sandcastles 1770 motel & resort location

Discover the Southern Great Barrier Reef

A visit to Lady Musgrave Island is one of the unforgettable experiences that makes a holiday in Agnes Water truly special. Cruise across the sparkling waters aboard 1770 Reef’s comfortable Reef Jet Vessel and spend the day exploring one of Australia’s most pristine coral reef ecosystems.

Swim, snorkel and discover vibrant coral gardens teeming with colourful tropical fish, graceful manta rays and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Step ashore on Lady Musgrave Island for a guided nature walk, or explore the spectacular coral lagoon from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeller or simply looking to experience the beauty of the Southern Great Barrier Reef for the first time, this full-day adventure is one you’ll remember long after your holiday ends.

Tour Highlights

• Full-day cruise to Lady Musgrave Island aboard the Reef Jet Vessel
• Snorkel the crystal-clear waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef
• Encounter turtles, tropical fish, manta rays and incredible marine life
• Guided island nature walk
• Glass-bottom boat tour of the spectacular coral lagoon
• Suitable for families, couples and first-time reef visitors

Visit 1770 Reef for pricing, availability and schedules.

Tours  depart from the 1770 Marina (weather and tide conditions permitting).

Explore the Discovery Coast Like Nowhere Else

No visit to Agnes Water/1770 is complete without climbing aboard the iconic bright pink 1770 LARC! These unique amphibious vehicles travel seamlessly from land to water, taking you to spectacular beaches, remote headlands and historic landmarks that most visitors never get to see.

Whether you’re chasing breathtaking scenery, local history or simply a fun day out with the family, there’s a LARC! tour to suit every kind of adventure.

Paradise Tour (Full Day)

Discover some of the Discovery Coast’s most spectacular and secluded locations on 1770 LARC!’s signature full-day experience. Visit the historic Bustard Head Lighthouse, cruise along 27 kilometres of pristine coastline, enjoy thrilling sandboarding and experience the beauty of remote beaches and national parks that are only accessible by LARC!

A must-do for visitors wanting to experience the very best of the region.

LARC! + Lunch

Short on time but still looking for a memorable adventure? This popular tour takes you aboard the LARC! to a secluded beach where you’ll enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch surrounded by nature. With only the sound of the ocean and footprints in the sand, it’s the perfect combination of sightseeing, great food and coastal tranquillity.

Ideal for couples, families and anyone wanting a taste of the unique LARC! experience.

Afternoon Cruise

Looking for a shorter adventure? The Afternoon Cruise is a fun-filled one-hour tour through the beautiful waterways of Bustard Bay and Round Hill Creek, showcasing exactly what makes the LARC! such an unforgettable vehicle. Watch as it effortlessly transitions from land to water while your guide shares stories about the local area.

A fantastic option for families, first-time visitors and anyone looking for a unique afternoon activity.

Why You’ll Love It

• Australia’s iconic pink amphibious LARC! vehicles
• Spectacular coastal scenery and secluded beaches
• Fun, informative local guides
• Great for couples, families and groups
• A true Agnes Water & 1770 bucket-list experience

Book directly with 1770 LARC! Tours for current tour options, pricing and availability.

Discover 1770 from the Water

Whether you’re trying stand-up paddleboarding for the very first time or looking for a memorable way to experience the calm waterways of 1770, 1770 SUP has something for everyone. With friendly instructors, quality equipment and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, it’s one of the best ways to get out on the water and enjoy the natural beauty of the Discovery Coast.

Choose from private lessons, guided tours, family-friendly Kids Club activities, peaceful Sunset & SUP experiences, unique Yoga SUP sessions, or simply hire a board and explore at your own pace.

Whatever your age or ability, you’ll quickly discover why paddleboarding has become one of the region’s favourite outdoor activities.

Why You’ll Love It

• Suitable for beginners through to experienced paddlers
• Private lessons and guided experiences
• Sunset paddles and Yoga SUP sessions
• Kids Club and family-friendly activities
• Board and beach shade hire available
• A fun and active way to explore the waterways of 1770

Perfect for couples, families, groups and solo travellers.

Book directly with 1770 SUP for current tours, lessons and equipment hire.

Discover 1770 by Kayak

Slow down, paddle at nature’s pace and experience the beauty of the Discovery Coast from a whole new perspective. Whether you’re gliding across calm waterways at sunset or exploring the pristine coastline by kayak, 1770 Liquid Adventures offers unforgettable experiences that immerse you in the natural beauty of the Town of 1770.

With more than 20 years of local knowledge, the experienced guides know these waters like the back of their hand. Every tour is carefully planned to suit the conditions, giving you the best opportunity to discover hidden waterways, spot dolphins and other native wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings that make this part of Queensland so special.

Keeping tour groups small means every experience feels relaxed, personal and unhurried—allowing you to truly connect with nature while creating memories that will last long after your holiday.

Why You’ll Love It

• Small group tours for a more personal experience
• Experienced local guides with over 20 years of local knowledge
• Beautiful sunset and scenic kayak adventures
• Opportunities to spot dolphins and local wildlife
• Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers
• A peaceful way to experience the waterways of 1770

Perfect for couples, nature lovers, photographers and anyone looking to experience the Discovery Coast from a different perspective.

Book directly with 1770 Liquid Adventures for current tour options, availability and pricing.

Experience the Great Barrier Reef by Air, Land & Sea

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable day, a scenic flight to Lady Elliot Island is hard to beat. Located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, this spectacular coral cay offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s greatest natural wonders from the air, explore it on foot and discover its incredible marine life beneath the water—all in a single day.

Departing from Bundaberg, your adventure begins with a breathtaking scenic flight before landing on this eco-certified island paradise. Spend the day snorkelling amongst vibrant coral gardens, join a guided glass-bottom boat or snorkelling tour, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and make use of the island’s day guest facilities. Whether you’re swimming alongside colourful reef fish, graceful manta rays or sea turtles, every moment is one to remember.

Although we highly recommend staying on Lady Elliot Island for two or more nights to fully appreciate everything it has to offer, the day tour is the perfect option for visitors with limited time who still want to experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef.

Turtle Season (November – March) 🐢

Visit during turtle season and witness one of nature’s most incredible spectacles. Watch nesting turtles come ashore under the stars, see tiny hatchlings begin their journey to the ocean, and experience the island at one of its most remarkable times of year. It’s an unforgettable wildlife encounter and one of the highlights of the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Day Tour Includes

• Return scenic flights from Bundaberg
• Orientation tour of the island
• Guided glass-bottom boat or snorkelling tour
• Snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel and fins)
• Full use of day guest facilities
• Hot and cold buffet lunch
• Free time to snorkel, swim or join additional guided activities

Why You’ll Love It

• One of Australia’s premier snorkelling destinations
• Scenic flights over the Southern Great Barrier Reef
• Incredible marine life including turtles, manta rays and colourful reef fish
• Eco-certified island resort
• Perfect for international and domestic visitors with limited time

Please note: Day tours depart from Bundaberg Airport only.

Book directly with Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort for current availability, seasonal packages and pricing.

Great Food. Coastal Vibes. Just Steps from Your Room.

After a day spent exploring Agnes Water&1770’s beaches and the Southern Great Barrier Reef, there’s nothing better than settling in for a relaxed meal without having to leave the resort. Nestled within Sandcastles 1770 Motel & Resort, Drift & Wood Restaurant & Bar combines fresh local flavours, handcrafted cocktails and warm country hospitality in a welcoming coastal setting.

Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch, sharing wood-fired pizzas with family, celebrating a special occasion or simply winding down with a drink after a day of adventure, Drift & Wood offers the perfect place to relax, reconnect and savour the best of the Discovery Coast.

Fresh Local Flavours

Passionate about showcasing regional produce, the talented team at Drift & Wood creates modern Australian dishes inspired by the seasons. The menu features fresh local seafood, premium meats, vibrant salads, gourmet pizzas, delicious desserts and seasonal specials, with gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options available. Pair your meal with a carefully selected wine, local craft beer or one of the restaurant’s signature handcrafted cocktails for the perfect finish to your day.

More Than Just Dinner

Drift & Wood is a favourite gathering place for both locals and visitors. Relax on the veranda with friends, enjoy a long lunch, or drop in on a Sunday afternoon for live music in a relaxed coastal atmosphere. The restaurant also caters for weddings, celebrations, corporate functions and private events, making it an ideal venue for special occasions during your stay.

Why You’ll Love It

• Located onsite at Sandcastles 1770 Motel & Resort
• Modern Australian cuisine showcasing fresh local produce
• Gourmet pizzas, seafood, seasonal specials and delicious desserts
• Handcrafted cocktails, local beers and carefully selected wines
• Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options available
• Relaxed indoor and alfresco dining
• Live music on Friday night and Sunday afternoons
• Functions, weddings and private events welcomed

Open for lunch and dinner on selected days.

We recommend booking ahead, particularly during weekends and school holidays.

Visit the Drift & Wood Restaurant & Bar website to view the latest menu, opening hours and to make a reservation.