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Iconic Whitsundays island to reopen after a $583 million makeover

Eleanor EdströmBy Eleanor Edström
After more than a decade of closure, Lindeman Island is ready to reclaim its title as Queensland’s go-to holiday hot spot. 

The tides are turning in the Whitsundays. After more than 10 years of tropical time-out, Lindeman Island is gearing up for a dazzling comeback.  

A thriving tropical playground for Aussie families and international holidaymakers in the 1980s and ‘90s, the former Club Med paradise has remained dormant since closing its doors in 2012 following the devastation of Cyclone Yasi. Now, Lindeman Island is being revitalised as a redefined five-star resort that celebrates the Whitsundays’ natural beauty. We’re betting it may even give the nearby and ever-popular Hamilton Island a run for its money. 

The vision

lindeman island opening resort
Lindeman Island closed in 2012 after being struck by a cyclone.

Asia-Pacific hotel management company La Vie Hotels & Resorts – the team behind Hobart’s The Islington and 202 Elizabeth in Surry Hills, Sydney – has recently secured the management rights to the highly anticipated Queensland resort. The company will secure an international luxury brand for the island, which is expected to be announced in 2026. Also spearheading the multi-million-dollar redevelopment is Well Smart Group, a Singapore-based investment company that acquired Lindeman Island in 2023. 

Early plans tease a 200-room resort with nine additional suites, multiple dining concepts, a 50-metre jetty, a luxury spa and gym, alongside conference and wedding facilities. The island destination will also feature eco-friendly infrastructure and a solar farm.  

La Vie Chief Executive Officer, Jerry Xu, recognises the responsibility that comes with restoring a destination that holds such a special place in Australian tourism history.

“Lindeman Island is more than a tropical paradise – it is a cornerstone of Queensland’s tourism heritage. First developed for visitors in the 1920s, Lindeman became one of the earliest Whitsunday islands to offer accommodation, paving the way for Queensland’s rise as a global holiday destination," he comments.

What to expect

Lindeman Island new hotel bedroom
The new Lindeman Island resort will have 200 rooms and nine suites.

The hotel project aims to restore Lindeman Island to its former glory while embracing sustainability principles and an elevated, contemporary take on luxury. Phase one of the redevelopment is estimated to cost $40–50 million, part of a broader $583 million master plan.  

Key features of the Lindeman Island revival include:

  • A five-star hotel with 200 accommodation rooms and nine suites
  • Multiple restaurants and bars
  • A swimming pool
  • A luxury spa and gym
  • Conference and wedding/event spaces
  • Staff accommodation and eco-friendly infrastructure, including a solar farm
  • A new 50-metre jetty

The initial phase of the project is expected to be completed in 2026, with the resort planned to open shortly after. Plans for the master plan feature ecotourism facilities, including native vegetation restoration and renewable energy initiatives. 

A boost for Queensland tourism

new Lindeman Island resort
The first phase of the Lindeman Island redevelopment will cost $40–50 million.

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO, Craig Davidson, says the Lindeman Island transformation marks a significant step in reviving one of Australia’s most iconic island destinations.  

“Our distinctive, pristine islands have helped shape Queensland’s standing as a global tourism leader and we are excited to see the revitalisation of Lindeman Island which has always been an iconic part of Queensland’s tourism story," he says. 

“This important investment, breathing new life into Lindeman Island, will bolster Queensland’s international reputation as a world-class holiday destination providing an exceptional visitor experience." 

Eleanor Edström
Eleanor Edström is Australian Traveller’s Associate Editor. Previously a staff writer at Signature Luxury Travel & Style and Vacations & Travel magazines, she's a curious wordsmith with a penchant for conservation, adventure, the arts and design. She discovered her knack for storytelling much earlier, however – penning mermaid sagas in glitter ink at age seven. Proof that her spelling has since improved, she holds an honours degree in English and philosophy, and a French diploma from the University of Sydney. Off duty, you’ll find her pirouetting between Pilates and ballet classes, or testing her friends’ patience with increasingly obscure vocabulary.
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An insider’s guide to Noosa’s best-kept winter secrets

    Lucy CousinsBy Lucy Cousins
    Continue
    As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

    As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

    Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

    Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

    Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach
    Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

    Where to eat in Noosa

    Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

    There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

    There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

    diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter
    Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

    Where to stay in Noosa

    Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

    There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

    For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

    a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa
    Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

    Things to do on land

    There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

    A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

    Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

    woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter
    Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

    Things to do in the water

    Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

    You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

    Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

    For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

    women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter
    Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

    Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.