Are there crocodiles on South Molle Island?

It is theoretically possible that there might be crocodiles on South Molle Island, Queensland. But in practice, it is extraordinarily unlikely.

South Molle Island is one of the most attractive islands in the Whitsundays archipelago, Queensland. It’s popular with those who want to camp on the islands. To book a South Molle Island camping transfer, head over here.

But there is one aspect of this tropical Australian paradise that tour operators don’t particularly like to talk about – South Molle Island is very much in Croc Country.

Is the Whitsundays region in Croc Country?

The Whitsundays region is in Croc Country, which the Queensland Government defines as being north of the Boyne River near Gladstone.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that crocodiles are present through much of the region.

Crocodiles on South Molle Island

While theoretically crocodiles can make it out to the Whitsunday Islands, they really don’t want to be there. The islands are not preferred crocodile habitat.

Crocodiles don’t like clear water. They like the murky water of rivers, estuaries, billabongs and creeks where prey can’t see them quite as easily.

A crocodile is not going to bother swimming out to an island surrounded by clear water where it can be seen a mile off.

There have been a few sightings of crocodiles around the islands in the past, but it is incredibly rare. Crocodiles generally only go to beaches when in transit, and this far off the mainland after storms and flooding have disrupted their favourite habitats.

The chance of seeing crocodiles on South Molle Island is exceptionally tiny. A crocodile encounter is, realistically, not something you need to worry about.

The view out over Denman Island from South Molle Island in Queensland's Whitsundays — The view out over Denman Island from South Molle Island in Queensland’s Whitsundays. Photo courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.

Where to see crocodiles in the Whitsundays

Crocodiles in Airlie Beach, the main tourism hub for the Whitsundays, are also pretty rare. But the Proserpine River near Proserpine is a notorious croc hangout.

If you do want to see saltwater crocodiles in the wild, then book onto the Whitsundays Crocodile Safari. This six hour tour offers pick-ups in Airlie Beach, and includes a two hour Proserpine River cruise, a tractor-pulled wagon ride through the wetlands and a barbecue lunch.

At the time of writing the Whitsundays Crocodile Safari costs $150 per person.