A tropical island off Cardwell, Goold Island is a tall, forested hill with granite outcrops, eucalypt woodlands and sandy beaches. Camping on the island and boating nearby are popular activities.

The tall, forested hill of Goold Island, in the centre of Rockingham Bay, is an impressive feature when approached from any direction. Granite outcrops and sandy beaches are features of the island. Eucalypt woodland covers most of the island but patches of lush rainforest grow in sheltered gullies. This 830 hectare national park is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

South and west of Goold Island, near Garden Island, dugongs and turtles may be seen surfacing as they feed on the extensive seagrass beds in the shallow waters.