dining/entertaining, kayaks, paddle boards, cooking/cocktail classes, walking trails, private dock, and full staff including chefs, hosts, and housekeepers.
- ♿ Accessibility: Custom arrangements possible for exclusive hire; contact directly for specific needs (limited natural terrain)
- 🏘️ Closest Town: Noosa Heads — Distance: Distance: ~5-10 minutes by private boat.
- ✈️ Closest Airport: Sunshine Coast Airport — Distance: ~30-40 minutes drive + boat transfer.
- 🌦️ Typical Weather: Subtropical; warm, humid summers, mild winters.
🏝️Why Visit Makepeace Island?
Makepeace Island offers a rare opportunity to experience complete privacy on a luxurious private island just a short boat ride from cosmopolitan Noosa. This exclusive-use retreat is ideal for multi-generational family holidays, milestone celebrations, corporate retreats, or simply unwinding in style. With its heart-shaped layout, Balinese architecture (buildings shipped from Bali), tropical riverside gardens, and thoughtful details like volcanic boulder bathtubs and giant sculptures, it delivers rockstar-level seclusion with effortless access to the Sunshine Coast’s best.
Guests enjoy bespoke experiences tailored to their desires — from sunset cruises and river fishing to tennis matches and chef-prepared dining — all while surrounded by birdlife, mangroves, and the gentle Noosa River. It’s the ultimate escape for those seeking luxury, adventure, and tranquility without sacrificing convenience.
Whether you’re gathering with loved ones in the expansive villas, relaxing by the infinity-style pool, or exploring the island’s trails, Makepeace Island captures the essence of exclusive Queensland island living — personalised, peaceful, and profoundly memorable.
🏖️Things to Do on Makepeace Island
- 🏸 Tennis: Play on a full-sized court (day or night) — Wimbledon vibes with strawberries and cream.
- 🛶 Kayaking & Paddle Boarding: Circumnavigate the island or explore the Noosa River.
- 🍳 Cooking & Cocktail Classes: Hands-on sessions with expert chefs and mixologists.
- 🎥 Outdoor Cinema & Media Room: Movie nights under the stars.
- 🎣 River Fishing: Cast a line from the private jetty or tinnie.
- 🌿 Nature Walks: Stroll tropical gardens and trails, spotting birdlife and wildlife.
- 🏊 Pool & Spa: Relax in the massive lagoon pool or hot tub.
- 🚤 Sunset Cruises & Private Boat Trips: Cruise the river with canapés.
- 🍽️ Bespoke Dining: Chef-prepared meals in stunning open-air settings.
🛍️Facilities & Accessibility
Makepeace Island delivers resort-level luxury in a private setting:
- Three 2-bedroom villas + 4-bedroom Bali House wing + Boathouse king room (11 bedrooms total, 8 bathrooms).
- Full-service staff (chefs, skippers, hosts, housekeepers).
- 500,000-litre pool, tennis court, spa, cinema, bar, and entertaining areas.
- Private boat transfers from Noosa Marina (or helicopter access).
- Exclusive-use only — entire island hired for your group.
🌤️Best Time to Visit Makepeace Island
- 🌞 Year-round appeal, with peak luxury season September–April for ideal weather and river conditions.
- 🪼 Marine Stingers: Occasionally present from November to May; check local signage and conditions before entering the water.
- 🌤️ Surrounded by subtropical climate — warm summers perfect for pool/river activities, mild winters great for relaxed escapes. Always check availability and book early for peak periods (multi-generational holidays, celebrations).
🗺️ Getting There
🚤 By Private Boat: Transfers from Noosa Marina (~5-10 minutes) — included in exclusive hire.
🚁 By Helicopter: Direct access available for a dramatic arrival.
🚗 Driving to Noosa: ~2 hours north of Brisbane via Bruce Highway (M1), then short boat transfer. Note: Exclusive-use only — enquire via official site for bookings/transfers.
💡 Info correct at time of writing — check Noosa Council and Surf Life Saving Queensland for current patrol times and access updates.
💡 Local Tips
🌴 Makepeace Island is a bucket-list private escape — perfect for those wanting seclusion with Noosa’s dining, shopping, and beaches just minutes away.
☕Combine your stay with nearby Noosa highlights: Hastings Street vibes, Noosa National Park trails, or day trips to K’gari (Fraser Island).
🌅 Request bespoke add-ons like cooking classes, sunset cruises, or wildlife excursions.
🐋 Between June and October, spot humpback whales offshore from nearby coastal points.
📍Nearby Attractions
- 🌳 Noosa National Park (walking access): Coastal trails, hidden bays, and wildlife.
- 🏖️ Noosa Main Beach (3 km): Gentle surf and family-friendly vibe.
- 🍽️ Hastings Street (3 km): Iconic dining, shopping, and nightlife hub.
- 🌊 Alexandria Bay: A hidden, scenic surf beach accessible via the coastal track.
📅 Events & Markets Nearby
Sunshine Beach offers a vibrant village feel and close access to Noosa markets and coastal events.
- 🛍️ Noosa Farmers Market (Sundays): Gourmet produce, artisan products, handmade goods, and boutique stalls.
- 🌴 Eumundi Markets (Wednesdays & Saturdays): Artisan stalls, gourmet food, jewellery, art, and fashion.
- 🍉 Peregian Beach Markets (1st & 3rd Sunday monthly): Handmade items, plants, clothing, gifts, art, and gourmet foods.
- 🎶 Noosa Alive! Festival (Annual): Music, theatre, dance, food, and cultural events.
- 🎄 Sunshine Coast Christmas Markets (December): Holiday stalls, gifts, food vans, and festive entertainment.
For a full list of what’s on in the region, visit the
👉 Sunshine Coast Attractions | Best Things to Do Near Sunshine Coast Beaches
🏕️Accommodation Near Makepeace Island
Exclusive island hire only (up to 22 guests). For alternatives nearby:
- 🏨 Boutique hotels and resorts in Sunshine Beach.
- 🏡 Luxury villas and holiday rentals.
- ⛺ Caravan parks and budget stays in nearby Noosa.
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💡 Please note: Full names and emails are kept private — only your chosen Display Name will appear publicly with your review.
🍴 Places to Eat & Drink
While on-island dining is bespoke (chef-prepared), step off to Noosa’s scene:
- Trendy cafés, seafood restaurants, and bars along Hastings Street.
- Sunset drinks and fine dining overlooking the water.
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🧭Plan Your Trip to Makepeace Island
For those craving ultimate privacy and luxury on a private heart-shaped island, Makepeace Island is an extraordinary Queensland gem. With full staff, tailored activities, and proximity to Noosa’s coastal charm, it’s perfect for unforgettable group escapes.
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💙 Explore More Beaches Nearby
Discover more of the Sunshine Coast:
Noosa Heads Main Beach ➜ | Peregian Beach ➜ | Marcoola Beach ➜ | Coolum Beach ➜
🌊 About This Beach Directory
🌴 Note: This directory doesn’t include every beach in Queensland — there are simply too many! We’ve selected the most significant and unique beaches based on a range of factors including natural beauty, accessibility, and local popularity.
If you think we’ve missed one that deserves to be featured, we’d love to hear from you!
📧 Email us at Admin@QldBeach.com with your photos and tell us why your favourite beach should be added.
☀️ Happy surfing and sunning from the Queensland Beach Guide team!