Rugged headlands, eucalypt forest, dry rainforest and rolling grasslands give way to long, sandy beaches and fringing reef. Flatback and green turtles nest on the many beaches and a small population of koalas inhabit St Bees Island.

The South Cumberland Islands National Park encompasses nine islands. Rocky, rugged, hoop pine-dominated headlands stand out from the open eucalypt woodland and extensive grasslands of the wind-exposed slopes. Protected coves shelter long, sandy beaches, while deep gullies hide remnants of dry rainforest.

Ringed by fringing reefs, many of the islands are important rookeries for flatback and green sea turtles.