north stradbroke island day trip itinerary

Plan a North Stradbroke Island Day Trip (Full Guide)

Are you looking for a brilliant Island destination from Brisbane? Well, guess what! Its so easy to plan a North Stradbroke Island Day trip, and you can tailor things to see around the amount of time you have.

As a local to Brisbane, I’ve visited Straddie heaps of times over the years. I love the relaxed vibe, the friendly locals and how easy it is to get around. You can plan out your day, or just rock up and see where the road takes you. Either way, you sure to have a blast.

So, read on to find out how to get there and all the things you can to see and do.

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Plan a North Stradbroke Island Day Trip from Brisbane

North Stradbroke Island or Minjerribah is about 30 kilometres off the coast of Cleveland in Brisbane. It’s a sub-tropical island with crystal clear waters, surfing beaches and Aboriginal Heritage (Quandamooka people).

Not only that, but it’s listed as the world’s second largest sand island (after Fraser Island) with a length of about 38 kilometres and 11 kilometres wide.

Obviously, if you have your own boat or Jet ski, you can visit the island in your own time schedule. It’s certainly possible and easy to do on your own, but most of us don’t have that option, which means you’ll need the ferry transfer.

Travel by Ferry!

Sealink South East Queensland  will provide you a vehicle or a passenger ferry. The trip takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and they have ferries leaving almost every hour throughout the day. This can be one of the cheapest options, especially of you’re using the public bus on the Island.

The ferry departs from Cleveland on the south side of Brisbane. 12 Emmett Drive, Cleveland (Toondah Harbour), and you’ll arrive at the Dunwich Boat Harbour. The prices will vary on passenger numbers, time of day, and vehicle size. So, It’s best to check the website for your specific circumstances.

Organised tour!

If you don’t want to organise your own Day trip or don’t have your own transport? Then, take a look at the tours below leaving from Brisbane City. It is possible to get them from the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, but they require extra travel time to get to the Cleveland ferry.

➡  Compare tours from Brisbane HERE with Get your Guide, or HERE with Viator.

How to Get around?

The Island is 18 kilometres just to travel from Dunwich to Point Lookout, so even a pushbike is a little limiting to see all of the sites. So, some kind of transport will be need which include:

4 Wheel Drive Vehicle

If you’re wanting to drive on any beach, you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle, along with a permit . This will open up the entire Island to you and things to do, as well as the beach camping options. and if you don’t have you’re own, you can hire one on the Island.

Main beach stretches 38 kilometres from Point Lookout to the south side of the Island. More importantly, you need to look up the Islands Tide Times  to ensure you don’t get caught on high tide. In fact, the beach driving rules state that you need to be off the beaches outside of 2-3 hours from high tide.

Flinders Beach is the north side beach you can drive on, which is only 8 kilometres long. This is the only other beach with 4 wheel drive access, and more popular as a lower surf side.

2 Wheel Drive Vehicle or Scooter

The main highlights on the island will be ok to see with a two-wheel-drive vehicle. This is because the main roads are sealed bitumen and you can over a small car or hire a scooter on the Island.

Public Bus Service

Unlike the nearby Moreton Island , if you have no vehicle of your own, then you can rely on public transportation. They will transport you to and from Dunwich, Amity Point, or Point Lookout. This includes several other stops in between and along the way. The service runs about every hour throughout the day, and you can find the  Prices and Timetable HERE ..

Check out my Photo Gallery for sample tourism images needed for websites, blog posts, magazines articles, Marketing and/or Advertisement’s.

17 Best Things to do when you’re there?

There are over 2000 people living on the Island, so you can imagine that the area is built up. Mostly revolving around tourism, you have plenty of accommodation types, along with grocery stores, cafes, restaurants, and local stores with arts and crafts.

Straddie is definitely worth visiting for the beaches, the wildlife, and the best island paradise so close to Brisbane. It offers surfing & wading beaches to exploring the local crafts of a small country town. But, check out some of the options below!

➡  Compare All tours for North Stradbroke Island from Brisbane HERE with Get your Guide, Or find others available HERE with Viator.

1. Amity Point

Amity Point faces west over to Brisbane, and therefore, the waters are calm and suitable for some low-key swimming. There is a Pier where you will see people fishing and a secure, netted-off section for safe swimming.

2. Myora Springs

Myora Springs is a local freshwater stream just outside a few kilometres out of Dunwich. A small car park is available on the main road heading to Amity Point or Point Lookout.

You can visit Myora Springs or “Moongalba” for a quiet rest break or an opportunity to swim in the freshwater before it’s released into the ocean. Nestled in among the trees and low-hanging branches, this would be a great place to sit on a floatation device and relax.

3. Brown Lake

If you manage to get this gem on your own, then you won’t regret your visit. Brown Lake is aptly named due to the brown colour of the water, stained by the surrounding tea trees. It’s freshwater with a white sandy beach entry.

It can be accessed by a 2 wheel drive vehicle, with only 1 kilometre on a dirt road and car park. Although, keep in mind, there are some big holes that you might have to manoeuvre around.

4. Blue Lake

The Blue lake might look like an excellent place for swimming, yet it’s just for viewing or enjoying the hike. It’s roughly 5 kilometres return along a white sandy path to see this one. It’s not that challenging and can be completed by anyone with a moderate level of fitness.

5. Point Lookout

You won’t want to miss this area and where you’ll see most of the tourists and have most of the things to do. Point Lookout or “Mooloomba” is a rocky headland and where you will find the Gorge Walk, Main beach, or visiting all the retail shops and cafes. There is a local Surf club on the cliff, with exceptional views for afternoon drinks.

6. Swimming in Rock Pools

The rock pools are best to access coming into a low tide and when the water has been left behind. (Don’t forget to check out the Tide times). To get there, you need to park in the Deadman’s Beach Foreshore and walk around to Frenchman’s Beach. There are several rock pools on the corner of the Island, in between the two beaches.

7. Sand Tobogganing

This sand tobogganing section is found on Deadman’s Beach foreshore, and you will need to bring your own toboggan board. I did see some people had left or brought down some cardboard but thinking that wouldn’t last too long.

8. Whale Watching / Turtles or Dolphin Watching

There are a few sections or lookout areas around Point Lookout where you can see passing Whales. The season runs from roughly May to November each year, making it possible to see humpback whales in the distance. Alternatively, other creatures like Turtles, Manta Rays, or even Dolphins can also be viewed at a closer distance.

9. Hang out at the many Beaches

You have plenty of beach options starting with Cylinder Beach, Deadman’s Beach, Frenchman’s Beach, or South Gorge beach, all available for swimming. Additionally, on the western side, there is always an opportunity for beach time at Dunwich and Amity Point.

10. Kangaroo watching

Aussie Kangaroos can be seen all over the Island, and you’re asked to be careful on the roads and be on the lookout. I found them common in the early hours, where they will be looking for food around the Gorge walk.

Other Wildlife on land include(but not limited to) Koalas, bats, kangaroo’s, wallaby’s and bandicoots. Or Less found creatures could be the New Zealand fur seals, dugongs, mice and water rats.

11. North Gorge Walk / South Gorge Walk

The Gorge Walk is a fantastic addition to your exploration of Point Lookout and the rocky headland. The 1 kilometre loop is on a formed boardwalk track and meanders through the North Gorge and the South gorge.

You can park at either end, walk one way to the opposite end, and use the walkway back to your vehicle. The South Gorge has a large car park, a bathroom, and a park with picnic tables. Not that it makes no difference to start at the South or North end first, and you need to watch out for turtles and dolphins in the water.

12. Surfing or Body boarding

If you’re into Surfing or bodyboarding, then this is your closest option to Brisbane. There are options to Surf on the eastern side, near Point Lookout. Alternatively, on the Northern side, at Cylinder Beach or Deadman’s Beach. Although, If you’re new to Surfing, then there are options to  learn to surf .

13. 4-Wheel Driving on the Beach

There are only two beaches (Main Beach and Flinders Beach), and either will need a  permit to drive on the beach . Once you purchase online, you can pick up the permit and car sticker from the Adder Rock Campground reception.

• Flinders Beach is the shorter of the two and covering the Northern side of the Island.
• Main Beach runs almost the whole length of the Island, on the eastern side.

14. Fishing

The western side faces the calm waters of Moreton Bay and surrounding Amity Point. Here you’ll find a popular fishing point with serene bays fringed by mangroves, as well as the pier. Alternatively, you can head anywhere around the rocky headlands of Point Lookout.

15. Watching a Sunrise / Sunset

It’s so easy to get from one side of the Island to the other. This makes it great to plan out your beautiful Sunset or Sunrise spots. The photo below was taken while walking the South Gorge boardwalk and the sun rising above the horizon. But, I’m told that Amity Point is perfect for Sunsets on the western side.

16. Shopping & Dining

The popular shopping and dining hub will be around Point Lookout and where you will find most of the shops, groceries, and cafes. Not only that, but you’ll run into other stores randomly around the other beaches as well as local art techniques taught and sold on the Island. 

You can access the diving spots from Brisbane , but the boats take just over an hour to get there. Your better option to dive is using the dive shop Manta Lodge, on the Island and, therefore, a shorter trip to the dive sites.

Flat rock has several sections for exploration where you can see turtles and grey nurse sharks in the winter. Shag Rock is a little smaller and a great spot for rays and smaller creatures like Nudibranchs and crabs. Manta Bommie will have you swimming with Mantas during the summertime and lots of different Nudibranchs.

Who are the Original Owners?

The Quandamooka people have lived around the area for tens of thousands of years. In fact, evidence suggests habitants on Minjerribah for at least 21,000 years. About 50% of the Island is protected as Naree Budjong Djara National Park, and The Quandamooka people ask you to respect this special place.

Do you want to stay there instead?

There are plenty of options for accommodation if your planning to hang around overnight. These include Camping, Glamping, Airbnb, Resorts or Hotels.

➡  Stradbroke Island Hotel Deals HERE with Booking.com

There are camping options all over the island ranging from Caravan Parks, or glamping options for those who don’t want to rough it. But my favourite would have to be Beach camping on Flinders , or the alternative on Main Beach.

Hotels and resorts are available throughout the island and even overlooking the water. Our last visit had us staying at the Anchorage on Straddie Resort , right outside Home Beach.

How many days do you need there?

A day trip to the island is an excellent taste tester to see the central district of Point Lookout and some beaches. Still, if you really want to explore all that it has to offer, then a minimum of four days is recommended.

This will give you enough time to check out some of the other attractions, such as Dunwich, Amity point, maybe some 4-Wheel Driving, the 6 or so beaches available, and Brown lake.

However, if you can stretch the time into a week , that’s even better!

Is there Internet Access on the Island?

Yes, there is internet (Data) access in all the major populated areas on the Island. However, suppose you’re planning on exploring the bushland areas or camping on Flinders or Main Beach. In that case, you may find that your internet connection is less reliable.

Wi-Fi is less accessible out and about, but more likely available at the hotel you are staying at or some restaurants.

Is there a supermarket?

Yes, you do have two options for supermarkets, which are on each side of the Island, so just pick the one that’s more convenient for you.

• SPAR Supermarket – Shop 3/5 Ballow Rd, Dunwich QLD 4183 – 07 34099507
• Foodworks Supermarket – 2 Endeavour St, Point Lookout QLD 4183 – 07 34098271

Wrap up – Plan a North Stradbroke Island Day Trip

Thanks for reading my blog post today on planning a North Stradbroke Island Day trip and the Things to do while on the Island. I hope you found what you were looking for and enjoy exploring the Island. However, if you’re still researching, please f ind other Brisbane blogs HERE for planning and inspiration.

Or even check out some of the best Islands in Queensland I’ve been to.

Read More Articles:

Gold Coast Vs Sunshine Coast – Which is better for you to visit?

Best Places to Swim in Brisbane & South East Qld with Map

Moreton Island Vs Stradbroke Island – Which is better to visit?

Best Brisbane Lookouts & Beyond the City with Map

Best Areas to Stay in Brisbane: Neighbourhood Breakdown

“Hi, travel enthusiasts! I’m Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller Blogger. I’ve been exploring the world since 2007, documenting my journeys through the lens of my camera. Having visited over 37 countries (including my home Australia), I’ve gained first-hand experiences that help you plan your adventures.

So, whether you need insider tips, or want to live vicariously through my escapades – You’ll find something to love in my blog.”

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DAY TRIP TO NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

By: Author Catrina

Posted on Last updated: May 2, 2023

Categories OCEANIA , QUEENSLAND

Thinking of making a day trip to North Stradbroke Island, or ‘Straddie’ as it is affectionately known by the locals?

With it’s crystal clear waters, abundance of wildlife and one of the best mainland spots in the world to see the humpback whales migrating, this is a little slice of paradise just 30 kilometres south-east of Brisbane .

Getting here needn’t be difficult or expensive, infact it is easy to enjoy North Stradbroke Island on a budget!

Read on to find out all you need to know about how to have a great day trip at North Stradbroke Island!

North Stradbroke Island – one of the hidden gems in Australia has so far managed to hide itself from the tourist radar. And the locals liked it this way. But that’s all about to change.

Places like this never stay a secret forever and Straddie has now made the decision to shift to relying completely on tourism after sand mining stopped at the end of 2019. And with good reason – this place is stunning!

About North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) is the world’s second largest sand island, after Fraser Island further north in Queensland.

It is home to a substantial amount of Aboriginal people known as the Quandamooka people, as well as many retired folk from the mainland. The locals are very friendly here and there is a nice laid-back atmosphere on the island.

Straddie is covered in beautiful white sand beaches and there are lots of coastal walks you can do, all of which offer fantastic views out to the ocean. 

You can also see lots of kangaroos just chilling on the grass! And don’t forget to look up – there’s lots of koalas in the trees too!

North Stradbroke Island makes for a great day trip and is perfect for couples, families, groups of friends or solo travellers.

A trip to North Stradbroke Island is a very easy and affordable day trip to make from Brisbane. But many are under the illusion that this will be an expensive day out.

I had previously thought so too, until I did some research and found out that the whole trip, transport included, can cost less than $40 if coming from Brisbane!

I did find it a little tricky to plan my day trip though as there wasn’t much information online, so I have put all the information you need to know here so you can plan your trip to Stradbroke Island stress-free!

How to get to North Stradbroke Island from Brisbane:

1. public transport.

Take the train from Brisbane (Central Station/Roma Street/South Bank) to Cleveland.

It is a slow train that takes almost 1 hour from the centre of Brisbane and stops at all stations between Brisbane and Cleveland, where the train terminates.  View the train timetable and all the stations the train stops at.

Check out the Google maps below, where I have marked the train route as it goes east of Brisbane, and you can check the nearest train station to where you will be staying.

For example, if you are staying in East Brisbane, there is no need to go into the centre of Brisbane to take the train.

Often you can get to one of the stations east of Brisbane, so you won’t be wasting time on unnecessary travel back and forth from the centre.

You can use a go-card/Translink on the train, just remember to tap in and tap out. Some zones in the train (usually the quiet carriages) have complimentary wifi to use (and it was really fast when I used it).

When you get to Cleveland station, as you exit you just need to turn right onto the main road, then walk to your right along Shore Street West (parallel to the train tracks).

You’ll see a bus stop – wait here for the 258 bus, it should arrive in about 10 minutes as the buses always match up with the train times and depart fairly regularly.

Tap in on the bus (but it is free), it takes you to the ferry point at Toondah Harbour in about 5 minutes.

If you want to walk, it is about 25 minutes walk, but I would just advise you to take the bus so you don’t miss the ferry (as the ferry comes once an hour), plus you’ll be walking a lot on the island anyway!

The bus drops you off right at the  passenger ferry terminal .

2. If driving yourself

The ferry terminus in Cleveland is about a 30 minute drive from Brisbane along the Old Cleveland Road. There is plenty parking at the ferry terminus to park your car ($15 a day to park) or park for free on one of the nearby streets.

Or you can even bring your vehicle across with you on the vehicle ferry if you wish. Note there are two different types of ferry: a passenger ferry and a vehicle ferry.

Taking a vehicle across does cost quite a lot though ($100 average one way, check the prices and timetable here ), so usually only camper vans do this.

Even people who live on North Stradbroke Island tend to just leave a car on the mainland and one on Straddie so they don’t have to pay to take their vehicle across!

If you are hiring a vehicle and plan to take it across on the ferry, check your insurance covers you to take it off the mainland.

If coming from the Gold Coast, drive north on Pacific Highway and take Cleveland Exit no. 30. It takes about 90 minutes to drive to Cleveland from The Gold Coast.

If using public transport, take the train from Surfers Paradise to Brisbane then follow the steps above. You can change at the Brisbane Transit Centre or at South Bank.

Sunshine Coast

If coming from the Sunshine Coast, head south on Gateway Motorway. You’ll go across the Gateway Toll Bridge (fares apply – you have 3 days to pay). Get off at exit 97 and turn left onto Old Cleveland Road.

Ferry to North Stradbroke Island

There are two types of ferry: the Stradbroke Ferries vehicle ferry and the water taxi ( passenger ferry ). The vehicle ferry takes 45 minutes and the passenger ferry takes 25 minutes.

There are also two different passenger ferry companies but it doesn’t matter which ferry you get on.

There is no need to buy a ticket beforehand, just board the ferry and the ticket person will come around once the ferry starts moving so you can purchase your ticket.

You can buy a single or return ticket. A return ticket costs $19 for adults, $16 for students, $11.50 for children and $9.50 for seniors.

If you buy a return ticket you must make sure to take the same ferry back again so take a note of the company and ask the ticket person which is the pier you will get off at on North Stradbroke Island.

If this will be too complicated, just buy a single then it doesn’t matter which jetty you get to on the way back as you’ll just buy a new ticket!

Dogs are permitted on the ferry so long as they have a muzzle and lead. Bicycles are also permitted.

The ferry is enclosed but it is a pleasant ride with nice views. There is a little kiosk onboard and a toilet too. Check out the passenger ferry timetable online . 

Flights to North Stradbroke Island

Note you cannot fly to North Stradbroke Island on a domestic flight. The nearest airport is Brisbane International, located 30km away on the mainland.

A couple of days after I visited Stradbroke Island I took a flight from Brisbane to New Zealand , in which we flew over North Stradbroke Island and the surrounding islands in Moreton Bay!

And let me say wow, flying over here was incredible – look at the shot I took from the plane!

There are some experiences where you can go in a fighter plane and fly to Straddie this way, however it is very expensive ($500) so is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Definitely not your average way to reach North Stradbroke Island!

Suggested itinerary:

Here is a simplified map of North Stradbroke Island (I took this photo on the ferry timetable sign) and the ferry ride from Cleveland so you can plan your day trip. As you can see, the ferry arrives into Dunwich.

Point Lookout is the most popular (and most beautiful) area to explore if you just have one day on North Stradbroke Island.

If you have more time you can also visit Amity Point – a laid-back fishing town that is perfect for snorkelling and fishing.

Bus on North Stradbroke Island

Take the bus from the ferry terminal at Dunwich up to Point Lookout. The bus is $5 single, or $10 return (must return back on the same day) and it accepts cash ONLY!

The bus times coincide with the ferry times so you’ll never have to be waiting long. As I mentioned before, there are two different passenger ferries and they arrive at different jettys on North Stradbroke Island.

So pay attention to which jetty you are on: Junner Street (the first stop) or One Mile Jetty (second stop).

Be sure to know the time of the last bus (6.10pm!) and don’t miss it if you’re not staying overnight!  Here is the North Stradbroke Island bus timetable .

The bus takes about half an hour (18km distance from Dunwich to Point Lookout) – get off at the last stop (Point Lookout). This is the most popular place on the island, although it won’t feel busy!

There are 8 stops in total and the driver will call out each one.

If you want to visit Amity Point you can get off at the Interchange stop (driver will call it out) and change bus. See the map and below timetable for details.

Point Lookout

When you arrive to Point Lookout (Mooloomba) you can do the North Gorge Walk – an easy walk less than 2km long that provides incredible views out to the Pacific Ocean.

However before you do the North Gorge Walk there are 2 places very close by that are definitely worth a stop off: one to see kangaroos (hopefully!) and one to see a gorgeous secluded beach!

Headland Park

Just as you get off the bus at Point Lookout though (the final stop), you’ll see a park infront of you called Headland Park before you start the North Gorge Walk.

Quite often there are kangaroos here so keep an eye out for them! The kangaroos seem pretty tame here, but don’t approach one if they have a baby joey in their pouch!

I didn’t see people feeding any, but you can get a few metres away from them to get a picture and they won’t get scared.

South Gorge Beach

If you go across the park, you’ll see some stairs you can go down. Follow the path and you’ll end up at South Gorge Beach  – a gorgeous secluded beach.

However please note this beach is NOT patrolled and the currents and rips here can get pretty strong!

Swimming is not advised as you can get pulled out to sea very easily and the waves crash against the rocks very hard.

As this beach is very secluded, if you come into trouble there might not be anyone to save you.

Instead, just enjoy the view from the headland and then head back on the path you came.

There will be more beaches to swim at later on during the day! 

North Gorge Walk

The North Gorge Walk is a popular walk with not only tourists but with locals too. You’ll see several people on this walk but it will never feel busy or crowded and there are plenty places to stop off.

The migration path of the humpback whales goes very close to Point Lookout. Infact here on the Gorge Walk is the closest point on Australian land that you will get to these humpback whales.

Not only that but here is actually one of the best places for land-based whale watching on the planet! 

From June to November is when the humpback whales make their annual migration, so make sure to stop and watch them if you’re here during this time!

Look out for the silver sign that shows you the best place to spot them. Often you can also see turtles, manta rays and dolphins too!

If you do want to get even closer to the whales you can do a boat trip (not from here though).

Popular places in Queensland are from Mooloolaba and Hervey Bay – 3 hours drive north.  

At the end of the North Gorge Walk you may bump into some more kangaroos again like I did! That takes you to the end of the walk – it is an easy walk and can be completed in as little as half an hour if you don’t stop off at all!

The path is well marked out and suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Frenchman’s Bay

Even though the North Gorge Walk is finished, carry along on the road to your right and enjoy the views down to Frenchman’s Bay.

You’ll then see a little walkway (with a blue sign saying ‘walkway to beach’) that will bring you to Frenchman’s Beach.

Frenchman’s Bay is a beautiful beach but do NOT swim here. Like South Gorge Beach it is not supervised and it is hard for emergency services to access in case of an emergency.

There are powerful dumping waves, under tow currents and strong rips pulling you out to sea which have previously resulted in serious injury and death.

It is really important when in Australia to always obey the signs displaying the beach report and swimming conditions signs. Only swim at patrolled beaches where the red and yellow flags are displayed.

And always swim between the flags. Also keep an eye out for jellyfish as there were several washed on the beach when I visited!

Walk along Frenchman’s Beach and it will bring you to Deadman’s Bay and the rock pools here. Continue for another couple of minutes and it will bring you to Cylinder Beach.

Cylinder Beach

Finally – somewhere you can swim! Enjoy time on Cylinder Beach and Home Beach – the next beach along. The beach is large enough that it is very easy to get parts to yourself. Note you can bring dogs on the beach here off-leash.

There are several cafes and restaurants to stop and have some food in along the way, as well as weekend markets. Just behind Cylinder Beach is a restaurant Manta Ray that has a chilled atmosphere.

Alternative Itineraries

If you have longer than one day on North Stradbroke Island check out these options:

You can visit the North Stradbroke Island Heritage Museum at Dunwich to learn all about the history of the island. Open 10-2 Tuesday – Saturday, and 11-3 on Sundays (closed Mondays).

Visit Amity Point to go snorkelling.

Driving on North Stradbroke Island

If you have your own transport (or want a taxi) you can explore more of the island: there are some incredible lakes on the island such as the Brown Lake (Bummel).

The roads are good on the island so a 4WD is not necessary, unlike on Fraser Island and Moreton Island where you must have a 4WD. This therefore makes Straddie the easiest and cheapest of the 3 sand islands to explore alone.

Be careful when driving, especially at sunset and sunrise as there are many native animals here.

Accommodation on North Stradbroke Island

Accommodation here on Straddie is quite pricey. There are several holiday units and rental homes you can rent on Booking.com , or if you fancy camping here are the Minjerribah camping options . 

If you want to camp it will certainly make things cheaper! There is the Home Beach Camping Ground just off Cylinder Beach where you can camp. It is right next to the beach and there is also the bus stop right opposite.

To take the bus back:

Instead of walking all the way back to the bus stop you got off at, you can get on the bus here at Home Beach. The bus stop is here  on Google maps – by the turning in for ‘Cellarbrations’ bottle shop.

Please make sure you know the time of the last bus! Also make sure you know which stop to get off at to get your ferry: Junner Street or One Mile Jetty (explained more below).

Taking the ferry back to the mainland

As mentioned earlier there are two different passenger ferries and two different piers so make sure you get on the right one if you have bought a return ticket.

Harold Walker Jetty at Junner Street is the furthest one (for Sealink and Stradbroke Ferries companies) and One Mile Jetty is the closest one. The jettys are one mile apart and if you miss your stop the bus will not take you back!

See the map below (taken from maps.me) to see the distance between the two jettys.

Also make sure you know the time of the last ferry! Although luckily both companies leave at the same time.

When you get back to the mainland wait at the same bus stop and the bus to take you back to Cleveland Train Station should arrive within 10 minutes. The train back to Brisbane will be in the direction of Shorncliffe

Like this post on Day Trip to North Stradbroke Island? Pin it!

Catrina is a Travel Writer and ex-Flight Attendant based in Sydney, Australia. She has visited 85 countries and lived in several – including Italy, Australia, United Arab Emirates and England. Her work has been featured in a variety of popular travel publications including Fodors, Escape, Australian Traveller and Bear Grylls, as well as several international aviation and travel companies. She only writes about places she has personally visited, and aims to give real, honest advice to help her readers.

Saturday 5th of November 2022

Thank you for posting this!!! So helpful to me to see the island in a day without a guide

Hi Alexis - oh I'm so glad it was helpful! I was the same, I wanted to explore at my own pace without a guide! Hope you had a lovely time at Straddie :D

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North Stradbroke Island in a Day: Unforgettable Escape

March 30, 2024 · 1 min read

Embark on a one-day journey to the breathtaking North Stradbroke Island, a gem off the coast of Queensland. Your day will be filled with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the island's serene beauty. From spotting majestic marine life to exploring the quaint local culture, North Stradbroke Island offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're up for some surfing, sandboarding, or simply soaking in the sun, this island promises a day of relaxation and adventure. With Trip.com, you'll experience the best of North Stradbroke Island, all within a day's itinerary, tailored for an unforgettable experience.

• Day 1: Unveiling the Splendors of North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island

Embark on a one-day escapade to the serene shores of North Stradbroke Island, a gem nestled in the heart of Queensland 4183. As the first and only stop on today's itinerary, this island promises a full day of exploration and relaxation. Known affectionately as 'Straddie' to the locals, North Stradbroke Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife, the island offers an array of activities. From spotting majestic humpback whales during their migration season to exploring the freshwater lakes and unique flora, Straddie is a place where memories are made. Whether you're surfing the impressive breaks, diving into the underwater world at one of the many dive sites, or simply soaking up the sun on the sandy shores, your day here is sure to be filled with enchantment and awe.

Attraction Info

• Queensland 4183
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 days

Where to Stay Tonight

Allure stradbroke resort, the islander, anchorage on straddie, seminara apartments coochiemudlo island, top things to do in north stradbroke island-2024.

Warner Bros. Movie World is a movie studio themed park located at the northern end of the Gold Coast and a family attraction. Opened in 1991, it is the oldest film-related theme park in Australia. Visitors can enjoy various movie-themed rides and attractions ranging from motion simulators to roller coasters. Characters from famous Warner Bros films roam throughout the park that will happily pause to pose for pictures with visitors. There are also numerous active film studios amongst the many studios situated within the park complex. Fun for the entire family, you will certainly enjoy the chance to see your favourite films come to life at Warner Bros. Movie World.

△ Ride a thrilling and crazy roller coaster

△ Meet your favorite movie characters

△ △Watch the exciting and dynamic drift racing show

SeaWorld is one of Australia's premier marine theme parks, a place where visitors can have fun with dolphins, sharks, rays, polar bears, sea lions, Antarctic penguins and more marine life. Sea World is divided into several major areas, including the brand-new Penguin Pavilion, Polar Bear Coast and Shark Bay and other special venues. At here, visitors can enjoy dolphin and seal performances, feed sea lions, watch emperor penguins and polar bears, and interact with Nickelodeon Character, such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and PAW Patrol's Chase and Marshall.

△ Meet your favorite animated characters

△ Closely interact with marine life

△ Experience exciting rides

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is located in the suburbs of Brisbane and was established in 1927. There are about 200 koalas here. The protected area includes the Girl District, the Boy District, the Unmarried Koala District, the Married Koala District and the Elderly Koala District. Australian law stipulates that koalas are only allowed in Queensland, and there is an opportunity to hold koalas in the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. In addition to koalas, you can also see a variety of unique Australian animals such as wombats, Tasmanian devils, kangaroos and more. You can also personally feed rainbow parrots, kangaroos and other animals. In addition, there are many performances and activities such as the Shepherd Dog Show, Raptor Show, and Sheep Shearing in the park.

△ Hold a Koala and take photos

△ Feed animals closely and learn more about native Australian animals

△ Enjoy the noisy chatter of beautiful wild lorikeets

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is divided into two parts by the Gold Coast Highway, with a tunnel connecting the two sides. In addition to traditional viewing areas, there are many kinds of wild animals here, making it a good place to have close contact with natural species. You can observe crocodiles, cassowaries, and possums, and you can also sit quietly in a corner of the park and watch parrots and colorful sparrows soar in the sky.

Here, kangaroos and koalas are kept in a nearly wild state, and you can have fun with them, such as feeding the lorikeets and taking commemorative photos with the koalas! You can also enjoy the simple and enthusiastic dance performances of the Australian Aboriginals to bring a joyful end to the day's travels.

△ Observe and interact with Australian native species

△ Learn more about biology and geography

△ Observe the wonderful performances held every day

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Straddie: The ultimate guide to exploring North Stradbroke Island

Floating just off the coast of Brisbane, North Stradbroke Island boasts some of the most incredible landscapes and stunning coastal scenery you’ll find anywhere in Australia, and yet has all the retro charm and relaxed vibes of a little country town. As one of the world’s largest sand islands (second only to the infinitely popular Fraser Island), North Stradbroke is dominated by long, pristine beaches with water so perfectly turquoise that it seems almost unbelievable, but even if the views aren’t enough to win you over (which they definitely will be), the island is overflowing with wildlife, from turtles and giant manta rays, dolphins and whales, to koalas and kangaroos. Lovingly known as “Straddie” to the locals, North Stradbroke Island may just be Queensland’s best kept secret. This quick guide will tell you everything you need to know about visiting Straddie yourself , including how to get there, getting around the island, where to explore, and more.

What's in this travel guide

Getting to North Stradbroke Island

The best way to get across the water to Straddie is to hop on a ferry at Toondah Harbour in Cleveland, which is only a 35min drive from the centre of Brisbane or 1hr from the Gold Coast . There’s plenty of secure parking to be had (if you’re willing to pay $15), but if you arrive early, there’s a good chance you can snag a free spot along one of the nearby residential streets instead . If you don’t have access to a vehicle, there’s also the option to catch a train out to Cleveland Station and then hop on the free shuttle bus to the ferry terminal (operated by Stradbroke Flyer ).

Vehicle ferry

Stradbroke Ferries operates vehicle ferries between Cleveland and the island (Dunwich) every day of the year, with plenty of daily departures to suit any itinerary. The obvious advantage of the vehicle ferry is having complete freedom of movement once you’re on Straddie, but the cost of the ferry is pretty daunting for a quick day trip. Unless you’re staying for a couple days or planning to go 4WDing on the beach, I’d actually recommend leaving the car in Cleveland and hopping on a water taxi instead !

Departure point:  12 Emmett Drive, Cleveland Trip duration:  55min Cost: $59-99 each way for a standard car Bookings:  book online at  Stradbroke Ferries

Water taxi/ passenger ferry

There are two different companies operating water taxis/passenger ferries across to Dunwich, and both leave from the harbour in Cleveland , basically right next to one another. At $7 each way, Stradbroke Ferries is the cheaper option (by $3) so it’s what I took to the island. However, Stradbroke Flyer offers a complimentary shuttle bus from Cleveland Station, so it would definitely be your best bet if you’re catching public transport from Brisbane.

Departure point:  12 Emmett Drive, Cleveland (Stradbroke Ferries) Trip duration:  20min Cost: $7 each way (Stradbroke Ferries) or $10 (Flyer) Bookings: just rock up and pay for your ticket at the  Stradbroke Ferries office

Looking down at the turtles below

Getting around on North Stradbroke Island

Driving on the island.

If you’ve taken your car across on the ferry, you’ll have no difficulty getting around, as the whole island is only about 20min wide. Better yet, you can drive across some of the beaches— both Main Beach and Flinders have 4WD access points. There’s fuel in Dunwich, Point Lookout, and Amity Point.

Taking the public bus

Even though it sounds a lot more appealing to cruise around the island in your own car, it’s actually super easy to use the island bus to get around. For $9.60, you can hop on and off the bus all around the island , stopping at most of the main beaches, walks, attractions, and in both of the main towns (Point Lookout and Amity Point). Annoyingly, the timetable only lists the main stops (Dunwich, Point Lookout, Amity Point), but you can easily figure out the other stops once on the island. The bus timetable is even synced with the ferries , so there’s always a bus waiting for you when you get off the boat and the ferry will wait for the corresponding bus to drop off passengers before departing back to the mainland (so as long as you catch the right bus, you’ll never miss the ferry!).

We were a little frustrated with the afternoon gaps in the bus schedule, but it worked out perfectly in the end— just make sure you head to Amity Point with plenty of time to get back to Dunwich, since it’s a bit of a trip (you have to transfer buses at the interchange and then travel all the way to Point Lookout before finally going to Dunwich).

There are also some crazy people who bring their bike across on the water taxi and cycle their way around the island rather than relying on a car or a bus. The roads are pretty quiet, so it’s an ideal place to get out on a bike, but be prepared to pedal 20km each way to either Point Lookout or Amity Point.

Wild dolphins at Amity Point Jetty

What to do on North Stradbroke Island

If you only have a single day to explore Straddie, I’d recommend hopping on the bus and checking out Point Lookout’s Main Beach and North Gorge Walk, grabbing some lunch in town, and then cruising over to Cylinder Beach. Then, catch the bus out to Amity Point to hang out on the calm beaches, search for koalas in the trees, and watch as wild dolphins swim right up to the jetty. From here, catch the last bus back to Dunwich (via Point Lookout) and sail back to the mainland. One of the most perfect days of all time.

Straddie’s iconic Main Beach is one of the first things you’ll see upon arriving in Point Lookout, and it’s the perfect introduction to this impossibly beautiful island. The sand stretches for about 30km, so this is a great spot to throw down your beach towel, soak up some sun, and hop into the water for a swim/surf. Alternatively, find some amazing views from the beach as you approach the start of North Gorge Walk.

North Gorge Walk

This 1.5km walk is basically a highlights tour of Point Lookout, parading you past stunning beaches and dramatic coastal views before spitting you back out into town. Even though it’s a short walk, allow at least an hour to enjoy all the scenery and explore all the cliffs!

brooke brisbine

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics, teaching at a university & securing permanent residency in Australia. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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The comments.

Hi Brooke We are heading to Stradbroke Island via the water taxi, wanting to hike from Dunwich to Amity on our 1st day, then head to flinders beach to hike the beach to adder rock. Is this possible

Hi Brendan,

I’ve not done this exact itinerary, so I can’t say for sure! Hope you have a great hike and enjoy Straddie 🙂

Where isthe 15.00 dollar secure parking please?

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North Stradbroke Island: a One-day Trip to Brisbane’s Hidden Gem

It’s on one of my days off working as an Au Pair that I decided to explore this island.

North Stradbroke Island, Minjerribah (traditional name) or «Straddie» is known to be the second-largest sand island in the world with a length of about 38 kilometres and 11 kilometres wide.

Well-known for its surf beaches and chill vibe, it makes for a perfect getaway from the bustling city of Brisbane.

Location of North Stradbroke island

Its location is close enough to Brisbane to go there as a day trip. You first have to get to Cleveland (45mn by bus) and take a ferry there. I went with Big Red Cat, $20AUD for the round trip and it takes about 25mn for the passenger ferry or 45mn for the vehicle one.

You will land at Dunwich and can start explore from there. Well, only the North part of the island since the South is still wild.

What to see on North Stradbroke island in one day?

Most of the time, people visit Straddie and go to Point Lookout, Amity Point or/and Gorge Walk. Truth is, there’s plenty to do even if you’re not into coastal walks. You can simply sunbathe, swim or go fishing.

Even walking in the main street is a sightseeing adventure. Kangaroos run wild in the middle of the traffic there. It should be said that there’s not a lot of inhabitants so this is probably why!

1. Point Lookout (“Mooloomba”) & North Gorge Walk

To get there, you only need to grab the bus at the harbour. The bus service is really nice if you don’t have a vehicle as it can take you pretty much everywhere.

This spot is where you can also see whales (late May to Early November) from far away and is home to stunning surf beaches.

From there, you can do the North Gorge Walk. With its 1.2 kilometres of boardwalk, you can just admire the splendid scenery unfolding before your eyes. I recommend to take as much time as you want to indulge yourself in the breathtaking views and marine life you will observe.

One of the things that particularly amazed me was how the path was kind of split in two different parts. One one side, you have a rough headland whereas the other side is composed of bushland.

2. Amity Point

Easily accessible with the same bus that takes you to Point Lookout, Amity Point is a small seaside village. Perfect for spotting dolphins or fishing, it’s also a famous place for its sunsets over the bay.

This is the place I would advise you to spend the night especially if you plan on staying the weekend since you can pitch your tent at the Amity Point Camping.

3. Flinders Beach

Perfect place for swimming, surfing and sunbathing, Flinders Beach is an 8 kilometres long sand beach stretching from Amity Point to Adder Rock.

As in Amity Point, you can do some camping here and enjoy the pristine beach as much as you like.

And that’s a wrap for this quick day trip to North Stradbroke Island. This itinerary is far from exhaustive but it can help you to plan a fun day on the island. If you can spend more than a day there, I will recommend it. There’s plenty of accommodations available and you can definitely spend a whole weekend there just enjoying the atmosphere and the beauty of the island.

Personally, Straddie was the first island I visited. I can say that this discovery triggered a passion for them.

Who doesn’t love a nice and fun island life?!?

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19 Amazing Things to Do on North Stradbroke Island, Queensland

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North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) is affectionately known as Straddie to locals, reflecting the relaxed vibe of island life that’s so different from the nearby, much busier Gold Coast.

Despite being located in Moreton Bay, only 30km southeast of Brisbane, it flies under the radar for many visitors to Queensland. It’s well worth visiting, though, even on a day trip, or ideally for a few days for a relaxing break.

Most of the island is undeveloped so a trip here is all about nature—lazing on the golden beaches, walking the North Gorge coastal trail, surfing and swimming and even scuba diving in the ocean, and spotting kangaroos (we saw so many!), whales, and dolphins.

Here I share our picks for the best things to do on North Stradbroke Island. I also include how to get there, where to stay, and a handy map with everything mentioned.

A Few Things to Know About Straddie

Best things to do on north stradbroke island, more north stradbroke island activities, where to stay on north stradbroke island, how to get to north stradbroke island, north stradbroke island map, is north stradbroke island worth visiting, more australia posts.

• North Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world. ( K’gari is the largest and is well worth visiting too—it’s about three hours north).
• The traditional owners of Minjerribah are the Quandamooka people .
• The three small communities on the island are Dunwich (where the ferry arrives), Point Lookout (which has the best beaches and cafes), and Amity Point (quieter with sunset views).
• Originally there was only one Stradbroke Island, but in 1896 it split into North Stradbroke Island and South Stradbroke Island , separated by Jumpinpin Channel. On South Stradbroke there are no cars and only one resort.
• Mobile phone signal is limited on Straddie. Telstra has the best coverage.

Back to Contents

1) Experience the Stunning North Gorge Walk

North Gorge Walk is the most popular attraction on North Stradbroke Island and for good reason.

This short coastal trail in Point Lookout is stunning with views of sandy beaches, rocky coves, and crashing waves.

You can spot plenty of wildlife including kangaroos, dolphins, whales (in winter), and even manta rays if the ocean is calm enough.

The 1.2km one-way walk starts opposite Oceanic Gelati and is a mix of gravel trail and boardwalk. There are lots of steps but it’s not too difficult. It took us 30 minutes including lots of stops.

Near the start you’ll see Frenchman’s Beach down below and it ends above Main Beach , where you can watch the surfers.

At the end, follow the path back along the road for a few hundred metres to the starting point, head back on the trail if it’s not too busy (as I did on my morning run) or continue down to South Gorge Beach and Main Beach.

North Gorge Walk is best early in the morning when it’s quieter and you have a better chance of seeing kangaroos.

2) Breakfast at Blue Room Cafe

While there aren’t a ton of restaurants on North Stradbroke Island, there are enough that you don’t need to self-cater.

Blue Room Cafe in Point Lookout is one of the most popular places to eat on Straddie. Located close to the North Gorge Walk with ocean views from the terrace, it’s the ideal spot for breakfast after your early morning walk.

The menu is mostly cabinet food (salad wraps, sandwiches, yoghurts, baked goods) with a few specials. We ordered waffles and avocado toast and both were good.

It does get busy, so go early for an outside table, or get your food to take away.

3) Swim at Cylinder Beach

There are plenty of North Stradbroke Island beaches to enjoy (most of them in Point Lookout), but Cylinder Beach is usually the best for swimming.

It’s protected by a sandbar so it’s usually calmer than the other more surfable spots. There’s a patrolled area so swim between the flags.

Cylinder Beach is easily accessible from the car park with a coffee cart ( Coffee in Cylinder’s ) and there are toilets and showers. It’s ideal for a beach day and popular with families.

Despite its popularity, there’s plenty of space to spread out, and for extra tranquillity, you could head right over the rocky headland to Deadman’s Beach (check out the rock pools at low tide) or left to the long, empty Home Beach .

Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel is just above the beach and the pub has ocean views from the deck. We don’t recommend the food unless you have no other option—it’s average pub grub.

4) Admire Frenchman’s Beach

Frenchman’s Beach is another stunning Point Lookout beach. You can see it from above near the start of the North Gorge Walk, but for a closer look, walk north along the coastal pathway (just five minutes from Oceanic Gelati).

They are currently working on extending the Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk , so unfortunately the steep steps down to Frenchman’s are closed until mid-2023.

You can still see it from above on some of the lookout platforms (also great for whale watching in winter). The 500-metre stretch of golden sand is backed by steep forested bluffs and has a remote feel.

You can currently access Frenchman’s Beach by walking over the headland from Deadman’s Beach.

5) Enjoy a Gelato

Opposite the start of the North Gorge Walk are two gelato places. While neither is Italy-level (for that, head to Massimo’s in Noosa ), they are both tasty and ideal for an afternoon treat.

Oceanic Gelati looks more natural and is more affordable, but Simon preferred the richer chocolate gelato at Bella Balena . Try them both!

This area is an eating hub on the island. Blue Room Cafe is close by and Fishes at the Point is a popular fish and chips spot with outside tables.

The grassy lawn at the start of North Gorge is the perfect place to picnic or enjoy your ice cream with an ocean view.

6) See the Sunset at Amity Point

Amity Point is a quieter community in the northwest of Straddie, a 15-minute drive from Point Lookout.

The beach is less impressive here but the water is much calmer.

Amity Point’s jetty is the best place on the island to see the sunset. As well as the colourful sky, we also saw huge pelicans and a dolphin swimming very close to the jetty.

There are picnic tables and public BBQs, so this would be a great spot to bring your own dinner. Plenty of people were enjoying a glass of wine as the sun went down.

7) Dinner at Sealevel 21

After sunset, we had dinner at Sealevel 21 , a five-minute walk from Amity Point jetty.

The food is more creative than most places on the island with good vegetarian options. We enjoyed the lentil and chickpea burger and the Mediterranean vegetable stack.

Seating is all outside so bring a sweater in the cooler months. It’s worth booking a table as there isn’t much else around here if you can’t get in.

8) Spot Kangaroos

One of our favourite things about North Stradbroke Island was seeing so many kangaroos—we saw about 20 during our two days on the island!

It was fun to see them grazing and even more exciting seeing them hop.

The best place to spot them is on the North Gorge Walk early in the morning (possibly also at dusk). I saw them both mornings very close to the trail and even saw a joey in a pouch.

We also saw them both nights grazing in people’s front lawns in Point Lookout.

9) Look for Dolphins and Whales

Straddie is also an excellent place to see dolphins and humpback whales.

We saw dolphins from up on the cliffs at the start of North Gorge (at the grassy picnic spot one afternoon) and much closer at Amity Point jetty at sunset.

We didn’t see whales on our May visit as the season doesn’t start until June (and runs until October). The North Gorge Walk is one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in Australia.

Some people also see manta rays and turtles swimming in the ocean on the walk, but it was too rough on our visit.

10) Hide Away at Tiny South Gorge Beach

At the end of the North Gorge Walk you pass above South Gorge Beach but don’t get a good look at it. After the walk, head down Kennedy Drive to access this picturesque little cove.

This beach is unpatrolled and the surf can be rough, so it’s not the best place to swim, but it is a pretty place to hang out.

11) Surf or Walk at Main Beach

On the other side of the headland from South Gorge is the huge Main Beach, which stretches for 38km from Point Lookout to the south of the island.

This is a popular surf spot, but it’s a bit rough for swimming (although there is a patrolled area). It’s fantastic for a long walk next to the dunes, though, and it’s easy to find a quiet spot to yourself.

If you have a 4WD and permit , you can drive on the remote southern end of the beach and camp on the sand.

12) Enjoy a Drink with a View at the Surf Life Saving Club

Point Lookout Surf Life Saving Club is on a headland above Main Beach. It’s a no-frills bar with a simple food menu, but the elevated deck is a fantastic spot for a drink with views of Main Beach.

You can’t see the sun go down on this eastern side of the island, but seeing the surf lit up at golden hour was lovely. It would be even better during the whale migration.

The Point Bar is open from Friday to Sunday and on public and school holidays.

13) Swim in Brown Lake

Brown Lake (or Lake Bummiera ) is a perched freshwater lake in bushland in the interior of the island.

A perched lake is also known as a coastal dune lake as they manage to form on the sands of a dune system (remember, Minjerribah is a sand island). The lake floor of a perched lake is above the water table.

Brown Lake gets its name as the water is tinged by tannins from surrounding tea trees.

I thought the water colour would be off-putting, but the yellow-brown water looked so pretty with the reflections of the trees, and I would have swum on a warmer day.

We took a walk down the sandy 4WD track alongside the lake in search of koalas but no luck.

Although it feels remote, Brown Lake is only a 10-minute drive from the Dunwich ferry terminal so visit as your first or last stop on the island.

There are picnic tables and a toilet.

These are on our list for our next visit to Straddie.

• Eat at Oasis Mexican Cantina – Although it says it’s open 7 days a week, it was sadly closed when we visited on a public holiday. This looks like the best option for dinner in Point Lookout.
• Play barefoot lawn bowls at Point Lookout Bowls Club (next to Oasis)
• Learn to surf with North Stradbroke Island Surf School – We saw their lessons taking place at Cylinder Beach.
• Kayak with Straddie Adventures – This two-hour kayak tour through the mangroves is a great way to learn about indigenous culture and hopefully see marine life.
• Shop at the Point Lookout Market – The Bowls Club hosts a market of local vendors on select Sunday mornings (check their Instagram for the schedule).
• Hike through Naree Budjong Djara National Park – Beyond Brown Lake, you can reach Blue Lake (Kaboora) on a 5.2km return walk from the car park. This is a place of significant cultural value to the Quandamooka people and no swimming is allowed.

Point Lookout in the northeast of the island is the best place to stay if you want to be within walking distance of beaches, cafes, and the North Gorge Walk.

You could even manage without a car here, although it’s a fairly long walk from one end to the other.

There are no big resorts on Straddie. Accommodation is more focused on self-catering apartments and camping.

We stayed at Samarinda Jewel By the Sea in Point Lookout. The location was perfect just a few minutes walk from the North Gorge, Main Beach, and cafes.

Each apartment (one to three bedrooms) is individually owned and decorated. They aren’t fancy but are comfortable and well-equipped (we appreciated the washing machine) and all have ocean views from their balconies.

There’s also a small pool.

Check prices and availability for Samarinda Jewel By the Sea here .

Amity Point is also worth considering for a quieter stay. There’s a campsite by the jetty or Sea Shanties has cabins right on the water. Guests report seeing koalas, turtles and dolphins.

Getting to North Stradbroke Island is easy. Ferries to the island depart from Cleveland , a 40-minute drive (or train ride) from Brisbane . (Check out our weekend in Brisbane itinerary ).

SeaLink runs car and passenger ferries around once an hour. Advance bookings are highly recommended for the car ferry as it’s the only way to get your vehicle on the island.

It’s a 45-minute trip to Dunwich on North Stradbroke. There’s a cafe and indoor and outdoor seating.

From Dunwich, it’s an easy 20-minute drive through bushland to Point Lookout.

If you have a 4WD (and permit) you have the option to explore remote parts of the island and drive on Main Beach.

With a regular car, there’s still plenty to enjoy including all the North Stradbroke Island attractions mentioned above.

Passenger Ferry

While I do recommend bringing a car to Straddie for the most flexibility, if you are only visiting on a day trip, it might make sense to leave the car behind.

SeaLink and Stradbroke Flyer run passenger ferries that take 25 minutes from Cleveland to Dunwich. They are much cheaper than the car ferries.

Once you arrive in Dunwich you can get around by bus, but services are not that frequent.

A more convenient option would be to rent a scooter from Scooters on Straddie who will meet you at the ferry.

Alternatively, take a guided tour from Brisbane. This North Stradbroke Island Day Trip with Sunset visits all the main sights or explore further on this Stradbroke Island 4WD Day Trip .

We absolutely loved our stay on Straddie. North Stradbroke Island is well worth visiting as a day trip from Brisbane, but it’s even better to stay for a few nights (or longer) to enjoy the relaxed pace, beautiful beaches, and wildlife.

Do you have any other suggestions of what to do on North Stradbroke Island? Leave a comment below.

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North Stradbroke Island/ Minjerribah in a day

Escaping to the crystal clear waters of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah has never been easier! Simply jump on a passenger ferry or water taxi and explore the island on foot or on the bus, or make a sunny island weekend out of it.

Here’s a suggested itinerary for your next day trip to paradise:

Get on Island Time

Your morning commute never looked so good! Catch a ferry from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah, then bus up to Point Lookout. 

Mid-morning snack

Grab a bite to eat from the bakery or fish and chip shop at the Point Lookout café strip, or pre-pack a picnic lunch to take with you. There are a number of tables and grassy areas around Point Lookout to take in the stunning view out to sea while you have lunch. 

It’s not an island visit without ice-cream! Indulge in homemade Italian ice creams and sorbets at Oceanic Gelati Bar.  

Dunwich barge

Take a stroll

Immerse yourself in nature and spot local wildlife by walking along the North Gorge Headland, where you’ll spot kangaroos, and turtles, manta rays and whales (from June to November) just off the coast. Head to Amity Point to spot dolphins at the jetty and koalas at the camping ground.

Watch out for whales

After the gorge walk, head towards Cylinder Beach. On the way, look for the bushwalks that trail off the main road. The Whale Trail is a peaceful and shaded walk that takes you out of the sun and has raised platforms and vantage points to spot whales. The walk is 950m and ends at Deadman’s Beach.

Keep following the beaches until you reach picture-perfect Cylinder Beach. The waves at this patrolled surf beach are usually quite calm, making it an ideal place for a swim. There are also barbecue and playground facilities here.

Take a tour

For a North Stradbroke Island/ Minjerribah tour with a difference, sign up for a full day experience with River to Bay or Yura Tours , where you’ll learn about the island’s rich indigenous culture, history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking coastal scenery. 

Learn to surf

Want to hit the waves, but don’t know how? North Stradbroke Island Surf School can get you out there providing everything you need to know to ride your first wave. Keep an eye out for dolphins while you’re in their playground!

After your lesson, marvel at the blue and green colours of the ocean from afar at the Stradbroke Hotel - with an ice-cold beverage in hand, of course. Or, if you’re still up for a challenge, enjoy lunch at the North Stradbroke Island Golf Club  restaurant, Bistro Seymour, before testing your skills on the 9-hole green.

Say cheers to the sunset at Straddie Brewing Co. in Dunwich (located near the barge), with local island brews and a rooftop view. Or from noon on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the Point Lookout Surf Lifesaving club opens its doors for the best sunset tipple we know of.

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North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Guide to North Stradbroke Island

Aboriginal name:  Minjerribah (pronounced Min-jeri-bah)

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• Getting to North Stradbroke Island
• When to visit

Head to North Stradbroke Island, the world’s second-largest sand island, to relax and enjoy the laid-back local lifestyle.

North Stradbroke Island ('Straddie' to locals) has a retro, laid-back vibe. Hit the beach, delve into the island’s fascinating history and hike to whale-watching lookouts. And with kangaroos hopping around the island, this is a true Aussie adventure.

The Quandamooka people are the Traditional Owners of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah. They identify themselves as people of the sand and the water and together, make up a collection of three clans from Moreton Island/Mulgumpin and Minjerribah. Discover the Quandamooka people’s rich culture with these Aboriginal experiences .

• Traditional name: Minjerribah (pronounced Min-jeri-bah)
• Indigenous Peoples: The Quandamooka people
• Traditional languages: There are three traditional languages on Minjerribah. Quandamooka, Durubalic and Janda language.
• How to say g’day: Maroomba biggee (pronounced: Mah-room-bah big-ee)

North Stradbroke Island is just a short  ferry  or  water taxi  from Toondah Harbour, which is a 30km (19mi) drive from Brisbane.

• Brisbane Airport (BNE) is serviced by international and domestic flights
• Car hire is available at the airport

Once you are on the island, getting around is easy with reliable private transport, bike hire, taxi service and car hire options available. We suggest planning and booking ahead of your arrival.

The months between May and November are the most idyllic times to visit North Stradbroke Island. During this time the sun is shining and the activities on offer are in full swing. You will also spot whales migrating north to breed.

• High season: Summer (December to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Island Vibe Festival (October)

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Away With Maja

How to visit north stradbroke island (without a car).

North Stradbroke Island – nicknamed Straddie – is a popular getaway due to its proximity to Brisbane in Queensland. It’s a short ferry over from Cleveland, and full of incredible beaches, coastline, and wildlife. It’s also an East Coast island trip you can definitely do without a car! While having your own set of wheels will give you SO much more freedom (particularly with accommodation, camping, and some sights), it’s still possible to visit Straddie using public transport. Here’s my guide for a two-day trip to North Stradbroke Island in Australia without a car!

How to Get to North Stradbroke Island

If you’re traveling from Brisbane, you’ll need to get yourself to Cleveland – this is where the SeaLink ferry departs for Straddie. The nearest airport is Brisbane airport; I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals. You can take a train from Brisbane to Cleveland station, and then Bus #258 to the ferry terminal. I drove to the ferry terminal in Cleveland and left my car in the free parking without any issue. Bringing a car over onto Straddie is really pricey (nearly $200 more!), so I chose to go as a foot passenger and use public transportation on the island. The SeaLink ferry only costs about $20 return as a foot passenger! Bus tickets on North Stradbroke Island are $5 one-way or $10 for an unlimited day ticket. You can pay the driver with cash or card. Check the bus timetables here – screenshot it for later!

Where to Stay on North Stradbroke Island

If you don’t have a car, you likely won’t be able to access the beach campsites around the island. If you’re after cheap accommodation, I recommend staying at YHA Manta Lodge in Point Lookout. This hostel has a huge kitchen and common area, and shares the space with the diving center. The staff were super friendly and while my 6-bed dorm room was on the small side, I had everything I needed for my one-night stay. They have private rooms, too. I’d stay here again!

Day 1 on North Stradbroke Island

You’ll arrive on North Stradbroke Island at the ferry terminal in Dunwich. I recommend getting Bus #880 from Dunwich to the last bus stop at Point Lookout (my bus ticket cost $5).

Walk the North Gorge Walk

One of my favorite things on North Stradbroke Island was doing the North Gorge Walk. You can make a quick detour down to see Main Beach, but then head along the boardwalk to enjoy the coastal views. The walk isn’t long or hard. The trail is just over 1 mile, and took me 40 minutes to complete with a LOT of photo stops (including setting up my tripod).

Have Lunch in Point Lookout

There are a few places to eat at Point Lookout. Loaves at the Point is a popular spot – with very affordable avocado on toast! – and treat yourself to Oceanic Gelati afterwards. My ice cream here was perfect on a warm sunny day.

Walk Past Frenchman’s Bay and Deadman’s Beach

Follow the road and footpaths past Frenchman’s Bay, and soak up the beautiful coastal views. This really is a beautiful place to explore! If you’re visiting in the right season, stop at the whale watching platform – you might get lucky and see some gentle giants on their migration up the coast. Then head towards Deadman’s Beach, a gorgeous stretch of sand. Unfortunately, neither Frenchman’s Bay or Deadman’s Beach are noted as safe for swimming. But if you’re just wanting to relax and sunbathe, Deadman’s Beach is a great pick!

Swim at Cylinder Beach

Cylinder Beach is the only place on Straddie that is safe for swimming – they have lifeguards here, always swim between the flags. The beach is really long, so even if there’s a lot of people it won’t feel crowded. I spent a few hours here reading my book and relaxing in the sun; it was total perfection.

Catch the Sunset From Adder Rock

Head back along the beach to Adder Rock (conveniently located just a few minutes away from YHA Manta Lodge ). Head over the rocks and settle in for a magnificent show! This is the perfect spot to watch the sunset – I felt so at peace watching the sun drop down below the horizon.

Dinner on Day 1

If you’re staying at YHA Manta Lodge and you don’t have a car, you’ll be a bit limited on food options. There’s a highly recommended Mexican restaurant, Oasis, which is within easy walking distance. There is also a gas station/roadhouse just next door, that does some hot food like burgers, chips, curries, etc. This is what I did for my dinner! You can also bring your own food and cook in the hostel kitchen – the kitchen is massive and has everything you might need.

Day 2 on North Stradbroke Island

Start your day early by taking the bus from YHA Manta Lodge to Amity Point. You’ll need to connect and change buses to get here. I recommend buying a day ticket ($10) for the buses, as you’ll need to take more than one bus!

Spot Koalas and Kangaroos at Cabarita Park

Cabarita Park is one of the best spots for seeing wildlife on Straddie. This was the first place I saw a koala in the wild during my time in Australia! There are some kangaroos around too, but definitely try to spot a koala. There are gorgeous views from the park over the water to Moreton Bay.

Refuel at Bo Beans Coffee

You might want to find some breakfast if you haven’t eaten already. Sealevel 21 is meant to be a good option, but they are only open from lunchtime, and unfortunately it was closed when I visited. Walk through Amity Point and stop at Bo Beans Coffee – they do excellent baked goodies to satisfy your sweet tooth! Bo Beans Coffee is located at Rufus King Seafoods.

Stroll along Minjerribah/Flinders Beach

While it’s easiest to access Minjerribah/Flinders Beach with a car, if you don’t mind a walk you can see the beach on foot. The beach really is massive – I had it pretty much all to myself for the morning! This is one of the popular camping areas (4WD only) on Straddie.

Head to Dunwich for Lunch

Make your way from the beach back into Amity Point, and take the bus to Dunwich. Again, you’ll need to connect and switch buses to get there. Learn about the history of the island at the North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum, and stop for a pint at Straddie Brewing. They have brewery tours on Saturdays, and also do food at the brewery. But there are other options in Dunwich for lunch, including a bakery, cafes, and a pizza place!

If you were really ambitious and are planning on catching a very late ferry, you could maybe walk to Brown Lake. However, it’s a bit of a ways to get to the lake from the bus stop. And a bit tricky to get yourself back to the ferry in time. I’m bummed I missed this, but also just didn’t have the time!

Planning Your Trip to North Stradbroke Island

You can see a lot on North Stradbroke Island without a car! Yes, you’ll be able to see a lot more with your own vehicle, but it’s definitely doable using the buses. Make sure you check the timetable for the buses in advance. There are two ferry companies that go from Cleveland to Dunwich, but SeaLink is the most popular of the two. You don’t need to book your foot passenger ticket in advance (online), but I think you can save $1 if you do. If you’re following this itinerary, and after budget accommodation that isn’t camping, I definitely recommend staying at YHA Manta Lodge . You can search for other accommodation options using the map below!

Straddie is an awesome destination, and very easily accessible from Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast. You can see incredible beaches and wildlife here! If you’re visiting the area and don’t have a car (or don’t want to pay to take your car on the ferry – I feel you!), use the bus system to get around the island. I hope this post helps planning a two-day adventure to North Stradbroke Island without a car!

Have you been to Straddie – with or without a vehicle?

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The Globewanderin

A Travel Blog

Australia , Destinations · 10. April 2021

A Day Trip to North Stradbroke Island, Queensland

North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as the locals call it is the second-largest sand island in the world. It is located right off the coast of Brisbane and a real hidden gem. North Stradbroke Island has vast wildlife, an incredible landscape and a very picturesque coast. If you are looking for a relaxing and fun day trip Straddie should be on your list! I find Straddie to be one of the most beautiful places in Queensland and perfect for a day trip. During winter you have great chances to spot whales! A day trip to North Stradbroke Island is easy and on a budget , so get your swimmers ready and make your way to paradise. Keep reading if you want to know how to get there, how to get around and what to do on North Stradbroke Island.

Table of Contents

Quick Tips North Stradbroke Island

How to get to North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island is accessible via ferry. The ferry departs at Cleveland which is part of the Bay area. It’s possible to travel to the ferry wharf by public transport or car.

Public Transport

The Cleveland line train takes about 1 hour from Brisbane Central. Stations include Central, Roma Street and South Bank. To see all stations and the train timetable click here . To get the cheapest fare, you can get a go card which you need to tap on and off. You can purchase it at train stations and read more about it here .

After arriving at Cleveland Station, you need to change to bus 258 which goes once per hour. It will bring you right to the ferry terminal and matches the ferry times. It allows you about 15 minutes bo purchase your ticket at the terminal.

The ferry terminal is a 30-minute drive from Brisbane and has parking available. There is also some free parking on surrounding streets. If you drive, you also have the option to bring your vehicle to the island. While this makes your day trip to North Stradbroke Island more easy and flexible, it costs about 80 dollars per vehicle (the price changes depending on the time). Don’t worry if you only want to drive to the ferry terminal though, there is a bus company on North Stradbroke Island driving to major tourist spots.

There are two different ferries – the passenger ferry and the vehicle ferry. the water taxi is a passenger ferry and takes 25 minutes to get to North Stradbroke Island. The Stradbroke Flyer ferry is the passenger ferry. You can get tickets at the ticket office at the terminal. They are 20 AUD return for adults. You can find the timetable here .

The vehicle ferry takes you to North Stradbroke Island in 45 minutes and can be pre-booked for about 80 AUD per vehicle. You can find the timetable here .

How to get around on a day trip to North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island has its own bus company that offers day tickets for 10 AUD. Make sure to bring cash for the bus, The bus meets the ferry schedule and picks passengers up from the ferry terminal. Buses go to Point Lookout and Amity Point and stop at some stops in between. To return to the ferry terminal, the bus also meets the return ferry. Busses on major routes go every hour. Some buses only go a few times a day. You can find the bus timetable here . It is very important to plan ahead for a day trip as you need to plan when you need to be at the bus stops.

If you bring your car, you have more freedom and you can visit some places that are only accessible via car, such as Brown Lake. There is also the option to 4wd on North Stradbroke Island.

If you don’t want to bring a car but you want to be more flexible with times, you can also book a taxi service on the island. You can also pre-arrange a pick-up. Contact info can be found here .

What to do on a day trip to North Stradbroke Island

A day trip to North Stradbroke island brings you to so many incredible places, beaches and offers a day full of stunning experiences. If you are travelling by public transport I would suggest heading to Point Lookout and skip the rest of the island if you don’t want to get a taxi. The area offers a lot of pretty beaches and heaps to see. If you want to get to Amenity Point, you really have to plan ahead and catch the right bus at the right time.

I personally was too scared to miss the last bus and I rather wanted to spend more time exploring Point Lookout. The best way to spend your day on North Stradbroke Island is to catch the bus to Point Lookout and go from there. If you have enough time left, you can book a taxi after and go to Brown Lake or Amity Point.

Point Lookout

Point Lookout is a great place to start your Day Trip. There are cute cafes, shops, the North Gorge Walk, whale watching and stunning beaches that you can visit from there. Point Lookout is located above Main Beach and Frenchman’s Beach and a great place to stop for lunch or a little break.

The North Gorge Walk is the highlight at Point Lookout and an absolute must-do on your visit to North Stradbroke Island. You’ll get stunning views from Point Lookout of long sandy beaches and beautiful rocky landscapes. Point Lookout is definitely one of the most instagrammable places around Brisbane, if not the whole of Queensland.

Main Beach is more than 30 km long and a popular swimming and surf beach. It is patrolled and offers campsites. You can drive at the beach with your four-wheel drive after getting a vehicle access permit. The bus will drop you off really close to Main Beach. You just have to walk a few minutes and you’ll see the long sandy stretch that reaches to the south of the island. Main Beach is on one side of the Gorge and visible from the beginning of the North Gorge Walk. I would recommend not to spend too much time there if you visit North Stradbroke island just for the day, as there are so many beautiful things on the walk.

North Gorge Walk

The North Gorge Walk was my favourite thing on the island and is probably one of the most beautiful things to do in the Brisbane area. It’s a 1.5 km walk going past beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs of the Gorge, beautiful coastal views and wildlife. Allow enough time to really enjoy the walk, to do some stops and to take photos! If you’re lucky you might spot whales, dolphins or sea turtles on your walk.

At the cliffs, you can see the waves crash against the cliffs and you can spot some blowholes. It’s incredible scenery and there are many viewing platforms from where you can observe this spectacle.

It was an extremely windy day, so the water was wild. Usually, the water has a stunning colour and the most beautiful shades of blue.

The picture below shows the place where you can spot whales. You’ll probably see many people looking through their binoculars to spot the beautiful creatures. However, you can definitely see them without. We were lucky and got the chance to see a whale (Yaaay!).

Frenchmans Bay

The North Gorge Walk is a circular trail and brings you back to Point Lookout. There is a little grass area where you can sit and enjoy the views of Frenchmans Bay.

Frenchmans Beach is another long golden beach that got its name from four French-speaking men who landed on this beach and settled. Some descendants still live on the island! Frenchmans Baech is not suitable for swimming as its hazardous and rip-dominated. However, it’s a really pretty beach and worth a visit. Moreover, you can start a stunning walk to Cylinder Bay from there. To access Frenchmans Beach, facing the ocean, you need to walk to the left along the main road (where the shops and the grass area are) of Point Lookout for a bit. On the right, you can see a signed steep walking track. Just follow that and you’ll get down to Frenchmans Bay.

At the end of Frenchmans Beach and in between Frenchmans and Deadmans Beach there is a really pretty rocky landscape. You can walk along the beach to get to Deadmans Beach. However, you have to walk over the rocks which is a little hard.

Deadmans Beach

Deadmans Beach is a 600m long, beautiful beach. You can either walk along the rocks or access it via a walking track from the car park on Cylinder Head. This is not a patrolled beach, so be extra cautious if you go into the water! On Deadmans Beach you can also find stunning rockpools, they are located in between Frenchmans and Deadmans Beach.

Cylinder Beach

Cylinder Beach is the most popular swimming beach on Stradbroke island and shouldn’t be missed on a day trip to North Stradbroke Island. You can either access it by walking along the beach from Deadmans Beach or from the car park. If you don’t want to walk along the beach or you travel Stradbroke Island via public transport you can walk from the Gorge Walk straight to Cylinder Beach in about 40 minutes or just take the bus. Cylinder Beach is a patrolled beach and has safe swimming conditions. If you want to stay longer on Stradbroke Island, there is also a camping area at Cylinder Beach.

Amity Point Jetty

I didn’t get the chance to visit Amity Point but if you plan your day trip really well or you have a car, you can visit Amity Point during a day trip to North Stradbroke Island. At Amity Point Jetty you can see wild dolphins almost every day during sunset or at night. It is never guaranteed but you might be lucky and spot the beautiful animals playing right at the jetty. Please don’t feed the dolphins as it’s not good for their lifestyle and health.

Another famous spot that you can visit on a day trip to North Stradbroke Island is Brown Lake. Unfortunately, it’s not accessible via public transport. If you want to visit Brown Lake, you need a car or prebook a taxi that will pick you up at a certain time. Brown Lake is a natural freshwater lake that has its colour from tea trees. It’s a popular swimming spot and offers picnic facilities.

This is my guide for a day trip to North Stradbroke Island. Have you been there? Let me know if you liked it or if you have any questions in the comments!

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Welcome to Straddie...

Where a trip becomes tradition, explore straddie.

There's so much to explore and experience here on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). From endless summer adventures to amazing whale watching winters. Straddie is the perfect place to make your trip a tradition.

Weekend Getaway

Reconnect with loved ones and explore our weekend offerings.

Family Activities

Take a trip the kids will remember, explore what we offer families.

Educational Tours

There are lots of places to experience the rich culture of the Quandamooka people.

For those who like a little bit of action, explore our day tours.

Straddie has the closest surf to Brisbane City, explore our amazing coastlines.

Dunwich Township

Dunwich is the gateway to the island by ferry and water taxi and has a range of cafes, shops and services.

Amity Point

Amity is great for kayaking or, if you love fishing, “putting the tinny in”, or perhaps throwing a line in from jetty.

Point Lookout Township

Point Lookout is popular for its magnificent surf beaches, land-based whale watching from the headland, beautiful North Gorge walk.

Experiences & Events

There is no better time to visit Straddie than right now! We have handpicked some great deals and discounts for you to make that trip even sweeter. Check out these incredible offers and get booking today.

Island Vibe

3 day music festival born of reggae, dub and island vibes

Lines in the Sand

NATURE ART CONNECT invites you to learn about island ecology, island culture and immerse yourself in making nature art.

Nikki Michail Photography & Events

Connecting Indigenous, earth-based wisdoms and emerging sustainable practices through projects.

Point Lookout Markets

There’s a great range of Island vendors coming together to create the vibrant markets. Find toys, ladies beach fashion, organic Island honey, homemade soaps, gifts, food, jewellery and much more

Quandamooka Festival

The Quandamooka Festival aims to provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance for people to learn about the Nughi, Nunukul, and Goenpul clans.

Stradbroke Chamber Music Festival

The Stradbroke Chamber Music Festival is a series of six concerts held over three days at intimate venues in stunning Island settings.

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Camping Checklist & Guide To Camping On Stradbroke Island

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Best Things to do in Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island)

Are you planning a trip to Minjerribah? This article covers all the best things to do on Minjerribah, including activities, places to visit and tips on where to stay.

The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Quandamooka People, the Traditional Custodians of Minjerribah.  We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country.  Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

Just off the coast of Brisbane’s bayside, you’ll find Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), also lovingly known as “Straddie” by the locals.  On Minjerribah, you’ll find absolutely gorgeous beaches, picture perfect lakes, loads of wildlife and an abundance of marine life too – this place really is a nature lovers’ paradise!

Whether you’re planning a day trip to Minjerribah, a weekend away or a week long getaway – there is plenty of Minjerribah things to do. Most visitors spend their time close to the water exploring one of the island’s stunning beaches.  Here you can swim, snorkel, dive, surf, kayak, SUP, and spot marine life, including turtles, dolphins, reef sharks and more.

On dry land, there are also heaps of Minjerribah activities to keep you busy.  There are freshwater lakes to explore, many hiking trails and lots of wildlife to see – you won’t even need to look that hard to see kangaroos, koalas, goannas and birds. 

For those planning a Minjerribah holiday, this guide is a great place to start. This things to do Minjerribah guide covers all the popular Minjerribah attractions, activities, and the best places to visit, as well as all the essential information such as locations, opening hours and how to get there.

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MINJERRIBAH (NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND) THINGS TO DO MAP

1 go fishing, 2 go to the beach , 3 look for whales, 4 brown lake (lake bummiera), 5 goompi trail, 6 blue lake (karboora), 7 historical dunwich cemetery, 8 north gorge walk, 9 salt water murris’ quandamooka aboriginal art gallery, 10 learn to surf, 11 4wd tour, 12 wildlife spotting, 13 north stradbroke island golf club, 14 barefoot bowls at point lookout bowls club, 15 point lookout markets, 16 north stradbroke island historical museum , 17 sandboarding, 18 scuba dive and snorkel, 19 picnic on the beach, 20 star gaze, 21 hire a bike or scooter, 22 enjoy a drink with a view at point lookout surf lifesaving club, 23 beach yoga, 24 go glamping, 25 bring a native plant home, 26 watch the sunrise and sunset, north stradbroke island day trip with sunset, moreton bay: best of moreton bay 3 island day tour, best luxury hotel: whale watch ocean beach resort, best family hotel: samarinda jewel by the sea, best mid range hotel: the islander, best budget hotel: manta lodge yha and scuba centre, passenger ferry , vehicle ferry, enjoy minjerribah (north stradbroke island).

Before we start on all the things to do on your Minjerribah holidays to help you plan your itinerary, check out the map below.  This map shows the location of all the things to do at  Minjerribah covered in this guide.

I recommend you first make a list of all the things you want to do and then use this map to plan your day to day itinerary so you’re not travelling back and forth all over the island.

BEST THINGS TO DO ON MINJERRIBAH (NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND)

Below we cover the top places to visit and top things to do Minjerribah offers visitors.

Whether you want to fish independently or join a fishing tour, there are some great spots to drop a line on North Stradbroke Island. In fact, one of the best things to do in Minjerribah is to go fishing right off the beach! 

If you walk a bit further along the shore on Main Beach or Flinders Beach Beach, you’ll surely find a quiet angling spot.  Amity Point is also an ideal place to start. However, rock fishing isn’t advised due to powerful tides – the conditions change quickly and may not be as suitable as they look!

But to make the most of fishing in North Stradbroke Island, why not charter a boat and head out with a local to find all the best spots? 

A range of operators offers fishing tours. 

Heading to the beach is one of the top 10 things to do on Minjerribah. Depending on whether you’re travelling as a family, prefer outdoor adventure, or want to relax within a tranquil cove, the North Stradbroke coastline has the perfect beach for everyone. 

Cylinder Beach is a great option if you’re visiting as a family. The conditions for swimming are perfect for kids, and it’s patrolled every day of the year. Main Beach is another popular spot to sunbathe, swim and surf and Amity Beach is also an ideal place for kids with its crystal clear, calm waters – although it’s not patrolled.

Stretching 8 kilometres, you can’t go wrong with the excellent Flinders Beach. It’s unsuitable for surfing, but there are plenty of spots to relax and swim. This sandy beach is gorgeous, too, though you could say that about every beach on the island. 

Whichever beautiful bay you wander off to, be prepared for picturesque views! 

If you’re visiting the island between May and November, it’s definitely worth adding whale watching to your Minjerribah to do list. 

The island is an ideal place to look out for whales as you can see them directly from the land – so you don’t need to book a boat tour and brace the waves! Instead, you can see them while walking around the beautiful island footpaths. 

Thousands of humpback whales pass by the island over the Winter season, but September and October are the peak sighting months. 

The best place to spot whales on North Stradbroke Island is Point Lookout, from where whales sometimes swim as close as just a few hundred metres away. But you could also spot them along the Discover Stradbroke Whale Trail and the North Gorge Walk. 

Location: Around Point Lookout and along the North Gorge Walk Hours: View whales between May to November Cost : Free!  

Lake Bummiera is most commonly known as Brown Lake due to the natural rainwater, which has been stained brown by the tannin from surrounding tea trees. When the sky is blue overhead, the water is tinged with contrasting blue and brown hues, making it truly distinctive. 

Don’t let the name put you off though – the water is crystal clear – it just has a slight brown tinge to it.  It’s the perfect spot for a swim!

Wood-fired barbecue and picnic facilities are also available, so you can easily spend a few hours here. You could even make an entire day out of it as there is also a small playground and toilets just a short walk from the entrance.

The easiest way to access the lake is by car, but hiking from Dunwich is also possible.  

Don’t miss this stunning hidden gem when planning your Minjerribah day trips. 

Location: Just outside Dunwich

Hours: Always open

Cost : Free

If you want to learn about the rich Aboriginal history of Minjerribah, then join a historical guided walk along the Goompi Trial. The track curves around the Dunwich foreshore with fantastic views over Moreton Bay. 

Throughout the 60-90 minute walk, your local Aboriginal guide will give you fascinating insights into the history of Quandamooka culture and explain what makes this land so culturally significant. 

You’ll also learn about Aboriginal artefacts, traditional hunting methods, bush medicines and ochres (natural earthy pigments used within the traditional Aboriginal painting). 

Private and group walking tours are available.  Click here for more information.

For the Quandamooka people, Blue Lake has special cultural significance. The name ‘Karboora’ means ‘deep silent pool’ – and the stunning lake is indeed a fantastic spot for meditating on your thoughts as you stroll around the water’s edge. 

You can access the lake via the Kaboora track, a 5.2km return walk from the car park. The path winds through wallum woodlands, native fauna, and towering eucalypts before arriving at the lake lookout. It’s a moderate walk, so wear good shoes and don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent. 

Please note that swimming in Blue Lake is inappropriate due to its cultural significance to the Quandamooka people.

Location: Within Naree Budjong Djara National Park | Accessed via a 5.2km (return) track that will take you approximately 1.5 to 2 hours

Visiting the historic Dunwich Cemetary is a unique way to return to the early days of European settlement in Queensland. The cemetery has graves dating back to 1847, including 8500 unmarked graves of the inmates once held at Dunwich Benevolent Asylum. 

Those laid to rest here include 27 victims from a typhus epidemic onboard a ship in 1850 and 65 service members who fought in the First World War. The descendants of many Aboriginal families were also buried here. Since many graves here were unmarked, a memorial has been erected to honour those laid to rest within the cemetery. 

For a proper understanding of the cemetery’s history, it’s worth taking a tour with a local guide. Costumed guides will take you on a tragic journey through the grounds and transport you back in time to discover the tale of the doomed ship Emigrant and other lost souls who once took their final breaths here.

Dunwich Cemetery remains a place of remembrance for Island residents, so keep that in mind and be respectful during your visit. 

Click here for more information about the guided tours.

Location: Bingle Road, Dunwich, North Stradbroke

Cost : Free to enter | Paid tours available $20 Adults | $10 Kids

The North Gorge Walk is undoubtedly one of the best things to do on North Stradbroke Island! As you wind around the coastal bushland, you’ll be treated to exceptional ocean views, fascinating wildlife, and some of the island’s best sandy beaches.

Ensure you bring your camera as you’ll definitely want to take photos from the mesmerising Point Lookout. This is one of the best viewpoints to see whales during the Winter months, but you can potentially see koalas and kangaroos along the walk all year round. Keep your eyes peeled for giant sea turtles, manta rays and dolphins riding the waves. 

The boardwalk is just 1.2 kilometres, so even if you’re just visiting on a North Stradbroke Island day trip, it’s certainly worth fitting into your itinerary. 

Location: Access the walk on Mooloomba Road at Point Lookout, North Stradbroke

Hours: Always open 

With an incredible selection of First Nationals Art, art lovers shouldn’t miss visiting Salt Water Murris’ Quandamooka Aboriginal Art Gallery. Besides the artwork, you can also view cultural workshops and performances and see the unique Quandamooka designs, textiles and accessories. 

The gallery’s mission is to maintain and strengthen the traditional culture on the island, so they can keep it alive for future generations of artists and make this culture accessible to visitors who seek a deeper understanding and appreciation. The gallery aims to main the authenticity and origins of the traditional culture. 

The welcoming staff are on hand to answer any questions as you take in the inspiring artwork on display. You can also stop by the gift shop for a unique gift or souvenir from your visit to Stradbroke Island. 

Location: 3 Ballow Road, Dunwich, North Stradbroke

Hours: Wednesday to Friday, 9 am to 2 pm | Weekends, 9 am to 1 pm 

Cost : Free to look around | Paid art and cultural workshops available 

Image credit thanks to Damien Bredberg

If you’re looking for serene beaches with excellent surf, you’ll love North Stradbroke Island.

North Stradbroke Island Surf School offers lessons privately or in groups, and your experienced instructors will ensure you’re in safe hands, even if it’s your first time on a surfboard. 

All equipment is supplied, including beginner’s surfboard and wetsuits or rash bests if needed. Elite coaching is also available if you’re already used to riding the waves.

Location : Surf lessons usually are held at Cylinder Beach, depending on the conditions

Hours : Lessons are held most days at 7 am and 8.30 am

Cost : From $60 a lesson

If you want to combine the peaceful coastal views with a fun-filled island adventure, you can’t beat exploring Minjerribah on a 4WD tour!

Brace yourself for a bumpy ride as you drive around the island. Your guide will tell you about the rich history of Dunwich township, take you along some fantastic beaches, and help you spot whales and dolphins from Point Lookout. 

Most 4WD tours include many of the island’s best activities in one hassle-free trip, so you can enjoy swimming, koala-spotting, and a laidback beach barbecue, as well as viewing some unique natural attractions such as Brown Lake or North Gorge. 

If you want to relax and let someone else do the planning for you, then these fun-packed 4WD tours could be the perfect way to explore North Stradbroke Island.

A range of operators offers 4WD tours. Click here to see what’s available.

Minjerribah is home to some truly wonderful wildlife, so you’ll never get bored here if you’re an animal lover!  Out of the 450 native animals on Straddie, 43 are rare or threatened species. Keep your eyes peeled on land for wallabies, kangaroos, koalas, bandicoots, and echidnas. You’ll probably spot several reptiles rustling in the bushes as you walk around but don’t forget to look up to the treetops to see the vibrant birdlife.

Looking towards the ocean, you’ll be mesmerised by the fascinating marine life that makes their home alongside the island. Dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and fish are all commonly seen here, alongside those majestic humpback whales that breach and play along the coastline in the Winter months. 

Take note of speed limits when driving around, as car strikes are dangerous to the animals that live here – especially at dusk and dawn – and note any fire bans. The island’s unique ecosystem makes it a precious home for the animals who live here, and locals are keen to conserve it for future generations of animals and humans to enjoy. 

Location: All around the island!

Image credit thanks to Alessandria Riding

This beautifully located par 70 course is undoubtedly a unique spot for golfers. The site has everything you need to get started – including powered cars, hire clubs, and golf lessons available – but with the fun addition of an audience of kangaroos and koalas.

Aside from golf, the fully-licensed clubhouse is a great place to enjoy a drink or wholesome meal as you watch the kids enjoy a game of putt-putt. The views here are sublime, with excellent vantage points over Brown Lake, Moreton Bay, and the Glasshouse Mountains. 

Location: Alfred Martin Way, North Stradbroke

Hours: Every day from 7 am

Cost : $35 per player for 9/18 holes | $10 Club hire per set

Why not try some barefoot lawn bowls at the Point Lookout Bowls Club? If you’re new to bowls, the staff will give you a rundown on how to bowl and all equipment is included. 

After enjoying a fun game on the top-class greens, relax with a cold drink and lunch or dinner.

Location: 75 Dickson Way, Point Lookout, North Stradbroke

Hours: Monday to Sunday from 11 am

Cost : $10 Adults | $5 Under 12s for two hours on the green, including all equipment

If you’re visiting during the school holidays, stop at Point Lookout Markets and discover the unique and artistic gifts and knick-knacks on display. 

Stalls usually include an eclectic mix of clothing, jewellery, and local arts and crafts. You can also pick up a tasty treat while you’re there, such as home-baked goods and delicious organic jams.

Location: East Coast Road, Point Lookout, North Stradbroke

Hours: Run on selected Sundays from 8 am to 12 pm

Cost : Free 

The North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum represents 25000 years of Aboriginal history, alongside the British invasion and colonisation that created a complicated shared history over the past 200 years.  The museum is an excellent way to learn about the important events that shaped the island.

If you’re curious about the cultural significance of Minjerribah, you’re sure to find answers to some of your questions here. Although there’s a lot of information to absorb within the small museum, thankfully, the passionate people who run the museum are amicable and informative.

The history presented here is very comprehensive, with a mix of documentation, quotes from first-hand accounts, and objects on display.

Location: 15/17 Welsby St, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 2 pm 

Cost : $8 Adults | $5 Students | Under 5s free

The vast sand dunes on North Stradbroke are impressive just to look at from below, but there’s nothing like taking them on and zooming down them on a sandboard!

The best way to sandboard in North Stradbroke is to take a tour, as your local guides know all the best slopes within the ‘Straddie Desert.’ If it’s your first time, you’ll perfect your technique on some of the smaller dunes before gliding down some bigger hills. You can even take on the steep, speedy monster slopes if you’re brave enough. 

A range of operators hire sandboarding gear, or you can choose a day tour that includes sandboarding as an activity. Click here to check what’s available.  

Image Credit Tourism and Events Queensland and Nigel Marsh

North Stradbroke Island is just as beautiful underwater as it is on land, and snorkelling or scuba diving is certainly one of the best things to do at Minjerribah.

The reefs here are teeming with fantastic diversity, from colourful corals, graceful manta rays, majestic turtles, leopard and grey nurse sharks, and even humpback whales in the Winter. 

The Moreton Bay Marine Park includes the iconic Manta Bommie dive site, rated as one of Australia’s top ten dive sites! In addition, there are fifteen dive sites to visit, all with something unique and extraordinary to offer. 

Dive or snorkel with rays and turtles off Point Lookout with Manta Lodge and Scuba Centre, or book a day tour to visit various dive sites (for certified divers). Click here to check what’s available. 

Many of the top North Stradbroke Beaches have picnic facilities, like picnic tables and BBQs, but you can just as easily bring a picnic blanket and some goodies from home! It’s a brilliant way to take in the scenery – and an excellent excuse to spend longer soaking up the views beside the magical island coastline.

Location: Any of the beaches!

Bring a telescope or binoculars and take in the mesmerising night sky from North Stradbroke Island. The conditions are generally better, but anytime with minimal cloud cover is ideal.

Location: Anywhere away from artificial light sources (bring your own telescope or binoculars)

Hours: Check the weather for clear night skies

There are endless trails that lend themselves to cycling, and it’s a great way to explore the island’s diverse nature and landscapes. 

Many roads are shared with large vehicles and four-wheel drives and some routes are full of undulated terrains more suited to those with moderate fitness, so bare this in mind before you cycle around the island. 

If you’re unsure of the best routes, ask one of the local sports businesses and they’re sure to point you and your bike in the right direction.

Location: A range of businesses on the island hire out bikes or scooters, including Manta Lodge, Straddie Super Sports and Scooters on Straddie

Hours: Various

Cost : Prices start at around $10

There’s nothing like unwinding with a cold drink at the Point Lookout Surf Lifesaving Club. Aside from the fantastic range of local beers, the views are out of this world! 

The coastline views are magnificent year-round, but in Winter, you might even spot whales as you watch over the beach from the club. 

Location: 24 Kennedy Dr, Point Lookout 

Hours: Bar open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am

Cost : Depends how much you eat and drink!

DIY beach yoga can be done anywhere on the island (BYO yoga mat!), or look out for classes advertised during your visit. 

Samad Hi Flow Yoga generally offer classes most Saturdays and Sunday mornings.  They also offer yoga beach retreats, so you can plan your visit to coincide. 

Glamping is an excellent option if you want to reconnect with the great outdoors but don’t fancy lugging camping equipment around. Many glamping sites are more like a home away from home, fitted with separate rooms and stunningly decorated with luxurious amenities.

A range of campsites offers ready-erected luxury tents. Click here for more information.

If you want a unique souvenir from the island, taking a native plant home with you is an excellent option. 

Wildlife thrives on Stradbroke Island due to its unique and luscious ecosystem. Likewise, the native plants thrive here due to the rich soils and mild weather, and you’ll find a great selection of them at the community-run Point Lookout Bushcare Nursery. 

Location: Point Lookout Bushcare Nursery

Hours: Thursdays 10 am to 12 noon

Cost : Depends how many plants you buy!

It’s well worth finishing off a day on Stradbroke Island by watching a fiery sunset over the ocean. 

Amity Point Jetty is the perfect spot for sunrise, and Cylinder Beach is a popular sunset location, but there are many excellent vantage points around the island. Adder Rock, Frenchmans Bay, and Deadmans Beach are also amazing places to watch the sky get transformed with a fabulous sunset.

Location: See the sunrise on the eastern side of the island | See the sunset on the western beaches

Hours: Check for current times

BEST TOURS OF MINJERRIBAH (NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND)

While you can easily visit the island on your own – for those staying out of town, a Minjerribah day trip may be more convenient – or even a multi day trip with a guide.

If this sounds like you, we list some of the most popular Minjerribah tours from Brisbane and the Gold Coast below.

Although it’s possible to DIY a day trip to Minjerribah from Brisbane, it definitely makes things more relaxing if you let the local tour guides arrange it for you – especially if you don’t have much time!

The best Stradbroke Island tours from Brisbane include the destination’s best-known highlights, including the Gorge Walk, Brown Lake, Cylinder Beach, Amity Point, and Point Lookout. 

Your guide will provide some fascinating information about the island’s culture and history while pointing out any fab Australian wildlife that comes your way. 

The return ferry ride will be timed just at the right hour for you to watch a stunning sunset over the ocean. 

For tours from Brisbane – click here for information and to book your tour .

For tours from the Gold Coast – click here for information and to book your tour .

Why not discover three of Queenland’s most breathtaking islands with a Moreton Bay 3 Island day tour? 

The tour packs in a fantastic variety of activities and sights and really gives guests an excellent opportunity to see what makes this part of the world so special. 

You’ll get to snorkel with marine animals at the Tangalooma Wrecks, enjoy the views over lunch at Moreton Bay, discover the exciting culture and history of Helena Island, and spot koalas on Stradbroke Island. 

Click here for information and to book your tour

BEST HOTELS ON MINJERRIBAH (NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND)

Looking for somewhere to stay on Minjerribah?  We recommend booking through Booking.com as they offer a wide range of room types, most with free cancellation, which is ideal for last minute changes.

However, if you want our recommendation for a hotel, we’ve listed our top pick for a luxury hotel, family hotel, mid range and budget hotel below.

Nestled right between Frenchmans Bay and Main Bay, you can’t find a more beautifully located hotel than Whale Watch Ocean Beach Resort . It’s within walking distance from Point Lookout and the North Gorge Walk, known for having the best views on the island, and is around the corner from several top-rated cafes and restaurants.

Air-conditioned apartments come in several options for two, four, or six people and all overlook the breathtaking Coral Sea. Every suite in the complex comes with a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, a dining area, and well-positioned balconies so you can make the most of those North Stradbroke sunsets – and even spot whales in the Winter season. 

Aside from the magnificent ocean views, the hotel also has a beautiful heated outdoor pool. There is also a spa pool, barbecue area, games room and fitness centre. When walking around the property, look out for the kangaroos, curlews and bandicoots sharing the grounds with you.

Seamlessly blending the best of the island’s wildlife within a luxury setting, Whale Watch Ocean Beach Resort has to be the perfect place to stay in Minjerribah. 

Click here for more information and to check the price

Samarinda Jewel by the Sea is an excellent choice for a family-friendly accommodation that all ages will love. The apartments are just a 5-minute walk from the beach, North Gorge Walk and an array of eateries and shops.

Air-conditioned apartments are suitable for couples or large families. Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, full kitchens including a dishwasher and oven, and a lounge area with TV and laundry facilities, but the best feature has to be the garden and sea views from the private balcony. 

The stunning outdoor pool is ideal for families and includes a shallow end for young ones. There is also a garden area with BBQ facilities and a picnic area.

For a beautiful stay that’s well-known for its family-friendly environment and great location, Samarinda is a fantastic choice.

The Islander offers spacious, modern apartments beside the stunning Cylinder Beach. A handful of charming eateries are dotted a short distance away, or it’s just a 3-minute drive to the centre.

Air-conditioned apartments sleep two to four people and come with relaxing garden views. Units include a kitchenette, a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, a washing machine, a TV and a dining area. Some units also have a balcony. 

The Islander’s best feature is undoubtedly the outdoor area which includes a beautiful heated salt-water pool, sun loungers with umbrellas, and a tennis court.

This is an excellent hotel for any travellers looking for a hotel close to the beach and with plenty of activities nearby.

Manta Lodge YHA is a brilliant hostel offering comfortable accommodation for travellers on a budget. Across the road from Cylinder Beach, this budget-friendly hostel is close to many of the island’s best activities. As the name suggests, the hostel shares a building with an SSI dive centre, so it’s the ideal place to stay for anyone planning scuba-dive during their trip. 

Both dormitory and private room options include air-conditioning, linen, and towels. Private rooms are available for couples and families, with a bar fridge and electric kettle with free tea and coffee. 

The YHA has a shared kitchen and two common rooms with TVs with Netflix, or you can pass the time with a game of table tennis or billiards. The hostel also features a vending machine, lockers, and a tour desk. There’s also a fab outdoor area with a fireplace, furniture, and barbecue.

Manta Lodge YHA and Scuba Centre is the perfect place for anyone looking for a budget-friendly and well-located accommodation with fantastic communal facilities.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

GETTING TO NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

Getting to North Stradbroke Island by ferry from Brisbane is easy. 

Ferries to North Stradbroke Island leave from the Toondah Harbour in Cleveland, which is approximately a 40-minute drive to the east of Brisbane CBD. You can also take a train or bus. 

Once you’re at the Toondah Ferry Terminal, you can take a passenger ferry if you’re travelling without a vehicle or the vehicle ferry whether you’re travelling with or without a vehicle.

Two operators are running passenger-only ferries – Sealink and the Stradbroke Flyer.  Both ferries leave from the Toondah Harbour in Cleveland. However, the Sealink arrives at Junner Street, whereas the Stradbroke Flyer arrives at One Mile Jetty on Yabby Street.

The Sealink ferries run hourly between 4.55 am and 6.25 pm, with a daily break around lunchtime. The journey takes around 25 minutes. A return fare begins at $21 for adults and $12 for children (kids under five go free). Check the Sealink website for any timetable changes or to book tickets.  

The Stradbroke Flyer ferries run hourly between 4.55 am and 7.25 pm, with a daily break around lunchtime. The journey takes around 30 minutes. A return fare begins at $21 for adults and $11 for children.  Check the Stradbroke Flyer website for any timetable changes or to book tickets.  

Vehicle ferries run hourly between 6 am and 6 pm, with extra services at peak times and during school holidays. However, tickets often book out in advance during busy periods, so it’s worth booking ahead. 

The journey takes around 45 minutes. Prices vary depending on the size of your vehicle and what time of day you’re travelling. One-way fares for a standard car begin at $73.

Passengers without vehicles are also welcome to take the vehicle ferry to North Stradbroke Island.

Hopefully, this guide has given you lots of inspiration on things to do on Minjerribah.

If you’re planning a trip to Minjerribah, I highly recommend you check out our guide to Brisbane, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.

I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community , where you can ask all your questions and find even more great trip suggestions.

If you’re heading to Minjerribah, you might also be interested in the following nearby destinations:

• K’gari (Fraser Island)
• Sunshine Coast

15 things to do on North Stradbroke Island

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: August 8, 2018  - Last updated: August 26, 2021

North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie to the locals. is located in Morton Bay and easily accessed from Brisbane.  The first time we went I could believe we were only an hour from the central city yet already a world away.  I can see why people return here for their summer holidays year after year and we’ve made our own annual winter ritual of visiting.

Table of Contents

Whale watching  

Spot the islands pods of dolphins, keep watch for turtles and other marine life, drive a 4-wheel-drive down main beach, hire a scooter and zip around the island, walk the north gorge walkway, relax on cylinder beach, a great brisbane destination to see wild kangaroos and koala, have an ice-cream overlooking the ocean from oceanic gelato, stay a night or two on the island, order a cold beer at the stradbroke island beach hotel, stake a claim on your own patch of sand, swim and relax on the beach, check out myora springs and take a quick dip, take a walk through the bush track to the brown lake, vehicular ferry, stradbroke flyer, the best tour of north stradbroke island, map of north stradbroke island, things to do on north stradbroke island.

There’s no shortage of things to do on the island but here’s my top 15 to try:

Morton Bay is full of marine life and Stradbroke Island is a great vantage point to see it all from.  For whales, you’ll need to be here during the winter migration season.  It runs from July to October and this is the time of year we always plan our visits and have seen good numbers of whales on each trip.

They are a little way out so you’ll mostly see the spouts as the whales surface but if you watch for a while you’ll also likely observe fins, tail slaps and the occasional massive splash as they breach.

While the Point Lookout is the best spot to see them from because of its elevation you’ll be able to see them all the way along the gorge walk and we’ve even spotted them from down on the beach.

Closer in to shore you’ll also see dolphins.  Sometimes we’ll see a group of 3-8 but other times you see a much larger pod all moving together.  They particularly seem to like the surf beaches where we’ve often seen them playing on the waves and have spoken to surfers over the years out there who look across to see they were sharing their wave with a dolphin or two.  How incredible would that be?

Another marine animal that you see on Morton Bay and have a very high chance of seeing on North Stradbroke Island is the sea turtle.  They are often seen off the rocks but the best place is along the gorge and we’ve always seen them here feeding, they seem to come in after the blue blubber jellyfish.

Other wildlife you might spot in the waters around the island are dugong and seals.

If you have a 4-wheel-drive and the skills & confidence to take it off-road on the sand then Main Beach at North Stradbroke is an excellent choice.  You’ll find these beaches just as beautiful and rugged but with far less traffic than the more popular Bribie and Fraser Island tracks.

A couple of months back we grabbed a couple of mopeds from Scooters on Straddie and spend the day zipping around the island on those. It was a great option to get to spots like the Blue and Brown lakes, Myora Springs and Amity Point that aren’t so easy to reach by bus.

Read more: Our itinerary for a day with Scooters on Straddie

The walkway is well-formed and easy walking but it’s very open so make sure you bring your hat and sunscreen.  Take the chance to walk down onto the rocks and look around, glance out to the horizon to spot whale spouts and have a good look in the gorge, it’s a likely spot for sea turtles.  They seem to herd the schools of blue jellyfish up there then eat them.

Facing directly north Cylinder Beach is a gorgeous beach for fishing, swimming and enjoying the massive sandy beach.  There’s a camping ground here and cafe’s nearby.  You can walk here easily by taking the stairs down to the beach just before the gorge walk or you can walk out to the road and join the bus at the stop close by.

We do love seeing Australian wildlife in a natural setting.  You might recall that we’ve shared our favourite spot to take visitors to see kangaroos on the Gold Coast previously, Stradbroke Island is our top spot to take them in Brisbane.  We’ve never been disappointed in our sightings here.

Well maybe its just me but a day of sand, salt air and sunshine really feels like a holiday when you round it out with an ice cream.  Oceanic Gelato is conveniently positioned at the end of the Point Lookout walkway.  There are tables and chairs outside or take your treat over to road to the beach.  There’s are so many trays bursting with creamy indulgent flavours that it really is hard to choose.

A single day here can feel like a holiday but an overnight stay is going to be even better.  There are options for all tastes from luxury beach houses to beach-side camping.

If you’re planning to stay a night or two on the island a well-rated option is the Samarinda in Point Lookout for it’s sought after location near popular beaches, the gorge walk and cafes.  It has its own pool and great views.

>> Check prices and availability of other accommodation on the island  <<

So I can’t surf.  Well I can’t stand up while surfing and I think lying on the board all day is frowned on in some circles.  If you can surf however, or you just like to crash around on the waves on a body board then you’ll love Straddie.

There’s a multitude of good surf spots on the island that are easy to get to and you might even find yourself being joined by a pod of dolphins who are pretty impressive surfers themselves.

As the name would suggest the ‘Straddie Pub’ is beachside so you can enjoy a cold brew while taking in that stunning view for free from the Wave Bar and Beer Garden.  You just have to see this view to believe it because I was too busy cooling off with a icy drink and forgot to take the photo.  Just a heads up though, it’s not our pick for lunch.

There’s miles of clean white sand on the island, some are more popular that others but you can always find a patch of sand to call your own for the day.   Pack up a picnic, pack and the family and head out for a day of sun and fabulous beach-side memories.

Myora springs is a freshwater spring and unique wetland area near Dunwich.  The spring has run for thousands of years and is a sacred gathering place for the Quandomooka people.  If you walk through here you might spot the water mouse which is now a vulnerable species and also the endangered swamp orchid.  It’s a popular swimming hole but if you do swim be careful when you enter and exit the water carefully to prevent erosion of the banks.

The natural perched lake is brown, or perhaps more attractively described as tea coloured, from the tannin in the leaves that constantly fall into the lake from the surrounding tea trees.  It’s a beautiful swimming spot and the walk in is both beautiful and a good chance to spot some of the local wildlife and birds.  There are toilet and picnic facilities here if you plan to stay awhile.  The bus doesn’t go out this way but if you don’t have a vehicle it’s about 4km from Dunwich and you can either bring your bike on the ferry or hire one when you arrive.

Getting There

If you don’t have a private boat, then you have three main choices for getting to North Stradbroke Island.

You can take your own car across via the vehicle ferry from Toondah Harbour in Cleveland.  The ferry takes around 45 minutes to make the crossing.

Make your way across then use the local bus, walk or cycle around the island.  There are two ways to do this, you can go as a walk-on passenger on the vehicle ferry or the faster and more comfortable option we prefer is to take the Stradbroke Flyer .

It only takes 25 minutes to get across and costs $20 per person on the Flyer which makes it an affordable and relaxed day out of the city, we’ve also seen dolphins and turtles from the both on some of our trips so it’s worth watching out for them.

Both the Flyer and car ferry leaves from Toondah Harbour in Cleveland and land at Dunwich on the west of the island.  The bus meets the ferry and the ferry meets the bus so you won’t have to wait long and it’ll cost you $10 for a daily bus pass.  The bus goes to Point Lookout and Amity Point on the island but you can’t reach the lakes or southern end by bus.

If you’re in Brisbane on holiday without a vehicle there is another really good option and that is the  North Stradbroke day tour from Brisbane .  It is a highly-rated small group tour that picks up from the central city and goes to many of the highlights listed in this article including Myora Springs and the Brown lake that aren’t as easily reached by the public bus.

If you found this article useful please consider saving it to Pinterest. It makes it easy for you to find it again, it helps us, and it helps other travellers to find the information they are looking for.

North Stradbroke Island is a relaxed spot for a day away from the city.  Have you been there?  Do you have a favourite local escape in your home town?

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Monday 24th of January 2022

i Love this thank you where is the best place on the island for lunch .....

Toni Broome

Tuesday 25th of January 2022

Hi Anne. There isn't a big range of options on the island. Our go-to is the Blue Room cafe at Point Lookout, they have incredible views from high up on the cliff and you can watch the whales spouting as they go past during winter. The fish and chip shop nearby is popular to take across to the park or down to the beach. The Stradbroke beach hotel bistro has good seating overlooking the beach and ocean, it's about a kilometre from the Gorge Walk by road, about twice that along the beach with a possible scramble around the corner depending on the tide. The Barn cafe in Dunwich has great coffee and the food looked good but we have never been in that part of the island at lunchtime. Enjoy!

Scooters on Straddie

Monday 3rd of September 2018

When visiting North Stradbroke Island, getting around is SO much easier on a scooter from Scooters on Straddie. Forget the bus unless you just want to get to Point Lookout as Amity has quite limited access and you simply can’t get to either of the most amazing lakes... or the Golf Club! For $75 per full day or $45 for a half day... Get a LIFE! Get AROUND! SEA THE ISLAND! Have some fun! You just need a car licence... even P plates are fine! Treat yourself... brings some mates! You won’t forget it! ? Book online at www.scootersonstraddie.com.au

Will definitely be giving that a try next time we get across to Straddie.

Saturday 23rd of December 2017

Did Fraser two years ago for New Years. Doing Straddie this year. Can't wait

2 Aussie Travellers

Sunday 24th of December 2017

We love Fraser too, there are so many gorgeous islands off Queensland. Have a great holiday!

Kate @adventuremumma

Friday 27th of November 2015

I've heard that Straddie Island is a must....now you've made me even more keen to take the kids next time we're down Brissy way. great little list :D

Hi Kate, thanks for stopping by the blog. Your kids love the outdoors and being active so I think they'd love Straddie if you're down this way.

North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) Day Trip From Brisbane

Set out on a journey back in time as you set off on a day trip from Brisbane to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). The island beckons with its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life , and lush landscapes waiting to be explored.

But what surprises lie beyond the ferry ride? Stay tuned to discover the hidden gems and unique experiences that make this day trip a must-do for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Just The Basics

• Engage in beach activities and wildlife encounters on a day trip to North Stradbroke Island from Brisbane.
• Experience local cuisine, cultural insights , and leisure activities unique to the island.
• Enjoy a scenic ferry ride, guided tours , and opportunities for swimming in pristine lakes.
• Ensure to pack essentials, follow cancellation policies , and be prepared for weather-dependent activities.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Brisbane Segway Sightseeing Tour
• Abseiling the Kangaroo Point Cliffs in Brisbane
• XXXX Brewery Tour
• Deluxe Wine Tour to Tamborine Mountain, Includes Two Course Lunch

Tour Highlights

Set out on a full-day North Stradbroke Island tour to experience a diverse range of natural wonders and wildlife encounters . The tour highlights include engaging in beach activities such as swimming in the surf or freshwater lakes and relaxing on the sandy shores.

Visitors can also look forward to wildlife encounters, with opportunities to spot kangaroos , koalas , and even whales and marine animals. Plus, travelers can explore the local cuisine and cultural experiences of the island, seeing the vibrant community and flavors unique to North Stradbroke.

This tour promises a day filled with adventures, from exploring the stunning beaches to connecting with the rich wildlife and culture of the island.

Departure Information

Tour you will find all the necessary departure information for the North Stradbroke Island day trip conveniently located at 222 Margaret Street in Brisbane, with check-in starting promptly at 7 :35 AM for the 7 :45 AM departure. Upon arrival, visitors can expect the following :

• Friendly staff assisting with the check-in process
• Comfortable air-conditioned coach for transportation
• Scenic 30-minute ferry ride to the island
• Informative guides providing insights on top sights
• Option to relax on beaches or swim in crystal-clear lakes

These arrangements ensure a smooth start to the day trip, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the upcoming adventure without worrying about the logistics.

Itinerary Overview

Upon arrival on North Stradbroke Island, travelers will be greeted with a diverse itinerary that promises a blend of natural wonders and wildlife encounters. The day begins with an air-conditioned coach ride to the ferry stop, followed by a scenic 30-minute ferry journey to the island. Once on the island, a guided tour will lead visitors to top sights, offering opportunities to swim in freshwater lakes or relax on pristine beaches. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos . For those interested in seeing the local culture, there are options to explore indigenous heritage and sample delicious local cuisine.

Cancellation Policy Details

After experiencing the captivating itinerary on North Stradbroke Island, travelers should familiarize themselves with the cancellation policy details to ensure a smooth and informed journey. It’s essential to understand the cancellation policy exceptions and the weather contingency plan to be well-prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Here are some key points to note:

• Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance
• No refund given for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the trip
• Changes to bookings aren’t accepted within 24 hours of departure
• Activities are subject to weather conditions
• Trips require a minimum number of travelers to proceed

Essential Travel Tips

Prepare for an enriching adventure by equipping yourself with essential travel tips before embarking on your North Stradbroke Island day trip from Brisbane.

When packing, include swimwear , comfortable walking shoes , a hat , sunscreen , insect repellent , and a reusable water bottle.

Ensure you try the local cuisine, like fresh seafood and Indigenous-inspired dishes, at the island’s eateries. North Stradbroke Island offers a unique culinary experience that shouldn’t be missed.

What to Expect on the Tour

Travelers on the North Stradbroke Island day trip from Brisbane can expect a captivating blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and leisure activities that promise a memorable and immersive experience. Here’s what to expect on the tour:

Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with wild kangaroos and koalas in their natural habitat.

Local Cuisine: Sample delicious local dishes and immerse in the island’s culinary delights.

Beach Relaxation: Unwind on pristine beaches, soak up the sun, and enjoy the calming sound of the waves.

Cultural Insights : Gain insights into the rich indigenous culture of the Quandamooka people through guided tours .

Leisure Activities: Swim in crystal-clear lakes, take short guided hikes , and marvel at marine life including whales during the ferry ride.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Jet Ski Tours in Brisbane – Doesnt Get Any Better Than This.!
• Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) Frm Brisbane or Gold Coast
• Springbrook Andtamborine Rainforest Tour Incl Natural Bridge and Glow Worm Cave
• Boggo Road Gaol History Tour
• Brisbane City Essentials Walking Tour
• Mount Tamborine Wine Tasting Tour From Brisbane or the Gold Coast

Common questions

Are Meals Included in the Tour, or Should We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Meals are not included in the tour. Visitors can choose between bringing their own food and drinks, enjoying a picnic at scenic spots on the island, or dining at local restaurants . Dining preferences and food options abound for travelers.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Ferry and at the Various Stops During the Tour?

Restroom availability is ensured on the ferry and at various stops during the tour. Snorkeling gear options may vary, so it’s advisable to inquire beforehand. Travelers can comfortably access facilities while exploring the island’s beauty.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses We Should Be Aware of During the Tour?

When planning a budget for the tour, travelers should be aware of potential hidden costs such as optional tour extras , souvenir purchases , or meals not included in the package. It’s essential to factor in these unexpected expenses for a stress-free experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Gear or Do We Need to Rent Equipment for Water Activities?

Travelers can bring their own snorkeling gear for water activities. However, rental options are available for those who prefer it. Safety is paramount, so ensure gear is in good condition and suitable for the activity.

Is There Any Free Time Built Into the Itinerary for Exploring on Our Own or Shopping for Souvenirs?

While the itinerary doesn’t specifically allocate time for independent exploration or souvenir shopping, there are opportunities during breaks or free time at certain stops. Visitors can use these moments to wander or browse local offerings.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Private Transfer: Brisbane Airport BNE to Brisbane in Business Car
• Return Trip for Brisbane Airport to and From Byron Bay, NSW for Up-To 7 Ppl
• Private Professional Vacation Photoshoot in Brisbane
• Airport Transfer: Brisbane to Brisbane Airport BNE in Luxury Car
• Private Transport Service in Brisbane in a Limousine
• Brisbanes Photography Course For Beginners
• Brisbane Hotels to Brisbane Airport Private Departure Transfer
• Brisbanes Night Photography Workshop
• Tuesday Paint and Sip Art Sessions Brisbane
• Airport Transfer: Brisbane Airport BNE to Brisbane in Luxury Car
• Brisbane Airport to Brisbane Hotels Private Round-Trip Transfer

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of North Stradbroke Island on a day trip from Brisbane. With a limited group size, guided hikes , and chances to see whales and kangaroos, this tour offers a perfect escape from the city.

Swim in freshwater lakes, relax on the beach, and learn about the island’s charm. Book your adventure today for an unforgettable experience in nature.

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20 Tips for Visiting North Stradbroke Island, Australia

North Stradbroke Island is a beautiful sandy island located just an hour and a half east of Brisbane, Australia. It’s a perfect a weekend getaway from Brisbane, and can even be visited as a day-trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. North Stradbroke Island is known for its incredible natural landscapes including cliffs, beaches, and forests, and of course for its Aussie wildlife. 

The island’s small size and remoteness means it’s best to keep a few of these tips for visiting North Stradbroke Island in mind when you plan your next visit. The island is often referred to by its aboriginal name of Minjerribah, or also “Straddie” by the locals. Because you’ll hear all three when conversing with locals in Australia, I’ll use them interchangeably throughout this post of 20 tips for visiting Straddie.

Here are my tips for visiting North Stradbroke Island in Queensland!

1. Wake up for every sunrise

Since North Stradbroke island is located off the east coast of Queensland, it boasts incredible sunset views each day. Whether you’re spending two nights on Straddie or ten, it is nearly a necessity to get up for the sunrise!

Not only is the natural beauty of the island during this Golden Hour impeccable, but it’s also the perfect time to spot wildlife on North Stradbroke Island.

My favorite sunrise spots are at Point Lookout across from the Blue Room Cafe (below), and looking over South Gorge Beach (above)

2. Drive a car to Straddie instead of relying on busses

Two main methods of transportation are available on North Stradbroke Island: bus and personal vehicle. 

Although a public bus can take passengers around Straddie, relying on the bus system means its basically impossible to reach the far edges of the island. it also means you’ll be glued to the infrequent bus schedule during your two-day itinerary to Straddie. 

I highly recommend paying the extra ferry fees in order to get to Straddie from Brisbane by car. In order to fully experience my two-day Stradbroke Island itinerary (coming soon), you’ll need a car as well. 

3. If riding busses, bring exact change and be mindful of the limited schedule

The public busses on Straddie are few and far in between, so if your North Stradbroke Island itinerary is going to rely on busses to get around, be mindful of the limited schedule. 

The busses also only take cash, my tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island is to bring exact change – $5 per person, per ride, or $10 for a day-pass. This will help the bus driver out immensely!

Check out the latest bus schedule on the  Stradbroke Island busses website .

4. Bring a 4WD if you have one

A number of roads and beaches on Straddie are only accessible by 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles. 

This includes driving on the Main Beach, a vast sandy beach that stretches along the eastern coast of North Stradbroke Island, which is where many Straddie campsites are located. Due to the depth and texture of the sand, only 4-wheel drives are allowed on the sand on Main Beach. To make the most of your Straddie itinerary, my tip is to take or rent a 4WD to island!

5. Check out inland Straddie, not just the beaches

Some of the most gorgeous Aussie scenery on North Stradbroke Island is located inland. Many visitors might start and end their Straddie itinerary on the coastline at the beaches which is understandable, but my tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island is to check out the inland lakes, sand dunes, and forests as well.

Two of the most famous attractions to visit in inland Straddie are the Brown Lake and Blue Lake, which are two massive freshwater lakes in the heart of the island. Both lakes can be reached by car (no bus routes go to either), and Blue Lake is reached via a further 2km walk through the eucalyptus forests.

Read about the Karboora (Blue Lake) hike on my guide here . 

6. Avoid visiting Straddie on holidays and long weekends

The busiest time to visit North Stradbroke Island is during the school holidays in Brisbane and Queensland, or three-day weekends. Ferries and accommodation will book out quickly, and you might expect a wait at cafes and restaurants during mealtimes. 

Not only will you be navigating crowds, the prices for accommodation around Stradbroke Island shoot up around this time as well.

7. Pack snorkeling gear and binoculars

Minjerribah has a number of amazing snorkeling spots and wildlife viewing opportunities. A snorkel and binoculars help you get up close to them! 

The waters on the west coast of the island are often calm and clear, perfect for seeing fish and stingrays that call the shallow island shores home.  Snorkeling gear can be brought from home but also purchased at the Amity Point general store, which is one of the most common places to go snorkeling on North Stradbroke Island.

In order to see wildlife from a distance, I also recommend bringing some binoculars on your trip. Although its tempting to get up-and-close to animals in the wild, checking them out from a distance is safer for both humans and our furry and feathered friends. 

8. Book your Sealink ferry tickets ahead of time

Once you’ve locked in your travel dates to North Stradbroke Island, book your Sealink ferry tickets! Both a passenger-only ferry and a vehicle ferry operate between Straddie and the Cleveland suburb every day.

Especially during busy tourist seasons, some of the peak-hour ferries to Stradbroke Island may sell out. These include Friday afternoon and Saturday morning ferries heading to Straddie, and Sunday evening ferries heading back towards Brisbane. 

9. Book accommodation ahead of time

Accommodation options on Stradbroke Island are not too plentiful, and can book out well in advance. Most accommodation is in the form of apartment rentals or holiday homes, with very few resort-like hotels on the island. While you’re researching your next trip to Minjerribah, be sure to secure accommodation for the nights you plan to stay. 

My favorite place to stay on the island which is perfect for budget travelers is the Manta Lodge hostel , which is part of the Australia Youth Hostel Association (YHA). It has both dorm rooms and private rooms, an on-site dive center, a massive kitchen, two common areas, and is located steps from the beach and ocean! 

Here are some other tips for where to stay on Stradbroke Island: 

• Budget – Manta Lodge Hostel
• Mid-range – Samarinda Jewel by the Sea apartment rentals
• Mid-range – The Islander resort (one of few resort-style accommodation on Straddie) 
• Luxury – Saltwater 5 three-bedroom apartment rental

10. Know the limits of your vehicle

North Stradbroke Island’s main towns and points of interest are connected by paved roads. However to get to inland destinations like Brown Lake, or to head to Main Beach, visitors to Minjerribah will have to drive on dirt, rock, potholed, and sandy roads.

Just like my tip for visiting Kangaroo Island , when booking a rental car or van, or bringing your own to Straddie, be sure to know the limits of what the vehicle can do. 

I visited Minjerribah after a bout of rain, and found the paved road to Main Beach flooded nearly up to my knees in some sections. Since I was driving a smaller, 2-wheel drive vehicle, I decided not to risk it and walked the rest of the way to the beach.

11. Support Straddie Locals and go Shopping in Dunwich

If you’re like me and no vacation is complete without doing a bit of shopping, or at least some window shopping, Dunwich is a great place to check out. It has a number of shops for local handicrafts, artwork, and a snack and a coffee too. You’re sure to find a Straddie keepsake from one of these Dunwich shops.

Tip: The ferry terminal in Cleveland has a small Straddie souvenir shop too – pick up an I <3 Straddie sticker from here!

12. Experience a cultural activity

Minjerribah is the aboriginal name for North Stradbroke Island, the spiritual home to the Quandamooka People. One option for visitors to learn more about the culture of the traditional owners of Minjerribah is by joining a cultural tour or experience.

Quandamooka Coast is an indigenous tourism business based on the island, which posts tours, ceremonies, festivals, and other events  on their website  if available. 

Another option for experiencing the traditional culture of the island is joining a tour with  Yura Tours . With cultural walking tours around key island landmarks and even a whale-watching tour, visitors will learn about bush tucker and aboriginal creation stories with a highly-rated Quandamooka guide.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by QYAC (@quandamooka)

13. Spot dolphins at Amity Point

Here’s another tip of where to spot Aussie wildlife on North Stradbroke Island – Amity Point Jetty! This 70 meter jetty on the west side of the island is a favorite fishing spot for locals and visitors to Straddie. It’s located right by the boat ramp parking lot and the Amity Point campground.

Hang out at the end of the jetty where the fishermen wait for their catch (and local kids swim in the deep water) and you’re sure to see a few dolphin fins popping up out of the water. These local animals hang out around these shores looking for a meal, just like us humans!

14. Spot kangaroos at Lookout Point

North Stradbroke Island is one of the best places in Queensland to spot kangaroos in the wild. It’s tied for my favorite place (with Emerald Beach between Brisbane and Sydney) to admire these gentle creatures. 

Across Lookout Point, the north section of Straddie, families of kangaroos hang out and munch on the dewy coastline grass. I love visiting the coastline, just in front of the Blue Room Cafe, at sunrise. Photos below are proof! 

You’re also bound to see ‘roos at the top section of Main Beach, just south of the Point Lookout Life Saving Club. 

15. Visit Straddie on a Day-Trip Tour from Brisbane

This popular day-trip tour from Brisbane to Stradbroke Island lets you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ferry cruise, bus rides, and more while you visit some of the most popular sites of the island. 

16. Spot a koala at Amity Point

Stradbroke Island is the only place where I’ve seen a koala in the wild during my time in Australia! Although these creatures are commonly seen (and held) in places like the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and the Australia Zoo, there’s something different about seeing them in the wild.

Here’s where I went to see a koala on Straddie: Drive or walk north from the main Amity Point boat ramp until the main road veers to the right. There’s a narrow road called Ballot Street that turns into a dirt road, and turns up towards a northern beach. 

A small carpark here is surrounded by tall gum trees – this area is where I’ve seen a koala (twice!) in the wild on Straddie.

Here’s another tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island: bring your binoculars!

17. Fill up on gas and groceries ahead of visiting

North Stradbroke Island has a handful of gas or petrol stations and grocery stores, including a small Foodwords and a Spar in Dunwich and another Foodworks and a Cellarbrations liquor store at Point Lookout. Expect to pay island prices though – everything to be purchased here was shipped over on a boat from Brisbane!

Gas prices are the cheapest around the fringes of Brisbane city (before reaching Cleveland where it gets expensive again). You may use a half-tank of gas on Minjerribah, so fill up ahead of time! 

If you’re cooking food at the  Manta Lodge Hostel  or other self-contained accommodation, plan ahead and fill up a cooler with cooking ingredients and drinks before embarking on your trip to Straddie. 

18. Plan your dinners ahead of time

Minjerribah is home to a number of nice restaurants and cafes, perfect for enjoying a meal out. (Check out Sealevel21 ) An important tip for visiting Stradbroke Island though, is to plan when you’ll have dinners, and make reservations if you need to, because most restaurants and shops close early. Between 7:00 pm-8:30 pm is when the kitchens close and lights go out in most restaurants.

One location that stays open later than most is the humble  Stradbroke Island Bowls Club . With a kitchen that closes later than most places, and beer on tap as well, many locals and visitors may find themselves here after-hours.

19. Paid campsites are available on Straddie

Stradbroke Island is home to a number of campsites, including at Amity Point, Point Lookout, Flinders Beach, and around Dunwich. One entity owns and operates all campsites, which include caravan spots and some cabins:  Minjerribah Camping . 

Surprisingly, camping on Straddie is also not the most economical option for island accommodation, especially if you’re traveling solo. For one or two people visiting Stradbroke Island, it’s cheaper to stay in a bed at  Manta Lodge YHA . For larger groups and families all sharing one campsite or caravan spot, Minjerribah camping is a great budget accommodation option on Straddie.

Minjerribah Camping is an Aboriginal-owned company. When I visited the island in early 2022, the campsites had stricter vaccination rules compared to the rest of Queensland. Call ahead to check campsite availability and other requirements for your next visit. 

20. During the months of May-November, see Humpback Whales off the coast

The East coast of Australia hosts an incredible migration of humpback whales between the months of May to November. The most popular activity during this time to see these massive creatures is to join a whale-watching tour .

There are so many whales though, when they breach out of the water or spray water from their blowholes, they can be spotted from shore! 

Minjerribah has a designated whale-watching platform at Point Lookout, perfect for seeing whales from a great vantage point on the island. 

BONUS: Go Slow and enjoy the island life!

Whether you’re enjoying island life on Koh Lanta, Thailand  or  Korcula, Croatia  or  Caye Caulker, Belize , or North Stradbroke Island, Australia, remember to enjoy the slow, island life.

The incredible natural beauty of Stradbroke Island, including its expansive beaches and inland hikes, make it the perfect place to unwind. Grab a wine or coffee with an ocean view, kick back, and relax on North Stradbroke Island!

Pin these Straddie tips for later!

You might also like:

20 Things to do on Magnetic Island

Turtle Rock and The Sphinx Hike at Girraween National Park

Guide to Hiking the Pyramid at Girraween National Park

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LITTLE SHERPA TRAVELS

See the world in just a weekend | short break travel guides and local insights to add more adventure into your limited time off

Travel guides for  australia, usa, south east asia & more.

• Mar 29, 2021

A weekend guide to North Stradbroke Island: Top things to see & do just a short ferry from Brisbane

Updated: Apr 28, 2021

Looking to switch off and relax in Paradise without needing to travel too far? North Stradbroke Island is the perfect place to unwind. Within an hours drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, you can jump on a short ferry ride from the Redlands Coast and make your way to 'North Straddie' - the local name for North Stradbroke. Here you can find yourself relaxing amongst clear blue beaches and discovering plenty of local wildlife.

Getting to and around North Stradbroke Island:

Book a Sealink Ferry departing from Cleveland to get to North Stradbroke Island. The ferries operate daily on a regular schedule between 6 am to 7 pm. You can take either a passenger ferry with the option to rent a scooter once you arrive. We recommend taking the car ferry as destinations on the island are quite spread out and it's useful to be able to drive. The roads are well paved, making any car suitable for the island, however, if you do have a 4x4, the island is great for a beach drive!

Where to stay on North Stradbroke Island:

For the closes access to the Main Beach, the North Gorge walk, restaurants, and the best areas for 4G, we recommend staying close in Point Lookout.

Follow our link t o see some of the best deals on your accommodation. If you book via our link we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Top things to see and do on a weekend in North Stradbroke:

1. walk 1.2km north gorge trail:.

Follow the stunning 1.2km looped boardwalk trail along the coastline of North Stradbroke Island for oceanfront views looking back toward Point Lookout and toward North Stradbroke Main Beach. The highlight of the walk is stopping at the Gorge as the waves epically crash through the narrow gorge inlet.

2. Have Breakfast at Blue Room Cafe

We loved the outdoor beach shack style of the Blue Room Cafe, be sure to get a seat with a view to enjoy our coffee and healthy locally made breakfast. Don't miss stopping in next door to the colourful Green Room grocery store if you want to stock up on picnic snacks or the Prawn shop for some freshly caught seafood.

3. Have Gelato and a picnic at Point Lookout

After a long day at the beach, stop and relax with ice cream. There are two Gelato options in Point Lookout Village, the Oceanic Gelati Bar and Bella Bealen Gelateria. Once you've ordered, take a seat on the grass and relax with a few.

4. Head to point lookout at Sunset when the Kangaroos come out to feed

If you've timed your ice cream stop with sunset from Point Lookout, expect to see some Kangaroos sneaking up out of the bush. They are a very common sight at this time of the day.

5. Enjoy a local fish and chips dinner at Fishes at the Point

Also located along Point Lookout Village is Fishes and the Point fish and chip shop, it's another great option to get a takeaway to enjoy with a view. We loved sharing their Fishermans basked option.

6. Look out for Dolphins of Deadman's and Frenchman's Beach

Located right near Point Lookout Village is Frenchman's and Deadman's beach, offering beautiful swimming areas. As you make your way down the boardwalks to these beaches keep an eye out for dolphins riding the waves in the distance.

You can access Frenchman's Beach via a walking track along East Coast Road in Point Lookout. Access to Deadman's Beach is by walking track from the car park on top of Cylinder Beach headland, with parking is located on Snapper Street and East Coast Road.

7. Swim in the calm water of Cylinder Beach

Right between Frenchman's and Deadman's beach is Cylinder beach. This was our favourite place to swim on the island, offering a secluded, clear and calm water bay to relax and enjoy the water.

8. Find the Rockpools at Cylinder Beach

From the end of Cylinder beach, at the rocky headland heading toward Deadman's beach is a series of rock pools you can wander through and find your next perfect location to swim.

9. Head to Amity Pier at sunset to see the Dolphins up close

Dolphins are a common sight at the Amity pier jetty in the afternoons. Decades ago, lights were added to the jetty by locals to help with evening fishing, as more fish arrived, so too did the dolphins. When fishermen would catch fish that were too small to keep, the dolphins learnt that they were the perfect easy feed once they were thrown back into the water. Over time, they even allowed the fisherman to hand feed them!

10. Spot Wobbygong sharks at Amity Point

Similar to dolphins, Wobbygong sharks are also a common sight around the Amity Point area during the day. Keep your eyes peeled for them as they swim up and down the coastline.

11. Enjoy a freshwater swim in the Brown or Blue lake

Once you're finished with your beach swims, head out to the Brown Lake or Blue Lake for a freshwater dip. We opted for the Brown Lake as it was accessible by car with parking right by the lake. The Blue lake does require a walk to get to the nearest parking spot.

12. Have a classic Aussie dinner and enjoy barefoot bowls at the bowls club

For a casual dinner and afternoon for barefoot bowls, we recommend heading to the Bowls club. Located just a short drive from Point Lookout Village.

13. Have afternoon drinks at the Little Ship Club

The Little Ship Club is located on the waterfront at One Mile in Dunwich . It's a great spot for an afternoon drink on the lawn overlooking the calm waters of Moreton Bay. If you enjoy history, there's also some great shipping artefacts in the area and the island cemetery nearby, home to graves from the Typhoid pandemic when the island was used as a quarantine station.

We hope you enjoyed our guide to North Stradbroke Island in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia. To see more of our other Australian destination guides click here .

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WE ARE: An Australian and British married couple living in Australia, which we recently moved back to after 7 years exploring Asia. By week we manage data forecasting and engineering projects. By the weekend we wander. This is the story of our weekend travels. We are passionate travellers who love taking photos, eating and going on adventures.  We hope you enjoy our travel blog.

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North Stradbroke Island Tour $179

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North Stradbroke Island Tour Itinerary

The North Stradbroke Island Day Tour begins from Brisbane where we’ll take a ferry to Stradbroke Island . As we cross Moreton Bay, you’ll be exposed to stunning views and have a preview of what’s to come.

Then we’ll take a walk around the Gorge. Here, you’ll be exposed to some of the island’s wildest and most beautiful scenery – keep your eyes peeled for exotic plant life, too.

Animal lovers will get the chance to view large colonies of koalas and kangaroos, and from the water, you can see amazing sea life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays, amongst other colourful species.

We’ll take you to Point Lookout, where you might be able to catch a glimpse of the Humpback Whale before we take you around all the best spots on the island – think Cylinder, Frenchman’s, and Main Beaches, as well as the quaint historical town of Dunwich and the cute fishing village of Amity.

From Amity Point you can enjoy fantastic views of Brisbane and even the famous Moreton Island with its iconic shipwrecks. You might even spot a koala in the wild here!

We’ll take an extended stop at Cylinder Beach so you can swim and enjoy the water before we move on to Myora Springs. While here, you’ll learn all about the battle between the Aborigines and the military, digging deep into the rich cultural history.

Why Not Check Out Our Other Brisbane Tours

1 Day Moreton Island Tour $95

Sunshine Coast Hinterland & Noosa Tour $159

Brisbane City Tour by Bike $69

1 Day Moreton Island Cruise with Dolphin Viewing $195

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