The best time to go to Heron Island depends on your priorities, but generally, the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November offer the most balanced conditions.
These months typically provide warm, sunny weather that's superb for snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on the beaches. The water visibility is usually excellent, and you avoid the peak humidity and potential for tropical cyclones that can occur during the summer months (December to February). For those who enjoy birdwatching, these periods also coincide with significant bird activity, including nesting and migratory species.
For travellers primarily interested in seeing turtles, late October to March is when green and loggerhead turtles come ashore to nest, and hatchlings emerge from January to May. While this falls partially within the wetter season, the opportunity to witness these natural events is a major draw for many.