PALM BAY RESORT

PALM BAY RESORT LONG ISLAND, THE WHITSUNDAYS

P I C T U R E T H I S ; Y O U ’ R E LY I N G I N Y O U R P R I VAT E B A LC O N Y H A M MOCK, COCKTAIL IN HAND, IT’S 5PM AFTER A FULL DAY OF FISH I N G A N D T H E G T ’ S A R E P U S H I N G B A I T F I S H U P O N T O T H E B E A C H … I’M TOO TIRED TO GRAB MY ROD SO I JUST TAKE IT ALL IN.

Words & photos by Justin Webber & Palm Bay Resort

This is one of many experiences I have had at this idyllic luxury self-catering resort which is nestled in the gorgeous Whitsundays. Palm Bay Resort is mere minutes from the Shute Harbour boat ramp and can be accessed by private boat, ferry, float plane or helicopter. It boasts a host of private villas set amongst the palm lined beach which slips away into the tranquil turquoise waters of Palm Bay Cove. If self-catering is not your thing, they do have a small restaurant with delicious food made from locally sourced produce. With only 25 rooms, no cars or other modern-day distractions Palm Bay offers a naturally beautiful and relaxing retreat from your busy world.

“Tuna are literally on your doorstep!”

If you’re a fly fisherman looking for something a little different be sure to look these guys up. There are lots of fishing options around the island with a short walk you can reach large sandy flats where you can target anything from Permit to Whiting depending on the tide. If you have your own boat, you can head out around the islands in search of the vast array of pelagics that frequent these waters or try your hand at trying to land one of the very large Tusk fish that inhabit the mangrove lined bays. Tuna are literally on your doorstep and a short paddle on one of the resort’s kayaks could see you tussling with one of the large Longtail Tuna that call the passage home.

Once you’ve had your fill of the fishing for the day, why not stop in at the pool for a refreshing dip and a welcoming cocktail. If you feel like taking the day off, you can laze around the pool or take in some of the amazing views around the island. There is also a day spa at the resort, so a massage or treatment is always an option. There’s a variety of external operators that offer day trips ranging from visiting the reef, snorkelling, sailing and helicopter and sea plane experiences.

If you are after a guided fishing trip Mackay Fly & Sportfishing do guided trips and can fetch you directly from Palm Bay on request. Paul has put many of his clients onto large fish in this area, just jump onto his website to get a taste of what’s on offer - www.mackayflysportfishing.com.au

This is a place I could not recommend highly enough for fly fishers who are happy to just get away for the weekend and enjoy the beautiful Whitsundays.

So why not give the team at Palm Bay Resort a call to book your next weekend away!

Reception 0477770133 Email: reception@palmbayresort.com.au Website: www.palmbayresort.com.au