Hook Island is set to open a new eco-resort in 2027, promising to redefine sustainable luxury in Australia.
The property will feature six accommodation types spanning 39 biophillic cabins, an arrival pavilion, an Explorer’s Lounge, a beach club complete with an outdoor fire pit and pool, a clifftop fine dining restaurant, wellness spaces including a Nordic cycle forest spa and eco pool and a yoga pavilion, a kids adventure club, and adventure activities.
Epochal Hotels’ CEO Glenn Piper, alongside a small group of dedicated investors, acquired the 9.3-hectare island’s leasehold in 2022 with the vision of restoration after it was left severely impacted by cyclones.
Alongside shareholders, Epochal Hotels owns and operates seven landmark hospitality, dining and
accommodation properties on the East Coast of Australia, from the Whitsundays to Sydney’s Manly Beach, McMahons Point and Freshwater; Merewether in Newcastle; and in Scarborough, Western Australia.
“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,” said CEO Glenn Piper.
“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.”
Globally renowned design firm Luxury Frontiers is behind the design set to embody “barefoot luxury”.
Specialising in sustainable resorts around the globe (Madwaleni River Lodge in South Africa, Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort in Mexico, and Nayara Tented Camp in Costa Rica), Luxury Frontiers have embraced a ‘Nature Taught’ philosophy, with biophilic design principles that blend sculptural forms, vibrant colours and sustainable materials.
The architecture will draw inspiration from nature, grounding the resort seamlessly within its surroundings. Inside, the interiors will reflect Hook Island’s vibrant palette—from earthy browns, greens, and ocean blues at the entrance to a vivid array of colours inspired by the island’s birds, coral, and marine life.
Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer of Luxury Frontiers, said: “We are privileged to help bring this responsible eco-tourism destination to life. We’re revitalising a beautiful location with a design ethos that aligns with an inspired vision for purposeful, adventurous travel. The design is grounded in the island’s natural, social, and historical elements to create an authentic sense of place.”
Hook Island lies within the Great Barrier Reef and is home to lush forest, secluded beaches and diverse ecosystems. In keeping with their commitment to conservation, Piper and his team are working closely with leading consultants to ensure the development aligns with the island’s ecological needs.
Development will take a phased approach to minimise its footprint, with comprehensive measures in place to prevent erosion, manage waste and reduce noise pollution. Once open, daily operations will emphasise water-efficient systems, recycled wastewater irrigation and eco-friendly appliances to sustain resources.
“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,” said Andrew Powell MP, Minister for the Environment and Tourism.
“After experiencing the natural wonders of Queensland, we know visitors will become passionate advocates to protect these fantastic areas.”
Earlier this year, Hook Island was awarded a grant from The Department of Tourism and Sport’s (DTS) Growing Future Tourism (GFT) Fund, a program generating new tourism opportunities in Queensland.
Hook Island is expected to open its doors in 2027. More details will be announced in coming months.
